Bowers & Wilkins, the British audio brand known for its high-fidelity speakers and headphones, has introduced two new wireless earbuds: the Pi6 and Pi8. These earbuds mark a significant update from previous models, featuring redesigned shapes, advanced audio technologies, and improved comfort. Aimed at audiophiles and everyday users alike, the Pi6 and Pi8 offer a range of features designed to enhance the listening experience.

The most notable change in the Pi6 and Pi8 is their completely revamped design. Bowers & Wilkins undertook extensive research into the variability of ear shapes across different genders and ethnicities, which informed the ergonomic design of these earbuds. The result is a new form factor that promises better comfort and fit, addressing past criticisms of B&W earbuds being too bulky or uncomfortable for long-term use.

The earbuds are also available in a range of colors, with the Pi6 offered in Storm Grey, Cloud Grey, Forest Green, and Glacier Blue, while the Pi8 is available in Anthracite Black, Dove White, Jade Green, and Midnight Blue.

In addition to the earbuds themselves, the charging cases have been slimmed down, making them more pocket-friendly. This redesign is aimed at improving portability without compromising on functionality. Both cases offer wireless charging capabilities, with the Pi8’s SmartCase featuring the innovative Wireless Audio Retransmission technology. This feature allows users to connect the case to a variety of audio sources—be it analog or digital—and wirelessly transmit high-quality sound to the earbuds.

The Pi6 and Pi8 are equipped with advanced audio technologies that are likely to appeal to audiophiles. Both models feature 12mm drivers, with the Pi6 using bio-cellulose drivers similar to those found in B&W’s Px7 S2 headphones. The Pi8, on the other hand, incorporates Carbon Cone technology, the same material used in the flagship Px8 over-ear headphones. This difference in driver technology is aimed at delivering distinct sound profiles, with the Pi8 positioned as the more premium option.

Both earbuds support Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec, which allows for high-resolution audio streaming up to 24-bit/96kHz from compatible devices. The Pi8 goes a step further by also supporting aptX Lossless, a codec that delivers CD-quality, bit-perfect sound. This should make the Pi8 particularly appealing to users with devices that support Snapdragon Sound Technology, as it maximizes audio quality over Bluetooth.

The Pi8 also features a dedicated digital signal processor (DSP), digital-to-analog converter (DAC), and amplifier from Analog Devices, which should ensure that the earbuds can handle high-resolution audio with precision and clarity. The Pi6, while more affordable, still promises excellent sound quality, with B&W stating that its audio performance is comparable to the outgoing Pi7 S2 model.

Both the Pi6 and Pi8 come with advanced active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature that has been refined based on technology from Bowers & Wilkins’ over-ear headphone lineup. The ANC is designed to minimize unwanted noise without sacrificing audio quality, a common issue with many noise-canceling earbuds. This allows users to enjoy their music in noisy environments, such as on a plane or in a busy office, without compromising on sound fidelity.

In terms of connectivity, the Pi6 and Pi8 support Bluetooth 5.4, which offers improved wireless stability and a longer range compared to previous versions. Multipoint connectivity is also available, allowing users to connect the earbuds to two devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for those who frequently switch between listening to music on one device and taking calls on another.

Battery life has seen an improvement as well. The Pi6 offers up to eight hours of playback on a single charge, with the case providing an additional 16 hours, bringing the total to 24 hours. The Pi8, due to its more processor-intensive components, offers 6.5 hours of playback, with 13.5 hours available from the case, totaling 20 hours. Both models support fast charging, giving users two hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging.

Bowers & Wilkins has updated its companion app to enhance the user experience with the Pi6 and Pi8. The B&W Music app allows users to fine-tune the sound of their earbuds with a five-band equalizer available for the Pi8, while the Pi6 users have access to bass and treble controls. For those who prefer an unaltered audio experience, the app provides the option to bypass these settings entirely.

The Pi8’s SmartCase also brings back the Bluetooth retransmitter feature, allowing users to connect to wired sources like in-flight entertainment systems or older audio devices and transmit the sound wirelessly to the earbuds. This feature supports audio transmission at up to 24-bit/96kHz, ensuring that users can enjoy high-quality sound even from non-Bluetooth sources.

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 is available for pre-order at Crutchfield, priced at $399, while the Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 is priced at $249, and also available for pre-order at Crutchfield.