Sony WH-1000XM6 Flash Review: Sony Returns to Form in Style
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones mark a significant evolution in Sony’s flagship noise-cancelling series. With thoughtful design changes, improved audio quality, and class-leading noise cancellation, the XM6 proves Sony is paying attention to user feedback. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros, cons, and final thoughts on this latest release.
Pros
1. Excellent Redesigned Case
Sony has returned to the smart, foldable design of the XM4, enabling a more compact and travel-friendly case for the WH-1000XM6. The addition of a magnetic clasp instead of a zipper is a standout touch as it makes storing and taking it out that much faster. It’s simple, yet brilliant.
2. Comfortable and Practical Design
Despite a few tweaks, comfort remains top-notch. The wider headband, angled earcups, and lightweight build ensure fatigue-free long listening sessions. Replaceable earcup material adds futureproofing and sustainability to the mix. In case you’re wondering, it’s about 254g, which 4g heavier than the XM5 but still lightweight nonetheless.
3. Refined Button Placement
The recessed, circular power button is easier to locate and more intuitive in use. While touch controls still dominate, the physical buttons are welcome improvements. If you’re not used to it, it will still take some time to get accustomed to but this is much easier compared to its previous iterations.
4. Bluetooth Multipoint Connection
While its claims for ultra-low latency may be promising, it’s still within the realm of Bluetooth connectivity, so it can’t compare to typical 2.4GHz connections. What is great however is the Bluetooth multipoint connection, allowing you to connect it to two Bluetooth-enabled devices simultaneously, and seamlessly switch between the two for both audio and calls.
5. Strong Audio Performance
Equipped with redesigned 30mm neodymium drivers and expert tuning, the WH-1000XM6 delivers a lively, balanced sound signature. Bass is punchy but controlled, mids are scooped with a presence boost, and highs sparkle without fatigue. Compared to the XM4 and XM5, the audio experience is richer and more dynamic.
6. Class-Leading Noise Cancellation
Sony retains its crown with marginal improvements over the XM5, making the XM6 the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market today. They effectively mute the outside world, and the elimination of hiss further elevates the experience. You may think the difference is hard to discern but even for the average user, the XM6’s ANC is noticebly better compared to its past two iterations.
7. Good Battery Life, Can Charge and Listen At the Same Time
For the most part, battery life remains unchanged from its predecessor as the Sony WH-1000XM6 is expected to give up to 30 hours per full charge with ANC enabled. It’s still a solid figure, with real world usage having a variance of 1 to 2 hours depending on volume and ANC. Also, 3 minutes of charging will give you about 3 hours of listening time, and you can listen while it’s charging as well.
Cons
1. Minor Case Flaw
While the case is a huge improvement, the internal cable pouch feels a bit fiddly to use. It’s a small annoyance, but noticeable during regular use. If you rarely ever take out either of the included cables, this will be a non-issue for you.
2. Limited Button Controls
Despite the better power button, the XM6 still relies heavily on touch controls. A return to more physical buttons, like in Bowers & Wilkins PX8 headphones, would be appreciated by many users. Then again, one who is already accustomed to it will feel right at home with this new pair of headphones.
3. Smudge-Prone Finish on Darker Colorways
The Black and Midnight Blue models tend to pick up smudges and fingerprints easily. Users who prefer a cleaner aesthetic might want to consider the Platinum Silver option instead.
4. Higher Price Tag
At RM2,099, the XM6 is the most expensive iteration yet—RM300 more than the XM5 at launch. While the improvements justify the hike, budget-conscious buyers may hesitate. There are some pre-order specials to help make it more enticing but whether it’s worth it or not depends on you.
Sony WH-1000XM6 Verdict
The Sony WH-1000XM6 stands tall as a worthy successor to both the XM4 and XM5. With superior sound quality, refined design, and class-leading noise cancellation, it’s arguably the best all-round wireless headphone currently available. It would work pretty well for gaming if it wasn’t for Bluetooth latency, but then again, gaming headsets would be better tuned to hear footsteps among other gameplay elements.
If you’re upgrading from the XM4 or even the XM5, the enhancements across audio, portability, and usability make it a compelling choice. All in all, Sony did a great job with their flagship headphone as it’s a great step forward, though in some ways funny as it involved having an old feature make a much needed return for improved portability along with a smaller case.
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