Bowers & Wilkins was one of the first luxury/hi-fi audio brands to begin offering more affordable speakers and headphones. Of course, "more affordable" is a relative term—B&W's in-ear and on-ear options start at about $175, and rise steadily through the models. The new P7 is the company's first over-the-ear (circumaural) headphone pair, and at $399.99 (list) also its most expensive. The design exudes luxury, the fit is exceedingly comfortable, and, most importantly, the audio performance is fantastic. The price may be a dealbreaker for some, but the P7 doesn't disappoint otherwise, and it earns our Editors' Choice award. DesignStyled similarly to its cousin, the on-ear (supra-aural) B&W P5, the P7 is reminiscent of the leather interior of a luxury car. Practically every surface that isn't aluminum is covered in soft black leather. We're not knocking the visual effect, as it looks stunning, but one does wonder how much of the $400 price tag goes toward the cosmetic materials alone...
The Bowers & Wilkins P7 headphones combine top-notch audio performance with a luxurious design, and despite a high price, earn our Editors' Choice.
Superb sound at normal listening levels; Luxurious black leather and aluminum design
Distorts slightly at top volumes on tracks with intense sub-bass content