Bowers Wilkins Pi7 Review

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 in-ear headphones represent a significant leap in the premium true wireless earbud market, offering an immersive audio experience that few can match, primarily due to their groundbreaking 24-bit aptX Adaptive audio transmission and the innovative charging case that doubles as an audio re-transmitter. While they come with a premium price tag, their unparalleled sound quality, sophisticated design, and unique features make them a compelling choice for audiophiles and discerning listeners seeking the absolute best in wireless audio. They deliver a sound profile that is rich, detailed, and incredibly spacious, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a compact true wireless form factor.

Here’s a comparison of the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 against some notable competitors in the premium audio space:

• Bowers & Wilkins Pi7:
  • Key Features: 24-bit aptX Adaptive, dual hybrid drivers 9.2mm dynamic + balanced armature, innovative audio re-transmission case, active noise cancellation ANC, IP54 water resistance.
  • Average Price: Around $399
  • Pros: Exceptional sound quality, unique audio re-transmission feature, premium design, comfortable fit, effective ANC.
  • Cons: High price, average battery life compared to some competitors, app can be basic.
• Sony WH-1000XM5:
  • Key Features: Industry-leading ANC, excellent sound quality LDAC support, comfortable over-ear design, long battery life, superb call quality.
  • Pros: Best-in-class noise cancellation, incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions, rich and balanced sound, great app control.
  • Cons: Over-ear design not as portable as earbuds, higher price point, less compact.
• Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3:
  • Key Features: Excellent sound quality with strong bass, adaptive noise cancellation, aptX Adaptive support, customizable sound profiles, IPX4 splash resistance.
  • Average Price: Around $249
  • Pros: Fantastic audio performance, comfortable and secure fit, effective ANC, good value for the features.
  • Cons: Battery life could be better, case is a bit bulky, some users report occasional connectivity quirks.
• Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation:
  • Key Features: H2 chip for enhanced audio and ANC, Adaptive Transparency, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, MagSafe charging case with speaker, IPX4 water resistance.
  • Pros: Seamless Apple ecosystem integration, excellent ANC and transparency mode, Spatial Audio is impressive, convenient charging.
  • Cons: Best features are limited to Apple users, sound quality isn’t as audiophile-grade as some competitors, limited codec support AAC.
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II:
  • Key Features: Class-leading noise cancellation, personalized audio, comfortable fit, IPX4 water resistance, touch controls.
  • Average Price: Around $299
  • Pros: Arguably the best ANC in a true wireless earbud, very comfortable, good sound quality, stable fit.
  • Cons: Battery life is average, case is somewhat large, no multi-point connectivity.
• Technics EAH-AZ80:
  • Key Features: High-resolution audio support LDAC, excellent call quality with JustMyVoice technology, multipoint connectivity 3 devices, comfortable fit, rich sound.
  • Pros: Superb call quality, robust multipoint connectivity, detailed and engaging sound, comfortable for long wear.
  • Cons: ANC is good but not class-leading, case is a bit chunky, premium price.
• Sennheiser HD 660S2:
  • Key Features: Open-back audiophile headphones, reference-grade sound, dynamic drivers, comfortable design for home listening.
  • Average Price: Around $599
  • Pros: Exceptional soundstage and detail, perfect for critical listening, very comfortable, durable build.
  • Cons: Requires an amplifier for optimal performance, open-back design means no noise isolation, not portable over-ear, wired. This is a different category of product wired, open-back headphones, but included for comparison on pure audio fidelity, showcasing what a significant step up audiophiles might consider when true wireless isn’t the priority.

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 aims to bridge the gap between audiophile-grade sound and true wireless convenience, making it a unique contender in a crowded market.

The Unpacking Experience: First Impressions and Design Aesthetics

When you unbox the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7, it’s clear you’re dealing with a premium product.

The packaging itself exudes a sophisticated, minimalist vibe, hinting at the high-end audio experience within. It’s not just a box. it’s a presentation.

The Tactile Journey of Unboxing

The unboxing process for the Pi7 is designed to be an experience. The lid lifts to reveal the sleek charging case, nestled securely, with the earbuds themselves prominently displayed. This immediate visual contact with the product creates an anticipation for the sound quality it promises. Bowers & Wilkins has clearly paid attention to the details, from the texture of the internal materials to the thoughtful placement of accessories. It feels less like opening a gadget and more like uncovering a finely crafted instrument.

Design Language: Elegance Meets Functionality

The Pi7 earbuds themselves are a testament to B&W’s renowned design philosophy. They are elegant, understated, and unmistakably premium. Available in a few sophisticated colorways, such as Charcoal and Satin White, they manage to be both eye-catching and discreet. The outer face of each earbud features a polished metallic accent, which also serves as the touch-sensitive control surface. This subtle gleam adds a touch of luxury without being ostentatious. The rest of the earbud housing is made from a high-quality plastic that feels robust and well-assembled.

The Charging Case: A Standalone Marvel

Perhaps the most unique design element of the Pi7 is its charging case. It’s compact, pebble-shaped, and has a satisfying weight to it. The finish, often matching the earbuds, feels smooth and premium in hand. However, its true genius lies beyond its aesthetics. This isn’t just a charging case. it’s a wireless audio re-transmitter. This innovative feature allows you to connect the case via a 3.5mm or USB-C cable to an audio source like an airplane’s in-flight entertainment system, a game console, or an old iPod and then wirelessly stream that audio directly to the Pi7 earbuds in high quality. It’s a must for those who travel frequently or want to connect to non-Bluetooth devices without compromise. The inclusion of a small LED indicator on the front provides at-a-glance battery status, while the USB-C port at the back handles charging and the audio re-transmission input.

Audio Prowess: Diving Deep into Sound Quality

The true essence of any premium earbud lies in its audio performance, and this is where the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 aims to distinguish itself.

B&W is a brand synonymous with high-fidelity audio, and the Pi7 strives to bring that legacy to a true wireless form factor.

The Dual Hybrid Driver System: An Engineering Feat

Central to the Pi7’s exceptional sound is its unique dual hybrid driver design. Unlike many true wireless earbuds that use a single dynamic driver, the Pi7 incorporates two distinct drivers in each earbud:

• A 9.2mm dynamic driver: This handles the lower frequencies, delivering rich, impactful bass that remains tight and controlled.
• A custom-balanced armature driver: This specializes in the mid-range and treble, ensuring clarity, detail, and sparkle in vocals and instruments.

This combination allows each frequency range to be reproduced with optimal precision, leading to a much more layered and dynamic sound profile than single-driver setups.

The result is a sound that feels both powerful and nuanced. Hp Zbook Firefly 15 G8 Review

High-Resolution Audio Support: aptX Adaptive and Beyond

The Pi7 supports Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec, which is a significant factor in its audio fidelity. This advanced Bluetooth codec is capable of delivering up to 24-bit/48kHz audio quality wirelessly, adapting its bitrate based on the wireless environment to ensure stable and high-quality transmission. While it doesn’t quite reach the bandwidth of LDAC which some competitors offer, aptX Adaptive offers a robust and audibly superior experience compared to standard SBC or AAC codecs, especially for Android users with compatible devices. For Apple users, the Pi7 defaults to AAC, which is still a very capable codec, though it doesn’t unlock the Pi7’s full 24-bit potential.

The Sound Signature: Balanced, Detailed, and Expansive

The sound signature of the Pi7 can be described as balanced with a slight emphasis on clarity and detail. It’s not a bass-heavy earbud, but the bass it produces is deep and articulate, providing a solid foundation without overpowering the mids or highs.

• Bass: Punchy and well-defined, with good extension into the sub-bass frequencies. It’s impactful for genres like electronic podcast and hip-hop, yet refined enough for acoustic tracks.
• Mid-range: Vocals are rendered with exceptional clarity and naturalness. Instruments are well-separated, allowing you to easily discern individual elements in complex mixes. This is where the balanced armature driver truly shines.
• Treble: Crisp, detailed, and extended without being harsh or fatiguing. Cymbals shimmer, and high-frequency details are presented with precision.
  One of the most impressive aspects of the Pi7’s sound is its soundstage and imaging. For an in-ear monitor, it creates a surprisingly spacious and immersive listening experience. Sounds appear to come from beyond the confines of your head, offering a sense of depth and width that elevates the listening experience. This makes them particularly enjoyable for orchestral podcast, live recordings, and cinematic soundscapes.

Noise Cancellation and Transparency Modes

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 offers both, aiming to provide versatility for various listening environments.

Active Noise Cancellation ANC: Performance and Limitations

The Pi7 features Adaptive Noise Cancellation ANC, meaning it adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on your surroundings. While it does an admirable job, it’s important to set expectations. The ANC on the Pi7 is effective for reducing consistent low-frequency hums, such as engine noise on an airplane, the drone of an air conditioner, or the rumble of a train. In these scenarios, it noticeably quietens the environment, allowing your podcast to take center stage.

However, when compared to the absolute best in class e.g., Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II or Sony WH-1000XM5, the Pi7’s ANC is good, but not industry-leading. It struggles more with higher-frequency noises like human chatter, keyboard clicks, or sudden sharp sounds. While it dampens them, it doesn’t completely eliminate them. This is a common characteristic for many in-ear ANC systems due to their smaller form factor compared to over-ear headphones.

The effectiveness of ANC is also highly dependent on achieving a good seal with the ear tips. If the earbuds don’t fit snugly, external noise can leak in, significantly reducing the ANC’s performance. B&W provides multiple ear tip sizes to help achieve this optimal seal.

Transparency Mode: Staying Aware

The Pi7 also includes a Transparency Mode sometimes called “Ambient Pass-Through” or “Hear-Through”. This mode uses the external microphones to amplify surrounding sounds and feed them into your ears, allowing you to stay aware of your environment without taking the earbuds out. This is incredibly useful for:

• Having quick conversations: No need to remove your earbuds to talk to a barista or a colleague.
• Listening for announcements: Essential when traveling through airports or train stations.
• Awareness in urban environments: Staying safe by hearing traffic or other potential hazards.

The Pi7’s transparency mode is natural-sounding and clear. It doesn’t sound overly processed or tinny, which can be a common complaint with some transparency modes. Voices come through intelligibly, and general ambient sounds are reproduced faithfully. You can easily toggle between ANC, Transparency, and Off modes using the touch controls on the earbuds or via the companion app. This quick access is a practical advantage for daily use.

Battery Life and Charging Conveniences

Battery life is a critical factor for true wireless earbuds, dictating how long you can enjoy your audio without interruption. Wyze Floor Lamp Review

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 offers a respectable, though not class-leading, battery performance, complemented by convenient charging options.

Earbud and Case Battery Life

On a single charge, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 earbuds offer approximately 4 hours of playback with ANC enabled. This figure is decent for premium true wireless earbuds that are pushing high-resolution audio and active noise cancellation simultaneously. However, it’s important to note that many competitors now offer 6-8 hours or more on a single charge. If your primary use case involves extended listening sessions without access to the charging case, this might be a consideration.

Charging Speed and Options

The Pi7 offers several convenient ways to charge:

• USB-C Fast Charging: The case supports fast charging via its USB-C port. A quick 15-minute charge can provide the earbuds with enough power for about 2 hours of playback, which is incredibly useful when you’re in a hurry. A full charge for the case takes around 2 hours.
• Wireless Charging Qi-compatible: The charging case is Qi-compatible, allowing you to simply place it on any standard wireless charging pad for hassle-free power replenishment. This adds a layer of convenience and reduces cable clutter, aligning with the premium experience.
• Audio Re-transmission Charging: While not directly related to battery life, it’s worth noting that when the case is connected via USB-C for audio re-transmission, it will also draw power if connected to a powered USB-C port like a laptop, simultaneously charging the case and the earbuds.

A practical tip for users: If you’re planning a very long flight or extended trip where charging outlets might be scarce, consider the total 20-hour battery life. For most daily use, however, topping up the case when not in use means you’ll rarely run out of juice. The combination of wired fast charging and wireless charging offers excellent flexibility for keeping your Pi7 powered up.

Connectivity and the Innovative Re-transmission Case

Connectivity is a cornerstone of the true wireless experience, and the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 excels here not just with standard Bluetooth but with a truly unique feature: the audio re-transmission charging case.

Bluetooth Performance and Multipoint

The Pi7 utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 for its wireless connection, providing a stable and efficient link to your devices. As mentioned, it supports the aptX Adaptive codec, which is a significant advantage for compatible Android devices and certain PCs, offering high-resolution audio streaming. For Apple devices, it defaults to AAC, which still provides excellent sound quality.

One area where the Pi7 could see improvement is multipoint connectivity. At its launch, the Pi7 did not feature multipoint, meaning it could only be connected to one device at a time. This requires manually disconnecting from one device before connecting to another, which can be a minor inconvenience for users who frequently switch between a phone, tablet, and laptop. While some other premium earbuds have since adopted seamless multipoint, this remains a limitation for the Pi7. It’s a small detail, but in a world of increasing device interconnectivity, it’s a feature many users appreciate.

The Game-Changing Audio Re-transmission Case

This is arguably the Pi7’s most innovative and differentiating feature. The charging case isn’t just for power. it doubles as a wireless audio re-transmitter. How does it work?

1. Connect the Case: You can connect the charging case to any audio source that has a 3.5mm analog audio output or a USB-C digital audio output. This means devices like:
   • In-flight entertainment systems on airplanes
   • Nintendo Switch or other gaming consoles
   • Older iPods or MP3 players
   • Laptops or desktop PCs without Bluetooth
   • Gym equipment with a headphone jack
2. Wireless Transmission to Earbuds: Once connected, the case receives the audio signal from the source and re-transmits it wirelessly to the Pi7 earbuds using aptX Low Latency technology. This ensures synchronized audio with minimal delay, which is crucial for video and gaming.
3. High-Quality Audio: The re-transmission isn’t just about convenience. it maintains a high-quality audio stream, allowing you to enjoy your content with the Pi7’s superior sound.

This feature is invaluable for frequent travelers who often struggle with subpar airplane headphones or wired connections. It’s also fantastic for gamers who want to use their premium earbuds with a console without dealing with wires. It truly sets the Pi7 apart from nearly all other true wireless earbuds on the market, offering a level of versatility that is unmatched. The case includes the necessary USB-C to 3.5mm and USB-C to USB-C cables to facilitate these connections, underscoring its user-friendly design.

User Experience and Controls

Beyond sound quality and features, the overall user experience – from fit and comfort to controls and companion app functionality – plays a significant role in the daily enjoyment of true wireless earbuds. Evga Z20 Opto Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Review

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 generally offers a polished experience, though with a few quirks.

Fit and Comfort: Secure and Ergonomic

The design of the Pi7 earbuds is quite ergonomic, aiming for a secure yet comfortable fit for a wide range of ear shapes. Each earbud features a slightly elongated nozzle that helps create a good seal, which is crucial for both sound quality and effective noise cancellation.

• Weight Distribution: Despite packing a lot of technology dual drivers, ANC microphones, the weight is well-distributed, preventing them from feeling heavy or causing discomfort during extended listening sessions.
• Ear Tips: Bowers & Wilkins provides multiple sizes of silicone ear tips in the box. Experimenting with these is critical to finding the perfect fit. A proper seal not only improves sound quality by enhancing bass response but also maximizes the effectiveness of the ANC. If you experience weak bass or poor noise cancellation, the first thing to check is your ear tip size and seal.
• Stability: For casual use and light activities, the Pi7 generally stays put. They are rated IP54 for dust and water resistance, meaning they can handle sweat and light splashes, making them suitable for workouts though not swimming. For very vigorous exercise, some users might prefer earbuds with additional wing tips for extra security.

Touch Controls: Intuitive, Yet Limited Customization

Each earbud features a touch-sensitive outer surface for controls.

These controls are generally responsive and intuitive:

• Single tap: Play/pause podcast, answer/end calls.
• Double tap: Skip track forward.
• Triple tap: Skip track backward.
• Press and hold left earbud: Toggle ANC/Transparency mode.
• Press and hold right earbud: Activate voice assistant.

While these standard controls cover the basics, the lack of extensive customization options for touch controls via the app is a minor drawback. For instance, there’s no dedicated volume control directly on the earbuds themselves, which can be an annoyance for some users who prefer not to reach for their phone to adjust volume. This is a design choice that prioritizes simplicity but sacrifices some user flexibility.

The Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App: Functional, But Basic

The companion Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App available for iOS and Android is essential for firmware updates and managing certain features.

• Firmware Updates: The app handles over-the-air OTA firmware updates, which are crucial for performance improvements, bug fixes, and potentially new features. Keeping the firmware updated is highly recommended.
• ANC/Transparency Toggle: You can switch between ANC, Transparency, and Off modes directly from the app’s interface.
• Battery Status: Provides a clear indication of the battery level for each earbud and the charging case.
• EQ Presets Limited: While there isn’t a full parametric equalizer, the app offers some basic sound personalization options. However, compared to the robust EQ customization found in apps from Sony or Sennheiser, the Pi7’s app is relatively basic in this regard. This suggests B&W intends for the Pi7’s default sound signature to be the preferred listening experience.
• No Multi-device Management: As mentioned, the app doesn’t facilitate seamless switching between multiple connected devices, which relies on manual Bluetooth management.

Overall, the app is functional and gets the job done for essential tasks, but it’s not as feature-rich or as deeply customizable as some competitors’ offerings.

For an earbud in this premium category, a more comprehensive app with advanced EQ settings and control remapping would be a welcome addition.

Call Quality: Clear Communication

In an era where true wireless earbuds are often used for more than just listening to podcast, call quality has become a significant consideration.

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 aims to deliver clear communication, leveraging its microphone array and processing capabilities. Tribit Stormbox Pro Review

Microphone System and Noise Reduction

Each Pi7 earbud is equipped with three microphones, strategically placed to capture your voice while simultaneously working to reduce ambient noise. This multi-microphone setup is crucial for effective call quality, especially in challenging environments. The microphones are designed to:

• Beamforming: Focus on your voice, distinguishing it from surrounding sounds.
• Noise Suppression: Actively filter out background noise like wind, traffic, or office chatter.

During calls, the Pi7 generally provides good voice clarity. Your voice comes across as natural and distinct to the person on the other end. In quiet environments, the performance is excellent, ensuring your voice is well-reproduced.

Performance in Varied Environments

The true test of call quality lies in how well earbuds perform in less-than-ideal conditions:

• Quiet Environments Home/Office: In a quiet setting, the Pi7 delivers excellent call quality. Your voice is clear, full, and easy to understand.
• Moderate Noise Café/Busy Street: In environments with moderate background noise, the Pi7’s noise reduction algorithms kick in. They do a commendable job of suppressing consistent background hums, like the murmur of a café or the distant rumble of traffic, ensuring your voice remains prominent. However, louder, more sudden noises e.g., a siren, a dog barking close by might still break through to some extent.
• Windy Conditions: Wind noise can be a notorious challenge for earbud microphones. While the Pi7 has some wind noise reduction, strong gusts can still impact clarity. This is a common limitation for most true wireless earbuds due to their exposed microphone placement. For very windy conditions, stepping indoors or turning away from the wind is often the best solution.

Compared to some competitors, the Pi7 offers solid, reliable call quality. It might not quite match the class-leading performance of earbuds specifically optimized for calls, like the Technics EAH-AZ80, but it’s more than sufficient for daily use, conference calls, and casual conversations. The focus on voice clarity ensures that you can be heard clearly without sounding muffled or distant, which is paramount for effective communication.

Value Proposition: Is the Pi7 Worth the Investment?

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 sits firmly at the premium end of the true wireless earbud market, commanding a significant price tag. This naturally leads to the question: Is the Pi7 truly worth the investment? Evaluating its value proposition requires considering its unique features, performance, and target audience.

The Cost of Premium Audio and Innovation

At its price point, the Pi7 is undeniably one of the more expensive true wireless earbuds available. This cost reflects several factors:

• Bowers & Wilkins Pedigree: You’re paying for the brand’s heritage in high-fidelity audio, known for meticulous engineering and premium sound.
• Dual Hybrid Driver System: The complex acoustic architecture with separate dynamic and balanced armature drivers is more costly to implement than single-driver designs.
• aptX Adaptive and 24-bit Processing: The inclusion of advanced codecs and high-resolution audio processing hardware adds to the manufacturing cost.
• Innovative Audio Re-transmission Case: This unique feature is a significant engineering feat and differentiator, adding considerable value and complexity to the product.

The Unique Selling Points USPs

The Pi7’s primary value lies in its unrivaled combination of high-resolution audio fidelity and the innovative audio re-transmission case.

• Audiophile-Grade Sound: For listeners who prioritize pristine sound quality, detailed instrument separation, and an expansive soundstage, the Pi7 delivers an experience that genuinely stands out in the true wireless category. It brings a level of sonic refinement that many competitors, even excellent ones, struggle to match in such a compact form factor.
• Unmatched Versatility for Travelers and Gamers: The audio re-transmission case is a must. No other true wireless earbud offers this seamless ability to connect wirelessly to non-Bluetooth audio sources. For frequent flyers wanting to upgrade their in-flight entertainment audio or gamers seeking high-quality wireless sound from their console, this feature alone can justify a significant portion of the cost.

Who is the Pi7 For?

The Pi7 is not for everyone. It’s ideally suited for:

• Discerning Audiophiles: Those who prioritize sound quality above all else and are willing to pay for a true wireless experience that comes closest to wired high-fidelity headphones.
• Frequent Travelers: The audio re-transmission case provides an unparalleled solution for in-flight entertainment.
• Tech Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate cutting-edge technology and unique, innovative features.
• Users of Android Devices with aptX Adaptive Support: To fully leverage the Pi7’s high-resolution capabilities, a compatible source device is beneficial.

Is It Worth It? The Verdict

For the casual listener simply looking for good noise cancellation and acceptable sound, the Pi7 might be an overkill and an overspend. There are many excellent, more affordable options like the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 or Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation that offer great sound and better ANC at a lower price.

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However, if you are a serious audiophile, a frequent international traveler, or someone who deeply values innovative features that solve real-world problems like connecting to non-Bluetooth sources, then the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 presents a compelling value proposition. It offers a sonic experience that is genuinely elevated, coupled with a unique functionality that no competitor can replicate. While the battery life is average and the app could be more robust, these are minor trade-offs for the unparalleled sound and re-transmission capability. Ultimately, for its niche audience, the Pi7 is absolutely worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary advantage of the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7?

The primary advantage of the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 is its exceptional audiophile-grade sound quality, delivered through dual hybrid drivers and 24-bit aptX Adaptive support, combined with its unique audio re-transmission charging case that allows wireless connection to non-Bluetooth devices.

Do the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 have good noise cancellation?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 have effective Adaptive Noise Cancellation ANC that significantly reduces low-frequency hums and consistent background noise. While good, it’s not class-leading when compared to the absolute best ANC earbuds from brands like Bose or Sony for overall noise suppression.

How does the Pi7’s audio re-transmission case work?

The Pi7’s audio re-transmission case works by connecting to an audio source like an airplane entertainment system or gaming console via a 3.5mm or USB-C cable, and then wirelessly streaming that audio directly to the Pi7 earbuds in high quality using aptX Low Latency.

What Bluetooth codecs does the Pi7 support?

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 primarily supports aptX Adaptive for high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/48kHz and also AAC for Apple devices and SBC.

What is the battery life of the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7?

The Pi7 earbuds offer approximately 4 hours of playback with ANC enabled on a single charge. The charging case provides an additional 16 hours, for a total combined battery life of around 20 hours.

Is the Pi7 compatible with iPhones?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 is fully compatible with iPhones. While iPhones don’t support aptX Adaptive, they will connect using the high-quality AAC codec, still providing an excellent listening experience.

Can I use the Pi7 for phone calls?

Yes, you can use the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 for phone calls. They feature three microphones per earbud with noise reduction technology, providing good voice clarity for calls in most environments.

Are the Pi7 earbuds comfortable for long listening sessions?

Yes, the Pi7 earbuds are designed for ergonomic comfort. With the right ear tip size, they can be worn for extended listening sessions without significant discomfort, thanks to their secure yet lightweight fit. Msi Cubi 5 10M Review

Do the Pi7 have touch controls?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 feature touch-sensitive controls on the outer surface of each earbud for playback, call management, ANC/Transparency toggling, and voice assistant activation.

Can I customize the sound of the Pi7?

The Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App offers limited sound customization options for the Pi7, primarily through basic EQ presets rather than a full parametric equalizer. The earbuds are tuned by B&W for a specific high-fidelity sound signature.

Are the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 waterproof?

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 are rated IP54 for dust and water resistance. This means they are resistant to sweat and light splashes, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use, but they are not designed for submersion or swimming.

Does the Pi7 support multipoint connectivity?

No, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 does not support multipoint connectivity. You can only connect to one device at a time, requiring manual disconnection to switch between sources.

How do I update the firmware on my Pi7?

You update the firmware on your Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 through the Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App. The app will notify you when new firmware updates are available and guide you through the process.

Is wireless charging supported for the Pi7 case?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 charging case supports Qi-compatible wireless charging, allowing for convenient cable-free power replenishment.

Can I use only one Pi7 earbud at a time?

Yes, you can use either the left or right Pi7 earbud independently for mono listening, calls, or to extend listening time by alternating between them.

What is the driver configuration in the Pi7?

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 features a dual hybrid driver configuration in each earbud, consisting of a 9.2mm dynamic driver for bass and a custom-balanced armature driver for mids and highs.

Is the Pi7 suitable for gaming?

Yes, the Pi7 is suitable for gaming, especially when utilizing the audio re-transmission case with its aptX Low Latency support. This ensures minimal audio lag for synchronized gameplay.

What is the difference between Pi7 and Pi5?

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 is the flagship model with dual hybrid drivers, 24-bit aptX Adaptive, and the audio re-transmission case. The Pi5 is a slightly more affordable model with a single dynamic driver, standard aptX support, and no re-transmission case, offering good but not as premium sound and features. Guidedoc Review

Do the Pi7 come with different ear tip sizes?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 comes with multiple sizes of silicone ear tips in the box to help users achieve the best possible fit and seal for optimal sound and ANC performance.

How do I activate the voice assistant with the Pi7?

You can activate your device’s voice assistant e.g., Siri, Google Assistant by pressing and holding the touch control on the right Pi7 earbud.

Can I use the Pi7’s charging case to charge other devices?

No, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 charging case is designed exclusively for charging the Pi7 earbuds and for audio re-transmission. It cannot be used to charge other devices.

What materials are the Pi7 earbuds made from?

The Pi7 earbuds are constructed from a combination of high-quality plastics with polished metallic accents on the outer touch-sensitive surface, giving them a premium feel and appearance.

What is the latency like for video playback on the Pi7?

When connected to a compatible device using aptX Adaptive or aptX Low Latency via the re-transmission case, the Pi7 offers very low latency, ensuring excellent audio-visual synchronization for video playback and gaming.

Are there any LED indicators on the Pi7 case?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 charging case features a small LED indicator on the front that displays the charging status and battery level of the case.

Does the Pi7 have a companion app?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 has a companion app called the Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App, available for both iOS and Android, which is used for firmware updates, ANC control, and battery monitoring.

Is the Pi7 a good choice for audiophiles?

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 is an excellent choice for audiophiles looking for a true wireless earbud that prioritizes high-resolution audio quality, detailed sound reproduction, and a wide soundstage.

What cables are included with the Pi7?

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 typically includes USB-C to 3.5mm and USB-C to USB-C cables to facilitate the audio re-transmission feature of the charging case, as well as a USB-C charging cable.

Can the Pi7 connect to an airplane’s in-flight entertainment system?

Yes, a standout feature of the Pi7 is its ability to connect to an airplane’s in-flight entertainment system by plugging the charging case into the 3.5mm headphone jack, and then wirelessly streaming the audio to the earbuds. Pac Man 99 For Nintendo Switch Review

Is the Pi7 good for workouts?

Yes, with an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, the Pi7 is suitable for workouts as it can handle sweat and light splashes. Its secure fit also contributes to its suitability for physical activity.

How do I control volume on the Pi7?

Volume control on the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 is managed directly through your connected device phone, tablet, computer as there are no dedicated volume controls on the earbuds themselves.