Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Up to 50 hours of battery life on a single charge
  • Good wireless range
  • A compact carrying case allows for easy packing
  • One-touch pairing and Find My device tracking are offered for both Android and Apple devices
  • USB-C connectivity allows for wired transfer of high-resolution digital audio

Product Considerations

  • Lacks active noise cancellation and transparency mode
  • There is no auto-pause feature
  • A firm fit may be too tight for some, causing discomfort over time
  • There is no water or dust resistance certification
  • Sound quality is described as mediocre or disappointing for the price

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sony XM4s: The Sony XM4s are recommended as an alternative, especially for those who are often out and about, as they offer active noise cancellation
  • Vs Sony ULT WEAR: The Sony ULT Wear headphones offer a more Beats-appropriate sound and better comfort
  • Vs Beats Studio Pro: The Beats Studio Pro offers ANC, a better fit, and better performance

Takeaway: The Beats Solo 4 are lightweight and offer a long battery life and cross-platform features, making them a convenient option for users who value portability and ease of use. They can also be used wired, and some people may find the sound is good enough.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Solo 4

reviews

[{"title":"Beats Solo 4 Review: Big Performance Upgrades, but Wait ...","link":"https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/beats-solo-4-headphones-review","source":"CNET","datePublished":""},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 review","link":"https://www.soundguys.com/beats-solo-4-review-115347","source":"SoundGuys","datePublished":""},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 Headphones Review","link":"https://www.rtings.com/headphones/reviews/beats/solo-4-wireless","source":"RTINGS.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 On-Ear Headphones","link":"https://www.soundstagesolo.com/index.php/equipment/headphones/427-beats-solo-4-on-ear-headphones","source":"SoundStageSolo","datePublished":""},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 Review: Minimal Features, Maximized Sound","link":"https://www.wired.com/review/beats-solo-4","source":"Wired","datePublished":""},{"title":"Hands on: Beats Solo 4 review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/hands-on-beats-solo-4-review","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":""},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 review: a solid update to an iconic pair ...","link":"https://www.techradar.com/audio/headphones/beats-solo-4-review","source":"TechRadar","datePublished":""},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 Review | Insane Battery Life, But One Big Flaw...","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vz_CJ69ZMxw","source":"Tech Spurt","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 REVIEW - Worth the Wait?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYsmvSPXX1c","source":"Brian MacDuff","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 Wireless Review – The Best On-Ear Headphones!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jnQeLrmqEs","source":"RTINGS com Audio","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Beats Solo 4 for Working Out | Watch this before buying","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NfEl5pXL28","source":"Aesthetic Al","datePublished":"2024"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Length: 17.7 cm / 6.9 in
  • Width: 15.8 cm / 6.2 in
  • Height: 6.8 cm / 2.7 in
  • Weight: 217 g / 7.65 oz
  • Bluetooth compatibility: Bluetooth 5.3
  • Battery life: Up to 50 hours of listening time on a single charge
  • Fast Fuel: 10-minute charge gives up to 5 hours of playback
  • Driver: Custom-built 40 mm transducers
Beats Solo 4 is a Bluetooth wireless on-ear headphone featuring custom acoustic architecture with upgraded drivers to deliver powerful, balanced Beats sound. It offers personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking and lossless audio capabilities via USB-C or 3.5mm audio cable.
Custom-built 40 mm transducers minimize electronic artifacts, latency, and distortion for extraordinary clarity and range.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • Though now owned by Apple, the headphones are often powered by a custom Beats chip rather than Apple's H or W series, and frequently offer feature parity for both Android and Apple devices (with some exceptions).
  • USB-C connectivity is a big selling point, offering options for both charging and wired, lossless audio listening—a feature absent on some higher-end Apple headphones.
  • Spatial audio with head tracking is supported exclusively for Apple users, creating a more immersive listening experience while viewing compatible video content.

Beats Solo Buds  

  • Positioning: Entry-level earbuds designed for affordability and compactness.  
  • Description: Offers active noise cancellation in a simple, user-friendly design that fits everyday use in small rooms while keeping costs low. Compared to the sport-focused Beats Fit Pro and more premium models like the Beats Studio Pro Wireless, delivers clear sound without extra frills for basic functionality needs.

Beats Fit Pro  

  • Positioning: Sporty in-ear earbuds crafted for secure fit and active lifestyles.  
  • Description: Features secure-fit technology and sweat resistance that benefit active users in varied environments. Compared to the more budget-focused Beats Solo Buds and the technically advanced Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, offers an enhanced performance edge for exercise and mobility at a mid-range price.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2  

  • Positioning: Athletic earbuds engineered for vigorous activity with a secure, sweat-resistant build.  
  • Description: Provides robust bass response and stable connectivity, making them ideal for workout sessions and portable use with clear performance in moderate acoustic settings. Compared to the everyday-focused Beats Fit Pro and the casual design of Beats Solo Buds, offers additional functionality and build quality for users who need reliable performance during high activity.

Beats Solo4 Wireless  

  • Positioning: On-ear headphones that balance portability with solid performance for daily commutes.  
  • Description: Features extended battery life and seamless integration with Apple devices, catering to users in medium-sized environments who value both connectivity and build quality. Compared to the lower-priced Powerbeats Pro 2 and the entry-level earbuds, delivers a broader soundstage and a more mature feature set.

Beats Studio Pro Wireless  

  • Positioning: Premium over-ear headphones aimed at delivering high-end audio performance and advanced noise cancellation.  
  • Description: Uses adaptive noise-cancelling technology and refined sound profiles that make them ideal for larger rooms and more demanding sonic goals. Compared to the Solo4 Wireless and other lower-priced models, offers superior technical performance and enhanced build quality.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
1
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
239
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
3
Founding Year
2006

Our take on the brand

Beats is a hifi brand known for its bass-heavy sound signature and bold designs that appeal to both music fans and fashion enthusiasts, targeting young adult demographics through celebrity endorsements and music video placements. The brand has expanded beyond its signature headphones to include speakers like the Beats Pill, while integrating Apple's W1 and H1 chips for enhanced wireless connectivity.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

Used

Beats

No items found.

What if you spend more?

Product image
Bowers & Wilkins
Px8
699
699
/
64
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Premium build quality and materials with luxurious Nappa leather detailing and a cast aluminum yoke
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions with soft earcups and a headband that provides even pressure distribution
  • Excellent sound quality with 40mm carbon cone drivers delivering ultra-fast response, low distortion, and a clean, smooth sound signature
  • Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces low-frequency sounds and midrange chatter, with the Nappa leather providing a tighter seal
  • Realistic soundstage scale with tight, well-defined imaging, with the sound feeling more live and in front of the listener

Product Considerations

  • Multipoint pairing is not always seamless, and there might be occasional wind noise from the earcup due to software glitches, with wear detection being inconsistent and inaccurate
  • Limited app customization with only bass and treble adjustments, lacking a fully customizable EQ
  • Microphone pickup is good in quiet environments, but can be affected by heavy noise gating in noisy conditions, causing voice fade-in/out
  • Some emphasis on bass response, which may not appeal to everyone
  • There is concern about the Nappa leather being easily scratched

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the PX7 S2, the PX8 offers better sound quality with greater instrument separation and realism due to the carbon fiber drivers, and also features more premium materials
  • While the PX8 active noise cancelling does well, Sony still has better mic pickup
  • The PX8 provides a good alternative to the Airpods Max
  • The PX8 stacks up among some of the best wireless headphones along with the Focal Bathys

Takeaway: The Px8 is a premium wireless headphone with outstanding build quality and sound performance, which is perfect for audiophiles seeking a luxurious listening experience. It combines comfort, effective noise cancellation, and detailed audio reproduction, making it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing sound quality and high-end materials.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Mark Levinson
№ 5909
999
999
/
36
Reviews

Lose yourself in your music with the first-ever headphones from Mark Levinson, a pioneer in high-fidelity audio for the past 50 years. Reference-quality sound meets luxurious comfort in a lightweight and durable set of headphones featuring Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that’s perfect for travel. Reveal the hidden details in your music – at home, on the go, or anywhere you find a moment to listen.

Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality with a balanced and refined signature, detailed mids, and smooth treble
  • Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) and ambient aware mode
  • Premium build quality with high-quality materials such as leather, anodized aluminum, and metallic paint
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft leather ear cushions and a well-designed headband
  • Comprehensive codec support (LDAC, aptX Adaptive, AAC) for high-resolution wireless audio

Product Considerations

  • High price point, making them inaccessible for many consumers
  • App is lacking in some features, such as fully customizable EQ and customizable ANC modes
  • On-cup controls are described as basic and not very intuitive to use
  • Some reviewers feel the design does not fully convey a sense of luxury for the price
  • Occasional reports of issues with the 'on-head detection' feature—causing connection problems

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Focal Bathys: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers a cleaner and more natural tonality with a smoother, more consistent, and detailed treble response than the Focal Bathys
  • Vs Apple AirPods Max: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers better sound quality, particularly in the bass frequencies, and is more comfortable than the AirPods Max
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The Mark Levinson 5909 measures better in audio quality

Takeaway: The Mark Levinson № 5909 headphones offer excellent sound, comfort, and noise cancellation, making them a top-tier choice for those seeking a premium listening experience. With their high-end sound quality and comprehensive feature set, these headphones are a great option for audiophiles wanting the best wireless experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Dali
Dali IO-8
900
900
/
13
Reviews

Premium DALI IO-8 wireless Hi-Fi headphones with custom DALI driver technology bring you genuine Hi-Fi performance, while advanced audiophile active noise cancellation technology lets you enjoy the same genuine sound, wherever your are.True Hi-Fi PerformanceDALI IO-8 headphones are designed and engineered using the same sound principles as our full-size loudspeakers – they're true Hi-Fi speakers for your head.Audiophile Active Noise CancellationSilence the outside world with unique active noise cancellation technology tuned carefully by DALI to strip away the distractions without impairing the sound.35-Hour Battery LifeEnjoy up to 35 hours of peerless noise-cancelling playback.Dual Sound ModesTailor the performance to your own style with 'Hi-Fi' and 'Bass' sound modes.

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Positive, detailed, and convincing sound makes music enjoyable, rather than academic
  • Exceptional build quality with premium materials, including brushed metal and tactile fabric, gives them an understatedly good look and feel
  • Can function as hard-wired passive headphones without battery power, offering flexibility and continuous use
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces external noise without significantly impacting the sonic characteristics of the headphones
  • Balanced frequency response with smooth transitions and ample detail throughout the range

Product Considerations

  • The lack of a control app limits user customization options
  • The use of real leather in the earpads may not appeal to vegan customers
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) is decent, but not class-leading compared to brands like Bose
  • The midrange can be a bit too relaxed for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Bowers & Wilkins PX8, the Dali IO-8 offers distinct sound
  • Compared to Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Dali IO-8 is heavier
  • Compared to Focal Bathys, the Dali IO-8 is lighter

Takeaway: The Dali IO-8 is a premium headphone that delivers high-quality sound with a focus on musicality and build quality. It's a great choice for listeners who value a balanced sound signature, comfortable design, and the flexibility of wired and wireless use.

Video review

Our take on the brand

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Focal
Bathys
699
699
/
13
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality delivers a rich, full, detailed, and clear experience, rivaling higher-end wired headphones
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft earpads and good weight distribution
  • High-quality build with premium materials like magnesium yokes, aluminum band, and leather padding
  • Effective noise canceling is comparable to leading brands like Bose and Sony, and offers a transparency mode
  • Versatile connectivity with Bluetooth (aptX Adaptive), USB-DAC mode (up to 24/192), and analog 3.5mm

Product Considerations

  • Active noise canceling (ANC) isn't the absolute best on the market
  • Stock cables are considered basic and somewhat short
  • The app, while offering EQ and other adjustments, can be clunky and difficult to connect initially, and some users have reported firmware update issues
  • The headphones always need battery power to function, even when using a wired connection
  • Some reviewers found the bass a little too elevated in the lower mids

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Bathys has a more natural fit, a better mic, more connectivity options, and a companion app that allows for better sound adjustments, while the AirPods Max excels in noise canceling
  • The Bathys has more consistent audio delivery, a more robust EQ, and better overall noise isolation, while the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is more comfortable and better built
  • The Bathys has similar noise isolation performance and similar USB-C and analog capabilities, but the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has a more accurate treble response and better battery life
  • The Bathys has better sound, is more comfortable, and is better built than the Sony WH-1000XM5, while the XM5 has better battery and better noise isolation
  • The Focal Celestee is better built, more comfortable, and wired, while the Bathys has a USB-DAC mode for higher-quality audio and a companion app to adjust it

Takeaway: The Focal Bathys are a solid pick for wireless headphones that sound great and feel luxurious. Excellent sound quality with convenient features like active noise canceling make them perfect for enjoying music on the go.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Beats
Studio Pro
349
/
Released
2023
Beats Studio Pro was completely re-engineered to be the most powerful and precise over-ear headphones we've ever made.
Check Amazon
Beats is a hifi brand known for its bass-heavy sound signature and bold designs that appeal to both music fans and fashion enthusiasts, targeting young adult demographics through celebrity endorsements and music video placements. The brand has expanded beyond its signature headphones to include speakers like the Beats Pill, while integrating Apple's W1 and H1 chips for enhanced wireless connectivity.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Good sound quality that most people will enjoy
  • Good noise canceling performance
  • Works well on both iOS and Android
  • Comfortable and easy to fold down to a very compact size, allowing for easy portability
  • Offers more balance, while still providing the crisp upper register and hefty bass that Beats is known for

Product Considerations

  • The plastic exterior doesn't always feel premium
  • Tight clamping force and the ear cups are barely big enough to fit ears, making it a little hard to wear the Beat Studio Pro for more than a few hours
  • Can slip out of place with intense movements
  • Lack of ear detection means the Studio Pros won't automatically pause when removed, or resume when put back on

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Studio Pros have a more refined sound, are more detailed in the mids and treble, and have lossless audio using a USB-C connection, compared to Studio 3s
  • The Sony WH-1000XM5 arguably has better ANC performance
  • The Bose QC45 suits heads and ears much more comfortably
  • The Sony WH-1000XM5 comes across as slightly more open and natural sounding—accurate is a word you could also substitute for natural
  • There is very little that the Beats Studio Pro does better than the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless for the same price
  • The Studio Pros have much better value for money than the Apple AirPods Max

Takeaway: The Beats Studio Pro is a great pair of mid-tier headphones for people who want good active noise cancellation, good sound quality, and cross-platform functionality. The convenient design makes them ideal for portability and everyday use.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Beats is a hifi brand known for its bass-heavy sound signature and bold designs that appeal to both music fans and fashion enthusiasts, targeting young adult demographics through celebrity endorsements and music video placements. The brand has expanded beyond its signature headphones to include speakers like the Beats Pill, while integrating Apple's W1 and H1 chips for enhanced wireless connectivity.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2
399
/
Released
2022
Px7 S2's custom-designed 40mm drive units and 24-bit-capable wireless platform combine for a truly immersive listening experience that allows you to hear more of what the artist wants you to hear.
Check Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • High-end design with premium materials (cloth and aluminum construction, aluminum accent rings, soft faux leather, stitch-free Nappa leather) gives a luxury vehicle feel and understated style
  • Comfortable for longer periods thanks to the redesigned form and shape, upgraded pressure-relieving memory foam, oblong earcups for better pressure distribution, and ample room inside the earcups
  • Superior sound quality is due to the revised custom 40mm Bowers & Wilkins driver with lower distortion biocellulose diaphragm and 20mm voice coil, carefully positioned and angled inside the earcups
  • Integration with the Bowers & Wilkins Music app allows customization of noise canceling levels, ambient pass-through, and EQ tone control
  • Improved clarity of voice on phone calls is due to the redesigned microphone pattern
  • USB-C socket is the sole input option, though adapters are included

Product Considerations

  • Some users may find the wear detection feature too sensitive
  • The app offers fewer features than some other headphone apps
  • The included cables are somewhat short

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the previous PX7, the S2 has a completely different design, is smaller and easier to carry, and has significant technical improvements
  • The PX7 S2 offers a more balanced sound than mainstream offerings by Sony or Bose, which tend to exaggerate mid-bass
  • The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 stood out with a more distinguished appearance, a next-level build with nicer tactility, and sound quality is a toss-up—dependent on listening preference

Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones offer a great listening experience with excellent sound quality, beautiful design, and a comfortable fit. They are a solid choice for anyone who wants an upgrade over basic headphones and cares about both style and sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
Pi7 S2
259
/
Released
2023
What does it take to create category-defining True Wireless earbuds? High-resolution sound and crystal-clear voice calls, an industry-first wireless audio retransmission case, plus a choice of three elegant colors.
Check Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality with clarity and detail
  • The charging case doubles as a wireless transmitter, connecting to non-Bluetooth devices via USB or 3.5mm jack
  • Improved Bluetooth connectivity and an extended range of up to 25 meters compared to the original PI7
  • Premium design and comfortable to wear for longer durations
  • Excellent bass response

Product Considerations

  • The B&W app lacks EQ customization options
  • Transparency mode has noticeable hiss and is not easily accessible via the earbuds, requiring the app to activate
  • Noise cancellation is good, but not class-leading compared to some competitors
  • Some reviewers find them bulky and not very comfortable for prolonged use
  • No multi-point pairing

Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 is a great choice for those who prioritize exceptional sound quality and appreciate the unique wireless transmitter feature. It provides an immersive and detailed listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2e
399
/
Released
2023
Px7 S2e is the latest iteration of our highly successful entry-level wireless headphones. The 'e' stands for 'evolved', as the Px7 S2e takes inspiration and learnings from our flagship Px8 wireless headphones, together with a re-tuned acoustic performance, to deliver the very best sound in its class.
Check Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Superior sound separation compared to older models, noticeable even to non-audiophiles
  • The mobile app enhances usability by allowing users to adjust bass, treble, and noise reduction levels
  • Comfortable fit with ample cushioning and a design that's comfortable to wear around the neck
  • Premium build quality with attention to detail in design, materials, and hinge smoothness
  • The sound is balanced, with distinct highs and bass that booms without overpowering the mix

Product Considerations

  • Noise cancellation does not quite match up to Sony, with a small gap forming depending on head position
  • Volume up and down buttons take time getting used to, with accidental pausing occurring
  • The touch-sensitive earcup feature for pass-through audio from Sony is missed
  • Lacks an adapter for airplane screens
  • Some reviewers found the earcup size a bit awkward

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sony WH-1000XM3: Px7 S2e offers superior sound separation
  • Vs Apple AirPods Max: PX7 S2e is closer to the sound quality of the AirPods Max than the Beats Studio Pro, but the AirPods Max is heavier and less comfortable for long-term use
  • Vs Sony WH-1000XM5: Px7 S2e has better sound quality, though the Sony has better ANC
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8: Px7 S2e is very close in sound quality for a much better price
  • Vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Px7 S2e has better midrange magic for music
  • Vs Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra: Px7 S2e balances ANC and music playback better

Takeaway: The Px7 S2e headphones are a premium product that balances sound quality, comfort, and build. Great sound and a luxurious feel could make these headphones a perfect fit.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Cambridge Audio
Melomania P100
233
/
Released
2024
Crafted in London by Hi-Fi engineers, P100 delivers immersive, high-fidelity musical audio with Class A/B amplification from 40mm drivers. With adaptive hybrid ANC and up to 100 hours of user-replaceable battery life, it's designed for boundless listening.
Check Amazon
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Outstanding battery life—offering up to 60 hours with ANC on and 100 hours with ANC off
  • Clean, open, reasonably detailed, energetic, informative, and convincing sound quality, with a balanced and neutral tonality
  • Classy design, with a pleasing, sturdy build with robust metal elements, and comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Features a user-replaceable battery and earpads, promoting longevity

Product Considerations

  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) isn't class-leading and can be bettered, and can have small glitches during use
  • Noise-canceling can produce a faint static sound when no audio is playing, and a popping noise with movement
  • Some reviews mention limited range in the EQ settings within the Melomania Connect app
  • Some reviews mention occasional software bugs and connectivity issues with devices
  • Do not fold away, and come with a travel case that may be too large for some users

Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones are a solid choice for anyone wanting great sound and very long battery life at a good price. They have a nice design and are built to last, making them a good value overall.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

How to buy

Headphones

Search all hifi products

Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.