Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e & Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e rather than the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2

Why Do I Recommend The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e

  • The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e features an upgraded 24-bit DSP engine for more precise tuning, clearer vocals, and better overall sound definition, compared to the PX7 S2’s original DSP.
  • Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e has a re-engineered sound profile derived from the flagship PX8 to deliver enhanced instrument separation and a wider, more immersive soundstage, compared to the PX7 S2’s more compact presentation.
  • It includes more refined tuning in the treble range for improved clarity and detail in high-frequency sounds, compared to the PX7 S2’s slightly rolled-off highs.
  • The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e features better midrange articulation to allow vocals and dialogue to sound more natural and present, compared to the PX7 S2’s recessed mids.
  • Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e has slightly tighter and cleaner bass response to prevent low-end muddiness during complex tracks, compared to the PX7 S2’s warmer bass signature.
  • It includes enhanced loudness calibration to achieve slightly higher output levels without distortion, compared to the PX7 S2’s more limited volume ceiling.
  • The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e comes with a new Forest Green color option for more style variety, compared to the PX7 S2’s limited color choices.
  • Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e features a subtle glossy earcup ring finish for a sleeker, more premium visual appeal, compared to the PX7 S2’s matte ring design.

Maybe the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureBowers & Wilkins PX7 S2eBowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
DSP EngineUpdated 24-bit DSP tuned from PX8Original 24-bit DSP
Sound TuningEnhanced clarity and detailWarmer, laid-back profile
Midrange ClarityMore forward and transparent midsSlightly recessed mids
SoundstageWider and more spaciousModerate width
Instrument SeparationImproved separation and layeringStandard
Treble PerformanceMore refined and crisper highsSmooth but slightly rolled-off
Bass ResponseSlightly tighter and more definedControlled and warm
Volume OutputSlightly higher output at same levelsSlightly lower max volume
Color VariantsForest Green, Anthracite Black, Ocean Blue, Cloud GreyAnthracite Black, Cloud Grey, Ocean Blue, Royal Burgundy
Finish DetailsGlossy/anodized ring finish on earcupMatte-finished ring around earcup
Software OptimizationImproved tuning firmware with PX8 learningsOriginal firmware
PriceCheck PX7 S2e PriceCheck PX7 S2 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • 40 mm Angled Drivers: Both headphones use the exact same 40 mm custom-designed dynamic drivers, angled within the earcups for improved stereo imaging and natural sound projection.
  • Six-Microphone ANC System: Both the PX7 S2 and PX7 S2e feature a hybrid active noise cancellation system powered by six microphones — two for voice and four for ANC — providing highly effective noise suppression.
  • Bluetooth 5.2 with Advanced Codec Support: Both models support Bluetooth 5.2 and high-resolution codecs like aptX Adaptive and aptX HD, ensuring reliable wireless connectivity and rich audio quality over compatible devices.
  • Battery & Fast Charging: Each model offers up to 30 hours of battery life with ANC turned on, and both support quick charging — 15 minutes gives you up to 7 hours of playback.
  • USB-C and 3.5mm Support: Both headphones allow for wired listening via USB-C (digital audio) and include a 3.5mm analog input via cable, ideal for lossless playback or flights.
  • Premium Comfort and Build: The headbands and earpads on both are made of soft memory foam wrapped in high-quality fabric. The clamping force, padding, and materials are the same, delivering identical comfort levels.
  • Music App and EQ Support: Both headphones use the same Bowers & Wilkins Music App, with a 2-band equalizer (bass and treble), toggleable ANC/transparency, and firmware update capabilities.
  • Physical Button Controls: Instead of touch gestures, both models use tactile buttons on the right earcup for playback, volume, and ANC controls, preferred by many for reliability and accuracy.
  • Wear Detection and Voice Assistant Access: Auto-pause/resume via wear detection is included in both. You can also access your phone’s voice assistant through the multi-function button.
  • Design and Weight: Both weigh around 307 grams, have a nearly identical shape, and use premium aluminum and high-grade fabric materials in the frame and earcups.

Common Features

FeatureBowers & Wilkins PX7 S2eBowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
Driver Size40 mm40 mm
Driver TypeDynamic, angled inside earcupDynamic, angled inside earcup
Noise CancellationHybrid Active Noise CancellingHybrid Active Noise Cancelling
Ambient Pass-ThroughYesYes
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.2Bluetooth 5.2
Bluetooth CodecsaptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBCaptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
Battery LifeUp to 30 hours with ANCUp to 30 hours with ANC
Fast Charging15 minutes = 7 hours15 minutes = 7 hours
Charging PortUSB-CUSB-C
Wired PlaybackUSB-C Audio and 3.5mm via cableUSB-C Audio and 3.5mm via cable
Headband & EarpadsMemory foam padding with fabric coveringMemory foam padding with fabric covering
WeightApprox. 307 gramsApprox. 307 grams
App SupportBowers & Wilkins Music AppBowers & Wilkins Music App
Custom EQ2-band adjustable EQ via app2-band adjustable EQ via app
Voice Assistant IntegrationYesYes
Wear DetectionYesYes
Physical ControlsOn-ear button layoutOn-ear button layout
Build MaterialsPremium fabric, aluminum, and memory foamPremium fabric, aluminum, and memory foam
Price Check PX7 S2e Price Check PX7 S2 Price

FAQ

Do both the PX7 S2 and PX7 S2e use the same drivers?
Yes, both headphones use identical 40 mm dynamic drivers that are angled within the earcups to improve stereo imaging and sound quality.

Is the active noise cancellation the same on both models?
Yes, both the PX7 S2 and PX7 S2e feature hybrid active noise cancellation with a six-microphone array, and their ANC performance is virtually identical.

How long is the battery life on both models?
Both headphones offer up to 30 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation turned on, and support fast charging for 7 hours of playback from a 15-minute charge.

Do the PX7 S2 and S2e support the same Bluetooth codecs?
Yes, both support Bluetooth 5.2 and high-resolution audio codecs including aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC.

Can I use both headphones in wired mode?
Yes, both models can be used in wired mode via USB-C audio or with a 3.5mm analog connection using the included cables.

Is there any difference in the comfort or weight of the two models?
No, both models are identical in weight at approximately 307 grams and use the same memory foam padding and premium fabric for comfortable extended wear.

Are there any changes in the controls or app support?
No, both headphones use the same physical button controls and are compatible with the Bowers & Wilkins Music App, which allows access to a 2-band EQ and ANC/transparency settings.

What colors are available for each model?
The PX7 S2 is available in Anthracite Black, Cloud Grey, Ocean Blue, and Royal Burgundy, while the PX7 S2e introduces a new Forest Green option along with Anthracite Black, Cloud Grey, and Ocean Blue.

Does the PX7 S2e sound better than the PX7 S2?
Yes, the PX7 S2e features improved tuning that results in slightly clearer highs, more articulate mids, and better instrument separation, making it sound more refined to discerning listeners.

Are there any design changes besides the color?
Yes, the PX7 S2e includes minor cosmetic tweaks like a shinier anodized ring on the earcup, whereas the PX7 S2 features a matte finish ring. The overall form factor remains unchanged.

Do both headphones support voice assistants?
Yes, both models can trigger your phone’s default voice assistant through the multi-function button on the right earcup.

Are the microphones the same on both models?
Yes, both use the same six-microphone array for active noise cancellation and voice calls, and their call quality is consistent.

Do either of the models include wear detection?
Yes, both the PX7 S2 and PX7 S2e include wear detection sensors that automatically pause playback when the headphones are removed and resume when worn again.

Should I upgrade from PX7 S2 to PX7 S2e?
If you already own the PX7 S2, the upgrade to S2e is only worthwhile if you prioritize slightly improved sound tuning and want the new Forest Green color. Otherwise, the differences are subtle and not essential for most users.

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