Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 Review: Audiophile Earbuds with a Premium Price

Bowers & Wilkins, the iconic British audio brand founded in 1966, has recently unveiled its latest high-end earbuds, the Pi8. Released on August 21, 2024, these earbuds represent a significant upgrade from their predecessors, the Pi7s, with improvements in various aspects of design and performance.

The Pi8's standout feature is undoubtedly its sound quality. Utilizing 12mm Carbon Cone diaphragms similar to those found in the company's Px8 headphones, these earbuds deliver an exceptional audio experience. The sound separation is remarkable, with bass and drums distinctly isolated from other elements, while vocals are reproduced with stunning clarity. This level of audio fidelity is a testament to B&W's long-standing commitment to sound quality, which has been evident since their first P1 loudspeaker.

In terms of design and comfort, the Pi8 marks a significant improvement over its predecessor. The earbuds now fit naturally into the ear, addressing the comfort issues of the Pi7s. With four choices of ear tips, users can easily find their optimal fit. The premium build quality is evident in every aspect, from the gold charging contacts to the high-grade plastics used in the buds and case.

Noise cancellation, while effective for everyday use, is not the Pi8's strongest suit. It adequately handles common ambient sounds but doesn't quite match the performance of industry leaders in this area. However, the pass-through mode functions well, and the app offers a five-band EQ for sound customization.

Battery life is on par with industry standards, providing 6.5 hours of playback with active noise cancelling enabled, and a total of 20 hours with the charging case. The case supports wireless charging, adding convenience for users.

One of the Pi8's unique features is its retransmitter case, which allows users to connect to in-flight entertainment systems and enjoy high-quality audio. This innovation reflects B&W's history of creative solutions, reminiscent of their Zeppelin speaker designed for iPods.

The Pi8 also caters to audiophiles with support for aptX Lossless and the ability to transmit lossless 24-bit 96kHz audio when connected to compatible devices. This feature aligns with B&W's reputation for high-fidelity audio, which has made their speakers a staple in professional recording studios and venues like Abbey Road and the Royal Albert Hall.

"I found myself making excuses such as needless trips to the supermarket to be able to listen to them while testing: the music performance is just that good."

While the Pi8's £349 price tag places them at the higher end of the market, their exceptional sound quality and unique features may justify the cost for audio enthusiasts. Compared to competitors like Sony's WF-1000XM5 and Apple's AirPods, the Pi8 offers superior sound performance and audiophile-focused features.

In conclusion, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 earbuds represent a pinnacle of in-ear audio technology. For those who prioritize sound quality above all else and appreciate the brand's rich heritage in audio innovation, these earbuds offer a compelling, albeit expensive, option in the crowded wireless earbud market.