Sony's Premium Headphones Re-introduce the Foldable Design and Lead the Market in Superior Noise Cancellation
Sony's long-awaited WH-1000XM6 headphones have been unveiled, addressing significant user complaints from the previous generation while advancing noise cancellation technology to new levels. The brand claims the ANC technology in the XM6 is superior.
The Return of the Foldable Design
Hearing the users' feedback, the XM6 marks the return of a foldable design that has been missed since Sony abandoned it with the XM5 in 2022. The XM series' older models were popular choices for travel, and users have been reluctant to upgrade to the improved tech in the XM5. This latest pair can now be easily stored with a more compact footprint. Additionally, the carrying case is slimmer and features a magnetic clasp instead of a traditional zipper, allowing for effortless one-handed access.
Available in Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue, the wider asymmetrical headband promises improved comfort during extended listening sessions, and the premium synthetic leather earpads ensure a more secure and comfortable fit around the ears for longer sessions.
Evolving Noise Cancellation
While the return of a foldable design is a thoughtful design correction, Sony's most substantial improvements lie beneath the surface. The new HD Noise Cancelling QN3 processor is 7 times faster than its predecessor and works in conjunction with an impressive array of 12 microphones, compared to the 8 microphones in the XM5.
Reputedly offering the best noise cancellation in the industry based on IEC-compliant testing against competitors, the microphones analyze and counter environmental noise in real-time, pairing with Sony's Adaptive NC Optimizer to continually adjust to changing surroundings and air pressure variations. The brand has also reintroduced its proprietary Ambient Sound tech, functioning as an enhanced transparency mode.
For users upgrading from older XM models, the difference in noise cancellation should be immediately noticeable. Even the XM5's excellent noise cancellation previously struggled with certain frequency ranges, so the XM6's upgrade should handle these more effectively.
Enhancing Sound Quality
In addition to keeping noise out, Sony's XM6 also improves the audio that you can hear. The company collaborated with Grammy-winning mastering engineers to fine-tune the audio profile of the XM6, resulting in a sound signature that aims to deliver audio "as the artist intended." Technically, the high-rigidity carbon fiber composite dome drivers and redesigned voice coil architecture purportedly provide clearer vocals and more defined instrumental distinction compared to previous models.
For hi-res wireless audio, the headphones support LDAC (a significant advantage for Android users) and leverage Edge-AI-powered DSEE Extreme, a tech that actually upscales the information lost in compressed audio files, allowing for lossless-like audio without a cable.
Sony has also introduced a 360 Reality Audio Upmix feature that converts standard stereo content to spatial audio and a Game EQ setting developed with input from the INZONE team that improves the gaming experience, particularly in first-person shooters.
Functional Refinements
Beyond the headline features, Sony has introduced several quality-of-life improvements. Users can now listen while charging, a feature the outgoing XM5 inexplicably lacked. Additionally, a dedicated mute button has been added, incorporating technology from podcasting microphones to make handling work calls more intuitive. Battery life remains unchanged at 30 hours with ANC (40 hours in normal mode), and quick-charging capabilities provide three hours of playback after just three minutes of charging.
The touch controls on the right earcup retain Sony's gesture system, while physical buttons for power and noise cancellation are now distinct shapes for easier operation during use.
Specifications
Model: Sony WH-1000XM6Type: Wireless over-ear headphonesProcessor: HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3Drivers: 30mm carbon fiber composite dome driversMicrophones: 12 microphones for ANC, 6 beamforming microphones for callsBattery Life: 30 hours (ANC), 40 hours (normal)Quick Charge: 3 hours of playback after 3 minutes of chargingConnectivity: Bluetooth 5.4, LDAC, SBC, AAC, LE AudioWeight: 9ozNoise Cancellation: Yes, Adaptive NC
Pricing & Availability
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are available now for $450. Shifting from mid-tier to premium, these headphones are not cheap and are about $100 more than the XM5, but they offer notable improvements over a model that we were already fans of.
The style of the new XM6 sports a sleeker design with the return of a foldable form factor, making them more portable and easily storable. The advanced technology integrated into the XM6 includes the latest gadget: the HD Noise Cancelling QN3 processor, which partners with an impressive 12 microphones to offer the most refined noise cancellation in the industry.
