Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 vs PX7 S2e Review

If you’ve narrowed your wireless headphone buying options down to Bowers & Wilkins, you might have noticed that there is a new PX7 in town, the PX7 S2e. Selling for $100 more than the $299 PX7 S2, what does the new iteration offer, and what upgrades have been made? More important, have there been any noticeable improvements to the sound?

Look and Feel

From what I can tell, the only change that has been made to the aesthetics is the added color options. But other than that the slightly different shades of the gold trimming, they look virtually identical. In terms of fit, the clamping force on the PX7 S2e feels a little firmer. But I’m comparing this brand new model to my own PX7 S2, which has been used for a couple of months. 

The PX7 S2 in on the left, PX7 S2e on the right.

Design

In terms of features and functionality, nothing has changed here. You can also expect the same 30 hour battery life, as well as the same ANC strength, at least from what I could tell. The primary upgrade seems to lie in the new 24 bit DSP (digital signal processor). But other than that, the PX7 S2e still features the same 40mm driver as the previous iteration.

Sound Impressions

While there is little discernible difference in sound signature, noticeable improvements have been made to the dynamics; in my AB comparison, instruments “popped” a bit more on the PX7 S2e. It was almost like the track had been remastered; variations in volume within the mix of the track became more apparent and more colorful. This became more obvious when played at louder volumes, which gave the impression of more headroom as well. So, if you’re often disappointed by a lack of volume on wireless headphones, investing in the PX7 S2e might be wise, even if the difference is less than stark.

Final Verdict

If you own the PX7 S2, is it worth upgrading to the S2e? Probably not. Why not get a different headphone with a different sound signature. But as someone who recently bought the PX7 S2, am I annoyed that the S2e sounds a little better? Bigly. If you’re a first time buyer and budget is a priority, the PX7 S2 is a great choice. But if you’re not the kind to compromise and you’re willing to spend the extra cash, the S2e is better, albeit marginally.

You can buy the PX7 S2e and the PX7 S2 at Audio 46.