Bowers & Wilkins has expanded its long-running partnership with McLaren Automotive and the McLaren Formula 1 Team with the release of the Px8 S2 McLaren Edition, a specially styled version of its flagship wireless headphones. The new model combines upgraded acoustic engineering with design elements inspired by McLaren’s signature Papaya color and motorsport identity.
The Px8 S2 McLaren Edition builds on the original Px8 S2 platform and features a bespoke finish that incorporates Anthracite Grey, Papaya accents and subtle Speedmark details on the headband and earcups. Diecast aluminum arms, diamond-cut bright metal trim and Nappa leather cushioning contribute to the premium feel of the new edition.
At the core of the update is a redesigned set of 40mm Carbon Cone drive units, angled within each earcup for improved imaging. The new drivers use an enhanced chassis, suspension, voice coil and magnet system, aiming to deliver lower distortion and greater resolution. Bowers & Wilkins says these refinements offer increased detail, spaciousness and stereo accuracy.
The headphone incorporates the company’s proprietary noise cancellation, which is designed to reduce external noise without compromising tonal balance. Wireless performance is supported by Qualcomm aptX Adaptive 24/96 and aptX Lossless, combined with Bowers & Wilkins’ DSP processing to achieve high-resolution playback up to 24-bit/96 kHz.
Like other recent Bowers & Wilkins headphones, the Px8 S2 McLaren Edition works with the Music app for setup and customization. Users can adjust transparency levels, change wear sensor sensitivity, configure the Quick Action button and apply EQ using a five-band adjustable tool with preset storage. The battery provides up to 30 hours of playback, and a 15-minute fast-charge delivers up to seven hours of listening.
“This exciting new edition of our exceptional Px8 S2 headphones perfectly celebrates our long-term partnership with McLaren, and gives fans another industry-leading audio product showcasing McLaren’s design DNA to express their passion for their team,” said Lyle Smith, president of Sound United at Harman.
The new model follows the Pi8 McLaren Edition introduced earlier this year. Bowers & Wilkins and McLaren have collaborated on audio systems for McLaren supercars since 2015, with recent systems incorporating technologies developed at the company’s Southwater research center.
The Px8 S2 McLaren Edition is available beginning Nov. 19 through the Bowers & Wilkins website and select retailers, priced at $899, £729 or €829.