When Sony announced the new WH-1000XM6 headphones, like many, I was beyond excited. After spending some quality time with them, I can tell you: believe the hype.
The previous version of Sony’s flagship headphones, the XM5s, were amazing, but they had a few quirks to fix.
When Sony announced the new WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones, like many, I was excited. After spending some quality time with them, I can tell you: believe the hype.
The previous version of Sony’s flagship headphones, the XM5s, were amazing, but they had one big flaw for me When Sony announced the new WH-1000XM6 headphones, like many, I was beyond excited. After spending some quality time with them, I can tell you: believe the hype.
DESIGN AND BUILD SONY XM6
It’s been nearly three years since the release of the Sony XM5 over-ear headphones. With the WH-1000XM6, it feels like Sony actually listened to their audience. The slightly wider headband feels comfy. If you see them next to the Sony XM5 over-ear headphones, the XM6 have a wider layout. The left ear cup has the power/Bluetooth pair button, 3.5mm port, and noise-canceling / ambient sound toggle button. They indented the power/pair button and made it round, making it easier to identify between the noise canceling button and power button. The noise canceling/ambient mode button can also be programmed to activate a smart assistant or launch some music apps. The right earcup has touch panel for volume and playback control. Swiping up and down for volume control, swiping left and right for track control. The headphones are powered by 30mm drivers.
Not much when it comes to the packaging. The headphones come in a great magnetic hard case. No zippers to mess with! In the case you have the XM6 headphones, short usb-a to usb-c charging cable, and a 3.5mm cable for wired listening.
The hinges are back, and the headphones now fold up neatly into a more compact case. It might seem like a small thing, but for anyone who is constantly on the move, it’s a big deal. Being able to just fold them up and toss them in my bag without a second thought makes them infinitely more practical for daily and travel life. It’s a simple yet brilliant fix that many wanted. I try to always use the case but it’s great for those who go the most minimal route.
SOUND AND EXPERIENCE
The sound quality on the Sony XM6s is rich, detailed, and just plain fun. Listening to my go-to playlists felt nice. I have an idea what the songs . I noticed the details in the songs I’ve heard many times before. The bass has a satisfying punch without being overwhelming, and vocals are clear. The sound hits the mark.
When it comes to active noise canceling (ANC), the Sony XM6 are great. You can go full on active noise canceling or turn the option for adaptive noise canceling. For adaptive noise canceling, Sony uses Adaptive NC Optimizer to adjust the noise canceling based on the environment you’re in and which way the headphones are worn. Adaptive noise canceling is cool for regular days at the office or walking around the city. But when I am on the plane, that ANC is on full blast. Being able to set the XM5s to provide background noise when working is a great option. I can leave the headphones on the whole time and adjust the listening settings as needed.
The earcups are airy but on the thinner side. It’s not a huge problem for me. I wear hoop earrings and glasses half the time and didn’t feel too much discomfort. But if you prefer thicker, heavier padding these might take some time to get used to.
SONY XM6 HEADPHONES CALL QUALITY AND BATTERY LIFE
When it comes to calls, the XM6 do a great job. They have six microphones. If you’re comparing to the XM5, they had four. Other party said I sounded clear, no background noise. The XM5s were decent too. The difference is minor but still noticeable. You still have to use the 3.5mm cable for a wired connection. You can’t use the USB-C cable for audio.
Like I tested with the XM5, you still get Sony’s “Speak-to-Chat” and “Quick Attention” features on the XM6. Battery life is subjective to everyone but charging for a few minutes gets you up to 3-hours of playback time. As for overall use, you get up to 30 hours with ANC on. These headphones don’t have an IP rating, so while I wouldn’t recommend them for working out anyway, due to their form factor and style, I suggest keeping these dry.
SONY SOUND CONNECT APP
Like with other Sony headphones, you can use the Sony Sound Connect app. It allows you to control listening options. In the app you can access the equalizer that lets you tweak the audio to your exact liking. It gives you different bands to adjust, so you can get really specific. Whether its more bass for a workout or boosting the vocals for a podcast, you can easily adjust the settings to your liking. It’s super intuitive and lets you create a sound profile that’s perfect for you.
You can also edit settings like gesture control, scene-based listening, the function of the NC/ambient tap. The Sound Connect is available for both Android phones and iPhones. You can of course use the headphones without the app, but using it allows you to get the most of out the headphones. It has tutorials for the gestures and allows you to update the headphones as well.
VERDICT
It’s easy to recommend the XM6 headphones. Sony took their time and answered to the XM5s short-comings. The price may deter some, at $459.99. But they return the value in the sound and experience. The sound and noise-canceling are great. The long battery life and quick charge, make it a great piece to add to your everyday-carry. I’m hoping for another smoky pink model for the XM6. But for now they are available in three colors: black, midnight blue, and platinum silver (which looks more like a beige).
SONY WH-1000XM6 OVER-EAR HEADPHONES
$449
Pros
- Great active noise canceling
- Great mics for phone calls
- Headphones fold again
Cons
- No USB-C listening
- Pricing
