Sony’s new Bluetooth headphones fix the last generation’s biggest issue, and sound better doing it

Sony WH-1000XM6: A Detailed Review

Sony has recently unveiled its highly anticipated WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones, the latest addition to its flagship noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphone lineup. As someone who has had the opportunity to spend some time with the WH-1000XM6, I can provide you with my initial impressions of this new model.

For those familiar with Sony’s headphones since at least 2022, the WH-1000XM6 will bear a striking resemblance to its predecessor, the 1000XM5. The design of the WH-1000XM6 is an evolution rather than a revolution, featuring a familiar vegan leatherette headband and touch-sensitive matte ear cups. However, the addition of hinges for foldability addresses a common complaint about the previous model, allowing for a more compact carrying case with a magnetic closure.

While the overall design may seem similar, Sony has made several purposeful tweaks to enhance comfort and usability. The wider headband provides better stability, and the asymmetrical ear cups now feature a round, recessed power button for easy identification. The weight of the headphones is a manageable 254g, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods.

In terms of sound quality, the WH-1000XM6 features a 30mm driver with new components that contribute to a more crisp and articulate sound. The use of carbon in the diaphragm allows for precise movement and less distortion, while a perforated bobbin in the voice coil enhances high-frequency response. The headphones have been tuned in collaboration with Grammy-winning engineers to deliver a more “truthful” sound that stays true to the creator’s intention.

The WH-1000XM6 supports Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 with codecs like SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3, ensuring optimal connectivity to your devices. The headphones offer a balanced sound profile with a focus on clarity and detail, making them suitable for a wide range of music genres. The Sony app allows for further customization with features like DSEE Extreme for upscaling compressed audio and a 10-band EQ.

One of the standout features of the WH-1000XM6 is its noise cancellation, supported by 12 microphones for an immersive listening experience. While I didn’t have the opportunity to test the noise cancellation on a flight, I was impressed by its performance in simulating a flight path environment.

Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM6 builds upon the success of its predecessors with thoughtful design improvements, enhanced sound quality, and advanced noise cancellation technology. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, frequent traveler, or audiophile, the WH-1000XM6 is sure to impress with its blend of comfort, performance, and versatility.

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