Sony WH-1000XM6 announced in PH: Smart ANC, real-time audio upscaling, Hi-Res audio, priced at PHP 27,999

Sony introduced its latest flagship headphones in the form of the WH-1000XM6.

Sony WH-1000XM6

A mighty successor to the XM5?

Among the changes were the design, which now features a wider synthetic leather headband and soft earpads, engineered for extended comfort during prolonged use. It is also available in White, Blue, and Black color options.

There's also an asymmetrical headband design that allows for quick identification of the left and right sides. The headphones also now fold via metal-injected joints and are accompanied by a compact, magnetically sealed carrying case.

The three colorways

At the core of the WH-1000XM6 is the new HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3, which operates seven times faster than its predecessor. 

This processor works alongside twelve microphones, bringing a 1.5x increase over previous models, to dynamically adjust noise cancellation based on the surrounding environment. 

Folding design returns

The Adaptive NC Optimizer further enhances performance by adapting to varying noise levels and air pressure conditions. 

Furthermore, the XM6  features a redesigned driver unit that contributes to more effective external noise isolation, while the Auto Ambient Sound mode selectively filters background noise, allowing important audio such as announcements to pass through. These settings can be managed automatically or manually via the Sony Sound Connect app.

The protective case

Sound quality has been refined in collaboration with mastering engineers from Sterling Sound, Battery Studios, and Coast Mastering. The headphones offer both classical and balanced sound profiles, supported by a carbon fiber dome and custom voice coil that enhance detail across all frequencies. 

Just like previous editions, it also has Hi-Res audio and LDAC compatibility, with compressed files being upscaled through Edge-AI and DSEE Extreme technology. Users can also fine-tune audio using a 10-band equalizer or select from presets such as Game EQ for shooters and Cinema 360 Reality Audio Upmix for movies.

For calls, a six-microphone beamforming system isolates the user’s voice from ambient noise, and a dedicated mute button is provided. 

Smart features include Scene-based Listening, which uses sensors to adjust playback and noise control depending on the user’s activity and location. Compatibility extends to streaming services like Spotify Tap, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music. LE Audio with AuraCast enables low-latency playback and audio sharing, while Multi-Point and Auto Switch facilitate seamless transitions between connected devices.

Battery performance reaches up to 30 hours with active noise cancellation enabled. While a three-minute quick charge via USB-C delivers three hours of playback.

Price and availability

Sony WH-1000XM6 - PHP 27,999

The headphones are now available for pre-order starting May 16 to June 20. Those who will join the pre-order event will give customers a chance to join the raffle for a trip to Coron, Palawan.

What do you guys think?

Source: Sony