The Sony WH-1000XM6 is the latest addition to its acclaimed lineup of active noise-cancelling (ANC) over-ear headphones. Designed to refine an already winning formula, the WH-1000XM6 introduces several updates that enhance comfort, sound quality, and usability, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a pair of premium wireless ANC over-ear headphones.
- Price: S$649, get it at Shopee , Lazada and Amazon
- Driver: 30mm neodymium
- Impedance: 48 ohm
- Frequency response: 4Hz – 40kHz
- Connectivity: 3.5mm audio port, Bluetooth 5.3
- Weight: 254g
| PROS | CONS |
| Excellent noise-cancelling performance | Slightly warm during extended usage, especially in Singapore’s humid climate |
| Warm and balanced sound profile with customisable equaliser | A tad expensive |
| Refined design with improved button placement and folding hinges | Carrying case still a bit bulky |
| Seamless pairing with two devices | Lack of USB-C audio passthrough for lossless playback |
Sony has packed the WH-1000XM6 with features, such as Bluetooth 5.3 with a range of codecs, including SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3, for high-quality wireless audio. Multipoint connectivity lets you pair with two devices simultaneously, making it easy to switch between work and entertainment.
The WH-1000XM6 brings back folding hinges, a practical improvement over its predecessor’s rigid design. This makes the headphones more portable and easier to store. The carrying case is also redesigned, now smaller and secured with a magnetic clasp for added convenience. However, the case is still pretty bulky.
Comfort has been slightly improved, thanks to a wider headband that distributes pressure more evenly. The earcups, wrapped in vegan leather, provide a snug fit without feeling overly tight. However, the snugness may lead to some warmth during prolonged use, especially in Singapore’s humid climate.
Visually, the XM6 exudes understated sophistication, available in three colors of black, silver (version reviewed), and midnight blue. The overall design is familiar but polished, with subtle tweaks such as a more tactile power button for ease of use.
The new 30mm neodymium drivers in the WH-1000XM6 offer a richer, more detailed listening experience than its predecessors. The sound is warm and inviting, with a slight bass boost that doesn’t overpower the mids and treble. This balance makes this headphones suitable for a diverse range of music genres, from bass-heavy tracks to acoustic melodies.
For those who prefer to fine-tune their audio experience, the companion app – Sound Connect – offers a 10-band equaliser. This customisation helps address minor shortcomings such as occasional treble sharpness or slightly recessed vocals, ensuring you get the sound profile that you like.
The WH-1000XM6 continues Sony’s industry-leading ANC tradition. The updated QN3 HD noise-cancelling processor delivers exceptional performance, isolating you from low-frequency hums and midrange chatter with ease. Whether you’re on a busy MRT train or working in a bustling café, the WH-1000XM6 offers a serene listening environment.
Adaptive noise canceling adjusts automatically to your surroundings, and the transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your environment when needed. For calls, the WH-1000XM6 makes full use of its six-microphone array to deliver clear, isolated voice capture, even in noisy conditions. The other party on the line didn’t know I was walking on the street during conversations.
The new “Cinema Mode” adds an immersive spatial audio element, particularly enjoyable for watching movies or streaming content. However, the lack of USB-C audio pass-through for lossless playback is a downer, especially for audiophiles.
Battery life is solid at 30 hours with ANC enabled, more than enough for a long-haul flight. And fast charging provides three hours of playback from just three minutes of charging, according to its maker. While not class-leading, this battery performance should be more than adequate for most users.
At S$649, this pair of headphones is definitely not cheap. However, its price tag is probably justified by its range of features and performance improvements. Not to mention, the competition such as the likes of Apple AirPods Max (S$749, get it at Shopee) and Bose QuietComfort Ultra (S$599, get it at Shopee) headphones are all well within this price range.
VERDICT: The Sony WH-1000XM6 isn’t a groundbreaking leap forward but rather a thoughtful evolution of an already excellent product. Its refined design, improved sound quality, and top-tier noise cancelling performance ensure it remains a leader in this category. For those seeking an all-round dependable and high-performing pair of ANC headphones, the WH-1000XM6 is a worthy investment.