Bowers & WilkinsPi8 New GenerationReference

Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 - New Generation Reference Earbuds (What HiFi Awards 2024)

Experience audiophile-grade sound with the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 true wireless earbuds, featuring advanced active noise cancellation, crystal-clear calls, and a sleek, ergonomic design for all-day comfort.

Key Features

• 12mm Carbon Cone drivers delivering exceptional clarity and deep, controlled bass
• aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless support for high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz
• Adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC) for an immersive listening experience
• Comfortable ergonomic design with four sizes of silicone ear tips for a perfect fit
• IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, ideal for everyday use
• Smartcase charging case doubles as a wireless audio transmitter for non-Bluetooth devices
• 6.5 hours battery life per charge with ANC on, plus 13.5 hours additional from the charging case
• Three microphones per earbud for clear, uninterrupted calls
• Bowers & Wilkins Music app for easy setup, control, and industry-first headphone music streaming

Product Overview

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 is the latest flagship true wireless earbud designed to deliver premium sound quality in a compact form. Featuring 12mm Carbon Cone drivers borrowed from the acclaimed Px8 over-ear headphones, these earbuds offer unmatched clarity across the frequency range and immersive bass that rivals full-sized headphones.

Advanced audio codecs including aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless enable high-resolution playback up to 24-bit/96kHz. The bespoke adaptive active noise cancellation adjusts to your environment, while three built-in microphones per earbud ensure crystal-clear call quality wherever you are.

Designed for comfort and durability, the Pi8 includes four sizes of silicone ear tips for a perfect fit and an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, making them suitable for daily use, even in light rain. The innovative Smartcase not only charges the earbuds but also functions as a wireless audio transmitter, allowing connection to in-flight entertainment systems and other non-Bluetooth devices.

While the Pi8 does not support Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio and offers a moderate battery life of 6.5 hours with ANC active (plus 13.5 hours from the case), it excels in delivering flagship sound quality and versatility for audiophiles and professionals alike.

Specifications

• Driver Size: 12mm Carbon Cone
• Audio Support: aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless (up to 24-bit/96kHz)
• Active Noise Cancellation: Yes, adaptive ANC
• Battery Life: 6.5 hours (ANC on), 20 hours total with charging case
• Water & Dust Resistance: IP54
• Microphones: Three per earbud
• Connectivity: Bluetooth with Smartcase wireless audio transmitter

What's in the Box

• Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 True Wireless Earbuds
• Smartcase Charging Case with Wireless Audio Transmitter
• Four sizes of silicone ear tips
• Charging cable
• User manual