With the Pi8, Bowers & Wilkins set out to improve upon the Pi7 and redefine what's possible in wireless headphones. Have they succeeded in raising the bar? Let’s have a closer look, er, listen.
Design and comfort
Bowers & Wilkins has always prided itself on combining sound quality with style; the Pi8 is no exception. The design team, also responsible for the Px7 S2 and Px8 headphones, has done an excellent job again here.
The Pi8 features a new ergonomic design that ensures a more secure and comfortable fit, eliminating the potential microphone-blocking problems that affected previous models. With four sizes of ear tips, including a new extra-small option, Bowers & Wilkins covers a broader range of users.
The Pi8s stayed firmly in my ears during the tests—even shaking my head didn't make them move. However, I was not so confident that they would stay in place while running on the treadmill at the gym, so I opted not to use them for that purpose.
David Beckham endorses the Bowers&Wilkins Pi8 (Photo courtesy of Bowers&Wilkins)
Premium built and functionality
The Pi8 headphones are well-crafted and feature a luxurious design that has attracted endorsements from fashion icons such as David Beckham. That said, the brand, premium build quality and design alone may not be the only reason for the high price tag (€399). But you can buy the Pi6 model for less 150 euros.
They are finished like expensive cufflinks and are available in four colours: Anthracite Black, Jade Green (photo below), Midnight Blue, and Dove White. Mine are black, but I love Midnight Blue.
Bowers&Wilkins Pi8 Jade Green (Photo courtesy of Bowers&Wilkins)
They have an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, making them ideal for outdoor use. The touch interface is minimalistic, simple, and intuitive, with all functions controlled by tactile commands like Morse code. Bowers & Wilkins also provides a companion app with various customisation options, including equalisation adjustments.
Unlike using voice commands, the Pi8 uses audible beeps, which some may find less intrusive. However, I occasionally missed the voice prompts, particularly during the initial learning process.
Bowers&Wilkins Pi8 Anthracite Black (pair) - (Photo courtesy of Bowers&Wilkins)
State-of-the-art technology
The Pi8 is a technological leap forward. Bluetooth True Wireless mirroring technology replaces the more unstable NFMI system, ensuring a more reliable and fluid connection. This new technology and an improved battery—up to 6.5 hours per charge—make the Pi8 practical for long listening sessions.
The smart charging case is one feature that stands out, although it's not original. Not only does it offer more battery time (+13 hours) and fast charging, but it also acts as an audio relay device. It can connect directly to your preferred audio source via USB-C for a more stable transmission and a different sound quality, if not better. And the case is also compatible with wireless charging!
Bowers&Wilkins Pi8 _ charging case and portable streamer. (Photo courtesy of Bowers&Wilkins)
It's small and easy to carry, and thanks to the magnetic design, it's simple to remove and replace the headphones in the case. However, its flattened egg shape requires the use of both hands, as it's hard to balance it on a surface—a small detail I've got used to, just like Columbus with his proverbial egg.
Noise Cancellation and Call Quality
The Pi8's adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC) offers impressive performance, automatically adjusting to the environment. In my tests, noise reduction was always well-balanced, and it was better at suppressing low background sounds (rumble) than high ones, as expected. 'Pass through' mode, which allows some ambient sound to come through, was my favourite, as it lets in some surrounding sounds without sacrificing too much audio quality.
Each earpiece has three microphones, theoretically ensuring superior call clarity. However, during some calls, my wife, and friends said my voice was a little low, though I could hear them loud and clear. The voice assistant was also at a slightly lower volume, but still perfectly understandable.
Sound Quality: A New Standard in Headphones?
Bowers & Wilkins' reputation for audio excellence is evident in the Pi8. With a True 24-bit connection and unique carbon cone speakers, these headphones offer a rich, detailed sound that elevates the listening experience to above-average levels. The inclusion of aptX™ Lossless and aptX™ Adaptive codecs further enhances the sound quality, regardless of the device used.
Each headphone also includes independent amplifiers and DACs, placing the Pi8 in high-fidelity audio territory. However, as with all in-ear monitors (IEMs), the way sound quality is perceived depends very much on the individual shape of your ear canal - so I recommend testing them before buying, even if Beckham endorses them!
The Bowers & Wilkins app also includes equalisation settings for those who want to adjust the sound. Thanks to the excellent work of the B&W engineers, I thought the factory tuning was spot on. That said, the option to customise the sound remains, and so does the True Sound mode, which overrides any custom EQ settings.
I did notice a slight latency when watching YouTube videos or movie soundtracks, using the case as a transmitter via USB. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a solution for synchronisation in the app.
Bowers&Wilkins Pi8 - a matter of youth and beauty. (Photo courtesy of Bowers&Wilkins)
Music On the Go
Listening to music with the Pi8 was always a great experience. The sound quality, noise cancellation, and well-thought-out design make these headphones stand out. The only downside for me was the usual discomfort from wearing IEMs for long periods, which might lessen over time but may still be an issue for most people.
Whether I was listening to Tidal via Bluetooth or connecting the smart case to my PC via USB-C, the Pi8s always delivered excellent sound. Roon also recognised the case as 'Pi8 Case Wasapi', allowing me to listen to my playlists on Roon without interruptions. I took them with me on holiday, and now I'm taking them to London for the EISA Gala at Ascot. Maybe I'll bump into Beckham wearing Pi8s...
Conclusion
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 headphones aren't just an upgrade from the Pi7; they mark a significant leap in high-end wireless audio. With features like aptX Lossless, carbon drivers, and adaptive ANC, they push the boundaries of audio engineering. For those willing to invest in top-tier sound, the Pi8 delivers rich audio, a premium design, and cutting-edge technology and functionalities that rival the best in their class. It’s a case of getting what you pay for—and in this instance, you do: including Beckham’s cachet (€399).
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