By: Dipin Sehdev

British audio firm Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) has officially unveiled its new flagship wireless headphones, the Px8 S2, a successor to the highly acclaimed Px8. With promises of improved sound quality, redesigned noise cancellation, and a more refined design, the Px8 S2 aims to raise the bar in the premium wireless headphone market.

The original Px8 was one of the best-reviewed wireless headphones in recent years, earning an impressive 91% CE Critic Score. That kind of pedigree creates high expectations, and early reviews of the Px8 S2 have landed at 89% CE Critic Score. While slightly below its predecessor at launch, this is still a strong showing—and as more reviews roll in, it’s possible the score may climb higher.

For music enthusiasts, audiophiles, and those who demand luxury in their everyday listening gear, the Px8 S2 represents B&W’s latest statement piece. And the best part? You can buy them today on Amazon for $799 in either Onyx Black or Warm Stone.

What’s New with the Px8 S2?

B&W says the Px8 S2 is “the best headphone we have ever created.” That’s a bold claim, but the upgrades suggest it isn’t just marketing fluff. Let’s break down the highlights:

• 40mm Carbon Cone Drivers – A completely re-engineered driver design featuring improved voice coils, magnets, and suspension. The result is lower distortion and greater clarity across the frequency range.

• Dedicated Amplification – Each driver has its own headphone amplifier, improving power, scale, and dynamics.

• Hi-Res Wireless Support – The Px8 S2 supports aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless, delivering up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution from compatible devices.

• Next-Gen Noise Cancellation – Eight microphones (two more than the Px8) combine with B&W’s ADI PureVoice algorithm to block outside noise while enhancing call quality.

• Design Refinements – Slimmer form factor, premium Nappa leather, aluminum detailing, and replaceable ear cushions/headband for long-term ownership.

• Battery & Charging – 30 hours of playback with ANC enabled, plus 7 hours from a 15-minute quick charge.

• Future-Proof Updates – Spatial audio support and Bluetooth LE Audio will be added via software update later in 2025.

Availability & Price

The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 launched on September 24, 2025. They are priced at $799 in the U.S. and available through:

• Amazon (shipping now)

• Bowers & Wilkins official site

• Select high-end audio retailers worldwide

Color options include Onyx Black and Warm Stone, both finished with luxurious Nappa leather.

Specs Overview – Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2

• Drivers: 2 × 40mm Carbon Cone full-range dynamic drivers

• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz over Bluetooth (aptX Adaptive & Lossless)

• Wired Connections: USB-C (digital audio), 3.5mm analog

• Noise Cancellation: 8-microphone hybrid ANC with ADI PureVoice

• Battery Life: 30 hours ANC-on / 15-min charge = 7 hours playback

• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint, Google Fast Pair, Apple MFi support

• Weight: 310g

• Extras: Carry case, USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C to 3.5mm cable

• Colors: Onyx Black, Warm Stone

Px8 S2 vs. Px8 vs. Px7 S3

With the Px8 S2 entering the lineup, many are wondering: how does it compare to the original Px8 and the more affordable Px7 S3? Here’s a side-by-side chart:

The chart makes it clear: the Px8 S2 refines everything the Px8 did well while adding dedicated amplification, improved ANC, and future-proof software updates.

Early Impressions: A Solid Successor

With a CE Critic Score of 89%, the Px8 S2 starts strong, but falls slightly short of the 91% earned by the original Px8. However, this early score is based on limited reviews—more data could push the number higher as additional critics and users weigh in.

So far, feedback highlights:

• Sound Quality: A noticeable improvement in detail, dynamics, and imaging over the Px8.

• Comfort: Slimmer design and softer cushions make them easier to wear for long sessions.

• ANC Performance: More microphones and refined tuning deliver a quieter, more natural experience.

• Build Quality: Luxurious and durable, though heavier than some rivals like Sony’s WH-1000XM6.

The only recurring critique is the price. At $799, the Px8 S2 is among the most expensive mainstream wireless headphones, competing with the Focal Bathys, Mark Levinson No.5909, and Apple AirPods Max. For those who prioritize craftsmanship and audio fidelity, however, B&W makes a compelling case.

The Bigger Picture: Where the Px8 S2 Fits

The wireless headphone market is more competitive than ever. Sony dominates the value-to-performance segment with its WH-1000XM series, Apple owns the ecosystem integration space with AirPods Max, and Focal/Mark Levinson target ultra-premium audiophiles.

Bowers & Wilkins sits in the middle: a luxury brand with studio heritage that delivers premium sound without sacrificing lifestyle appeal. With the Px8 S2, B&W is betting that discerning listeners will pay extra for True Sound—the company’s philosophy of delivering music exactly as the artist intended.

Why the Px8 S2 Matters

• For Audiophiles: It pushes wireless closer to wired-quality sound, thanks to aptX Lossless and high-quality DAC/amplification.

• For Frequent Travelers: The upgraded ANC and 30-hour battery life make them a top-tier option for long flights and commutes.

• For Luxury Buyers: The Nappa leather and aluminum finish set them apart from plastic-heavy rivals.

In short, the Px8 S2 isn’t about being the cheapest or flashiest—it’s about refinement, craftsmanship, and uncompromising audio performance.

Final Thoughts

The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 are a confident follow-up to the original Px8. They refine the formula with better sound, smarter ANC, and a more luxurious build while retaining the features that made their predecessor so successful.

At $799, they’re undeniably an investment, but for those who want the very best in wireless audio, they’re hard to ignore. With early reviews placing them at 89% CE Critic Score, time will tell if they climb to match—or even surpass—the Px8’s 91%.

For now, one thing is clear: Bowers & Wilkins has delivered one of the most exciting flagship headphones of 2025—and you can order them today on Amazon.