Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
If you're looking for the ultimate sound experience, the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the flagship that stands out, boasting uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio. In real-world usage, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e offers a luxurious build and sophisticated 24-bit DSP but falls short in battery life and advanced EQ options. The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e is the premium option here, but it only lasts 30 hours on a single charge, while the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi stretches that to an impressive 42 hours. Plus, the Px7 S2e lacks multi-band EQ controls, making the Bathys a better fit for audiophiles who need personalized sound profiles.
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Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e vs Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
| Criterion | Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e | Focal Bathys Hi-Fi |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(1,676)Amazon | ★4.2(465)Amazon |
Form Factor | Over-ear (closed-back) | Over-ear (closed-back) |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 + USB-C Digital Audio + 3.5mm Analog (via included USB-C cable) | Bluetooth 5.1 + USB-C DAC (Digital) + 3.5mm Jack (Analog) |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
Codecs | aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ HD, aptX™, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive |
ANC | Yes (Hybrid Noise Cancellation with 4 sensing mics) | Yes (2 modes: 'Silent' for high noise, 'Soft' for focus) |
Transparency | Yes (Ambient Pass-Through) | Yes (Transparency Mode) |
Drivers | 2 x 40mm Dynamic Full Range Bio-Cellulose Drivers | 40mm Aluminum-Magnesium 'M'-shaped Dome Drivers (Made in France) |
Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 30,000 Hz | 15 Hz – 22,000 Hz |
Microphones | 6 Microphones total (4 for ANC + 2 for clear telephony) | 8 Microphones total (Clear Voice Capture technology) |
Battery Life | Up to 30 hours | 30 hours (Bluetooth + ANC) / 35 hours (3.5mm Jack) / 42 hours (USB-DAC) |
Battery Life | N/A (No charging case) | N/A (No charging case) |
Charging | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 7 hours playback; Full charge ~2 hours | USB-C Fast Charge; 15 min charge = 5 hours playback |
Multipoint | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) | Yes (Simultaneous connection to 2 devices) |
Low Latency Mode | No (Relies on aptX™ Adaptive dynamic latency) | Yes (via aptX™ Adaptive) |
Wired Mode | Yes (Supports both USB-C digital audio and 3.5mm analog sources via included cables) | Yes (USB-DAC mode supports 24-bit/192kHz; 3.5mm analog cable included) |
Water Resistance | No (No IP rating) | No (No IP rating) |
Weight | 10.8 oz (307 g) | 12.3 oz (350 g) |
Controls | Physical Buttons (Volume, Play/Pause, Power Slider, Quick Action Button) | Physical Buttons (Volume, Pairing, ANC mode, Voice Assistant) |
App Eq | Bowers & Wilkins Music App (Basic Bass/Treble tone controls only) | Focal & Naim App (5-band EQ + Mimi Sound Personalization) |
Extras | Wear-Detection Sensor; 24-bit DSP Engine; Hard-shell carrying case included | Illuminated Focal flame logo (dimmable); Rigid carrying case; Mimi Hearing Test support |
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Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
✓ Pros:
- • Luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing
- • Sophisticated 24-bit DSP tuning offers a significant sonic upgrade over the standard S2
- • Support for high-quality codecs (aptX™ Adaptive/HD) ensures fidelity on Android
- • USB-C port functions as a direct digital audio interface for computers
- • Physical buttons provide reliable control without accidental touches
✗ Cons:
- • App EQ is restricted to simple Bass and Treble sliders (no multi-band equalization)
- • Active Noise Cancellation is effective but trails behind top-tier Sony and Bose models
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) warns against use in rain or heavy workouts
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Focal Bathys Hi-Fi
✓ Pros:
- • USB-DAC mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio directly from a computer or phone
- • Aluminum/Magnesium drivers provide audiophile-level detail and dynamic range
- • Mimi Sound Personalization adapts the audio profile to your specific hearing health
- • Premium construction with real leather, aluminum, and magnesium materials
- • Solid battery life across all modes, especially when using the internal DAC (42 hours)
✗ Cons:
- • Heavier (12.3 oz) and bulkier than mainstream competitors like Bose or Sony
- • No official water resistance rating (IP) requires care during use
- • High price point targets a niche audiophile audience rather than general consumers
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Which one is better?
The Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is the better buy for most people - its stunning uncompressed 24-bit/192kHz audio crushes the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e. That said, grab the Px7 S2e if you prefer a lighter headphone at 10.8 oz and want an elegant design.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e if: you want luxurious materials with memory foam comfort, prefer physical controls for easy operation, or need a lighter option at 10.8 oz.
Choose the Focal Bathys Hi-Fi if: you require audiophile-level sound quality with 24-bit/192kHz USB-DAC, need longer battery life at 42 hours, or want advanced sound personalization features.
Conclusion
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e and Focal Bathys Hi-Fi are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e excels if you value luxurious build quality with memory foam and fine fabric detailing. Focal Bathys Hi-Fi is better if you prioritize usb-dac mode delivers uncompressed 24-bit/192khz audio directly from a computer or phone. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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