A trio of Sony audio developments—a luxury anniversary headphone, a critical comparison with Apple, and leaked details on next-gen earbuds—paint a picture of a company doubling down on premium sound and design.
Sony 1000X "The ColleXion" Anniversary Headphones (WH-1000XX)
Launch and Pricing
Sony has announced the 1000X "The ColleXion" Edition to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the original MDR-1000X. Priced at $650 in the United States, this model is positioned as a luxury offering and does not replace the standard WH-1000XM6.
Design and Build
Leaked renders and official details reveal a premium construction:
- Materials: An exposed metal headband, color-matched metallic yokes, and vegan leather earcups.
- Earcups: Thicker leatherette padding and a larger overall size compared to the WH-1000XM6 series.
- Microphones: Redesigned grilles with larger holes.
- Weight: 320 grams, notably heavier than the WH-1000XM6 (253 grams).
- Colors: Available in black or white.
- Carry Case: A handbag-like design with a built-in handle and magnetic closure. Includes a USB-C cable and a 3.5mm audio cable.
Performance and Features
- Processors: Uses the same V3 co-processor and QN3 noise-canceling processor as the WH-1000XM6.
- Noise Cancellation: Employs a 12-mic system. Some sources note that the thinner earcups may result in slightly weaker overall noise cancellation compared to the XM6.
- Battery Life: Rated at up to 24 hours with ANC on, and up to 32 hours with ANC off.
- Audio Tuning: Sony partnered with Battery Studios, Sterling Sound, and Coast Mastering. Sound quality is reported as slightly clearer in the lower midrange and high end.
- Model Number: WH-1000XX.
Apple AirPods Max 2 vs. Sony WH-1000XM6: Comparative Review
A published review by CNET put Apple’s AirPods Max 2 head-to-head with Sony’s WH-1000XM6.
Pricing and Weight
- Apple AirPods Max 2: $549, 386.2 grams.
- Sony WH-1000XM6: $450, 254 grams.
Design and Build
- The AirPods Max 2 feature a stainless steel frame and aluminum-clad earcups.
- The Sony WH-1000XM6 are constructed primarily from high-tech plastic and carbon-fiber composite, with a folding design.
- The review notes the AirPods Max 2 have a more durable build, while the Sony model is significantly lighter.
Features
- AirPods Max 2: Powered by Apple's H2 chip, including Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and automatic device switching for Apple users. Supports wired listening via USB-C, but omits a 3.5mm cable.
- Sony WH-1000XM6: Features Speak-to-Chat and supports the LDAC audio codec on Android devices. Includes a 3.5mm analog cable for wired use.
Performance
- Noise Cancellation: Both are described as having top-tier capabilities. The AirPods Max 2 are noted for a slight edge in transparency mode.
- Voice Calling: Both models receive excellent marks for voice-calling performance.
- Sound Quality: The AirPods Max 2 are described as balanced and accurate with more clarity. The Sony WH-1000XM6 are described as warmer and more forgiving.
- Battery Life: The Sony WH-1000XM6 are rated for up to 30 hours with ANC on, compared to 20 hours for the AirPods Max 2.
Sony WF-1000XM6 Wireless Earbuds: Leaked Information
Multiple sources have reported details on Sony's upcoming WF-1000XM6 earbuds, based on retail listings and leaks.
Design
- Form Factor: A redesigned "pill shape," differing from the circular design of the WF-1000XM5. The design appears thick from the side.
- Finish: A matte finish, contrasting with the glossy finish of the WF-1000XM5.
- Ear Tips: "Insulated tips" for a better fit. One source reports foam tips may lack an internal silicone layer.
- Microphones: Three external microphones are visible, with a potential fourth internal microphone, for a total of eight microphones.
- Charging Case: A distinct, sharp build that appears bulky.
- Color Options: Matte black and off-white (or Platinum Silver) have been shown. A "Sandpink" (or Sand Pink) variant is also expected at launch.
Specifications and Features
- Processor: A new QN3e processor, reported to be three times faster than the processor in the WF-1000XM5.
- Noise Cancellation: Equipped with ANC and transparency modes. The upgraded processor is expected to improve performance.
- Battery Life: Rated at 8 hours with ANC on, extendable by 16 hours via the charging case.
- Water Resistance: IPX4 rating.
- Audio: A new speaker, an improved DAC, and an enhanced amplifier. The equalizer in the Sony | Sound Connect app will feature 10 adjustable bands (up from five).
- Pricing: Reported at $329.99 in the US and €299.99 in the Eurozone.
Context: The original AirPods Max launched in 2020. Other major audio manufacturers, including Bose and Bowers & Wilkins, have reportedly increased prices for their top models in recent years.