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Exploring audio bliss and quietness: Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones under the microscope.
Berlin (dpa/tmn) - Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones have raised the bar in the realm of high-end Bluetooth headphones with noise-cancellation (ANC). These beastly over-ears are a treat for the eyes and the ears, boasting a sleek design, sublime sound quality, and impressive battery life, all while setting you back around 450 euros.
Once upon a time, headphones that looked like recycled paper with high-end quality were the exception to the rule. But the Sony WH-1000XM6 achievements have made these über-ancillaries a reference among the big boys, including giants like Bose, Apple, and Sennheiser. They're a sonic sanctuary that shuts out the noisy outside world with efficiency, making them perfect for frequent travelers.
Style and Ease of Use
The XM6 headphones sport a beautiful design, perfect for sliding neatly into its slim box with magnetic closure. Setting them up is a breeze, whether through the app or the Bluetooth menu. You can even rock them with a wired connection when the battery kicks the bucket, thanks to the USB-C charging port.
When it comes to sound, the Sony XM6 delivers rich bass, pleasant mid-range, and clear highs, all while ensuring a balanced soundscape. The app offers an equalizer to fine-tune the audio, though it may not be necessary for the average Joe. From heavy metal to electronic music, Italo-pop, and orchestral classics, it's all a sonic delight. However, some older niche albums might suffer due to digital limitations that even HD streaming and an expensive headphone can't save.
On the control front, you can swipe and tap the right earcup for "play/pause," "volume up/down," and "next song." It usually works like a charm but may occasionally give you the run-around. Nevertheless, it's precise enough not to disrupt your listening experience.
Let the Silence In
The ANC is top-notch, an improvement over its predecessor, and a significant point in the XM6's favor. It permits locals to almost completely shut themselves off. In the face of the neighboring office's drilling, the colleague clicking a pen, or the laptop's extra-loud weekly virus scan, the XM6 proves an excellent obstacle. While deeper tones, such as airplane engine hum, remain audible, the XM6 does a stellar job of blocking out screeching train wheels and other pesky noises.
For those who still want to remain in tune with their surroundings while jamming to music or podcasts, there's the transparent mode, which strikes a perfect balance. Users can still hear ambient noise and avoid being startled by street sounds, ensuring an enjoyable and immersive listening experience.
All this and it's still comfy to wear. Once properly adjusted, the XM6 stays in place and doesn't slip, making it an ideal companion for marathon listening sessions. The only downside is the occasional high pressure on the temples from the earcup, necessitating an occasional break.
Long-Lasting Battery and Call Quality
The battery life is nothing short of amazing. Users can expect a runtime of nearly 58 hours with a full charge and without ANC, and around 40 hours with ANC and a bit of juice to spare. The call quality is also a winner, both on the go and on the computer.
Voice quality is crystal clear and understandable, as long as the wind doesn't get in the way. Callers may occasionally voice complaints about muffled sounds, but wind noise is rare. The Sound Connect app for Android and iOS might help the XM6 reach its full potential, but a quick glance at the privacy policy reveals an extensive and somewhat concerning data-collecting practice, so it's up to the consumers to decide whether they'd like to share their data or forego the app.
In conclusion, the XM6 is an excellent all-around package that sets new standards for sound, ANC, comfort, and battery life. The sleek design is a feast for the senses, and the device operates well without the app to satisfy the data-conscious. All in all, it's a highly successful model update for over-ear fans with 449 euros to spare. However, users already rocking the XM5 may not find enough differences to warrant an upgrade.
If you're in the market for a high-end headphone and already own the XM5, it's worth considering Sony, Sennheiser, Apple, Bose, and JBL. The final decision ultimately comes down to comfort and budget.
- Among the prominent tech companies like Sony, Bose, Apple, and Sennheiser, the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones have established themselves as pioneers in high-end Bluetooth headphones with noise-cancellation (ANC) technology.
- If you're in search of a tech company that produces gadgets with a consistent focus on both style and ease of use, Sony has been a reliable choice for many, especially with their XM6 headphones, boasting an impressive design and user-friendly setup options.
