Headphones that'll blow your mind: Sony's WH-1000XM6
Straight from the source, Klaus Wedekind
Upgraded Sony Headphones - WH-1000XM6 - Designed for Odor Detection
Looking for top-notch Bluetooth headphones that'll dominate the competition? Look no further than the Sony WH-1000XM6. With numerous improvements and out-of-this-world features, these headphones are truly a game-changer. But be prepared to dig deep, as they come with a premium price tag.
Sony released its new headphone in the 1000X series after a three-year hiatus, and it was worth the wait. Not only did they address criticisms of the predecessor, but they also made several other detail enhancements. The result is a comfy, compact, and stylish Bluetooth headphone with fantastic sound and unparalleled active noise cancellation (ANC).
Superior comfort and build
The WH-1000XM5 was criticized for its inflexible headband, which made it difficult to fold conveniently. The new model features hinges located just above the ear cups, resulting in a more solid, rattle-free device. The new headphones have also been made more comfortable. The ear cups now have thicker cushions, reducing pressure on your ears and enhancing overall comfort—a plus for glasses wearers. Sony has slightly improved passive noise cancellation, too. Additionally, the headband cushion has been made wider and thicker, improving the overall comfort and fit.
When folded, the headphone fits into a more compact case than the rigid predecessor, saving you valuable luggage space. The case sports a sleek, magnetic closure and an additional compartment for charging and auxiliary cables.
Streamlined control and functionality
The control is essentially the same, featuring a responsive touch surface on the outer side of the right ear cup for managing playback, answering calls, and more with simple taps and swipes.
Underneath the left ear cup, you'll find two buttons that are easy to locate with your thumb. One handles powering the headphones on and off, and pairing via Bluetooth. The other primary function is toggling between ANC and transparency mode. Holding down these buttons activates Spotify or Amazon Music streaming services, Endel sleep and relaxation app, and other options.
Another convenient feature is speech recognition. When you speak, playback pauses, and transparency mode is activated. You can adjust the sensitivity manually or let it adjust automatically to your environment, and set the duration before the mode shuts off once you stop talking.
Comprehensive app and settings
All settings are managed within the intuitive Sound Connect app, where you can also choose to automatically launch a music app, adjust ANC levels for different activities, and more.
In Sound Connect, you'll find an enhanced equalizer with ten adjustable frequency bands instead of the previous five, enabling you to fine-tune the audio according to your preferences. Additionally, you can utilize AI to restore lost details in real-time for compressed audio files or convert stereo sound in videos to 3D audio.
Impressive sound
The WH-1000XM6 boasts revamped interior components that offer more detail, definition, and clarity, delivering improved sound quality compared to the XM5. Sony seems to have also boosted the dynamics for a more cohesive and precise overall sound image.
While an equalizer might only be necessary for those with specific hearing issues, the headphones provide a fantastic all-around audio experience across various genres. For example, gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated gaming mode that heightens footstep and gunshot sounds.
A new standard in Bluetooth technology
The WH-1000XM6 supports Bluetooth LE Audio, providing low latency for gamers, and enables the use of your own headphones for audio tours in museums or similar environments using the Auracast standard.
Exceptional ANC and transparency mode
Sony has taken ANC to the next level with the XM6. Boasting 12 microphones (versus 8 in the XM5), the XM6 offers better noise-reducing abilities and higher adaptability to your surroundings. The XM6 excels in suppressing noise from busy streets, airplanes, trains, and office environments, such as typing noise or chatter.
The only downside to the ANC feature is the minor amount of self-noise, but it remains minimal, and the sound quality remains unaffected. The same applies to the transparency mode, which allows you to adjust the strength of the effect or set it to an automatic setting. You can even choose to let voices come through when using ANC.
Crystal-clear calls and good battery life
The WH-1000XM6 impressed during calls, with its ability to adapt to loud environments for clear communication. The headphones feature six microphones and AI support to create a beamforming system, resulting in excellent voice capture and effective noise suppression. During a call at a busy intersection, a conversation partner reported minimal background noise, proving the XM6's wind-noise suppression skills.
The WH-1000XM6's battery life is solid rather than outstanding, with a claimed 30 hours. During our tests, the headphones delivered roughly 83% battery life after around five hours, aligning with the manufacturer's claim. And unlike its predecessor, you can still use the XM6 while charging.
Verdict
For those seeking premium Bluetooth headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM6 is an excellent choice. Sony has rectified the design flaws of their predecessor and stepped up the sound and ANC features. At 450 euros, the cost is undoubtedly high, but the headphones justify the investment with their numerous cutting-edge features and exceptional audio performance.
He, Klaus Wedekind, shared insights about the new Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones, praising their technological advancements in sound, comfort, and Bluetooth technology. The sony wh-1000xm6 headphones are not just a pair of gadgets; they are a testament to the evolution of technology in the audio industry. The headphones offer superior comfort, streamlined control, and exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities, making them a reliable choice for those seeking top-notch Bluetooth headphones.
