Unleashing the Px7 S3: Bowers & Wilkins' High-Res Sound Revolution
Explored the B&W Px7 S3 headset, touted as a magnet for black-and-white audio enthusiasts.
Allow us to introduce the newest addition to the Bowers & Wilkins audio arsenal, the Px7 S3, a high-fidelity headphone catering to the discerning ear. This latest offering, launched on the 24th of April, 2025, is successor to the acclaimed Px7 S2 and the S2e, both mainstays in our guide to the best headphones.
The Px7 S3 is now available for 429 euros, with a mission to woo audiophiles by adhering closely to the artists' original intent. This goal is realized through a meticulously refined soundscape, eschewing unnecessary frills and embracing neutrality and high-fidelity (Hi-Fi).
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Redesigned and Reinforced Design
At first glance, the Px7 S3 may resemble its predecessor, but it boasts strategic enhancements: a sleeker profile, reduced weight, and a redesigned headband, complemented by generously cushioned ear cups for alleviated fatigue during prolonged listening sessions. Though the earcups no longer pivot flat and the headphone remains somewhat bulky when stored, the layout of the controls has been subtly altered for improved usability. Regrettably, it cannot be folded for more compact storage[3].
To further emphasize its durability, B&W has streamlined the replacement process for ear cushions and headbands, making it simple even for the uninitiated. However, detaching the earcups is straightforward, while the potential for headband disassembly remains to be tested[5]. Unfortunately, the battery inside the Px7 S3 remains non-removable, a missed opportunity given that few headphone models allow for easy replacement of this essential component[1].
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Precise Soundscape, Shades of Neutral
The Px7 S3's heart is beating with 40 mm biocellulose transducers, reworked and now accompanied by distinct amplifiers. This alteration aims to create a more refined, dynamic high-resolution sound with minimal distortion. According to our preliminary tests, the results are promising, with remarkably detailed sound reproduction noticeable in high frequencies. However, the emphasis on deep bass results in a sound signature that veers from the expected neutrality[1][3].
Despite this slight departure, the Px7 S3 remains faithful to its high-fidelity approach when it comes to active noise cancellation (ANC). Opting for a more subtle approach, B&W strives to preserve the audio signal's purity without compromising on its integrity, ensuring a consistent and balanced audio experience both with and without ANC[3].
© Benoit Campion for our site Although the Px7 S3 does not support spatial audio in the traditional sense, it employs an algorithm to generate a wider, more open audio scene, promising a soundscape similar to that produced by stereo speakers[3][5].
Future-Proof Connectivity
boasting advanced audio codecs and modern connectivity features. It supports a range of compatible codecs, including the renowned aptX suite (Adaptive and Lossless included), allowing for superior Bluetooth signal transmission (version 5.3), although the benefit is limited to Android smartphones and other listening devices with compatible Qualcomm chips[2][5]. Brace yourself for an update in 2025, as the Px7 S3 will also feature Bluetooth LE Audio and support for the LC3 codec, along with Auracast broadcasting, enabling the simultaneous listening experience on multiple devices[5]. Like its predecessor, the Px7 S3 also supports wired connection via USB-C or a 3.5mm jack adapter[5].
© Benoit Campion for our site In terms of battery life, B&W promises up to 30 hours of listening time in ANC mode, with fast charging capable of providing 7 hours of battery life in just 15 minutes. While not a significant leap forward in battery life compared to prior models, it remains competitive with its peers[3][5].
The Px7 S3 breaks no new ground in terms of innovation, choosing instead to focus on refining sound fidelity, ergonomics, and ANC, while introducing lossless audio support and spatial audio features absent in earlier versions[2][3][5]. As we delve deeper into our testing, we eagerly await the opportunity to ascertain if this approach pays off, keeping Bowers & Wilkins at the vanguard of audio technology.
Sources:[1] The Verge[2] techradar[3] CNET[4] Wired[5] Tom's Guide
- The Px7 S3, Bowers & Wilkins' latest high-fidelity headphone, boasts a redesigned and reinforced design, featuring a sleeker profile, reduced weight, and a redesigned headband, along with generously cushioned earcups.
- The Px7 S3's soundscape is characterized by 40 mm biocellulose transducers and distinct amplifiers, aimed at delivering a more refined, dynamic high-resolution sound with minimal distortion, particularly noticeable in high frequencies.
- The Px7 S3 comes equipped with advanced connectivity features such as Bluetooth 5.3, supporting aptX adapative and lossless codecs, promising superior Bluetooth signal transmission, with future updates planned for Bluetooth LE Audio, LC3 codec, and Auracast broadcasting.
- To cater to audiophiles, Bowers & Wilkins has simplified the replacement process for ear cushions and headbands, making it user-friendly, though the battery remains non-removable, potentially limiting its longevity.
