Bowers & Wilkins launches their very first pair of wireless, noise-canceling headphones. The PX relies on Bluetooth for wireless connectivity while offering 24-bit AptX HD audio for “better than CD” sound quality. It’s complemented by an active noise-canceling (ANC) feature and has a set of intelligent, user-friendly sensors.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX uses the same drive units found in their P9 Signature headset. The PX also offers the same angled design that allegedly improves its sound-staging capabilities. It uses soft leather for its headbands and nylon for its ear cups, with a frame, finished in etched aluminum.
According to Bowers & Wilkins’ press statement, the PX’s ANC “has been refined to provide optimum isolation without ‘crushing’ the music.” Folks who are familiar with higher-end ANC headphones would have experienced that dampening effect that’s caused by active cancellation, which Bowers & Wilkins claimed that they’ve mostly avoided by spending thousands of hours on R&D.
Adding on to their efforts is three “adaptive noise-canceling modes” that can be selected via Bowers & Wilkins’ proprietary mobile app. The ‘City’ setting allows traffic noise for a safer commute, and ‘Office’ enables conversation with colleagues, while ‘Flight’ offers total silence. The app is also instrumental if you want firmware updates for your PX, too.
The PX also packs a set of sensors that automates its core functionality. By picking up the headphones, the PX will power on, and resume your current track. Putting them away relegates it to standby mode. Lifting up or hanging the PX on your neck will help pause the music. While all these aren’t new to headphones, it’s a helpful set of smart features to have.
The smart headphones offer up to 22 hours of wireless playback with ANC, and up to 33 hours when wired, but with ANC powered up.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX now retails at S$569 at their respective showrooms, located at Millenia Walk and Lavender Street. These headphones are available in Space Grey and Soft Gold variants.
Specifications:
- Bluetooth 4.1 with aptX HD
- Digital hybrid noise cancellation
- Smart sensors for Auto Play / Pause / On / Off
- Soft leather removable memory foam cushions
- Companion app with environment controls
- Fold-flat design
- Inputs: USB-C (Audio, battery charging & FW update), 3.5mm stereo jack, 2x microphones
- Supports CVC2 algorithm
- Drive units: 2 x 40mm, full-range
- Frequency range: 10Hz to 20kHz
- Impedance: 22 ohms (passive)
- Distortion: <0.3% (1kHz/10mW)
- Sensitivity: 111dB/V at 1kHz
- Max input power: 1V
- Net weight: 335g
- Battery Life:
- Up to 22 hours Bluetooth and Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) enabled
- Up to 29 hours Bluetooth only
- Up to 33 hours wired connection with ANC enabled
- Up to 50 hours wired connection only
- In-box accessories: 1.2m standard audio cable (TRS 3-pole stereo), protective pouch, USB-A to USB-C cable
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