SONY Group Corp. rolled out an upgraded version of its wireless over-ear headphones, bringing improved noise cancellation and a new design to an increasingly popular category.
The headphones, called the WH-1000XM6, are $450, $50 more than the prior WH-1000XM5 model that went on sale in 2022. To improve noise cancellation, the new model — which comes in black, silver and midnight blue — includes 12 microphones (up from eight on the prior version) and expands the use of artificial intelligence to continuously adapt to external factors such as changes in air pressure.
The new model also includes improved beam forming, which helps eliminate background noise for the person on the other line during a phone call. The technology was improved by the use of AI and with a total of six microphones focused on beam forming, up from four on the last version, according to the company.
There are also improvements to what’s known as spatial audio — an effect that creates virtual surround sound for the wearer. The headphones can convert any file in real time to the emerging standard. The main audio upgrade, however, comes from the updated hardware. That includes a new audio driver that results in richer details, clearer vocals and improved balance, according to Sony.
Externally, the main design changes are foldable ear cups, a wider headband for improved comfort, a redesigned power button, the addition of a dedicated button to mute and unmute the microphones, and a smaller carrying case that latches magnetically.
Battery life remains unchanged from the last-generation model: as much as 30 hours with noise cancellation enabled and a maximum of 40 hours with the feature turned off. As on the previous version, Sony claims that three minutes of recharging can restore the battery to three hours’ worth of use. But, in a new development, a wearer can listen to music what the headphones are charging.
During a hands-on test, the headphones were comfortable to wear, thanks to both the cushioned ear pads and updated headband design. The foldable ear cups won’t affect the listening experience, but they do make the headphones easier to transport.
Different genres of music sounded warm and richly rendered, especially in the “standard” listening mode, which puts audio front and center. (A different mode for background listening lets more ambient sound in.) With music playing and noise cancellation enabled, environmental noise is virtually nonexistent. Without any audio, it’s possible to still hear faint sounds in public places.
While many of the biggest technology players have shifted to in-ear earbuds after the emergence of Apple Inc.’s AirPods nearly a decade ago, over-ear headphones are regaining steam. Sonos Inc., Apple and Bose Corp. have all rolled out major new headphones in recent years. –BLOOMBERG
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