Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 Over-Ear Noise-Canceling Headphones: Your New Audio Companion?

If you’re looking to upgrade your audio game, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 over-ear noise-canceling headphones just dropped, and they’re making some serious waves. Announced on April 24, 2025, and hitting shelves in certain markets in late May 2025, these headphones are the latest evolution from a brand known for its exceptional sound. They’re designed to build on the success of their predecessors, like the excellent PX7 S2e, promising even more refined sound, enhanced noise cancellation, and a more comfortable fit.

But here’s the thing: while they’re available in regions like the UK and EU, North and Latin American enthusiasts might need to wait a little longer, with release dates and pricing still pending for those areas. That said, if you’re in the market for premium noise-canceling headphones, keeping an eye on the PX7 S3 is definitely worth it. Bowers & Wilkins has consistently aimed to deliver an authentic, “True Sound” experience, making you feel closer to the artist’s original recording, and the PX7 S3 seems poised to continue that legacy.

Think of these as a refined version of an already great product, bringing in learnings from their flagship PX8 headphones while offering a more accessible price point than the PX8. They’re looking to give top contenders like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones a run for their money. If you’re into getting the best sound possible with solid noise cancellation and a touch of luxury, the PX7 S3 could very well be your next go-to.

When Bowers & Wilkins drops a new pair of headphones, audiophiles and casual listeners alike perk up their ears, and the PX7 S3 is no exception. This new model, globally launched on April 24, 2025, is creating a buzz, promising an elevated listening experience that aims to redefine what you expect from wireless noise-canceling headphones. It’s not just a minor refresh. B&W has really tried to pack in significant upgrades across the board, from the sound architecture to the comfort and smart features, drawing inspiration from their premium PX8 line.

A Deep Dive into the Sound Quality: Hearing Every Detail

One of the biggest reasons you’d pick up a pair of Bowers & Wilkins headphones is, without a doubt, the sound quality. With the PX7 S3, B&W is really pushing the envelope to get you closer to the original recording, which they call “True Sound.”

At the heart of it, the PX7 S3 uses re-engineered 40mm bio-cellulose dynamic drivers. While the PX7 S2e also features 40mm bio-cellulose drivers, the S3 comes with an upgraded chassis, motor, and suspension, which B&W says will give you a clearer and more dynamic sound. This means you should hear your podcast with incredible precision, from the deepest bass notes to the crispest highs, without anything feeling overdone or artificial.

They’ve also equipped these headphones with a new 24-bit Digital Signal Processing DSP and a dedicated headphone amplifier, which is a big deal. This tech works together to ensure that the audio signal is processed with immense detail, allowing for a high-resolution sound experience. If you’re streaming from platforms that offer high-resolution audio, you’ll be happy to know that the PX7 S3 supports Qualcomm aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless codecs, enabling a true 24-bit/96kHz connection over Bluetooth 5.3. That’s a fancy way of saying you’re getting some of the best wireless audio fidelity available right now. This is a noticeable step up in wireless capabilities from previous models.

When comparing it to its predecessor, the PX7 S2e, many found the S2e already delivered a tight, controlled, and focused bass with an open soundstage. Early impressions suggest the PX7 S3 takes that foundation and refines it, offering even greater clarity and a more engaging presentation. For those who prioritize pure, uncolored sound that brings out the nuances in every track, the PX7 S3 is definitely engineered to impress.

If you like to tinker with your sound, the updated Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App now offers a five-band custom EQ, a significant improvement over the two-band EQ found on the PX7 S2e. This gives you much more control to tailor the sound profile to your specific preferences, whether you want a little more thump in your bass or extra sparkle in the treble. Degrees of freedom second limited edition kinetic chess set review

For the serious listeners, or those who just love a fantastic sound, the PX7 S3 appears to be a real contender. Headphones like these are built for detail, and you can expect to hear elements in your favorite songs you might have missed before.

Stepping Up the Noise Cancellation: Your Personal Quiet Zone

In a world full of distractions, effective noise cancellation isn’t just a luxury. it’s a necessity for many. Whether you’re on a noisy commute, in a bustling office, or just trying to find some peace at home, good ANC can make all the difference. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 really steps up its game in this department.

The PX7 S3 features an advanced noise-cancellation platform, using a total of eight microphones, with six dedicated to ANC. This is an upgrade from the PX7 S2e’s six microphones four for ANC, indicating a more robust system for silencing the world around you. Early reviews are already praising the new ANC, stating it brings B&W in line with some of the best in the business, excluding Bose. That’s high praise, as Bose noise-canceling headphones like the QuietComfort Ultra are often considered top-tier for their ANC capabilities.

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This hybrid noise cancellation technology is designed to effectively block out a wide range of ambient sounds, from the low rumble of airplane engines to the chatter in an open-plan office. What’s impressive is that it does this without negatively impacting the quality of your podcast, ensuring that the dynamics and energy of your tracks remain intact.

Beyond just shutting out noise, the PX7 S3 also features an Ambient Pass-Through mode B&W calls it “transparency mode” or “pass-through”, which lets you hear your surroundings without taking off your headphones. This is super handy for quick conversations, listening for announcements, or staying aware of traffic when you’re out and about. It sounds natural and doesn’t add any annoying self-generated noise.

The microphones aren’t just for noise cancellation. the PX7 S3 also boasts ADI Pure Voice Processing and all eight microphones are used for call quality, enhancing clarity for phone calls even in noisy environments. This means you can take calls with confidence, knowing your voice will come through crisp and clear, which is crucial for modern headphones.

If you’re comparing to the PX7 S2e, the S3 offers a noticeable bump in ANC performance. While the S2e had “pretty good” noise cancellation, it wasn’t always considered “elite” compared to the absolute best. The S3 seems to be bridging that gap, offering a more competitive solution for those seeking tranquility in noisy environments. When considering Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, this advancement is a significant selling point.

Comfort and Design: A Touch of Luxury You Can Wear All Day

Let’s be real: amazing sound and ANC don’t mean much if your headphones aren’t comfortable to wear for extended periods. Bowers & Wilkins knows this, and with the PX7 S3, they’ve put a lot of thought into the comfort and overall design, giving them a decidedly premium feel. Aera mini diffuser review

The PX7 S3 features a comprehensively re-imagined industrial design, with a notably slimmer profile than previous models. This sleeker look is not just for aesthetics. it also contributes to a more comfortable fit. The headphones are also slightly lighter than the PX7 S2e, at approximately 0.30kg, compared to the S2e’s 0.31kg. This might seem like a small difference, but it can certainly impact long-term comfort.

You’ll find softer memory foam in the earcups and a redesigned headband and arms, all engineered for improved comfort during those long listening sessions. The earcups themselves are designed to perfectly encapsulate and cushion your ears, helping with both comfort and passive noise isolation.

In terms of materials, B&W maintains its signature classy aesthetic. While the flagship PX8 features luxurious Nappa leather, the PX7 S3 still uses a sophisticated fabric finish paired with lustrous metal detailing. It’s a design that balances luxury with durability, making them look and feel much more “grown-up” and high-end than many plastic-heavy competitors.

The PX7 S3 comes in three elegant finishes: Anthracite Black, Indigo Blue, and Canvas White, each with complementary detailing. These color options are subtle yet stylish, fitting seamlessly into various personal aesthetics.

One really thoughtful feature that speaks to long-term ownership is that both the ear cushions and headband are replaceable by trained service engineers. This means if wear and tear eventually take their toll on these contact points, you can extend the life of your headphones, which is a big plus for investment pieces like these. Maono wave t5 wireless mic for content creators review

Overall, the PX7 S3 aims to provide a “perfect fit” that makes you want to wear them all day long. They strike a balance between being substantial enough to feel premium and light enough to prevent fatigue, an essential quality for any pair of Over-Ear Headphones.

Battery Life, Connectivity, and Smart Features: Modern Conveniences

world, your headphones need to keep up. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 is packed with modern features to ensure seamless connectivity, impressive battery life, and smart integrations.

When it comes to battery life, the PX7 S3 continues B&W’s strong performance, offering a robust 30 hours of playback with Active Noise Cancellation ANC switched on. This is pretty much par for the course among premium wireless headphones and means you can easily get through long flights or multiple days of regular use without needing a recharge. When you do need to juice them up, a quick 15-minute charge can give you around 7 hours of listening, which is incredibly handy for those last-minute dashes out the door.

Connectivity is handled by Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable and efficient wireless connection. As mentioned before, the support for aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless codecs at 24-bit/96kHz means you’re getting high-resolution audio fidelity over Bluetooth, which is excellent for audiophiles who crave the best wireless sound. Una watch modular repairable gps sports watch review

Beyond wireless, the PX7 S3 also supports USB-C connectivity for both charging and high-resolution wired audio. This “DAC mode” through USB-C means you can connect directly to a laptop or a compatible phone and enjoy pristine digital audio, bypassing your device’s internal DAC for potentially better sound. They even come with dedicated cables for both USB-C and 3.5mm stereo jack, plus a carrying case. The carrying case has also been redesigned to be slimmer and more travel-friendly than the S2e’s.

B&W isn’t just focusing on current tech. they’re also looking to the future. The PX7 S3 will receive over-the-air updates later this year to enable exciting new features like Spatial Audio and Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast broadcast functionality. Spatial Audio promises a more immersive, theater-like listening experience, while Auracast will allow a single audio source to broadcast to an unlimited number of compatible headphones – imagine sharing audio with friends or listening to a silent TV in a public space. Bluetooth LE Audio also includes the new LC3 codec, which has the potential for even higher-quality sound than standard Bluetooth.

For control, B&W has stuck with physical buttons rather than relying solely on touch controls. However, the control layout has been reshaped, with the power and quick action buttons grouped on the left earcup for easier navigation. The Quick Action button can be customized via the app to cycle through noise-canceling modes On, Off, Pass-Through or activate your phone’s voice assistant. Many users appreciate the tactile feedback and reliability of physical buttons, especially when you don’t want to accidentally skip a track or change settings.

The accompanying Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App also offers some valuable features beyond the EQ, allowing you to manage connections, adjust environmental modes, and receive firmware updates.

All these features combine to make the PX7 S3 a versatile and future-proof choice for your daily listening needs, providing a seamless experience whether you’re at home or on the go with your Bluetooth Headphones.

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PX7 S3 vs. PX7 S2e vs. PX8: Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between Bowers & Wilkins’ excellent lineup of noise-canceling headphones can be tough, especially with the PX7 S3 now in the mix. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which pair best suits your needs and budget.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e Approx. $359-$399 USD

• Sound: Excellent sound quality in its class, with tight, controlled bass and an open soundstage. Features 40mm bio-cellulose drivers with 24-bit DSP.
• Noise Cancellation: Good, but not “elite” compared to top-tier competitors. Uses 4 microphones for ANC.
• Comfort & Design: Premium fabric finish and metal accents. Comfortable memory foam earcups. Weighs around 309 grams.
• Features: 30 hours battery life, aptX Adaptive, Bluetooth 5.2, two-band EQ via app, physical buttons.
• Value: Often considered excellent value, especially when on sale, offering a lot of premium sound for the money.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 Approx. £399 / AU$699, US pricing TBC

• Sound: Builds on S2e with re-engineered 40mm bio-cellulose drivers upgraded chassis, motor, suspension, new headphone amp, and 24-bit DSP for clearer, more dynamic sound. Supports aptX Lossless 24-bit/96kHz.
• Noise Cancellation: Significantly improved ANC with 6 microphones dedicated to ANC 8 total for calls. Aims to compete with the best.
• Comfort & Design: Lighter 0.30kg, slimmer profile, softer memory foam, redesigned headband for improved long-term comfort. Replaceable ear cushions/headband. Slimmer carry case.
• Features: 30 hours battery life, Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Adaptive & Lossless, five-band custom EQ + True Sound Mode via app, reshaped physical buttons. Future support for Spatial Audio and Auracast.
• Position: The “evolved” version of the S2e, offering substantial upgrades in sound, ANC, and comfort, making it a stronger contender against premium rivals.

Bowers & Wilkins PX8 Approx. $499-$749 USD

• Sound: Flagship sound with bespoke 40mm carbon cone drivers for even greater clarity and a more “open” midrange. Considered a step up from the PX7 S2e for sonic capabilities.
• Noise Cancellation: Very good, often slightly better than the PX7 S2e, also uses 6 microphones.
• Comfort & Design: Utmost luxury with genuine Nappa leather on earcups and headband, brushed metal detailing. Weighs a bit more due to premium materials.
• Value: Premium price point, justified by superior build materials and slightly enhanced sound. Best for those who prioritize ultimate luxury and sound fidelity without budget constraints.

Which one should you pick?

• If budget is a primary concern but you still want premium sound: The PX7 S2e is a fantastic choice, especially if you can find it on sale. It offers incredible audio performance for its price.
• If you want the latest tech, improved ANC, and a noticeable step up in sound and comfort without jumping to flagship prices: The PX7 S3 is the way to go. Its enhanced features, especially the new EQ and future-proofing with Spatial Audio/Auracast, make it a compelling package.
• If money is no object and you prioritize the absolute best in sound, luxury materials, and build quality: The PX8 remains B&W’s flagship. Its carbon drivers and Nappa leather make it a truly indulgent listening experience.

The PX7 S3 sits right in the sweet spot, offering many of the flagship inspirations from the PX8 in a more refined and feature-rich package than the S2e, at a competitive price for its segment.

Pros and Cons of the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3

Every product has its strengths and weaknesses, and the PX7 S3 is no different. Based on the early information and comparisons, here’s a rundown of what makes these headphones shine and where they might not be everyone’s first choice. Osipoto 2lb Bread Maker Review: Is This Your Next Kitchen Essential?

Pros:

• Exceptional Sound Quality: The re-engineered 40mm drivers, new 24-bit DSP, and dedicated headphone amp promise incredibly clear, dynamic, and engaging audio, living up to B&W’s “True Sound” philosophy.
• High-Resolution Wireless Audio: Support for Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless 24-bit/96kHz ensures you’re getting some of the best wireless fidelity available, great for streaming high-res tracks.
• Significantly Improved Noise Cancellation: With eight microphones six for ANC, the PX7 S3 aims to offer class-leading ANC that can effectively shut out ambient noise without compromising podcast quality.
• Enhanced Comfort: Lighter weight, a slimmer profile, softer memory foam earcups, and a redesigned headband mean these headphones should be incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions.
• Premium Build and Design: They retain B&W’s signature elegant aesthetic with quality fabric and metal accents, offering a sophisticated look and feel. The option for replaceable ear cushions and headbands also adds to their longevity.
• Advanced App Control: The new five-band custom EQ and “True Sound Mode” in the Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App give you more granular control over your audio experience.
• Future-Proof Features: Planned updates for Spatial Audio and Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast functionality mean these headphones are set to evolve with new technologies.
• Excellent Call Quality: The eight-microphone array with ADI Pure Voice Processing ensures your voice comes through clearly, even in noisy environments.

Cons:

• Availability North & Latin America: At launch, the PX7 S3 isn’t immediately available in North and Latin America, with pricing and release dates TBC, which might be frustrating for some potential buyers.
• Price: While more affordable than the PX8, the PX7 S3 is still a premium-priced headphone, which might be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers.
• Not the Absolute Best ANC Potentially: While significantly improved, some top contenders like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are still often cited as having the absolute best noise cancellation, so the PX7 S3 will have tough competition.
• Physical Buttons Preference: While many appreciate physical controls, some users prefer the gesture-based or touch controls found on competitor headphones.

Understanding these points can help you weigh whether the PX7 S3 aligns with your priorities for a new set of headphones. If you’re looking for premium sound and design with much-improved ANC and comfort, these seem like a fantastic choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the release date and price of the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3?

The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 was globally launched on April 24, 2025. As for pricing, it’s around £399 / AU$699 in the UK and EU markets, but the official price and release date for North and Latin America are still to be announced.

How does the PX7 S3 compare to the PX7 S2e in terms of sound and features?

The PX7 S3 is an “evolved” version of the PX7 S2e, offering several key upgrades. It features re-engineered 40mm drivers with an upgraded chassis, motor, and suspension for clearer, more dynamic sound, along with a new headphone amp and 24-bit DSP. The ANC is significantly improved, utilizing 6 microphones for noise cancellation compared to the S2e’s 4. The S3 also offers a five-band custom EQ via the app vs. two-band on S2e, Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Lossless, and a lighter, slimmer design for enhanced comfort.

Is the noise cancellation on the PX7 S3 comparable to Bose or Sony?

Early reviews suggest the PX7 S3’s new active noise cancellation platform is much improved and brings Bowers & Wilkins into line with some of the best noise-canceling headphones, not including Bose. While the PX7 S2e was considered good but not elite, the S3 aims to be a stronger competitor against industry leaders like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra.

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What is the battery life of the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3?

The PX7 S3 offers a strong battery life of 30 hours of continuous playback with Active Noise Cancellation ANC enabled. It also supports quick charging, giving you about 7 hours of listening from just a 15-minute charge.

Does the PX7 S3 support high-resolution audio?

Yes, absolutely! The PX7 S3 combines its 24-bit DSP and re-engineered drivers with support for Qualcomm aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless codecs via Bluetooth 5.3. This allows for a true 24-bit/96kHz high-resolution audio connection wirelessly, meaning you can enjoy studio-quality sound from compatible streaming services and devices. It also supports high-resolution wired audio via its USB-C connection.

What smart features are included, and will it get Spatial Audio?

The PX7 S3 comes with the Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App, offering a new five-band custom EQ and “True Sound Mode.” It also features a quick action button for cycling through ANC modes or activating your voice assistant. Crucially, Bowers & Wilkins has announced that the PX7 S3 will receive future over-the-air updates to support Spatial Audio and Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast broadcast functionality, providing immersive audio experiences and enhanced sharing capabilities.

How do the PX7 S3 headphones feel for long listening sessions?

Bowers & Wilkins has put a significant focus on comfort with the PX7 S3. It features a notably slimmer design and is slightly lighter than its predecessor approx. 0.30kg. The headphones boast softer memory foam earcups and a redesigned headband, all engineered to provide a comfortable fit for extended listening periods. Additionally, the ear cushions and headband are designed to be replaceable, enhancing the headphones’ longevity. Hmd fusion x1 review