Recently, Bowers & Wilkins has released a couple new models of true wireless earbuds to give users an upgrade. Pi7 S2 users have the Pi8, which flew off the shelves at astounding speeds. For people who opted for the Pi5 S2, what did Bowers & Wilkins have for them? The Pi6 comes in as the other half of the earbud release duo, with the same complete redesign and some great features that users are going to love. It retails for $249, and today we take a look at all the finer details.
What Comes In The Box
- Pi6 Earbuds
- Charging Case
- XS / S / M / L ear tips
- 60 cm USB-C to USB-C charging cable
Aesthetics and Functionality
The aesthetics of the Pi6 are very similar to the Pi8. With a smooth face that shows the company name, the Pi6 has four different colors for users to choose from: storm grey, cloud grey, glacier blue, and forest green. The smaller design fits more comfortably in the ear, and with quite a few ear tip options, getting the right fit was very easy. It’s a more compact design right down to the carrying case, making it ideal for traveling and on-the-go listening. It IP54 water resistant technology, making it ideal for people who want an earbud for the gym or workout activities.
I found that the overall function of the earbuds was a bit difficult. Pairing them was a bit tricky since it relied on sensors, and during the initial pair, the connection would drop in and out. It took a bit of patience, but it ended up connecting to my phone and app and no further issues were noticed later on. When working the touch controls, it was a bit finicky to get right on how sensitive the touch pads were. Once that was figured out, it was smooth sailing for the rest of the testing time.
Tech Specs
- 12mm Bio-Cellulose Drivers
- Up to 8 hours for earbuds (with ANC on)
- Additional 16 hours from charging case
- 15 minute charge = 2 hours playback
- Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX™ Adaptive technology
- 3 microphones per earbud for calls and ANC
- High-performance DSP
- True 24-bit audio connection
- 2-band customizable EQ
A notable technical specification to point out here is the driver configuration. Instead of dynamic drivers, Bowers & Wilkins opted for bio-cellulose drivers, aiming to make the sound profile more clear and less distorted. It also allows the earbuds to be lightweight and more eco-friendly, made with biodegradable and renewable resources.
Listening Review
Soundstage & ANC
These earbuds certainly pack more power than they look. With an expansive soundstage and frequencies that are up-close and personal, these earbuds are perfect for people who want to lock in with their music and let the world fade away. The soundstage is wide and wraps around the head, but the imaging is a bit more compressed in height and depth. The frequencies are very in-your-face, which is sometimes preferable to listeners.
The active noise canceling technology is highly effective, and while listening on my own, I was completely in my own world with my music. The sound signature leans towards the low end, which is great for someone like me who enjoys a prominent low end. Still, for those who may want a more balanced signature, you may want to consider adjusting the tuning with the app.
Low Frequencies
As mentioned before, the low end is the most prominent thing in the sound signature. It is deep and grounding, and the other frequencies just fall in line behind it. This range has incredible color and detail, making 808s and kick drums stand out in a mix with individualized and distinct sound. In CAKE’s “The Distance”, the melodic bassline notes were heard clearly, and the instrument was a welcomed forefront character in the mix. I could see how the strong bass could be overwhelming, but with some adjustments in the app, this is an issue that can be easily fixed.
Mid-Range Frequencies
The mid-range was a little disappointing, as it sounded very recessed and pushed back in the sound signature. The scooped out sound made a lot of mixes sound hollow and a bit wonky, and the app only allowed for the treble and bass to be adjusted. I would have liked a little more power in this section, as there was a lot of clarity here and detail that I would have liked to hear. Some vocals were oddly behind the instrumentals, which was an interesting way to listen, but it did make me appreciate some of the backing tracks in my favorite songs.
High Frequencies
The high end comes in with just enough airy and grace to bring a nice balance to this signature. I still think it lacked a bit of drive behind it, and it needed just a little extra attention to get a balance that I would prefer. With the treble adjustment option in the app, I was able to tune it to my liking. The clarity and detail that came from this top end was a welcome reprieve from the intense low end, and it was like giving tracks a breath of fresh air. Some country tracks by Megan Moroney, like “Bless Your Heart”, were favorites of mine to listen to because of how her vocal range and accompanying guitars stood out in the mix.
Summary
In conclusion, the Pi6 is a pair of earbuds that users are sure to enjoy. It can’t match the quality and features of the Pi8, but what it can do is give some quality sound to people who don’t want all the extra fanciness. With the added features of a 2-band EQ and a forward sound signature, people will want to get their hands on this new upgrade. Bass lovers will appreciate the driving low end, and people who value noise cancellation and comfort will love the new design. There is something for everyone in these earbuds, and they are a great step up from the Pi5 S2.
The Pi6 is available for purchase at Audio46.
