Bowers & Wilkins PX8 Vs. AirPods Max: Headphone Showdown
Are you ready to dive into the sonic showdown between two titans of the headphone world? Prepare to be captivated by the battle of Bowers & Wilkins PX8 and Apple AirPods Max, where luxury, performance, and the ultimate listening experience collide.
The audio landscape is constantly evolving, and the quest for the perfect sound is a journey filled with diverse choices. In this comprehensive analysis, we dissect the strengths and weaknesses of these premium headphones, examining their design, audio quality, noise cancellation capabilities, battery life, and overall value proposition. We'll dissect what separates these headphones, and explore which pair reigns supreme in the competitive world of high-end audio.
Before delving into the specifics, it is pertinent to note that this review is based on a thorough examination of the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e. The evaluation period spanned five days, providing ample opportunity to assess its various facets. The software version for the headphones was 2.2.0, and the Bowers & Wilkins Music app was running version 2.3.0. This hands-on approach allowed us to thoroughly experience the features and capabilities of the product. Soundguys purchased the unit for this review, ensuring an unbiased and objective assessment.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 are designed to deliver the best wireless sound this. The PX8, in particular, really look the part, sticking to the companys trademark classy aesthetic that balances showy and luxurious with ease. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 have fiber composite arms that contribute to their beautiful design. These debut as a more marginal improvement to the standard 2s pair from last year, all while offering some worthwhile improvements along the way.
The following table provides a comparative overview of the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 and Apple AirPods Max, highlighting key specifications and features:
| Feature | Bowers & Wilkins PX8 | Apple AirPods Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More Expensive | Considerably Expensive |
| Design | Luxurious, Classic Aesthetic | Stylish, Distinctive |
| Microphones | Unspecified (Likely Similar to PX7 S2/S2e) | Nine |
| Sound Quality | Clearer, Different Sound Signature, More of Senhesier Type Bass | Similar to First Gen of Airpod Pros, Spatial Audio |
| Noise Cancellation | Likely Very Good, but not as good as Apple AirPods Max | Excellent, Significantly Better |
| Battery Life | Not Specified | 20 hours |
| Expert Recommendations | Solid | Strong |
| Integration | Generally good | Seamless with Apple Devices (Spatial Audio, Device Switching) |
This comparison is intended to provide a starting point for understanding the key differences and similarities between the two products, and it will be expanded upon throughout the review.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e, in particular, were put through their paces. The PX7 S2e were able to put pink noise in its place more distinctly. The experience with the PX7 S2e has been ongoing for three weeks. Prior to the purchase, the Sony XM5, AirPods Max, Sennheiser Momentum 4, and PX7 S2 were tested. Unfortunately, it was not possible to try out Bose QuietComforts.
The experts' preference, as of November 20, 2024, leans towards the Apple AirPods Max over the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 and PX7 S2e, although both headphones have received solid expert endorsements. The AirPods Max received 8 recommendations in this month's meta-ranking. In light of the most recent trip and time spent on flights, this assessment has been updated. The original sections were modified to incorporate these extra headphones. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 (left) have six total microphones, while the AirPods Max (right) have nine.
The PX7 S2s easily outperform the AirPods Max in terms of battery life. The PX7 S2's have an advertised battery life of 30 hours with active noise cancellation turned on. This duration is still a little above average for ANC headphones in mid-2022. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e is rated at 30 hours of battery life on a single charge, which is above average in this class. This is more than the AirPods Max at 20 hours, and Bose QC Ultra at 24 hours.
One user who purchased the PX7 S2E was really pleased with how they sounded right out of the box. They dont like to fiddle with the EQ that much. If you find the Apple AirPods Max a bit gaudy or the XM5 a little dull, we'd direct you straight over to Bowers & Wilkins any day of the week. The price is high, and they are not recommended for everyone, but the user is delighted with the purchase.
In terms of sound, the PX7 will have way better sound, although with less bass, which is common with more 'audiophile' headphones compared to XM4/AirPods Max. The max have a similar sound to the first generation of AirPod Pros. If the pros updated to the H2 chip, a huge increase in sound quality was noticed. So perhaps the max will be more competitive again when gen 2 comes out. Some claim that maybe 3 years ago, when they came out, the sound was top of the line, but the brand-new Bowers are a definite step up sonically. Anyway all three 3 B&W pairs tested sounded much more better than sony stuff.
The Apple AirPods Max are expected to have significantly better sound cancellation and several advantages when working with Apple products, such as spatial audio and probably better switching between devices since Apple does that particularly well.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 and Apple AirPods Max, while sharing the goal of delivering high-quality audio, approach this in distinct ways. The PX8, which the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 and S2e, boast a more audiophile-centric sound profile, emphasizing clarity, detail, and a more neutral bass response, similar to a Sennheiser sound signature. The Apple AirPods Max, on the other hand, prioritizes a more balanced sound signature with a stronger emphasis on bass, which may appeal to a broader audience.
One of the key differentiators between the two models is the level of integration with Apple devices. The AirPods Max seamlessly integrate with the Apple ecosystem, offering features like spatial audio, which creates a more immersive listening experience, and effortless device switching, which allows users to quickly transition between different Apple devices. The Bowers & Wilkins headphones, while still compatible with Apple products, do not offer the same level of integration.
The Bowers & Wilkins headphones have fiber composite arms that contribute to their beautiful design. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 and PX7 S2e, are more suitable for those who prefer a more refined and elegant aesthetic, while the Apple AirPods Max have a more modern and distinctive design.
In essence, the choice between the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 and Apple AirPods Max comes down to individual priorities. The Bowers & Wilkins PX8 and PX7 S2e appeal to those who prioritize audio quality, a classic design, and a more audiophile-centric sound signature. The Apple AirPods Max are a better option for those who prioritize noise cancellation, seamless integration with Apple devices, and a more balanced sound profile.
Ultimately, both the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 and Apple AirPods Max represent the pinnacle of wireless headphone technology. Choosing between them requires a careful consideration of your individual preferences and listening habits. Both headphones have solid expert endorsements.
If you seek exceptional audio performance and a refined design, the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 and PX7 S2e might be the better option. If seamless integration and an immersive listening experience are paramount, the Apple AirPods Max could be your preferred choice. Both headphones offer a premium listening experience that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles.
