Enhanced noise cancelling and fresh design distinguish studio-tuned Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds

Sony has begun shipping the WF-1000XM6, the latest generation of its flagship true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds.

Evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the new model builds on a lineage that has become closely associated with premium design, advanced noise reduction and a focus on sound quality, shaped by professional studio expertise.

A direct successor to the WF-1000XM5, this new arrival lands with improvements across noise cancelling, call quality, connectivity and ergonomics.

Sony says the new earbuds deliver a 25 per cent reduction in noise compared with their predecessor, with particular gains in the mid-to-high frequency range, the type of noise commonly encountered in cafés, and on public transport. this more effective noise-cancelling system is the new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, working alongside Sony’s Integrated Processor V2. The earbuds now use four microphones instead of three, enabling more precise control of ambient sound and more accurate cancellation.

Key to this more effective noise-cancelling system is the new HD Processor QN3e, working alongside Sony’s Integrated Processor V2. The earbuds now use four microphones instead of three, enabling more precise control of ambient sound and therefore more accurate cancellation.

An Adaptive Noise Cancelling Optimiser analyses external hubbub and wearing conditions in real time, adjusting performance continuously to suit the user’s environment, as well as the way the earbuds sit in the ear.

Evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the new model builds on a lineage that has become closely associated with premium design…

WF-1000XM6 features and innovations

Sound reproduction is driven by a dual-processor architecture. The QN3e processor enhances DAC amplifier performance, while the Integrated Processor V2 now supports 32-bit processing, up from 24-bit in the previous iteration, allowing for higher resolution audio.

Additionally, a newly developed 8.4mm driver introduces a hybrid diaphragm structure, combining a soft edge for deeper bass with a rigid, lightweight dome for extended high frequencies. 

Apparently this reduces distortion and improves clarity, with additional notches in the driver edge refining smoothness and detail.

Feature attractions include Hi-Res Audio Wireless, DSEE Extreme upscaling, and 360 Reality Audio compatibility with head tracking.

Development involved consultation with a group of Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated mastering engineers, including Randy Merrill, Chris Gehringer, Mike Piacentini and Michael Romanowski, with the aim of tuning the earbuds for accurate, studio-informed sound reproduction.

Call quality has also been updated. Each earbud now includes two microphones and a bone-conduction sensor, supported by AI beamforming noise-reduction algorithms to isolate speech when out and about.

The physical design of the buds has also been refined, with a body approximately 11 per cent slimmer than the WF-1000XM5, and shaped to follow the natural contours of the inner ear. A new ventilation structure is said to improve airflow and reduce internal noises.

The charging case has also been tweaked for easier one-handed opening, with improved materials and finishes in Black and Platinum Silver.

Connectivity improvements include larger antennas and updated algorithms for greater stability, readiness for LE Audio for ultra-low latency applications such as gaming, and support for Google Gemini voice assistance. 

Battery life iremains the same as before, rated at eight hours on a single charge, with up to 24 hours including the charging case, plus Qi wireless charging support.

 The Sony WF-1000XM6, available in Black and Platinum Silver, is priced at £249 (€300) from Amazon.