Sony WH-1000XM6 review: Silence done smarter, thanks to AI
The XM6 continues the clean understated design and matt finish of its predecessors. The XM6's earcups fold and swivel inwards – a feature that was dropped with the XM5. While this helps save space in your bag, the carrying case is still relatively large.
There are two physical buttons, one for power and one to switch between ANC and transparency mode. The earcup hinge feels solidly constructed and the headband is firm.
DESIGN AND COMFORT
The XM6 weighs 254g with sturdy hinges. Cushioning on the earcups felt thin but remained comfortable. In non-airconditioned rooms, the earcups warmed up rapidly and I began to sweat – a peril of using over-ears in our climate.
While the headband is relatively broad, it started feeling uncomfortable for me after about two hours of constant use. Not all users will experience this though. My wife used them for several hours at a stretch and didn't experience any discomfort.
CONTROLS
The right earcup features responsive capacitive controls. Slide your finger up and down the earcup to control volume. Swiping left and right lets you cycle through tracks. Covering the right earcup with your hand cuts the volume and activates ambient mode. This lets you quickly hear an announcement on the train or listen to what your better half is trying to tell you.
The Sound Connect app lets users tweak the sound of the headphones. It includes options like adaptive sound control, EQ options and cinema mode.
CAVEATS
As good as it is, there are some niggles with the WH-1000XM5. It's 30-hour battery life with ANC on is good, but not great. Some premium rivals offer longer battery life. It also lacks an ingress protection (IP) rating, so don't wear these in the rain.
It's also not the most affordable pair of ANC headphones, although Sony is currently offering a trade-in programme worth up to S$150 for certain Sony models.
HOW IT STACKS UP
The Sony WH-1000XM5 (S$649) is a capable all-rounder offering great noise cancelling and audio quality for various genres of music and movies. It is pricey, though you do get a lot for the money.
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