It finally happened - I have made the exact same comparison as you! It was very interesting as one will always wonder if you'd reach the same conclusion as the reviewer. And yes, noise cancelling of the Sony is much better, BUT, the soundquality (tone, transparencey, and soundstage) is much better on the Px7 S2. No comparison, in my opinion. Bought the Px7 S2 two days ago and have just had a fantastic day walking around the citty, listening to classical piano on a reasonable level, just because I could. Comfort is good with my very tiny framed glasses. Alright, no one is going to read this comment anyway. But, for internet posterity...
Just to prove you are seen (heard)! I have the older versions of both these headphones, and think the B&W are superior sounding in those models too. I got used to the button situation. For me, the software of the PX7 s1 was really poor - after initially pairing with my phone on day 1, on day 2 it just would not work. Super frustrating. After days of fiddling in developer options (android) and resetting my phone to factory (twice!) I got it to work. However, pandemic. We got locked down for a long time. Not travelling to work, or for work, so these became my pc headphones. I mostly use earbuds on the plane or train even now we can travel again.
@@thequarrymen58 it's not always the case you can get Edifier W860NB and get back minus the noise cancellation which the Sony is King at the sound quality of the edifiers give the sony's a run for their money and can be had for $70.⁰⁰ 🇨🇦 on sale what happens a lot
Again what a great and honest review. The reasons I am following your channel are : - well structured & professional presentation - objective & honnest presentation - well made review. Thank you.
I made a decision to get BW PX7 S2 & I’m loving it so far. The sound quality just amazes me & even if you have it on full blast, no one else can hear the music seeping out of the headphones. I played some lofi music for work on it & oh wow.. amazing
After doing a load of research looking at the Sony, B&W, Bose and Sennheiser headphones it became apparent that every reviewer had different opinions on which was best in which field / feature. In the end I bought the B&W Px7 S2 on the basis that the most important factor for me was sound quality followed by design & style. ANS is not important for me (which is where many said the B&W was weak). Yes the buttons are a bit fiddly and the app is only so-so but I would have found other compromises if I'd chosen the Sony or the Bose units. Basically there's fine margins between each of theses headsets and it just a case of looking at as many reviews as possible and then deciding which features are the most important for you.
For my typical use case of BT ANC headphones, I would go for Sony WH-1000XM5 as: 1. Great app that just works. Having an app that has software gremlins is frustrating, especially on travel when we don't have the time to troubleshoot. 2. Great ANC and call clarity. Especially important for air travel. 3. Comfort for long wearing. I like it light for travel. Don't care about "premium luxury product" look and feel for something meant for travel. Less attraction for undesirable interest. I'm willing to give up a bit of sound quality for the above. Also the Sony sound signature does not fatigue over time. My favorite wired close headphone is the Sony Z7M2. I can listen to it for hours.
Finally someone is saying that the Sonys are in Soundquality not as good as Bowers & Wilkins or B&O or Sennheiser. The Sony are good as Travel Headphones but if you search a Pair of Bluetooth Headphones for Sound there are so much better Options on the Marke!!!!
2:28-2:42 I’ve been waiting for somebody to say this about Sony for 3 YEARS!!! That’s a perfect analogy. I’ve been describing my XM3s like “listening through a wall” or like “listening from another room” since I got them. And that was the main reason why I was skeptical of the XM5s. Im happy you’ve saved me from making the same mistake twice.
First of all I would like to say, your pronunciation is wonderful. I come from Germany and listening to you is very pleasant. seriously. Your review helped me a lot in deciding which headphones to get. I hope you keep making videos as good as this one. I'll leave you a like and a follow. Best regards
Still using my XM2 when I go traveling with Bluetooth. At home, I use the Philips X1S with MB Quart Bluetooth adapter. For real music listening time. I still listen to my variety of Focal Elegia , Clear MG, 6XX, Sundara or Arya. Going for ZMF next
I had no problems with the b&w px7 for about half a year. The sound is great, and as bass oriented as Sony or jbl. They are comfortable to wear (I didn't like all the Sony headphones) I hate touch on headphones, so the buttons was a great benefit in my opinion xd I tried out different headphones but the b&w was my favorite. All over great
For me the sound quality is absolutely the main criteria; second wearing comfort. Have a pair of PX5 ans I love them 🙂 Tried Sony, Bose etc. years ago and went for the B&W. I found the sound quality on the B&W was just more defined and fuller.
I have used the Bose QuiteComfort headphones for years. Recently upgraded to the 45s. I only use them for traveling (airplanes). I love them and have never been interested in anything else. Thanks again!
I own a pair of Bowers & Wilkins PX7s2e headphones. I noticed a significant difference in sound quality when using them via Bluetooth with my Apple device compared to my Oppo device. However, the biggest improvement in sound quality was achieved when I connected the headphones to my Oppo device using the 3.5mm jack.
For me, it's 1. Sound quality 2. Build quality 3. Comfort I just have a thing about products that don't last. That's why I put build quality above comfort. Now if I used them for work, I'm sure I'd feel differently. Great review ( oh, I luv th way th B& W looks)
You can get the Airpods Max for 399 EUR (incl. Tax) in Germany on a very regular basis. There are always some deals (just like with the Sonys). I bought the APM for 399 and they are amazing for this price and fit perfectly in my Apple Eco System.
I *literally* just walked in the door with a new pair of XM5's, sat down at my computer, brought up YT and this video popped up. I watched it before opening the box just in case I needed to return them. Looks like I made the right choice as i'm jumping on a bunch of planes (with the longest transit being 14h) for the rest of the year, I am a fellow 4-eyes, I can't wear IEMs anymore do to a medical condition, and i'll need to wear these for extended periods at the destinations as well. Cheers! NC headphoness have come along way. I remember picking up a pair of wired noise cancelling earbuds back in 2005 in Japan - I pulled them out again a year ago and the NC introduced a noticable hiss, and the sound quality is hot garbage in comparison to even my WF-1000XM3's which I have used to travel all over the world. I listed to those at home even more than my HiFiMan over ears due to the simplicity and the ease of use.
May I ask you kindly for little update on this review? Something like long term review? I ask for that because after digging a little bit, I can see some users complaining basically about three things (reddit and other forums): First, bluetooth disconnections, basically not being stable. Second, audio quality in calls. Third, this is more concerning for this type of device, earpads being peeling off from the earcups. Could some one confirm this or maybe if some some firmware update has mitigated number 1 and 2? Thanks everyone and above all, thanks John for these amazings reviews and super-comprehensive explanations. You make everything much more easy for newbies like me.
So I ended up grabbing the px8 headphones and I'm already listening to them in contrast to the mark levinson 5909. I'll be honest right out of the box the new px8 are essentially identical to the px7s2 with just nicer material finishing, however the case is exactly the same. I must say though I think there is a right out of the box sound quality improvement with their new carbon drivers. Still very early, but haven't quite made up my mind on them yet. As always John couldn't agree more with your review.
Great review. I have been using both since the PX7 S2 was released. (I bought the Sony two weeks earlier not knowing the PX7 s2 was about to release. Anyway.) I agree 99% with the review. Sound quality-wise as one could expect the PX7 s2 is obviously better, but for noise-cancelling and other user experience features the Sony is better, in terms of comfort, software, weight, etc. But just one feature I beg to differ. I prefer the hardware buttons on the PX7 s2 over the touch control on the Sony for one reason: volume control. It’s too cumbersome +/- volume by several levels as you need to swipe the ear cup a lot of times. I need that when I, say, enter a library from the street. If Sony adopts the circular motion like the B&O counterparts that would be perfect. I like the PX7 s2 more but frankly I use the Sony much more. I guess that’s exactly what Sony wants it to be from a market point of view.
I think when the PX8 comes out, you should have it take on the Airpods Max, and B&o H95. That would be an expensive but rather interesting contest. Maybe if you can, throw in the Focal Bathys. 🙌🙌 Come on John!!
I absolutely agree on what you have said. I decided to go with the BW (actually I took the latest release with the e for evolved) as I wanted to have the better sound and all the other stuff wasn’t that important to me. But if you use headphones for their functionality, the Sony might be the better choice. Great video!
Nicely Done. Maybe this review was a bit premature with the soon to be announced KEF Mu7 ANC Headphone & the Bathys from Focal :) I hope they make it your way.
That last point about wired headphone manufacturers made me remember that the Focal Bathys bluetooth noise cancelling headphones exist. I'd love to see a review of them from you
I got the Sony because they were more comfortable to me and I was mostly looking for great noise cancellation. They have fantastic ANC. I wear them while doing the dishes and can't even hear the water running or the clinking and clanking. Also when my upstairs neighbors are being loud lol. That said, I DO find that the B&W sound better. I much prefer their signature. Maybe one day I'll have both, but for now I can't shell out that kind of money, and I certainly can't for the Airpods Max (especially considering I have a Pixel and don't plan on changing over).
This is EXACTLY the comparison I was looking for! And you touched on all my main issues: sound quality is my main concern but because I also wear glasses all day I need to factor the comfort! It guts me to know the B&W is better sound quality but that I’ll most likely have to settle for the Sony otherwise I won’t be able to wear them for a long period of time 😩
Very enjoyable review. Thanks very much. Was disappointed there were no comments re the Mark Levinson 5909. I used to be a regular Sony XM headphone user but they kept breaking on me entirely too quickly. Switched to the 5909s earlier this year and could not be happier. I use them mainly via bluetooth but do use them in wired mode fairly regularly and believe the wired mode is relevant to a comprehensive review.
Different pricebracket, so I understand he didn’t mention them. If airpod max are to expensive allready. But he did a podcast about the mark levinsons.
I have both a pair of Audio Technica ATH-M50xBT and Sony WH-100xm5 and was truly shocked at how poor the sound was straight out the box on the Sony’s compared to the Audio Technica, would love to hear you thoughts on EQ set up as I think it does make a difference and the pre loaded ones don’t really seem to do it for me. All that being said, did buy the Sonys for commuting, traveling and all the features over the sound quality, just feel like it’s some guidance in EQ could get close to what I’m looking for. Many thanks and awesome review as always!
I’ve had the Px7 s2 since the day they came out in July and I’m super happy with them. I tried a number of headphones side by side including the xm5 and picked based on sound quality alone, as it is the number one factor for me by a long way. I think bowers shortcomings are small niggles and Bluetooth connectivity has been excellent for me. It depends on what you want, 90% of people wouldn’t sacrifice all of the xm5s pros for a bit better sound, my other half certainly wouldn’t, but when you love music you have to make sacrifices sometimes. On that note, until apple sort out the frankly ridiculous shortcomings of the aipods max I would not pay that much for them, even if they do sound better
Hi John, Thanks for the review, I was missing an option in your poll. for me the looks of the Headphone is the most important of a bluetooth headphone and I think I am not the only one who sees headphones also as a fashion product. I am one of the stubborn ones who dislikes the WH-1000XM5 just because everyone has it. I am currently rocking the KEF Space One. But at the moment I am hoping the new Lossless codec will be on some new headphones/smartphones soon. I am also interested in your thoughts of the new KEF Mu7.
Here It is a happy user of the oldies Sony xm 2nd gen. Some comments regarding some additional noisy environments which John did not cover. We are a family of 5 in a fair/small appartment. Kids, games, homeworks, lock down during covid, and after, my remote working, my partner remote working, etc etc etc ; noise cancelling has saved us as so many family affairs. I feel like I understand why John does not want to test wiredly this niche of headphones and open comparison with respect to other headphones niches. But noise cancelling can also happen at home, at least I use it heavily in that environment. I'm sure that my oldies XM cannot stand competition sound wise to wired models without noise cancelling. But these newer generations might and comparison wiredly could make sense.
future Fi, correct. with small money you‘re able to have “pro” Sound quality! …by the way: The Bose qc 35ii 45 have a very good wearable comfort (for affordable money) and excellent anc.
I can’t get over the lack of fold-ability; I own the WXM3 and they’re close to the best piece of consumer electronics I’ve owned, topped off by the fact that I can always afford to fit them in my bag. As soon as I can’t do that, no dice. The best version of anything is what you have with you at the time.
I own the XM4. It has all the bells and whistles but it fails in the most important count - sound quality - especially while playing music. I own earphones that do a better job.
The fact that I can easily find repair videos for XM4's and 5's mostly with the ear cups falling off and hardly any issue like that with the Bowers & Wilkins, means I know what I'm getting, the one less likely to fall apart.
My xm3s are about 5 years old and have been fine with the ear cups… although today when I was using my m3S they suddenly started sounding distorted and played music like a warped or worn out cassette tape this isn’t he first time it happened but today was the worse it’s been turning it on and off didn’t help until the 5th attempt when it finally returned to normal sounding. So I decided it’s a good time to retire them I got 5 long years with them. My next headphones will either be the newer M5s or these Bowers&Wilkins I never tried this brand and think it may be worth trying I like the M5s but like you I see they are already having issues with ear muffs or the plastic snapping off. What’s your opinion I think il be getting new headphones in the next 2 months
Never happened with my XM5. The fact that it happens more often with XM5 is probably because 1) Sony sells more, 2) most of consumer headphone users don’t take care of it their things.
Well, it's also the fact that way more people buy the Sonys. It's like comparing Tesla to some lesser-known car brand: Of course there are going to be more videos on the Tesla. Also, I've had the XM4 for years, but no issues with the build.
I just picked up a pair of the Sony MDR-ZX110 for $9.99 @ Bestbuy and I am very HAPPY! I still believe that Bluetooth compromises sound quality! WIRED is the way to go. 😁
Good Video. But even if it wasn’t part of the purpose of this video the USB-C pathtrough function of the PX7 S2 is a big bonus as the will give you a superior sounding wired connection if you needed as this would be digital connection utilising the PX7 S2 internal DAC. And of course there is the PX8 which if as good as first user experiences tell I will buy.
I got my xm4 from Photogears last month For £219. They are excellent on plane and also in room on holiday. The wife was knocking on door for 15 minutes before I heard her to let her in. Also great sound. You can adjust the bass in the app.
It's been a great review. I'm a glasses wearer and in the videos I've watched before, no one has touched on this issue. I loved the details you covered during the review. By the way, I don't have a very good English. I hope I didn't write something wrong and upset you. I follow your channel, I wish you a day full of health and success.
One of the best reviews I have watched so will be subscribing immediately and you have made my decision. I only have one want when it comes to headphones and that is sound quality, nothing else matters so it's the Bower & Wilkins for me , thank you for a 1st class review my friend 👍
Well I'll put it in one sentence. If you go for headphones as a sound enjoynment, get the B&W. But if you go for a geadphones as a overall product, the sonys are better in every other way. They are the best all arounder.
Perfect review. Sony are almost perfect, but the plastic design does not match the price. Fits perfectly on the head and ears. They have the best ANC and a great phone app. B&W don't have that great ANC or phone app. They make up for it with perfect materials and workmanship. But the sound is really a little better and I like the physical control buttons even more. I tried the Momentum 4 - sound comparable to the Sony XM5, great materials and processing. Weaker application and little space for the ears. If the Sony XM5 were made like the Momentum 4 or B&W, they would be the best headphones in the world in this price category.
hi Darko great review, i hope soon you will be able to bring the new PX8 to compare the differences .. i have a Sony MX5 but i am interested in bowser & wilkins! I am looking for an even more articulated and elegant sound!
I recently purchased the Sony XM5s for ANC in some long haul flights. I'm so impressed with how much difference they made to my overall flight enjoyment. Even without music they provide a calming cushion of ANC from the cabin noises. Since returning home, I've used them in the gym and office with both Android and IOS. The comfort is really good, and I love the sound quality they offer. Not at Apple Pro head phone level though still very enjoyable for long music listening. Bluetooth music streaming has come so far!
Perhaps not directly relevant, but as you say both design and comfort are important, and so I wish I could buy a new pair of my first gen Parrot Zik with current electronics and sound quality. Those had some compromises but I love the physical design.
I was unfamiliar with John Darko as a reviewer, but I'm really impressed. Some reviewers seem to strain when comparing audio products, exaggerating differences, latching onto unique but insignificant features as differentiators because the truth is that within a price band, top products are almost always quite comparable. John is a natural reviewer - he looks at the intent / use case / esthetic of the product to change the question - John asks 'What kind of user are you?' For this specific review of headphones, he says 'If style and build quality or if sound quality of music are premium for you, go B&W' 'If daily usability on the go matters more, go Sony'. And if costs at this level don't matter, go Apple. And he does so with an obvious technical understanding of the field, because sometimes that DOES matter. Well done, John. I have a personal soft spot for B&W as a boutique brand over the massive Sony who often develops the products that set the bar for the industry.
John, with the Bathys out this week from Focal, I’d really enjoy a comparison with that BT/ANC headset. Some initial reviews, by retailers, state that the SQ is markedly better. Probably driven by that large Focal Al-Mg driver.
Long time user of XM3s and really like them. Ear cushions are a bit flat now though and replacements no longer seem available. If I bought the 5’s I’d probably buy a second set of cups at the same time.
Thank you for your review. I also like to know Focal Bathys vs B&W PX8 vs Mark Levinson No 5909 😀 btw , do you like the latest iOS 16 ? the volume bar from the lock screen was removed. it's nothing but a terrible decision to my mind.
I would have been a buyer for this, I love the B&W sound and I love this style... problem is B&W's are NEVER comfortable and when you are buying a portable bluetooth headphone comfort matters as much as sound. So here I am with a Bose 700 (I use Apple devices and they sound great on these) as my on-the-go headphone.
I had the px7 first and now the px7 s2 in blue, and the sound quality is so much better. The bass is more refined, I hear the music on a different level now. I really enjoy listening to music with them.
Would you say the bass is tighter as I sound my px7s on the booming bass messing up the mid range, they were just far too dark in sound, I have the Dali's io-6 now which sound perfect for me but there look wide on my head and not as discreet as the bowers did, I'm intrigued the the s2 version but need to travel a good distance to audit!
Terrific review as always. Wish the px7 s2 could have been compared to momentum 4 for this price range. And a high end Bluetooth headphones with px8 and bathys and maybe the mark Kevin’s on would be interesting but probably out of my price range.
Thank you for the review, I believe now I can constructively weigh in on this now. I have tested extensively the Sony XM4, XM5 against the Bowers & Wilkins P7 Wireless and the PX. The sound quality from the Bowers & Wilkins is astonishingly brilliant! The build quality of the B&W is definitely robust with better materials therefore the weight (premium) difference can be felt. I find that that the sound leak from the Sony’s are very much noticeable compared to the B&W. Note the P7 Wireless is not ANC only the PX ANC. The Sony’s ANC in some cases cancels some noises better, this is subjective. If you are buying set of headphones form music - I will recommend the B&W.
Unfortunately there are many reviews done by Tech YTers and they dont care about sound quality, they care only to shoot review and get likes and subs...John is a professional reviewer with attention to detail.
Great side by side comparison. I own the previous generation of the Sony, the XM4, and I confirm your comments about the XM5. Can’t tell anything about the BW as I never had the opportunity to listen to it. About the use of a noise cancellation headphone, my criteria by importance is the comfort, the noise cancellation and finally the sound quality. Phone calls and videoconferencing doesn’t matter as I use a dedicated Jabra 65 Evolve 2 for this application. Sound quality for both microphone and speakers is better for this kind of use. Back to the XM4, I use the noise cancellation in airplane, train, office… or when I cut the grass in my garden ! And for a future review, I would be happy to hear your comments about the new Focal Bathys. Its positioning as a audiophile abd NC headphone is unusual. Thanks again for your nice and honest videos.
I own both the Sony WH-1000XM5 and B&W Px7 S2e. The "e" is evolved and better than than the original S2 that is reviewed here. I am using an iPhone 15 as my source with Apple Music. After listening to variety of music for extended periods of time 1-2 hours, the B&W Px7 S2e is better with more detail on the mid-range frequencies. The ANC was better on the Px7 S2e because it didn't leak as I moved my head. For me comfort was better too as the headphones seemed stable on my larger ears. Sony has released a new affordable studio monitor (wired with no ANC) and I may try to listen to those. Had a pair over 30 years ago, but they went bad due to abuse.
I had the Sony XM3 and they were good. I now have the XM5 and they are good with one thing that drives me nuts. if i am watching a video on my tablet and you take the headphones off it pauses the video, that's neat. if you put them back on it starts the video, that's neat too. if you double tap the right ear piece it pauses and un pauses the video, that's fine too. but if I'm watching the video and chewing food it will pause the video. if I cough it will pause the video. if i talk it pauses the video. it gets really annoying.
Excellent video, I especially like street shots of everyday use, talking to the coffee shop lady, walking, sipping coffee and having phone calls. Always nice mood and some added humour- could be more of it if you ask me! As far as the comparison goes I’m for Sony based on all info you gave. In my 4y experience with JBL EX5BT which don’t sound that amazing, but good enough, comfort and usability are most important for me.
Hello John, first of all, thank you for your channels which I've enjoyed for a little while now. I note in this video that you comment somewhat favourably on the AirPods Max. This highlighted for me something that I wish you would cover, but may have seen that you're dismissive of, namely Spatial Audio/Dolby Atmos. This aspect isn't covered in your review which doesn't tell me whether either products facilitate it or not or how well they do. I love the sound of music as well the music itself, wouldn't call myself an audiophile, but am saving towards a Chord Mojo 2 DAC which I've been enthralled by, particularly when listening to Kraftwerk's 3-D Catalogue and recent classic Blue Note 60s albums. These mixes and other releases on Apple Music sound lovely - and different to their non-spatial versions - in my new AirPods Pro 2. So I guess the purpose of this comment is to be a plea to consider making a video diving into this area - there seems a lack of useful information about it - even if your conclusion is a negative one.
You lost me at praising the touch controls. Physical buttons (I always ajdust and learn placement over time) are so much more reliable and just the better choice.
Thanks for your review. I owned the original PX and while the Soundstage was great, the comfort was horrible it squeezed my.head so hard I could not wear it for over 15 min. It was a torture. The most comfortable headphones for my head was nose qc35ii nut they are also the weakest sound wise. Sony I've owned and they are jn between. Apple max are uncomfortable as well but not as bad as Bowers. I hoped Bowers would let go on the pressure in future headphones after px but sounds like they are designed for very small heads. Shame.
Hey John. You keep refferencing a lot of music in your reviews, that honestly, most of the times, I never heard of. Do you have a playlist (or old-school text list) of the albums you keep listening to, in you videos? I could only find a few playlists on spotify made by third parties. Thanks
![Best Premium Headphones 2024 [Tested & Compared!] - AirPods Max vs Bose vs Sony vs Sennheiser..](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/l5qootmFQx0/mqdefault.jpg)
It finally happened - I have made the exact same comparison as you! It was very interesting as one will always wonder if you'd reach the same conclusion as the reviewer. And yes, noise cancelling of the Sony is much better, BUT, the soundquality (tone, transparencey, and soundstage) is much better on the Px7 S2. No comparison, in my opinion. Bought the Px7 S2 two days ago and have just had a fantastic day walking around the citty, listening to classical piano on a reasonable level, just because I could. Comfort is good with my very tiny framed glasses. Alright, no one is going to read this comment anyway. But, for internet posterity...
Just to prove you are seen (heard)! I have the older versions of both these headphones, and think the B&W are superior sounding in those models too. I got used to the button situation. For me, the software of the PX7 s1 was really poor - after initially pairing with my phone on day 1, on day 2 it just would not work. Super frustrating. After days of fiddling in developer options (android) and resetting my phone to factory (twice!) I got it to work. However, pandemic. We got locked down for a long time. Not travelling to work, or for work, so these became my pc headphones. I mostly use earbuds on the plane or train even now we can travel again.
no wayyy, a more expensive headphones sounding better than a cheaper one??? who would have thought?
@@thequarrymen58 they're the same price?
@@thequarrymen58 it's not always the case you can get Edifier W860NB and get back minus the noise cancellation which the Sony is King at the sound quality of the edifiers give the sony's a run for their money and can be had for $70.⁰⁰ 🇨🇦 on sale what happens a lot
I read it
Again what a great and honest review. The reasons I am following your channel are :
- well structured & professional presentation
- objective & honnest presentation
- well made review.
Thank you.
I made a decision to get BW PX7 S2 & I’m loving it so far. The sound quality just amazes me & even if you have it on full blast, no one else can hear the music seeping out of the headphones. I played some lofi music for work on it & oh wow.. amazing
The PX8 is even better, I'm using them alongside the Focal Bathys at the moment to see which to keep.
in sub bass too? hearing mixed things
After doing a load of research looking at the Sony, B&W, Bose and Sennheiser headphones it became apparent that every reviewer had different opinions on which was best in which field / feature. In the end I bought the B&W Px7 S2 on the basis that the most important factor for me was sound quality followed by design & style. ANS is not important for me (which is where many said the B&W was weak). Yes the buttons are a bit fiddly and the app is only so-so but I would have found other compromises if I'd chosen the Sony or the Bose units. Basically there's fine margins between each of theses headsets and it just a case of looking at as many reviews as possible and then deciding which features are the most important for you.
Best to demo them in the shop. No one would know better which headphones would sound and fit you best :)
I ran the PX7 for 3 years, and just upgraded to the S2. Sound quality is just a top priority.
Perennial question, will you be trying the new Focal noise canceling headphones?
For my typical use case of BT ANC headphones, I would go for Sony WH-1000XM5 as:
1. Great app that just works. Having an app that has software gremlins is frustrating, especially on travel when we don't have the time to troubleshoot.
2. Great ANC and call clarity. Especially important for air travel.
3. Comfort for long wearing. I like it light for travel. Don't care about "premium luxury product" look and feel for something meant for travel. Less attraction for undesirable interest.
I'm willing to give up a bit of sound quality for the above. Also the Sony sound signature does not fatigue over time. My favorite wired close headphone is the Sony Z7M2. I can listen to it for hours.
Finally someone is saying that the Sonys are in Soundquality not as good as Bowers & Wilkins or B&O or Sennheiser. The Sony are good as Travel Headphones but if you search a Pair of Bluetooth Headphones for Sound there are so much better Options on the Marke!!!!
I like my PX7 S2s sound more than the WH1000XM4, but LDAC on the Sony’s do sound very comparable when listening on a compatible device.
Wich ones for example?
Thank you for pointing out the phone call quality and the fact that comfort often decides which pair of headphones we are using.
2:28-2:42 I’ve been waiting for somebody to say this about Sony for 3 YEARS!!! That’s a perfect analogy. I’ve been describing my XM3s like “listening through a wall” or like “listening from another room” since I got them. And that was the main reason why I was skeptical of the XM5s. Im happy you’ve saved me from making the same mistake twice.
Yeah no the XM5s sound muffled and their soundstage is very claustrophobic. Everything else about them is great though.
Great review. B&W is out with px8 now. Hope you review it too!
First of all I would like to say, your pronunciation is wonderful.
I come from Germany and listening to you is very pleasant. seriously.
Your review helped me a lot in deciding which headphones to get.
I hope you keep making videos as good as this one. I'll leave you a like and a follow.
Best regards
Still using my XM2 when I go traveling with Bluetooth. At home, I use the Philips X1S with MB Quart Bluetooth adapter. For real music listening time. I still listen to my variety of Focal Elegia , Clear MG, 6XX, Sundara or Arya. Going for ZMF next
Build quality should be a consideration. My XM5's broke after a really simple fall so I will be going to the B&W's now.
I had no problems with the b&w px7 for about half a year. The sound is great, and as bass oriented as Sony or jbl. They are comfortable to wear (I didn't like all the Sony headphones)
I hate touch on headphones, so the buttons was a great benefit in my opinion xd
I tried out different headphones but the b&w was my favorite. All over great
PX8 Vs Focal Bathys review next?
For me the sound quality is absolutely the main criteria; second wearing comfort. Have a pair of PX5 ans I love them 🙂 Tried Sony, Bose etc. years ago and went for the B&W. I found the sound quality on the B&W was just more defined and fuller.
After this good review of these market leaders, next review will be FOCAL BATHYS ? ;)
I have used the Bose QuiteComfort headphones for years. Recently upgraded to the 45s. I only use them for traveling (airplanes). I love them and have never been interested in anything else. Thanks again!
2:58 “not by far, but significantly better” bit of an oxymoron there John 😂
I own a pair of Bowers & Wilkins PX7s2e headphones. I noticed a significant difference in sound quality when using them via Bluetooth with my Apple device compared to my Oppo device. However, the biggest improvement in sound quality was achieved when I connected the headphones to my Oppo device using the 3.5mm jack.
So what is the difference, does it sound better via Bluetooth with OPPO or with Apple?
For me, it's
1. Sound quality
2. Build quality
3. Comfort
I just have a thing about products that don't last. That's why I put build quality above comfort. Now if I used them for work, I'm sure I'd feel differently. Great review ( oh, I luv th way th B& W looks)
You can get the Airpods Max for 399 EUR (incl. Tax) in Germany on a very regular basis. There are always some deals (just like with the Sonys). I bought the APM for 399 and they are amazing for this price and fit perfectly in my Apple Eco System.
Muh eco system
I *literally* just walked in the door with a new pair of XM5's, sat down at my computer, brought up YT and this video popped up. I watched it before opening the box just in case I needed to return them. Looks like I made the right choice as i'm jumping on a bunch of planes (with the longest transit being 14h) for the rest of the year, I am a fellow 4-eyes, I can't wear IEMs anymore do to a medical condition, and i'll need to wear these for extended periods at the destinations as well. Cheers!
NC headphoness have come along way. I remember picking up a pair of wired noise cancelling earbuds back in 2005 in Japan - I pulled them out again a year ago and the NC introduced a noticable hiss, and the sound quality is hot garbage in comparison to even my WF-1000XM3's which I have used to travel all over the world. I listed to those at home even more than my HiFiMan over ears due to the simplicity and the ease of use.
May I ask you kindly for little update on this review? Something like long term review?
I ask for that because after digging a little bit, I can see some users complaining basically about three things (reddit and other forums):
First, bluetooth disconnections, basically not being stable.
Second, audio quality in calls.
Third, this is more concerning for this type of device, earpads being peeling off from the earcups.
Could some one confirm this or maybe if some some firmware update has mitigated number 1 and 2?
Thanks everyone and above all, thanks John for these amazings reviews and super-comprehensive explanations. You make everything much more easy for newbies like me.
🎉 yes agree here
So I ended up grabbing the px8 headphones and I'm already listening to them in contrast to the mark levinson 5909. I'll be honest right out of the box the new px8 are essentially identical to the px7s2 with just nicer material finishing, however the case is exactly the same. I must say though I think there is a right out of the box sound quality improvement with their new carbon drivers. Still very early, but haven't quite made up my mind on them yet. As always John couldn't agree more with your review.
Great review. I have been using both since the PX7 S2 was released. (I bought the Sony two weeks earlier not knowing the PX7 s2 was about to release. Anyway.)
I agree 99% with the review. Sound quality-wise as one could expect the PX7 s2 is obviously better, but for noise-cancelling and other user experience features the Sony is better, in terms of comfort, software, weight, etc.
But just one feature I beg to differ. I prefer the hardware buttons on the PX7 s2 over the touch control on the Sony for one reason: volume control. It’s too cumbersome +/- volume by several levels as you need to swipe the ear cup a lot of times. I need that when I, say, enter a library from the street. If Sony adopts the circular motion like the B&O counterparts that would be perfect.
I like the PX7 s2 more but frankly I use the Sony much more. I guess that’s exactly what Sony wants it to be from a market point of view.
I think when the PX8 comes out, you should have it take on the Airpods Max, and B&o H95. That would be an expensive but rather interesting contest. Maybe if you can, throw in the Focal Bathys. 🙌🙌 Come on John!!
What a kickass intro mate, Bloody hell well done !
I absolutely agree on what you have said. I decided to go with the BW (actually I took the latest release with the e for evolved) as I wanted to have the better sound and all the other stuff wasn’t that important to me. But if you use headphones for their functionality, the Sony might be the better choice. Great video!
Well done review and now we are waiting for a new Bower&Wilkins Px8 review 😁
Nicely Done.
Maybe this review was a bit premature with the soon to be announced KEF Mu7 ANC Headphone & the Bathys from Focal :)
I hope they make it your way.
Great review! For me I've been torn between the px7 s2 and the Sennheiser Momentum 4
Kef has announced the mu7 over ear headphones. Hopefully we will get a review when they are out.
I own both. Not an audiophile but I will say, the B&W beats the Sony!
🤞🤞 B&W & Focal send their PX8 and Bathys headphones to you for a review.
Comfort is why I’m still holding onto my Bose QC35IIs. Literally no other headphone comes close.
That last point about wired headphone manufacturers made me remember that the Focal Bathys bluetooth noise cancelling headphones exist. I'd love to see a review of them from you
I got the Sony because they were more comfortable to me and I was mostly looking for great noise cancellation. They have fantastic ANC. I wear them while doing the dishes and can't even hear the water running or the clinking and clanking. Also when my upstairs neighbors are being loud lol. That said, I DO find that the B&W sound better. I much prefer their signature. Maybe one day I'll have both, but for now I can't shell out that kind of money, and I certainly can't for the Airpods Max (especially considering I have a Pixel and don't plan on changing over).
This is EXACTLY the comparison I was looking for! And you touched on all my main issues: sound quality is my main concern but because I also wear glasses all day I need to factor the comfort! It guts me to know the B&W is better sound quality but that I’ll most likely have to settle for the Sony otherwise I won’t be able to wear them for a long period of time 😩
Both are great but I go for Px7. I will buy it next week. Because I need a real and pure sound quality and also the product quality.
You so spot on about factoring all the other features and how well they work and of course comfort and comfortable portability.
Very enjoyable review. Thanks very much.
Was disappointed there were no comments re the Mark Levinson 5909. I used to be a regular Sony XM headphone user but they kept breaking on me entirely too quickly. Switched to the 5909s earlier this year and could not be happier. I use them mainly via bluetooth but do use them in wired mode fairly regularly and believe the wired mode is relevant to a comprehensive review.
Different pricebracket, so I understand he didn’t mention them. If airpod max are to expensive allready. But he did a podcast about the mark levinsons.
I have both a pair of Audio Technica ATH-M50xBT and Sony WH-100xm5 and was truly shocked at how poor the sound was straight out the box on the Sony’s compared to the Audio Technica, would love to hear you thoughts on EQ set up as I think it does make a difference and the pre loaded ones don’t really seem to do it for me. All that being said, did buy the Sonys for commuting, traveling and all the features over the sound quality, just feel like it’s some guidance in EQ could get close to what I’m looking for. Many thanks and awesome review as always!
I’ve had the Px7 s2 since the day they came out in July and I’m super happy with them. I tried a number of headphones side by side including the xm5 and picked based on sound quality alone, as it is the number one factor for me by a long way. I think bowers shortcomings are small niggles and Bluetooth connectivity has been excellent for me. It depends on what you want, 90% of people wouldn’t sacrifice all of the xm5s pros for a bit better sound, my other half certainly wouldn’t, but when you love music you have to make sacrifices sometimes. On that note, until apple sort out the frankly ridiculous shortcomings of the aipods max I would not pay that much for them, even if they do sound better
I am looking forward to your review of the PX8. Improved driver and hopefully they improved on the music stopping when you take them off your ears
Hi John, Thanks for the review, I was missing an option in your poll. for me the looks of the Headphone is the most important of a bluetooth headphone and I think I am not the only one who sees headphones also as a fashion product. I am one of the stubborn ones who dislikes the WH-1000XM5 just because everyone has it. I am currently rocking the KEF Space One. But at the moment I am hoping the new Lossless codec will be on some new headphones/smartphones soon. I am also interested in your thoughts of the new KEF Mu7.
Great, comprehensive and well explained review. I’ve just ordered the Px7 s2e, which is now £379 (the s2 is now £279, so a great deal)
Here It is a happy user of the oldies Sony xm 2nd gen.
Some comments regarding some additional noisy environments which John did not cover. We are a family of 5 in a fair/small appartment. Kids, games, homeworks, lock down during covid, and after, my remote working, my partner remote working, etc etc etc ; noise cancelling has saved us as so many family affairs.
I feel like I understand why John does not want to test wiredly this niche of headphones and open comparison with respect to other headphones niches.
But noise cancelling can also happen at home, at least I use it heavily in that environment. I'm sure that my oldies XM cannot stand competition sound wise to wired models without noise cancelling. But these newer generations might and comparison wiredly could make sense.
future Fi, correct. with small money you‘re able to have “pro” Sound quality! …by the way: The Bose qc 35ii 45 have a very good wearable comfort (for affordable money) and excellent anc.
I can’t get over the lack of fold-ability; I own the WXM3 and they’re close to the best piece of consumer electronics I’ve owned, topped off by the fact that I can always afford to fit them in my bag. As soon as I can’t do that, no dice. The best version of anything is what you have with you at the time.
Would be interesting to see how they compare up against the new KEF Mu7
I own the XM4. It has all the bells and whistles but it fails in the most important count - sound quality - especially while playing music. I own earphones that do a better job.
Ordered my px7 s2 for 199€ because anc is not a huge problem for me as i use my headphones everytime at 70-80% volume when im out
The fact that I can easily find repair videos for XM4's and 5's mostly with the ear cups falling off and hardly any issue like that with the Bowers & Wilkins, means I know what I'm getting, the one less likely to fall apart.
My xm3s are about 5 years old and have been fine with the ear cups… although today when I was using my m3S they suddenly started sounding distorted and played music like a warped or worn out cassette tape this isn’t he first time it happened but today was the worse it’s been turning it on and off didn’t help until the 5th attempt when it finally returned to normal sounding. So I decided it’s a good time to retire them I got 5 long years with them. My next headphones will either be the newer M5s or these Bowers&Wilkins I never tried this brand and think it may be worth trying I like the M5s but like you I see they are already having issues with ear muffs or the plastic snapping off. What’s your opinion I think il be getting new headphones in the next 2 months
Never happened with my XM5.
The fact that it happens more often with XM5 is probably because 1) Sony sells more, 2) most of consumer headphone users don’t take care of it their things.
Maybe cuz people are buying Sony 1k times more than the other :)
Well, it's also the fact that way more people buy the Sonys. It's like comparing Tesla to some lesser-known car brand: Of course there are going to be more videos on the Tesla. Also, I've had the XM4 for years, but no issues with the build.
@Crazyreviewer123 for me the b&w are superior, if you don't wear glasses. That's the only point I would give to Sony.
The Sony XM5's are just launched in India and were available for pre-order at a discount for around 300 USD and I can't wait to get my hands on them!!
Sony's look nicer mainly because they don't have that huge block of text going down the side, it's relatively discreet in comparison. Which I like.
I bought the px7 vers 1 over Sony xm4 purely on Sound and i still love them (and my pi7 as well 😊) thanks for a great Chanel
I just picked up a pair of the Sony MDR-ZX110 for $9.99 @ Bestbuy and I am very HAPPY! I still believe that Bluetooth compromises sound quality! WIRED is the way to go. 😁
Great review/comparison! This is everything I’ve wanted in a headphone review. I HOPE you get the opportunity to review the new B&W PX8!
Good Video. But even if it wasn’t part of the purpose of this video the USB-C pathtrough function of the PX7 S2 is a big bonus as the will give you a superior sounding wired connection if you needed as this would be digital connection utilising the PX7 S2 internal DAC.
And of course there is the PX8 which if as good as first user experiences tell I will buy.
So nuanced and a good pace that gives you time to think about the information you are giving.
I got my xm4 from Photogears last month For £219. They are excellent on plane and also in room on holiday. The wife was knocking on door for 15 minutes before I heard her to let her in. Also great sound. You can adjust the bass in the app.
Great excuse ;)
It's been a great review. I'm a glasses wearer and in the videos I've watched before, no one has touched on this issue. I loved the details you covered during the review. By the way, I don't have a very good English. I hope I didn't write something wrong and upset you. I follow your channel, I wish you a day full of health and success.
One of the best reviews I have watched so will be subscribing immediately and you have made my decision. I only have one want when it comes to headphones and that is sound quality, nothing else matters so it's the Bower & Wilkins for me , thank you for a 1st class review my friend 👍
Well I'll put it in one sentence. If you go for headphones as a sound enjoynment, get the B&W. But if you go for a geadphones as a overall product, the sonys are better in every other way. They are the best all arounder.
why didn't You compare them to Momentu 4 Wireless ?
Thank you so much. Very helpful for my orientation and decision taking. Keep up the good work!
Now you need to compare the Sennheiser.
Perfect review. Sony are almost perfect, but the plastic design does not match the price. Fits perfectly on the head and ears. They have the best ANC and a great phone app. B&W don't have that great ANC or phone app. They make up for it with perfect materials and workmanship. But the sound is really a little better and I like the physical control buttons even more. I tried the Momentum 4 - sound comparable to the Sony XM5, great materials and processing. Weaker application and little space for the ears. If the Sony XM5 were made like the Momentum 4 or B&W, they would be the best headphones in the world in this price category.
Would be interesting with a review on FOCAL BATHYS and how they stack up against B&W and similar
hi Darko great review, i hope soon you will be able to bring the new PX8 to compare the differences .. i have a Sony MX5 but i am interested in bowser & wilkins! I am looking for an even more articulated and elegant sound!
Clearly one of the best reviews of headphones I’ve seen. And there are lots out there.
I recently purchased the Sony XM5s for ANC in some long haul flights. I'm so impressed with how much difference they made to my overall flight enjoyment. Even without music they provide a calming cushion of ANC from the cabin noises. Since returning home, I've used them in the gym and office with both Android and IOS. The comfort is really good, and I love the sound quality they offer. Not at Apple Pro head phone level though still very enjoyable for long music listening. Bluetooth music streaming has come so far!
Perhaps not directly relevant, but as you say both design and comfort are important, and so I wish I could buy a new pair of my first gen Parrot Zik with current electronics and sound quality. Those had some compromises but I love the physical design.
I was unfamiliar with John Darko as a reviewer, but I'm really impressed.
Some reviewers seem to strain when comparing audio products, exaggerating differences, latching onto unique but insignificant features as differentiators because the truth is that within a price band, top products are almost always quite comparable. John is a natural reviewer - he looks at the intent / use case / esthetic of the product to change the question - John asks 'What kind of user are you?' For this specific review of headphones, he says 'If style and build quality or if sound quality of music are premium for you, go B&W' 'If daily usability on the go matters more, go Sony'. And if costs at this level don't matter, go Apple. And he does so with an obvious technical understanding of the field, because sometimes that DOES matter. Well done, John.
I have a personal soft spot for B&W as a boutique brand over the massive Sony who often develops the products that set the bar for the industry.
John, with the Bathys out this week from Focal, I’d really enjoy a comparison with that BT/ANC headset.
Some initial reviews, by retailers, state that the SQ is markedly better. Probably driven by that large Focal Al-Mg driver.
Great comprehensive review. Hopefully you will get a Focal Bathys soon to review? Thanks for all your hard work!
Long time user of XM3s and really like them. Ear cushions are a bit flat now though and replacements no longer seem available. If I bought the 5’s I’d probably buy a second set of cups at the same time.
Are you going to be testing the new px7 s2e
Thank you for your review. I also like to know Focal Bathys vs B&W PX8 vs Mark Levinson No 5909 😀 btw , do you like the latest iOS 16 ? the volume bar from the lock screen was removed. it's nothing but a terrible decision to my mind.
I would have been a buyer for this, I love the B&W sound and I love this style... problem is B&W's are NEVER comfortable and when you are buying a portable bluetooth headphone comfort matters as much as sound. So here I am with a Bose 700 (I use Apple devices and they sound great on these) as my on-the-go headphone.
B&W have major headband issue with glue that is used… Getting my 2nd pair replaced…
Can u provide more info? Links?
I had the px7 first and now the px7 s2 in blue, and the sound quality is so much better. The bass is more refined, I hear the music on a different level now.
I really enjoy listening to music with them.
Would you say the bass is tighter as I sound my px7s on the booming bass messing up the mid range, they were just far too dark in sound, I have the Dali's io-6 now which sound perfect for me but there look wide on my head and not as discreet as the bowers did, I'm intrigued the the s2 version but need to travel a good distance to audit!
Terrific review as always. Wish the px7 s2 could have been compared to momentum 4 for this price range. And a high end Bluetooth headphones with px8 and bathys and maybe the mark Kevin’s on would be interesting but probably out of my price range.
PX8, H95 and Bathys
That should be interesting
Thank you for the review, I believe now I can constructively weigh in on this now.
I have tested extensively the Sony XM4, XM5 against the Bowers & Wilkins P7 Wireless and the PX. The sound quality from the Bowers & Wilkins is astonishingly brilliant!
The build quality of the B&W is definitely robust with better materials therefore the weight (premium) difference can be felt.
I find that that the sound leak from the Sony’s are very much noticeable compared to the B&W.
Note the P7 Wireless is not ANC only the PX ANC. The Sony’s ANC in some cases cancels some noises better, this is subjective. If you are buying set of headphones form music - I will recommend the B&W.
Every review should start with sound quality.
Unfortunately there are many reviews done by Tech YTers and they dont care about sound quality, they care only to shoot review and get likes and subs...John is a professional reviewer with attention to detail.
Great side by side comparison. I own the previous generation of the Sony, the XM4, and I confirm your comments about the XM5. Can’t tell anything about the BW as I never had the opportunity to listen to it.
About the use of a noise cancellation headphone, my criteria by importance is the comfort, the noise cancellation and finally the sound quality. Phone calls and videoconferencing doesn’t matter as I use a dedicated Jabra 65 Evolve 2 for this application. Sound quality for both microphone and speakers is better for this kind of use.
Back to the XM4, I use the noise cancellation in airplane, train, office… or when I cut the grass in my garden !
And for a future review, I would be happy to hear your comments about the new Focal Bathys. Its positioning as a audiophile abd NC headphone is unusual.
Thanks again for your nice and honest videos.
I own both the Sony WH-1000XM5 and B&W Px7 S2e. The "e" is evolved and better than than the original S2 that is reviewed here. I am using an iPhone 15 as my source with Apple Music. After listening to variety of music for extended periods of time 1-2 hours, the B&W Px7 S2e is better with more detail on the mid-range frequencies. The ANC was better on the Px7 S2e because it didn't leak as I moved my head. For me comfort was better too as the headphones seemed stable on my larger ears. Sony has released a new affordable studio monitor (wired with no ANC) and I may try to listen to those. Had a pair over 30 years ago, but they went bad due to abuse.
I had the Sony XM3 and they were good. I now have the XM5 and they are good with one thing that drives me nuts. if i am watching a video on my tablet and you take the headphones off it pauses the video, that's neat. if you put them back on it starts the video, that's neat too. if you double tap the right ear piece it pauses and un pauses the video, that's fine too. but if I'm watching the video and chewing food it will pause the video. if I cough it will pause the video. if i talk it pauses the video. it gets really annoying.
Probably because you have speak to chat turned on.
try turning off "speak to chat" off in the sony connect app
Your Sonys are trying to discipline you into an audiophile LOL!
Sony WH-1000xm3 are worst sounding headphones I've ever tried. Even $15 KZ earbuds totally destroy those "top-tier" Sony model
Excellent video, I especially like street shots of everyday use, talking to the coffee shop lady, walking, sipping coffee and having phone calls.
Always nice mood and some added humour- could be more of it if you ask me!
As far as the comparison goes I’m for Sony based on all info you gave. In my 4y experience with JBL EX5BT which don’t sound that amazing, but good enough, comfort and usability are most important for me.
Hello John, first of all, thank you for your channels which I've enjoyed for a little while now. I note in this video that you comment somewhat favourably on the AirPods Max. This highlighted for me something that I wish you would cover, but may have seen that you're dismissive of, namely Spatial Audio/Dolby Atmos. This aspect isn't covered in your review which doesn't tell me whether either products facilitate it or not or how well they do. I love the sound of music as well the music itself, wouldn't call myself an audiophile, but am saving towards a Chord Mojo 2 DAC which I've been enthralled by, particularly when listening to Kraftwerk's 3-D Catalogue and recent classic Blue Note 60s albums. These mixes and other releases on Apple Music sound lovely - and different to their non-spatial versions - in my new AirPods Pro 2. So I guess the purpose of this comment is to be a plea to consider making a video diving into this area - there seems a lack of useful information about it - even if your conclusion is a negative one.
Please check the recently released Focal Bathys vs Mark Levinson 5909s
You lost me at praising the touch controls. Physical buttons (I always ajdust and learn placement over time) are so much more reliable and just the better choice.
old man
Ok grandpa
These sound great especially when you use them wired with the usb c connection.
Thanks for your review. I owned the original PX and while the Soundstage was great, the comfort was horrible it squeezed my.head so hard I could not wear it for over 15 min. It was a torture. The most comfortable headphones for my head was nose qc35ii nut they are also the weakest sound wise. Sony I've owned and they are jn between. Apple max are uncomfortable as well but not as bad as Bowers. I hoped Bowers would let go on the pressure in future headphones after px but sounds like they are designed for very small heads. Shame.
I wish you did more headphone reviews. Your opinion is valuable to me :-)
We need also to compare the B&O with these....
Hey John. You keep refferencing a lot of music in your reviews, that honestly, most of the times, I never heard of. Do you have a playlist (or old-school text list) of the albums you keep listening to, in you videos? I could only find a few playlists on spotify made by third parties. Thanks
Looking forward to your views and opinions on the new Bathys from Focal.
Focal is in a other level.
Next step Focal Bathys! Pleaaaaase!!