When you talk about elite noise-cancelling headphones it’s hard to go past Sony. Their flagship 1000XM series has earned a solid reputation and now with the latest model The Sony WH-1000XM6, it’s stepped up another level, but maybe we need to talk to them about some catchier names as they sound great, but don’t really roll off the tongue.
Look lets make something clear right from the get go, are they a straight-up game-changer? Maybe not. But this isn’t just a minor patch either. The XM6 represents a proper, considered upgrade, fixing a few key gripes and elevating the core experience. If you’re serious about your audio and need to block out the world, these are a major contender and easily set a new benchmark for the category.
Next-Level Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Sony has always been on the podium for Active Noise Cancellation, but here they’ve seriously pushed the envelope. The technical inclusions are impressive: four extra microphones bring the total count to twelve, all managed by a new, souped-up processor.
In my field tests, the difference is noticeable. The XM6 effectively cuts down low drones and to a faint, easily ignorable hum. Even the higher-frequency, intermittent noise like say the chatter in a packed shopping centre to practically nothing. We’ve seen ANC that handles the rumble, but the XM6 is truly brilliant at eliminating those irritating high-pitched disruptions.
Auto Ambient Sound: Don’t Miss Your Stop
It’s all well and good to block the world out, but sometimes you need to let it in, like when you’re waiting for your food order announcement “number 23 your special fried rice is ready”. Sony’s solution, “Auto Ambient Sound,” is genuinely good. Allowing you to hear your surroundings without constantly yanking the cans off your head saying “What???”.
The mode is fantastic at reproducing those crucial higher frequencies (like voices) and the transition between total silence and situational awareness is seamless. Like most devices that have this tech you will hear a minor background hiss, but it’s definitely not as distracting as some of the others. Paired with the companion app, Sony Sound Connect, switching between modes is simple, giving you the best of both worlds with a single tap.
Design & Audio: A Welcome Return to Form
One of the biggest complaints about the previous generation was the non-folding design, making them a bit of a pain to travel with. Thankfully, the XM6 is a return to form, bringing back the foldable earcups that fit neatly into the sturdy, magnetic-clasp case. Excellent news for anyone looking to save a bit of space in their carry-on luggage. They do fold in a really bizarre shape though so if you get them out without first noting the odd position it might be a good puzzle game to try to get them back in your case.
The slightly wider headband offers a bit more comfort that distributes the weight better and while Sony are spectular at making their headphones extremely easy to wear for hours on end, I think this is in the top 5, but not number 1.
As for power, the battery life is very decent, around 30 hours with ANC on and wireless, and now with quick-charge for a last-minute power-up before you bolt out the door.
On the audio front, Sony hasn’t rested on their laurels. The sound profile is rich: the bass is deep without being muddy, the mids are natural, and the highs are detailed. You’re definitely getting premium audio here. But, you will need to connect to the Sony Sound Connect app to get the best out of the custom EQ settings that let you dial that sound right in for that perfect mix for your favourite tunes.
The Verdict
The Sony WH-1000XM6 is well crafted set of headphones that addresses the previous gens criticisms while delivering the genuinely superior audio experience you expect from the brand. Features like Bluetooth 5.3 with Google Fast Pair, Bluetooth multipoint for dual-device connectivity, and the inclusion of Spatial Audio make them a premium offering.
For the price, you’re getting industry-leading noise cancellation, superior comfort, and rich, customisable audio. These headphones are a serious piece of kit that fans of that Sony Audio Signature will truly love.
