Review: Bower & Wilkins Pi8

Bower & Wilkins has built its brand on audio quality, and its Pi8 wireless earbuds, available in six colourways including Pale Mauve (pictured), deliver on that reputation.

Utilising Carbon Cone technology in their 12mm drive units, the audio quality is outstanding, whether you’re listening to crystal clear voice tones on a podcast, the harsh kick drums of industrial techno, or the intricate sound design of IDM. Paired with active noise cancellation they sound all-encompassing, while the transparency mode is an option if you need to be more aware of your surroundings.

There’s also room for personalisation, with a five-band equaliser adjustable through the B&W app that connects to the earbuds, if you feel the default True Sound tuning isn’t hitting quite right. The app also allows for customisation of the touch-sensitive outer surface, meaning basic functions are easy to do on the fly with the tap of a finger.

We expect strong sound quality from B&W, but where the Pi8 shows a real step up from its predecessor the Pi7 is in the comfort and fit realm. They’re not the most slender-shaped earbuds on the market but the new shape and rubber seal are noticeably more snug in how they rest in the ear. Coming with four pairs of different-sized ear tips, there’s a solid range to meet differing needs.

Battery life is plentiful, offering 6.5 hours on the buds and 20 hours with the case, which is light and stylish with a minimalist design. It’s also a wireless re-transmitter which means you can connect sources that aren’t Bluetooth which is a neat addition.

If we’re picking holes, the microphone quality when using the earbuds to make calls could improve. But for everyday use for anyone with music and listening as their top priority, the Pi8 are a fine choice.

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