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Sony WH-1000XM6: Are These the Best Noise-Canceling Headphones of 2024?
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Having tested numerous headphones since 2016, the Sony WH-1000XM6 truly impressed, delivering a remarkable “wow” factor.
These might just be the best Bluetooth headphones available today, excelling in sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC), and overall feel. While the price is a consideration, the performance justifies the investment.
Transparency note: The WH-1000XM6 was provided free of charge for review purposes. There was no influence on the content, nor any obligation to report.
Design and Ergonomics of the Sony WH-1000XM6
Sony has achieved a sleek and understated design.The WH-1000XM6 maintains a minimalist aesthetic, characteristic of Sony’s over-ear headphones.
- Clean, minimalist design
- No extravagant embellishments
The swivel joint connecting the ear cup and headband presents a visually distinct break from the otherwise smooth contours. While some may find this design choice unconventional, it adds a unique element to the overall appearance.
Beyond the price, the haptic experience of the WH-1000XM6, with its matte finish, is reminiscent of the new Pro controller, offering a premium feel. The ear pads, featuring a compliant memory foam, are designed for comfort. Despite their slim profile, they provide a cozy fit without causing pressure, even for those who wear earrings.
Contrary to some reports of a tight fit, these headphones offer a secure yet comfortable experience. The adjustable headband allows for personalized adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit. Weighing approximately 250 grams, the WH-1000XM6 remains lightweight and comfortable, even during extended use.
While over-ear headphones can sometimes cause overheating, the WH-1000XM6 remains cool and comfortable. Furthermore, they provide excellent passive noise isolation, even without active noise cancellation.
the WH-1000XM6 provides a comfortable fit, without causing any discomfort. The lightweight design further enhances the overall user experience.
USB-C cable, a jack cable and a carrying bag. (Image: Maxe S., Gamestar)”/>
The scope of delivery also includes a USB-C cable, a jack cable and a carrying bag. (Image: Maxe S.,Gamestar)
Key Features of the Sony WH-1000XM6
The active noise cancellation is a standout feature. The initial reaction to the ANC was overwhelmingly positive.
»Exceptional ANC performance.«
Equipped with twelve built-in microphones, the WH-1000XM6 effectively eliminates almost all ambient noise. According to a 2023 study by RTINGS, the Sony WH-1000XM5 (predecessor) already had the best noise isolation on the market 1.
- With music playing, external sounds are virtually imperceptible.
- Background noise is minimal, noticeable only when music is off and actively listening.
- The ANC may not completely eliminate very low-frequency sounds, such as a loud car engine nearby, but these are easily ignored in everyday use.
The 12 microphones also enhance transparency mode, providing exceptional clarity.
Additional features include:
- Playback control: Music, podcasts, and videos automatically pause when the headphones are removed. This feature worked seamlessly with Spotify on both mobile and desktop, and also with YouTube.
- Gesture control: The intuitive gesture controls on the ear cups allow for easy navigation and volume adjustment.
- Battery life: Sony claims 30 hours with ANC enabled and 40 hours without. testing revealed approximately 50 hours of usage on a single charge.
The Sony | Headphones connect app (Android or iOS) provides further customization options.
- Sound modes
- Equalizer
- Adaptive sound control
- Multipoint connection (connect to two devices simultaneously)
- Speak-to-Chat
A possible reason to complain: the app looks a little old and spartan. (Image: Maxe S., GameStar)
Did You Know? The Speak-to-Chat feature automatically pauses music when you start speaking, allowing for seamless conversations without removing the headphones.
Pro Tip: Experiment with the equalizer settings in the sony | Headphones Connect app to fine-tune the sound to your personal preferences.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Noise cancellation (ANC) | Effectively eliminates ambient noise for immersive listening. |
| Transparency Mode | Allows external sounds to be heard clearly. |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours with ANC, 40 hours without. |
| Gesture Control | Intuitive touch controls for playback and volume. |
| Sony | Headphones Connect App | Customizable sound settings and features. |
What features are most critically important to you when choosing noise-canceling headphones?
How do you typically use noise-canceling headphones in your daily life?
The Evolution of Noise-Canceling Headphones
Noise-canceling technology has come a long way as its initial progress for aviation in the 1950s. Early noise-canceling headphones were bulky and expensive,primarily used by pilots to reduce engine noise.Over the decades, advancements in electronics and materials have led to smaller, more affordable, and more effective noise-canceling headphones for consumer use. The introduction of digital signal processing (DSP) in the late 20th century significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of noise cancellation. Today, noise-canceling headphones are widely used in various settings, including travel, work, and leisure, providing users with a more immersive and distraction-free audio experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sony WH-1000XM6
- What makes the Sony WH-1000XM6 stand out from other noise-canceling headphones?
- The Sony WH-1000XM6 excels in its combination of exceptional sound quality, industry-leading active noise cancellation, comfortable design, and long battery life.
- How effective is the active noise cancellation on the WH-1000XM6?
- The active noise cancellation is highly effective, utilizing twelve microphones to minimize a wide range of ambient sounds, providing an immersive listening experience.
- Can I customize the sound settings on the Sony WH-1000XM6?
- Yes, the Sony | Headphones Connect app allows for extensive customization of sound settings, including equalizer adjustments and sound modes.
- What is the battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM6?
- The battery life is up to 30 hours with active noise cancellation enabled and up to 40 hours without ANC.
- Dose the Sony WH-1000XM6 support multipoint connection?
- Yes, the WH-1000XM6 supports multipoint connection, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously.
- Are the Sony WH-1000XM6 comfortable to wear for extended periods?
- Yes,the WH-1000XM6 features comfortable ear pads and a lightweight design,making them suitable for extended use.
- What accessories are included with the Sony WH-1000XM6?
- The Sony WH-1000XM6 comes with a USB-C charging cable, an audio cable, and a carrying case.
Disclaimer: This review is based on autonomous testing and assessment. Individual experiences may vary.
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