Latest news with #SonyWH1000XM6
Geeky Gadgets
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
Sony WH1000 XM6: Essential Setup & Pro Tips
The Sony WH1000 XM6 headphones represent a sophisticated blend of advanced audio technology and intuitive design, offering users an immersive and highly customizable listening experience. The video below from WhatGear provides actionable tips to help you harness their full potential. From activating essential features to fine-tuning settings, you'll discover how to optimize sound quality, enhance usability, and seamlessly integrate these headphones into your daily routine. Watch this video on YouTube. Activating Essential Features for Optimal Performance Unlocking the full capabilities of your Sony WH1000XM6 headphones begins with allowing key features that enhance performance and sound quality: DSEE Extreme: Activate this feature to upscale compressed audio files, delivering sound that closely resembles high-resolution audio. Activate this feature to upscale compressed audio files, delivering sound that closely resembles high-resolution audio. 360 Reality Audio: Complete the setup process to customize audio output based on your unique ear shape, creating a deeply personalized and immersive sound experience. Complete the setup process to customize audio output based on your unique ear shape, creating a deeply personalized and immersive sound experience. Spatial Sound and Head Tracking: Enable these features to enjoy a three-dimensional audio environment, perfect for movies, gaming, or music sessions that demand a heightened sense of immersion. By activating these features, you ensure your headphones deliver the premium audio experience they are designed for right from the start. Customizing Sound Profiles for a Personalized Experience Tailoring the sound to your preferences is key to maximizing your listening experience. The Sony WH1000 XM6 offers several tools to help you achieve this: Equalizer: Adjust the built-in equalizer to fine-tune bass, treble, and midrange frequencies, creating a sound profile that matches your preferences. Adjust the built-in equalizer to fine-tune bass, treble, and midrange frequencies, creating a sound profile that matches your preferences. LDAC Codec: If your device supports it, enable LDAC for superior wireless audio quality, making sure every detail of your music is preserved. If your device supports it, enable LDAC for superior wireless audio quality, making sure every detail of your music is preserved. Low-Latency Mode: Activate this mode for gaming or video streaming to minimize audio lag and improve synchronization between sound and visuals. These settings allow you to customize the audio output, whether you're an audiophile seeking precision or a casual listener looking for balanced sound. Enhancing Battery Life Through Smart Power Management Efficient power management is essential for extending the battery life of your headphones. Implement these strategies to ensure they are always ready for use: Auto Power-Off: Enable this feature to automatically turn off the headphones when they are idle, conserving battery life. Enable this feature to automatically turn off the headphones when they are idle, conserving battery life. Pause Functions: Activate auto-pause, which stops playback when you remove the headphones, reducing unnecessary power consumption. Activate auto-pause, which stops playback when you remove the headphones, reducing unnecessary power consumption. Noise Cancellation Management: Disable noise cancellation or ambient sound modes when they are not needed to save energy. By adopting these practices, you can maximize the battery life of your headphones without compromising on functionality. Adapting Features to Fit Your Lifestyle The Sony WH1000 XM6 headphones are designed to seamlessly integrate into your daily activities, offering features that adapt to your environment and routine: Ambient Sound Control: Adjust ambient sound levels or enable auto ambient sound control to dynamically adapt to your surroundings, making sure situational awareness when needed. Adjust ambient sound levels or enable auto ambient sound control to dynamically adapt to your surroundings, making sure situational awareness when needed. Adaptive Sound Control: Set this feature to automatically switch sound modes based on your activity, such as walking, running, or staying stationary. Set this feature to automatically switch sound modes based on your activity, such as walking, running, or staying stationary. Location-Based Settings: Register frequently visited locations, such as your home or office, to enable automatic sound adjustments tailored to those environments. These adaptive features make the headphones versatile, making sure they complement your lifestyle and enhance your listening experience in any setting. Advanced Connectivity and Intuitive Control Take full advantage of the advanced connectivity and control options available with the Sony WH1000XM6 to streamline your experience: Bluetooth LE: Use this feature for faster, more efficient connections and secure audio sharing with password-protected broadcasts. Use this feature for faster, more efficient connections and secure audio sharing with password-protected broadcasts. Voice Commands and Gestures: Enable hands-free control for tasks such as playback, volume adjustments, and activating specific features, making interactions more convenient. These tools enhance usability, allowing you to manage your headphones effortlessly while staying focused on your activities. Streamlining Everyday Use with Convenient Features Simplify your daily interactions with the Sony WH1000XM6 by using these practical features: Customizable Touch Controls: Assign specific functions to touch gestures, providing quick access to frequently used settings. Assign specific functions to touch gestures, providing quick access to frequently used settings. Speak-to-Chat: Automatically pause playback and enable ambient sound when you start speaking, making sure seamless transitions between conversations and listening. Automatically pause playback and enable ambient sound when you start speaking, making sure seamless transitions between conversations and listening. Background Mode: Simulate speaker-like audio playback for casual listening or multitasking, offering a more relaxed listening experience. These features enhance the versatility of your headphones, making them more user-friendly and adaptable to various scenarios. Maintaining Your Device and Protecting Your Hearing Preserving the longevity of your headphones and making sure safe listening habits are crucial for an optimal experience: Smart Volume Control: Monitor and limit sound levels to protect your hearing during extended listening sessions. Monitor and limit sound levels to protect your hearing during extended listening sessions. Settings Backup: Save your preferences via your Sony account, allowing for easy transitions between devices without losing your custom configurations. Save your preferences via your Sony account, allowing for easy transitions between devices without losing your custom configurations. Firmware Updates: Regularly update your headphones to access the latest features, improvements, and bug fixes, making sure peak performance. By following these practices, you can maintain your headphones in excellent condition while safeguarding your hearing. Additional Tips for a Seamless Experience Consider these extra tips to further enhance your day-to-day use of the Sony WH1000XM6: Rename Your Headphones: Customize the Bluetooth name to avoid confusion when connecting in crowded spaces or shared environments. Customize the Bluetooth name to avoid confusion when connecting in crowded spaces or shared environments. Organize Connections: Manage paired devices to quickly switch between them, making sure a smooth and hassle-free experience. These small adjustments can significantly improve the convenience and efficiency of using your headphones. Unlocking the Full Potential of the Sony WH1000XM6 The Sony WH1000 XM6 headphones combine state-of-the-art technology with practical features to deliver a premium listening experience. By following this guide, you can optimize sound quality, enhance usability, and adapt the headphones to your unique needs. Whether you're enjoying music, gaming, or working, these headphones provide the tools for a truly immersive and personalized audio journey. Advance your skills in Sony WH1000 XM6 by reading more of our detailed content. Source & Image Credit: WhatGear Filed Under: Gadgets News, Guides, Technology News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Digital Trends
3 days ago
- Business
- Digital Trends
The WH-1000XM6 are here, so a lesser discussed pair of Sony headphones are $50 off
The first thing you need to know is that the Sony WH-1000XM6 are now out. If that's news to you, go read our WH-1000XM6 review right now. They're a contender to usurp their predecessor, the WH-1000XM5, at the top of the nearly everyone's list of the best headphones after we've had more time to sit with them and evaluate them. It should come as no surprise that the XM5 are on sale at the moment. However, it's also worth noting that their release has also prompted the less-discussed Sony ULT Wear headphones to go on sale. The Sony ULT Wear are great headphones in their own right, making it on our list of the best noise-cancelling headphones for their ANC and excellent bass. You can get your Sony ULT Wear now for just $148 at Amazon, down $52 from their usual $200. Alternatively, you can grab them for $150 at Sony or Walmart, if you prefer those vendors. In any event, tap the appropriate button to pick up these headphones now — the sale will probably go away when the XM6 release fanfare dies down — and keep reading to see why we like them so much. Why you should buy the Sony ULT Wear Again, the Sony ULT Wear don't necessarily get the press and attention you might expect given how good they are. In a world where Beats don't (necessarily) have the same reputation for heavy bass that they once did, the bass lovers have to go somewhere, after all. Our Sony ULT Wear review compares the bass output of these headphones not only as comparable to other bass-heavy headphones, but to literal earthquakes. There's even a Bass Boost mode that pushes the headphones to put out as much bass as they possibly can. Finally, they have a very classic Sony design, to the point where a quick amateur sketch of the ULT Wear would look nearly indistinguishable from that of the XM5 or XM6. In other words, these are comfortable, well-designed headphones that should prove quite comfortable to your head and ears. Get the Sony ULT Wear now and save at least $50 by tapping the appropriate button below. Remember, the Sony ULT Wear are usually $200, so this deal allows you to get them for around $150. Still not interested but definitely want headphones? Check out more headphones deals to get something more your style.
Geeky Gadgets
4 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Sony WH 1000XM6 vs. AirPods Max: The UNDISPUTED Champion Is...
When selecting premium headphones, the Sony WH1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max stand out as top contenders. Both models promise exceptional performance, but how do they compare in critical areas such as sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, battery life, connectivity, and overall value? By examining these features in detail, you can determine which option aligns best with your preferences and lifestyle. The video below from MacRumors gives us more details. Watch this video on YouTube. Sound Quality: Tailored for Different Preferences The Sony WH1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max both deliver high-fidelity audio, but their sound profiles cater to distinct listening preferences. The WH1000XM6 offers a balanced sound signature, characterized by deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, making it versatile across various music genres. Additionally, Sony's companion app includes an equalizer, allowing you to customize the audio experience to suit your tastes. On the other hand, the AirPods Max leans toward a neutral sound profile, emphasizing clarity and precision. This approach appeals to audiophiles who prioritize accuracy and detail in their listening experience. However, the AirPods Max lacks the customization options available with the WH1000XM6. For users who value flexibility and the ability to fine-tune their audio, the WH1000XM6 holds a distinct advantage. Active Noise Cancellation: Cutting Through the Noise Noise cancellation is a defining feature of premium headphones, and both models excel in this area. The AirPods Max employs Apple's computational audio technology, which adaptively blocks ambient noise to create an immersive listening experience in most environments. This technology is particularly effective in quieting mid-range and high-frequency sounds. In comparison, the WH1000XM6 uses Sony's advanced noise-canceling algorithms, which are especially adept at reducing low-frequency sounds such as airplane engines or city traffic. Furthermore, the WH1000XM6 includes an ambient sound mode, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings when needed. While both headphones deliver impressive noise cancellation, the WH1000XM6 offers greater adaptability across a wider range of scenarios, making it a more versatile choice for diverse environments. Design and Comfort: Built for Long Listening Sessions Comfort and design are critical for extended use, and both headphones prioritize ergonomic features. The AirPods Max features a stainless steel frame paired with a breathable mesh canopy, giving it a premium and durable feel. However, its weight—384 grams—can become noticeable during prolonged listening sessions, potentially causing fatigue. The WH1000XM6, in contrast, weighs just 254 grams, making it significantly lighter and more comfortable for extended wear. Its plush ear cushions enhance comfort, while its foldable design improves portability, making it an excellent choice for travel or daily commutes. While the AirPods Max impresses with its luxurious build quality, the WH1000XM6 is better suited for users who prioritize lightweight comfort and practicality. Battery Life: Power That Lasts Battery life is a crucial factor for wireless headphones, and the WH1000XM6 outperforms the AirPods Max in this category. Sony's headphones offer up to 30 hours of playback with noise cancellation enabled, compared to the AirPods Max's 20 hours. This extended battery life makes the WH1000XM6 a more reliable option for long trips or busy days. Additionally, the WH1000XM6 supports quick charging, providing five hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. It uses a USB-C port, which is more widely adopted and convenient than the AirPods Max's proprietary Lightning cable. For users who value long-lasting performance and fast charging capabilities, the WH1000XM6 is the clear winner. Connectivity: Flexibility vs. Ecosystem Integration Both headphones offer reliable Bluetooth connectivity, but their strengths differ based on user needs. The AirPods Max integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, thanks to its H1 chip. This enables features like spatial audio, automatic device switching, and hands-free Siri activation, making it an excellent choice for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. However, its functionality is more limited when paired with non-Apple devices, reducing its versatility. The WH1000XM6, equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, offers broader compatibility across platforms. It supports high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC and allows multi-device pairing, allowing users to switch between devices effortlessly. While the AirPods Max excels within the Apple ecosystem, the WH1000XM6 provides greater flexibility for users with diverse devices, making it a more versatile option for those who use multiple platforms. Price and Value: Balancing Cost and Performance Price is often a deciding factor, and the difference between these two models is significant. The AirPods Max is priced at $549, positioning itself as a luxury product. In contrast, the WH1000XM6 is more affordable at $399, yet it delivers comparable—or in some cases superior—performance in key areas such as sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life. For users seeking premium features without the premium price tag, the WH1000XM6 offers better value for money. It combines high performance with a more accessible price point, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who do not want to compromise on quality. Final Verdict: The Sony WH1000XM6 Stands Out Both the Sony WH1000XM6 and Apple AirPods Max deliver exceptional features, but the WH1000XM6 emerges as the more well-rounded option. Its customizable sound profile, advanced noise cancellation, lightweight design, extended battery life, and competitive pricing make it an ideal choice for most users. While the AirPods Max excels in its seamless integration with Apple devices and offers a luxurious build, it falls short in versatility and cost-effectiveness. For those seeking headphones that combine performance, comfort, and value, the Sony WH1000XM6 is the clear winner, offering a superior balance of features at a more accessible price point. Stay informed about the latest in Sony WH1000XM6 by exploring our other resources and articles. Source & Image Credit: MacRumors Filed Under: Apple, Gadgets News, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Digital Trends
5 days ago
- Digital Trends
Sony WH-1000XM6 review: The best wireless headphones for almost everyone
Sony WH-1000XM6 MSRP $450.00 Score Details 'Sony's best ANC headphones so far are brilliant in almost every way.' Pros Fold-up, fold-flat hinges Premium-feeling materials and finishes Increased comfort, more secure fit Top-notch sound quality Excellent noise canceling/transparency Great for calls even in noisy places Cons No USB audio Awkward, Android-only Auracast Limited spatial audio 'Why you can trust Digital Trends – We have a 20-year history of testing, reviewing, and rating products, services and apps to help you make a sound buying decision. Find out more about how we test and score products.' Recommended Videos In some ways, Sony didn't need to update its flagship wireless headphones. Even as of May 14, 2025, one day before the official launch of the WH-1000XM6, you'd have been hard pressed to find a list of the best wireless headphones (including here at Digital Trends) that didn't put Sony's WH-1000XM5 in first place. This, despite the fact that the XM5 are now three years old, and virtually all of their competitors have been update during that time. That's how good they still are. But we all have a tendency to gravitate towards the newest, shiniest object, and besides, for all of its merits, the XM5 did have one or two areas that needed improvement. So here we are. Let me cut right to the chase. The WH-1000XM6 are amazing. Stellar. The best. And if I'm being honest, you should just buy the WH-1000XM5 while they're still available. Here's why. Design If you're looking for an excuse reason to buy the $450 WH-1000XM6, look no further than their updated design. Sony may claim otherwise, but this is where you'll find the biggest difference between them and their predecessors. I've always liked the look of the XM5, but now that I've laid my eyes on the XM6, I can't unsee the areas where the XM5 feel a little cheap. For the XM6, Sony has found a plastic formulation that doesn't look or feel like plastic at all. It's more like synthetic stone, and it gives these cans an upscale vibe that the XM5 were aiming for, but never quite hit. The earcups are now seamless, solid shells, their matte surfaces interrupted only by the eight microphone openings. But even these are beautifully crafted, with flush-mounted metal grilles instead of gaping holes. The earcushions are now much easier to remove. The hinges are also remarkable. When you look at the AirPods Max, Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700, or the WH-1000XM5, you realize that when you connect a headband to a set of earcups via a single point of contact (instead of the usual yoke approach), you tend to sacrifice the ability to fold up and fold flat, leaving a less compact shape. Sony's new hinges bring back that missing second axis of movement without resorting to the older, yoke-style architecture — which Bose opted for on its QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. The other significant change is the headband. It's now wider, better padded, and asymmetrical. The first two are all about enhanced comfort, but Sony hopes the asymmetrical shape will help folks figure out the headphones' orientation a little faster. Sonos did the same thing on the Ace headphones, but in both cases, I find it easier to just look at the earcups (if the two control buttons are in my left hand, I know they're the right way 'round). Oh, and let's give Sony some serious props for giving the XM6's travel case a quick-release magnetic closure. So much better than a zipper! Sony WH-1000XM6 specs Price $450 Weight 8.96 ounces Form factor Closed-back, over-ear Noise cancellation Yes Battery life 40 hours per charge (ANC off), 30 hours (ANC on) Charging USB-C Voice assistant Native smartphone access Hands-free Google Assistant (Android only) Multipoint Yes Spatial audio Yes (with head tracking, Android only) Hi-res audio Yes (wired/wireless) Fast pairing Google Fast Pair Bluetooth/codecs BT 5.3 with AAC, SBC, LC3, LDAC Auracast Yes (Android only) Comfort, controls, and connections The headband isn't the only change for comfort's sake; the earcushions are also more generously padded. Sony has upped the clamping force, too, and the result is a more secure fit that remains very comfortable, even for several hours in a row. I don't really get the whole full-size over-ear headphones thing at the gym or while running, but I know there are many who do. If that's your thing, the XM6 are a better choice than the XM5. Just remember, they have no official IP rating for water or sweat resistance. I'd be remiss if I didn't point out that the XM6's clever new hinge design relies partly on a spring-loaded mechanism, similar to the one Apple uses on the AirPods Max. This puts the pivot point where the hinge meets the earcup, as opposed to the XM5's mechanism, which puts it at the midpoint of the earcup. For me, it creates a small but perceptible gap between the bottom of the earcup and my head, unless I extend the headband sliders more than feels normal. It's not a deal-breaker by any means, it's just something to be aware of. The XM6's controls are almost identical to the XM5. The right earcup gives you physical buttons for ANC mode selection and power/pairing, while the left is touch sensitive for playback and volume gestures. The one difference is that you can now enable a microphone mute function via the ANC button while on a call. It's a very intuitive setup and works brilliantly. The only drawback is that XM6's controls aren't cold-weather friendly unless you have capacitive-compatible gloves. Still, unlike the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones (which also use touch-based gestures for some or all controls), Sony gives you an alternative: hands-free voice commands. If you enable them in the Sound Connect app, you can say, 'Hey, Headphones,' followed by 'play song,' 'pause song,' 'raise the volume,' etc. Basically, everything you can do with a gesture or button, you can do with your voice, and it's seamless. The one caveat is that you must choose between Sony's voice commands or button-based access to your phone's voice assistant (or hands-free Google Assistant on Android). Sony's Bluetooth connections are always rock solid, and the WH-1000XM6 are no exception. When using an Android phone, Google Fast Pair makes pairing very easy (plus it adds the XM6 to Find My). Multipoint lets you keep the cans connected to two devices simultaneously, and the Sony Sound Connect app makes managing those devices a breeze. Sound quality One of the biggest reasons Sony's 1000X series has dominated lists of the best headphones over the years is their sound. These cans have always provided powerful, precise, full-frequency sound, with plenty of detail. The XM6 are no exception. What these new cans bring to the table are subtle improvements in clarity, especially through the midrange — traditionally the hardest part of the frequency spectrum to achieve additional detail. You can think of it as peeling back another layer of onion skin. When Sony introduced the XM5, it shifted slightly away from the XM4's bass-forward balance to a more neutral tuning. Curiously, even though the XM6 is a twin to the XM5 when it comes to sound signature, that added level of detail and nuance helps low-end bass feel tighter. It's not more prominent — again, the balance is almost identical — but you can hear the improvement in separation from the lower mids. Sony offers a variety of EQ presets and customization options in the Sound Connect app as well as its 'Find My EQ' personalization test, but I ignored them all — the company's factory tuning is that good. All of this to say, if you like the XM5, I think you'll like the XM6 even more when listening critically, particularly if you have an Android phone and take advantage of Sony's LDAC Bluetooth codec. And if you've never tried any of Sony's flagship headphones, prepare yourself to be wowed. They've always been a top-notch choice, and the XM6 are the best so far. The one thing I wish Sony had included is USB Audio. In this price range, it's nearly ubiquitous — even Apple added it to the AirPods Max, and that company has a track record of being slow to adopt new tech. USB Audio would give the XM6 a truly lossless connection with support for hi-res audio up to whatever Sony's built-in DAC can handle (likely 24-bit/96kHz or better). For such a great-sounding set of cans, this feels like a real oversight. Spatial audio New for the XM6 is the ability to spatialize any stereo sound using the Sound Connect app's listening mode settings. Sony calls it 360 Reality Audio Upmixing and has decided that it should be all about making video content more immersive. It even calls the spatial audio mode 'Cinema.' Despite the name, it works on any audio — not just movies or TV — and in typical Sony fashion, it's masterfully executed. The soundstage opens up, getting wider, deeper, and even a little taller, and there's a greater sense of spatial separation between audio elements like vocals and instruments. Most importantly, Sony's processing mostly avoids the unpleasant level changes that lesser spatial systems often produce. In the worst versions, bass can become smeared, and vocals lose much of their presence. Sony's Cinema keeps things focused. Stereo purists aren't going to love it — there's no avoiding the sensation that you're listening to processed sound — but if you dig that more immersive sound, Sony's version is a lot of fun. Sadly, iPhone users will have to satisfy themselves with a 'static' spatial presentation. The XM6's head tracking is only enabled via Android 13 or higher. For music, I don't think it matters. For Sony's cinematic ambitions, however, head tracking is the key that unlocks the sensation of sitting in a home theater. It keeps the relative position of each virtual 5.1 speaker locked in space — turning your head makes it feel like you've turned away from the central source of dialogue right in front of you. It's not as effective as Apple's version using the combo of an iPhone or Apple TV 4K with a set of AirPods Max or AirPods Pro, and it's currently limited to just a few services like Netflix and YouTube. Noise cancellation and transparency Active noise cancelling (ANC) on the XM5 is already excellent. In fact, the only headphones that can beat them are Bose's QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. For the XM6, Sony went all out to change that ranking, giving the new cans more microphones (12 vs 8) and seven times faster ANC processing. These changes give the XM6 an edge over their predecessors, and I'd even go so far as to say that in certain circumstances, where external noises tend to be highly variable, they do a slightly better job than the QuietComfort Ultra. But for pure, brute-force destruction of constant droning sounds like in an airplane cabin or on public transit, the QuietComfort Ultra still reign supreme. However, if you're very sensitive to ANC side effects (some people report an unpleasant, sucking sensation), you may be better off with the WH-1000XM6. Sony's ANC system may not cancel quite as much noise as Bose's, but it's also gentler on your ears. Transparency mode is also excellent, giving you a nearly perfect reproduction of the outside world. Are the WH-1000XM6 better than the AirPods Max and QuietComfort Ultra? No, but you may still prefer Sony's version, which slightly boosts the higher frequencies associated with speech, instead of going for a completely natural passthrough. I think what I like most about Sony's ANC and transparency is how quickly you can shift between them — it's nearly instant. You can also turn on Sony's Speak-to-Chat feature, which switches to transparency mode automatically when it detects you speaking. It's very clever but your mileage may vary: I couldn't find a setting that reliably detected my voice without being triggered by false positives like clearing my throat. Call quality At the risk of sounding repetitive, calling on the WH-1000XM6 is also a subtle improvement over the XM5, which were already pretty darn great. I'd say the biggest difference is that the XM6 preserve more of your voice's natural sound. There's better tonality and less sibilance on all of those ess-sounds. The XM6's ability to cancel background noise remains top-notch. Your callers will likely never know you're walking past a construction site. For the first time, Sony has added a mic muting option, which is very handy. Just keep in mind that your phone app probably won't reflect these mode changes (the iPhone doesn't), so you'll have to remember which mode you're in. You can switch to transparency mode at any time to hear your own voice more clearly and Sony includes a specific voice boost option in the app to help with that if you need it. The only wireless headphones that are better for calls are JBL's Tour One M3. Battery life This might be the one area where Sony has made no improvements at all. Playtime with ANC on is rated at 30 hours and 40 when it's off. One minute of charging buys you an extra hour of operation, but a full charge still takes about 3.5 hours. Does it matter? I doubt it. When it comes to battery life, more is always better, but I think most folks can get through 99% of their lives on 40 hours or less. The one big improvement is that you can now charge and use the XM6 simultaneously, something no previous 1000X series can do. Extras The XM6 are the first of their kind to support Auracast, which is great. Unfortunately, it requires manually shifting to LE Audio within the Sound Connect app, then switching to the Android Bluetooth menu to find and connect to a local Auracast broadcast, which is a pain in the butt. Also, iPhone users are out of luck. This is disappointing to me. Much like Sony's spatial audio feature, it feels like a half-measure. Moreover, we know that better is possible — JBL's Tour One M3 suffers from none of these limitations. Sony has given its Adaptive Sound Control feature (which turns ANC on/off based on activity) a boost with its new scenes feature. You select from different scenes like running or going to the gym, and then choose the time and place associated with these activities and what you'd like to listen to (on an iPhone, your choices are Apple Music, Spotify, or Endel). I appreciate that Sony wants to build some intelligence into the listening experience, but I don't find these features especially useful. Conclusion Sony's WH-1000XM6 are a meaningful upgrade from the company's WH-1000XM5, and take their place as the best overall wireless headphones I've ever tested. They're not perfect — no USB audio, a bizarrely awkward Auracast setup, and spatial audio that can only be used to its fullest on Android, are drawbacks that must be considered, especially given that Sony has increased the price of its flagship cans to $450. I acknowledge that none of these issues stopped me or anyone I know from enjoying the XM5, and in all of the other areas that matter (sound, ANC, design, and comfort), the XM6 are a stellar choice. Bose is still better overall for noise canceling, but the XM6's real competition comes from its own predecessor. Now that Sony has discounted the XM5, and will likely keep prices low until it runs out of stock, you'd be well advised to consider that model before buying.
Geeky Gadgets
19-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Is Sony Back on Top? The WH-1000XM6 Review
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones represent a significant step forward in the realm of premium noise-canceling technology. Building on the strong foundation of the WH-1000XM5, this latest iteration refines its predecessor's features while introducing notable upgrades. Designed with audiophiles, frequent travelers, and professionals in mind, the WH-1000XM6 combines advanced technology with user-focused design. However, its premium price point may prompt some buyers to weigh its benefits carefully. The video below from Marques Brownlee gives us a detailed look at the new Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones. Watch this video on YouTube. Key Highlights Enhanced noise cancellation powered by 12 microphones and the advanced QN3 chip. powered by 12 microphones and the advanced QN3 chip. Improved sound quality with upgraded drivers and customizable EQ settings. with upgraded drivers and customizable EQ settings. Foldable design reintroduced for greater portability and convenience. reintroduced for greater portability and convenience. Multi-device connectivity for seamless switching between devices. for seamless switching between devices. Extended battery life of up to 30 hours with fast-charging capabilities. Design and Comfort: Built for Long Listening Sessions The WH-1000XM6 headphones are crafted with comfort and practicality in mind, making them ideal for extended use. The lightweight frame, combined with soft vegan leather earpads and a flexible headband, ensures a snug yet comfortable fit. Sony's decision to reintroduce the foldable design is a welcome change, allowing the headphones to collapse neatly into a compact, magnetically-closed travel case. This feature is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who value portability. The earcups now rotate more freely, enhancing both adjustability and storage convenience. However, the lack of ventilation in the earcups may lead to slight discomfort during prolonged use, especially in warmer conditions. Despite this minor drawback, the WH-1000XM6 delivers a premium feel and thoughtful design enhancements that cater to a wide range of users. Sound Quality: A Richer, More Immersive Experience Sony has elevated its audio performance with the WH-1000XM6, setting a new standard for premium headphones. The upgraded drivers produce a balanced sound profile, characterized by punchy bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs. The enhanced sub-bass performance is particularly noteworthy, delivering a richer and more immersive listening experience compared to the WH-1000XM5. The updated 'Sound Connect' app provides customizable EQ settings, allowing users to tailor the audio to their preferences. Whether you're enjoying classical music, podcasts, or bass-heavy tracks, the WH-1000XM6 adapts seamlessly to your needs. This level of personalization reinforces Sony's reputation for delivering exceptional sound quality in the premium headphone market. Noise Cancellation and Transparency: Best-in-Class Performance Noise cancellation has long been a defining feature of Sony's WH-1000X series, and the WH-1000XM6 takes this capability to new heights. With an increase from 8 to 12 microphones and the integration of the advanced QN3 chip, these headphones excel at isolating external noise. Whether you're on a crowded flight or in a bustling café, the WH-1000XM6 ensures an uninterrupted listening experience. The transparency mode has also been refined, offering a more natural and clear ambient sound. This feature is particularly useful for staying aware of your surroundings without removing the headphones. Together, these advancements make the WH-1000XM6 a standout choice for users who prioritize both immersion and situational awareness. Features and App Integration: Tailored to Your Needs The WH-1000XM6 is equipped with a suite of features designed to enhance usability and personalization. The refreshed 'Sound Connect' app introduces environment-specific listening modes, such as café, living room, and cinema, allowing users to optimize their audio experience for different settings. Multi-device connectivity is another standout feature, allowing seamless switching between devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets without the need for manual pairing. However, the touchpad controls, while functional, can sometimes be inconsistent, which may frustrate users who prefer more tactile feedback. Despite this, the WH-1000XM6 offers a highly customizable and user-friendly experience. Battery Life: Reliable and Convenient Battery performance remains a strong suit for the WH-1000XM6. With up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge, these headphones are well-suited for long trips or extended work sessions. The fast-charging capability is another highlight, providing up to 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. This feature minimizes downtime and ensures that the headphones are ready when you need them. How It Stacks Up Against Competitors In a competitive market, the WH-1000XM6 stands out as a top-tier option. Compared to alternatives like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Sonos, JBL, and Beats Studio, Sony's offering excels in noise cancellation, sound quality, and multi-device connectivity. While the AirPods Max offers a comparable experience, the WH-1000XM6 is more affordable and provides superior compatibility with non-Apple devices. This versatility makes it an attractive choice for a broader audience. Drawbacks to Consider Despite its many strengths, the WH-1000XM6 is not without its shortcomings. The $449 price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, the touchpad controls can be finicky, and the lack of ventilation in the earcups may cause discomfort during extended use. While these issues are relatively minor, they are worth considering for potential buyers. A Worthy Investment for Premium Audio The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones successfully reaffirm their position as a leader in the premium noise-canceling headphone market. With improvements in design, sound quality, noise cancellation, and app integration, they offer a well-rounded and high-performing package. While the higher price may be a barrier for some, the WH-1000XM6 delivers exceptional value for those seeking the best in comfort, functionality, and audio performance. For discerning listeners, these headphones set a new standard in the industry and are a compelling choice for anyone in search of premium audio. Source & Image Credit: Marques Brownlee Filed Under: Gadgets News, Reviews, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
