In the competitive arena of high-end audio, Bowers & Wilkins has unveiled its latest contender: the PX7 S3 over-ear headphones. Priced at $429, these headphones aim to captivate audiophiles and frequent travelers alike with a revamped design, upgraded noise-canceling tech, and the brand’s signature sound precision. But in a market crowded with established giants, do the PX7 S3s bring enough innovation to the table? Let’s unpack what’s new.
A Fresh, Modern Aesthetic
Gone are the subtle curves of previous models. The PX7 S3 embraces a bold, angular design paired with a sophisticated mix of matte finishes and metallic accents. The ear cups, slightly larger than before, feature a durable textured fabric that adds both visual flair and resilience. Available in Space Gray, Deep Blue, and Anthracite Black, these headphones are designed to turn heads while maintaining a lightweight feel (just 307 grams) thanks to their carbon fiber composite arms.
Comfort hasn’t been overlooked either. Plush memory foam ear cushions wrapped in soft synthetic leather create a snug, noise-isolating seal, ideal for long listening sessions. For those keen on exploring every detail, Bowers & Wilkins showcases the full design philosophy on their official product page.
Noise Cancellation That Adapts to Your Environment
The PX7 S3’s standout upgrade is its next-generation active noise cancellation (ANC). Leveraging a new proprietary chipset and six-microphone array, the system dynamically adjusts to ambient sounds, whether you’re battling subway rumble or a bustling coffee shop. A “Transparency Mode” also lets you tune into announcements without removing the headphones—a nod to practicality for travelers.
During testing, the ANC impressed with its ability to mute low-frequency hums while preserving vocal clarity. It’s a noticeable leap from the PX7 S2, particularly in uneven environments like air travel, where engine noise often overpowers competing models.
Sound Quality: Precision Meets Power
Bowers & Wilkins’ audio pedigree shines here. The 40mm diamond-core drivers deliver crisp highs, rich mids, and surprisingly deep bass without distortion, even at higher volumes. Support for aptX Adaptive Bluetooth ensures high-resolution streaming compatibility, while a 24-bit/48kHz DSP preserves detail in tracks ranging from classical symphonies to bass-heavy electronic beats.
The companion app adds a layer of customization, offering EQ presets and the ability to tweak ANC intensity. It’s a feature that purists might ignore but casual users will appreciate for tailoring sound profiles to different genres.
Battery Life and Everyday Usability
With 30 hours of playtime on a single charge (ANC enabled), the PX7 S3 outlasts many rivals, including Sony’s WH-1000XM5 (30 hours) and edges past Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra (24 hours). A quick 15-minute USB-C charge provides five hours of playback—perfect for last-minute trips. Bluetooth 5.2 ensures stable connectivity, and multipoint pairing lets you switch seamlessly between devices.
Touch controls on the right ear cup handle playback and calls, though some may find them overly sensitive initially. The lack of a physical ANC toggle might irk a few, but voice assistant support (Alexa and Google) compensates with hands-free convenience.
Price and Availability
At $429, the PX7 S3 sits firmly in the premium tier. While that’s steeper than budget options, Bowers & Wilkins justifies the cost with a blend of luxury materials, cutting-edge ANC, and audiophile-grade acoustics. The headphones are available now through Bowers & Wilkins’ website and retailers like Amazon, where early adopters praise their balance of style and substance.
The Verdict
The PX7 S3 isn’t just an incremental update—it’s a statement. By refining its design, noise cancellation, and sound profile, Bowers & Wilkins targets discerning listeners who refuse to compromise. While the price may deter casual buyers, those invested in premium audio will find a compelling package here. If you’re seeking headphones that marry elegance with engineering, the PX7 S3 deserves a spot at the top of your list.
