Introducing the WH-1000XM6 – the latest addition to Sony’s acclaimed 1000X series of wireless noise cancelling headphones. This natty new model boasts enhancements in audio quality, best in class noise cancellation, and improved wearability.
The sixth iteration in a lineage of over-ears that have earned Sony numerous industry accolades, the new model is less a cosmetic update and more an evolution born from years of sonic refinement and precise engineering.
From the outside, the XM6 retains the signature minimalist silhouette of its predecessor. The headband is now slightly wider and asymmetrical, making it easier to identify left from right at a glance. A new vegan leather wrap and soft, stretchable ear cups make the headphones ideal for long-haul listening sessions or zoning out mid-commute.
The foldable design is enhanced by metal injection hinges and a magnetic case closure, signalling a touch more luxury in everyday use.
The new model is less a cosmetic update and more an evolution born from years of sonic refinement…
How Sony’s WH-1000XM6 tunes out the world
Advances in noise cancelling are many and various. A redesigned HD Noise Cancelling Processor (QN3) is said to be seven times faster than the chip used in the previous model. It now powers 12 optimally placed microphones, six per cup, to monitor and respond to ambient sound in real time.
An Adaptive NC Optimiser adjusts for external sound and air pressure, whether you’re in a crowded carriage or cruising at 35,000 feet. A new specially tuned driver improves both isolation and overall audio clarity.
This upgraded driver design comprises a carbon fibre composite dome and newly developed voice coil structure, said to offer more accurate frequency reproduction, particularly in the midrange and treble.
The cans also sport an updated Auto Ambient Sound mode that filters or admits external noise intelligently, such as announcements or conversations. This can be managed manually or through Sony’s Sound Connect app.
Post Malone, mastering engineers, and perfect sound
As part of their development, Sony has collaborated with mastering engineers from three major studios, Sterling Sound, Battery Studios, and Coast Mastering, to fine-tune the sonic profile of the WH-1000XM6.
Engineers involved include Randy Merrill (Ed Sheeran, Adele), Chris Gehringer (Rihanna, Lady Gaga), Mike Piacentini (Bob Dylan, Depeche Mode), and Michael Romanowski (Alicia Keys, Star Wars original trilogy).
This talented team didn’t just endorse the sound, they helped shape it; ensuring accuracy, dynamic range, and fidelity in line with demanding studio standards.
Sony has also enlisted Grammy award nominated Post Malone as the face of the WH-1000XM6. His involvement goes beyond branding. He’s lent his voice to a campaign that underscores the headphones’ ability to bring fans closer to the music. His praise: “These new noise cancelling headphones make you feel completely inside the music.”
The WH-1000XM6 supports high-res audio, both wired and wireless, via LDAC. Edge-AI and DSEE Extreme upscaling tech is used to restore detail lost in compressed audio formats.
Gamers benefit from a Game EQ developed with Sony’s INZONE team, while travellers will appreciate the Scene-based Listening mode that automatically adjusts ANC based on surroundings and location. There’s seamless device switching via Multi-Point and Auto Switch, and Auracast Bluetooth support.
Call quality has also been improved. A new six-microphone AI-powered beamforming system isolates your voice from surrounding noise, and a dedicated mute button has been added for convenience during calls.
Battery life remains consistent with previous models, but Sony has added support for USB-powered operation during charging. A quick three-minute top-up provides up to three hours of playback.
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are priced at £400 (€450), and are available in three colours: Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue.
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The Luxe Review 
Introducing the WH-1000XM6 – the latest addition to Sony’s acclaimed 1000X series of wireless noise cancelling headphones. This natty new model boasts enhancements in audio quality, best in class noise cancellation, and improved wearability.
The sixth iteration in a lineage of over-ears that have earned Sony numerous industry accolades, the new model is less a cosmetic update and more an evolution born from years of sonic refinement and precise engineering.
From the outside, the XM6 retains the signature minimalist silhouette of its predecessor. The headband is now slightly wider and asymmetrical, making it easier to identify left from right at a glance. A new vegan leather wrap and soft, stretchable ear cups make the headphones ideal for long-haul listening sessions or zoning out mid-commute.
The foldable design is enhanced by metal injection hinges and a magnetic case closure, signalling a touch more luxury in everyday use.
How Sony’s WH-1000XM6 tunes out the world
Advances in noise cancelling are many and various. A redesigned HD Noise Cancelling Processor (QN3) is said to be seven times faster than the chip used in the previous model. It now powers 12 optimally placed microphones, six per cup, to monitor and respond to ambient sound in real time.
An Adaptive NC Optimiser adjusts for external sound and air pressure, whether you’re in a crowded carriage or cruising at 35,000 feet. A new specially tuned driver improves both isolation and overall audio clarity.
This upgraded driver design comprises a carbon fibre composite dome and newly developed voice coil structure, said to offer more accurate frequency reproduction, particularly in the midrange and treble.
The cans also sport an updated Auto Ambient Sound mode that filters or admits external noise intelligently, such as announcements or conversations. This can be managed manually or through Sony’s Sound Connect app.
Post Malone, mastering engineers, and perfect sound
As part of their development, Sony has collaborated with mastering engineers from three major studios, Sterling Sound, Battery Studios, and Coast Mastering, to fine-tune the sonic profile of the WH-1000XM6.
Engineers involved include Randy Merrill (Ed Sheeran, Adele), Chris Gehringer (Rihanna, Lady Gaga), Mike Piacentini (Bob Dylan, Depeche Mode), and Michael Romanowski (Alicia Keys, Star Wars original trilogy).
This talented team didn’t just endorse the sound, they helped shape it; ensuring accuracy, dynamic range, and fidelity in line with demanding studio standards.
Sony has also enlisted Grammy award nominated Post Malone as the face of the WH-1000XM6. His involvement goes beyond branding. He’s lent his voice to a campaign that underscores the headphones’ ability to bring fans closer to the music. His praise: “These new noise cancelling headphones make you feel completely inside the music.”
The WH-1000XM6 supports high-res audio, both wired and wireless, via LDAC. Edge-AI and DSEE Extreme upscaling tech is used to restore detail lost in compressed audio formats.
Gamers benefit from a Game EQ developed with Sony’s INZONE team, while travellers will appreciate the Scene-based Listening mode that automatically adjusts ANC based on surroundings and location. There’s seamless device switching via Multi-Point and Auto Switch, and Auracast Bluetooth support.
Call quality has also been improved. A new six-microphone AI-powered beamforming system isolates your voice from surrounding noise, and a dedicated mute button has been added for convenience during calls.
Battery life remains consistent with previous models, but Sony has added support for USB-powered operation during charging. A quick three-minute top-up provides up to three hours of playback.
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are priced at £400 (€450), and are available in three colours: Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue.
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