Audio T Verdict
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 is the company’s reference over-ear wireless headphone, combining a detailed and involving sound with exceptional materials, effective noise cancellation and a beautifully finished design.
Its optimised 40mm Carbon Cone drivers, dedicated amplifier and digital-to-analogue conversion give music impressive clarity, control and scale. aptX Lossless provides the best available Bluetooth connection with compatible source equipment, while USB audio offers a direct digital alternative.
The slimmer Nappa leather earcups, die-cast aluminium arms, 30-hour battery life and comprehensive app control make the Px8 S2 equally suited to serious home listening, commuting, travel and everyday use.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The Px8 S2 is Bowers & Wilkins’ flagship wireless over-ear headphone and has been redesigned throughout to deliver the company’s highest level of portable headphone performance.
Each earcup contains an optimised 40mm Carbon Cone drive unit supported by high-performance digital signal processing, dedicated amplification and digital-to-analogue conversion.
Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Lossless, Active Noise Cancellation, eight microphones, USB audio, analogue connectivity and the Bowers & Wilkins Music app provide a flexible listening experience across compatible phones, tablets, computers and conventional audio sources.
Optimised 40mm Carbon Cone Drivers
The Px8 S2 uses one 40mm full-range Carbon Cone driver in each earcup.
The reinforced cone is designed to remain rigid as it moves, helping reduce unwanted distortion and improve the accuracy of high-frequency reproduction.
For the Px8 S2, Bowers & Wilkins has further optimised the driver system to improve resolution, control and the sense of focus within the music.
The result is a revealing but engaging presentation, with clearly defined bass, natural voices and precise placement of instruments within the recording.
Dedicated Amplifier and DAC
The Px8 S2 uses a high-performance digital signal processor alongside dedicated amplification and digital-to-analogue conversion.
This integrated architecture gives Bowers & Wilkins control over the complete audio path, including wireless decoding, equalisation, noise cancellation and the final signal delivered to each Carbon Cone driver.
Careful coordination between these stages helps preserve musical timing, detail and dynamic expression across different source devices and listening levels.
True 24-Bit Audio Connection
The Px8 S2 supports a true 24-bit audio connection when partnered with compatible equipment.
The quality of the connection will depend on the source device, Bluetooth codec, recording, playback application and surrounding wireless conditions.
USB audio also allows a compatible computer to send a digital signal directly to the headphones without relying on Bluetooth.
Source Compatibility Matters
aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive and aptX HD require a transmitting device that supports the same technology.
Devices without aptX support can still connect using another mutually supported codec, such as AAC or SBC.
aptX Lossless Bluetooth
aptX Lossless is the highest-quality Bluetooth codec supported by the Px8 S2.
With compatible source equipment and suitable wireless conditions, it is designed to preserve more information from the original audio signal than conventional compressed Bluetooth connections.
The headphones also support aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Classic, AAC and SBC, maintaining compatibility with a broad range of Android, Apple and computer products.
aptX Adaptive
aptX Adaptive adjusts its operation according to the content being played and the quality of the wireless connection.
This can help balance sound quality, connection stability and delay when moving between music, video and other compatible applications.
The headphones and source device negotiate the appropriate codec automatically rather than requiring it to be selected on the Px8 S2 itself.
Advanced Active Noise Cancellation
The Px8 S2 uses multiple microphones and digital processing to reduce unwanted environmental noise.
Active Noise Cancellation can help reduce distractions from transport, offices, aircraft cabins and other busy environments without removing the energy and dynamics from the music.
A consistent seal between the Nappa leather ear cushions and the listener’s head is important. Hair, glasses and an uneven fit can reduce the effectiveness of the system.
Ambient Pass-Through
Ambient Pass-Through uses the built-in microphones to allow external sounds into the listening experience without removing the headphones.
This can be useful when listening for travel announcements, speaking briefly with another person or becoming more aware of the immediate surroundings.
The Quick Action button can cycle between Active Noise Cancellation, Pass-Through and environmental processing switched off.
Remain Aware of Your Surroundings
Pass-Through can improve awareness, but it is not a substitute for normal attention and judgement.
Remove the headphones whenever complete awareness is required, particularly near traffic, machinery, railway platforms or other potential hazards.
Eight-Microphone System
The Px8 S2 contains eight microphones, with four positioned within each earcup.
The microphone array supports both Active Noise Cancellation and voice calls, allowing the headphones to analyse environmental sound while capturing the wearer’s speech.
This arrangement helps improve noise reduction and call clarity without requiring a visible boom microphone.
ADI Pure Voice
ADI Pure Voice processing is used to improve speech clarity during calls and online conversations.
The system is designed to separate the wearer’s voice from surrounding noise so it remains easier for the other person to understand.
Final call quality will still depend on the connected device, mobile network, application and level of background noise.
Nappa Leather and Aluminium Construction
The earcups and headband use soft Nappa leather for a premium finish and comfortable contact with the listener.
The earcups are connected by solid die-cast aluminium arms, providing a rigid structure and a clear visual distinction from the fabric-led construction of the Px7 S3.
Exposed cable detailing between the earcups and headband forms part of the Px8 S2’s redesigned mechanical architecture.
Slimmer Earcups
The Px8 S2 has a slimmer silhouette than the original Px8.
Its reshaped earcups and refined headband have been ergonomically developed to improve fit and distribute pressure more evenly.
The over-ear cushions should surround the ears rather than resting directly upon them, helping provide both comfort and an effective acoustic seal.
Finding the Correct Fit
Extend each side of the headband evenly until the earcups fully surround both ears.
The headband should rest centrally across the top of the head, with the cushions forming a consistent seal without uncomfortable pressure.
An uneven fit can affect bass response, stereo balance and noise cancellation. Wearers of glasses may need to make small adjustments around the frames.
Physical Earcup Controls
The Px8 S2 uses tactile physical controls rather than relying entirely on touch-sensitive surfaces.
Buttons on the right earcup provide access to music playback, track selection, volume and calls.
The left earcup contains the power and Bluetooth control, status indicator and customisable Quick Action button.
Physical controls can be particularly convenient while travelling, wearing gloves or operating the headphones without looking at them.
Customisable Quick Action Button
The Quick Action button can be configured through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
It can cycle through the environmental modes or activate the Voice Assistant available through the connected device.
Select the function most frequently required, then use the Music app whenever a less common adjustment is needed.
Enhanced Wear Sensing
Wear sensors are built into both earcups.
Playback can pause automatically when either earcup is lifted away from the ear and resume when the earcup is returned.
Removing the headphones can also place them into a lower-power standby state, helping preserve battery life when they are not actively being used.
Wear sensing can be enabled, disabled or adjusted for sensitivity through the Music app.
Adjust the Wear-Sensor Sensitivity if Required
Glasses, hair and individual head shape can affect how reliably the sensors detect that the headphones are being worn.
Use the Music app to alter the sensitivity or switch the feature off if playback pauses unexpectedly.
Bluetooth 5.3
Bluetooth 5.3 provides the principal wireless connection between the Px8 S2 and compatible source devices.
The headphones enter pairing mode when first switched on. Further products can be added by holding the power switch in its Bluetooth pairing position or using the Music app.
The status indicator and audible cues confirm the current power, pairing and connection states.
Multipoint Connectivity
Bluetooth multipoint allows the Px8 S2 to remain connected to two devices simultaneously.
This is useful when working across a phone and computer, allowing music to play from one while the headphones remain available for calls from the other.
Only one connected device can play audio or handle a call at a time. Pause playback on the first device and begin playing from the second to change source.
Incoming Calls Take Priority
If a call arrives on the second connected device while music is playing from the first, playback will pause and the call will be routed to the headphones.
Current and previously paired devices can be managed through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Google Fast Pair
Google Fast Pair can simplify setup with compatible Android devices.
Switch the Px8 S2 on and place it close to the unlocked Android phone or tablet, then follow the pairing prompt that appears on screen.
Conventional Bluetooth pairing remains available for Android products that do not support Fast Pair.
Made for iPhone
The Px8 S2 supports Apple Made for iPhone operation and can connect to compatible iPhones, iPads and Macs using Bluetooth.
Apple devices normally use the AAC Bluetooth codec rather than the aptX family.
USB audio provides an alternative digital connection to a compatible computer where Bluetooth is not required.
Bowers & Wilkins Music App
The Bowers & Wilkins Music app is available for compatible iOS and Android devices.
It provides guided setup, access to compatible music services and detailed control over the headphones’ principal features.
Available settings include:
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Ambient Pass-Through
- Environmental processing switched off
- Five-band equalisation
- TrueSound mode
- Quick Action button assignment
- Wear-sensor control and sensitivity
- Bluetooth connection management
- Auto standby
- Battery information
- Product renaming
- Firmware updates
Bluetooth and wired listening remain possible without the app, but installing it provides access to the complete feature set and future software updates.
Five-Band Customisable EQ
The Music app includes five-band equalisation for adjusting the tonal balance of the Px8 S2.
This provides more detailed control than a simple bass and treble adjustment, allowing modest changes across several areas of the frequency range.
Begin with the controls in their neutral positions and make small changes. Excessive equalisation can reduce headroom or make recordings sound unnatural.
TrueSound Mode
TrueSound bypasses the user’s equaliser settings and returns the Px8 S2 to the tonal balance intended by Bowers & Wilkins.
This provides a useful reference when comparing EQ changes or moving between recordings with very different production styles.
TrueSound does not alter the quality of the Bluetooth, USB or analogue source connection.
USB-C Digital Audio
The supplied USB-C-to-USB-C cable allows the Px8 S2 to operate as a USB audio-output device with a compatible computer.
The digital signal is received by the headphones’ internal processing, DAC and amplifier rather than being transmitted through Bluetooth.
When connecting to a computer for the first time, the Px8 S2 may need to be selected within the operating system’s sound-output settings.
The headphones also charge when connected to a suitable powered USB connection.
USB Audio Depends on the Source Device
The connected device must support USB audio output through its USB connection.
An adaptor may be required for devices that use USB-A, Lightning or another socket, and not every adaptor supports digital audio.
Analogue Wired Listening
The supplied USB-C-to-3.5mm cable allows the Px8 S2 to connect to a conventional analogue headphone output.
This can be useful with Hi-Fi equipment, aircraft entertainment systems, portable players and computers that provide a standard 3.5mm connection.
Connecting the analogue cable automatically disconnects active Bluetooth sources.
No Completely Passive Listening Mode
The Px8 S2 must contain sufficient battery charge and remain switched on when playing from an analogue source.
Its internal processing and amplification remain part of the signal path even when the supplied 3.5mm cable is being used.
The headphone’s volume and playback buttons do not operate through the analogue interface, so the source device must provide the required controls.
Charge Before a Long Journey
A flat battery prevents both wireless and analogue wired listening.
Charge the headphones before travelling even when you intend to use an aircraft entertainment system or another wired source.
Thirty-Hour Battery Life
The rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 30 hours of continuous wireless playback.
Bowers & Wilkins’ published figure includes noise cancellation enabled at an average listening level.
Actual battery life will vary according to volume, codec, calls, environmental processing, wireless conditions, temperature and the age of the battery.
Seven Hours from a 15-Minute Charge
A 15-minute fast charge provides up to seven hours of additional playback.
This is particularly useful before a commute, flight or working day when there is not enough time for a complete charge.
A full charge takes up to approximately two hours using a suitable USB power source.
Listening While Charging
The Px8 S2 can continue operating while it is connected to a suitable USB power source.
This can be useful during an extended computer-listening session or when the battery is low shortly before use.
Make sure the cable and connector are undamaged and positioned where they cannot be pulled accidentally.
Auto Standby
Auto standby can place the headphones into a power-saving state after 15 minutes of inactivity.
The feature can be managed through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Combining auto standby with wear sensing helps reduce unnecessary battery use when the headphones have been put down but not switched off manually.
Protective Carry Case
A protective carry case is supplied with the Px8 S2.
The case stores the headphones and both supplied cables while helping protect the Nappa leather, aluminium arms and earcups during travel.
It measures 177mm wide, 60mm deep and 234mm high.
Switch the headphones off before storing them and position the cables so they cannot press against or mark the earcups.
Calls and Online Meetings
The built-in microphone system allows the Px8 S2 to operate as a wireless headset for calls and compatible online meeting applications.
Windows computers may present separate stereo and hands-free Bluetooth profiles. The hands-free profile is normally used when the microphone is required.
Select the appropriate microphone and output options within the operating system or meeting application.
Home Listening
The Px8 S2 can serve as a high-quality private-listening system at home as well as a travel headphone.
USB audio provides a direct digital connection from a compatible computer, while the analogue cable allows connection to conventional Hi-Fi equipment and suitable headphone outputs.
Experiment with Bluetooth, USB and analogue sources, as the preferred connection may depend on the equipment, recording and listening situation.
Listening at a Safe Volume
Over-ear headphones can produce high sound levels directly at the ear.
Begin at a low volume and increase it only until the music is clear and comfortable.
Take regular breaks during extended listening and reduce the level if you experience discomfort, ringing or temporary dullness in your hearing.
Water and Moisture
Bowers & Wilkins does not publish an IP water-resistance rating for the Px8 S2.
Keep the headphones, microphones, controls, Nappa leather and USB-C connections away from rain, excessive sweat and splashing water.
They are not designed for swimming, showering or use in conditions where they may become soaked.
Cleaning and Care
Clean the headphones and case using a soft, clean cloth that is only lightly dampened.
Do not use detergents, rubbing alcohol, chemical cleaners, abrasive materials or furniture polish.
Keep moisture away from the driver openings, microphones, controls and USB-C connections.
Store the headphones in their carry case when they are not being used, particularly while travelling.
Software Updates
Bowers & Wilkins may release firmware updates that refine performance, resolve issues or add features.
The Music app will provide a notification when an update is available and guide the user through the installation.
Keep the headphones adequately charged and close to the phone while an update is taking place.
Px8 S2 or Px7 S3?
Both models offer aptX Lossless, Active Noise Cancellation, eight microphones, 30-hour battery life, USB audio, multipoint and five-band EQ.
The Px8 S2 uses optimised Carbon Cone drivers together with Nappa leather and die-cast aluminium construction.
The Px7 S3 uses bio-cellulose drivers and a lighter fabric-led finish at a lower price.
The Px8 S2 places greater emphasis on reference sound quality, luxury materials and finish, while the Px7 S3 offers much of the same everyday functionality in a more affordable design.
Px8 S2 or Original Px8?
The original Px8 also uses Carbon Cone drivers, leather and aluminium construction, but the Px8 S2 introduces a redesigned slimmer fit, optimised drive units, aptX Lossless, eight microphones and five-band EQ.
The new model also uses updated processing, noise cancellation and call technology.
Owners of the original Px8 should audition the Px8 S2 to establish whether the improvements in fit, resolution and functionality justify an upgrade.
Finish Options
Audio T currently lists:
The wider current Bowers & Wilkins range also includes:
Finish availability can change, so check the current product options or contact Audio T before ordering.
Key Features
- Flagship closed-back over-ear headphones
- Wireless Bluetooth, USB and analogue wired listening
- Two optimised 40mm full-range Carbon Cone drivers
- High-performance digital signal processing
- Dedicated amplifier and digital-to-analogue conversion
- True 24-bit audio connection
- Bluetooth 5.3
- aptX Lossless support
- aptX Adaptive, aptX HD and aptX Classic
- AAC and SBC compatibility
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Ambient Pass-Through
- Eight-microphone system
- ADI Pure Voice call processing
- Bluetooth multipoint for two devices
- Google Fast Pair
- Apple Made for iPhone support
- Physical music, call and volume controls
- Customisable Quick Action button
- Enhanced wear sensing in both earcups
- Automatic pause, resume and low-power standby
- Bowers & Wilkins Music app support
- Five-band customisable EQ
- TrueSound mode
- Up to 30 hours of playback
- 15-minute fast charge for up to seven hours of playback
- Approximately two-hour full charge
- Can be used while charging
- USB-C-to-USB-C cable included
- USB-C-to-3.5mm analogue cable included
- Protective carry case included
- Soft Nappa leather trim
- Solid die-cast aluminium arms
- 310g net headphone weight
- Four manufacturer finish options
- Two-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Px8 S2 headphones have Active Noise Cancellation?
Yes. They include Active Noise Cancellation, Ambient Pass-Through and the option to switch both environmental modes off.
What drivers do the Px8 S2 use?
Each earcup contains one optimised 40mm dynamic full-range Carbon Cone driver.
Which Bluetooth version is used?
The Px8 S2 uses Bluetooth 5.3.
Which Bluetooth codecs are supported?
The supported codecs are aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Classic, AAC and SBC.
Does aptX Lossless work with every phone?
No. The transmitting device must also support aptX Lossless. Otherwise, the headphones will use another mutually supported codec.
Can the Px8 S2 connect to an iPhone?
Yes. It supports Bluetooth connection to compatible Apple devices and is listed as Made for iPhone. Apple devices normally use AAC rather than aptX.
Can it connect to an Android phone?
Yes. It supports conventional Bluetooth pairing and Google Fast Pair on compatible Android devices.
Can it connect to two devices simultaneously?
Yes. Bluetooth multipoint allows two devices to remain connected, although only one can play audio or handle a call at a time.
Do the headphones pause when removed?
Yes. Wear sensors in both earcups can pause playback when either earcup is lifted and resume it when the earcup is returned.
Can wear sensing be disabled?
Yes. Wear sensing and its sensitivity can be adjusted through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app.
Do the Px8 S2 use touch controls?
No. They use physical earcup controls for power, pairing, playback, volume, calls and the customisable Quick Action function.
Can the Quick Action button activate a Voice Assistant?
Yes. It can be assigned to environmental controls or the connected device’s Voice Assistant through the Music app.
Can the sound be adjusted?
Yes. The Music app provides five-band customisable equalisation and a TrueSound mode that bypasses the user’s EQ settings.
What is TrueSound?
TrueSound returns the headphones to the tonal balance intended by Bowers & Wilkins without the user’s equaliser adjustments.
Do the Px8 S2 support USB audio?
Yes. The supplied USB-C cable allows a compatible computer to use the headphones as a digital USB audio-output device.
Can they connect to a 3.5mm headphone socket?
Yes. A USB-C-to-3.5mm stereo cable is included for connection to a conventional analogue headphone output.
Do the headphones need to be switched on for wired listening?
Yes. The battery, digital processing and internal amplification are required during both USB and analogue wired playback.
Can they operate passively with a flat battery?
No. The Px8 S2 requires sufficient battery charge and must be switched on when using the supplied analogue cable.
Do the headphone controls work through the analogue cable?
The volume and play or pause buttons do not function through the 3.5mm analogue interface. Use the controls on the connected source.
Can the headphones be used while charging?
Yes. They can continue operating while connected to a suitable USB power source.
How long does the battery last?
Bowers & Wilkins specifies up to 30 hours of wireless playback with noise cancellation enabled at an average listening level.
How effective is the fast charge?
A 15-minute charge provides up to seven hours of additional playback.
How long does a complete charge take?
Bowers & Wilkins advises allowing up to approximately two hours for a full charge.
How many microphones are included?
The Px8 S2 contains eight microphones, with four positioned in each earcup.
Can the headphones be used for calls and online meetings?
Yes. The built-in microphones and ADI Pure Voice processing support Bluetooth calls and compatible online meeting applications.
Are the Px8 S2 waterproof?
No IP water-resistance rating is published. Keep the headphones away from rain, heavy sweat, splashing water and submersion.
How much do the headphones weigh?
The Px8 S2 weighs approximately 310g without its carry case.
How large is the carry case?
The case measures approximately 177mm wide, 60mm deep and 234mm high.
Which cables are included?
The package includes a 1.2m USB-C-to-USB-C cable and a 1.2m USB-C-to-3.5mm stereo audio cable.
Which materials are used?
The Px8 S2 uses soft Nappa leather and solid die-cast aluminium as part of its premium mechanical construction.
Which finishes are available?
The current manufacturer range includes Onyx Black, Warm Stone, Midnight Blue and Pearl Blue. Audio T availability may vary.
How does the Px8 S2 differ from the Px7 S3?
The Px8 S2 uses optimised Carbon Cone drivers with Nappa leather and aluminium construction. The Px7 S3 uses bio-cellulose drivers and a fabric-led finish at a lower price.
How does the Px8 S2 differ from the original Px8?
The Px8 S2 adds a slimmer redesigned fit, optimised drivers, aptX Lossless, eight microphones, five-band EQ and updated processing, calls and noise cancellation.
What warranty is included?
Bowers & Wilkins provides a two-year limited warranty for headphones, subject to its current terms and conditions.
Related Bowers & Wilkins Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Bowers & Wilkins headphone demonstrations
- Help comparing Px8 S2, Px7 S3, Pi8 and other premium headphones
- Advice on fit, comfort and over-ear alternatives
- Bluetooth codec and source-compatibility guidance
- USB and analogue wired-listening advice
- Bluetooth pairing and multipoint support
- Music app, EQ and wear-sensor setup
- Noise Cancellation and Pass-Through guidance
- Firmware-update assistance
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or compare the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 with other premium wireless headphones.