Sony has officially unveiled its latest premium noise-cancelling headphones — the Sony WH-1000XM6. As the successor to the highly acclaimed WH-1000XM5, the new model brings significant improvements in terms of audio performance, design, and usability. While the naming convention remains as robotic as ever, the performance gains and thoughtful upgrades make the WH-1000XM6 a compelling choice for audiophiles, frequent travelers, gamers, and movie lovers alike.
Sony WH-1000XM6: Price and Availability
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are priced at $450 (approximately ₹38,600). This marks a $50 (roughly ₹4,150) increase over the previous generation WH-1000XM5. While the price bump may concern some buyers, the added value in terms of new features and improved performance helps justify the cost. The headphones will be available in three elegant color options:
-
Black
-
Platinum Silver
-
Midnight Blue
Upgraded Design with Portability in Mind
One of the standout updates in the WH-1000XM6 is the completely reimagined design. Sony has refined the headphone structure to make them more portable and easier to carry. The new folding design allows the headphones to collapse into a more compact form, making them ideal for those who travel often.
The asymmetrical headband has also been redesigned for both aesthetics and functionality. It helps users easily identify the left and right earcups. Additionally, the soft-fit wider headband, crafted with vegan leather, ensures a pressure-free and comfortable experience, even during extended listening sessions.
Superior Comfort for Long Usage
Sony has paid special attention to comfort with the WH-1000XM6. The earpads are made from a stretchable and breathable material that not only forms a snug seal for better passive noise isolation but also reduces fatigue from long hours of use. Whether you’re working, commuting, or watching movies, the headphones are designed to deliver all-day comfort.
Improved Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Noise cancellation has been a hallmark of Sony’s WH-series headphones, and with the WH-1000XM6, things get even better. Sony has incorporated an advanced HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3, which processes input from 12 microphones across the headphones. This is a 50% increase in the number of microphones compared to the WH-1000XM5.
More impressively, the processor is seven times faster than its predecessor, allowing it to fine-tune noise cancellation in real time, adapting seamlessly to different environments like airplanes, offices, or crowded streets.
Adaptive Microphone System
The WH-1000XM6 introduces an adaptive microphone system that works in tandem with the new ANC chip. This setup not only enhances noise cancellation but also improves voice clarity during phone calls or video meetings. Whether you’re in a noisy café or a quiet room, the headphones intelligently adjust microphone input for the best clarity.
Intuitive Controls and Smart Features
Sony continues to offer smart and user-friendly controls with this model. The WH-1000XM6 features a combination of tactile buttons and a responsive touch panel, giving users full control over music playback, volume, ANC levels, ambient sound mode, and microphone mute.
The headphones are also compatible with Sony’s Sound Connect app, which allows further customization. Users can access a 10-band equalizer, set custom sound profiles, and even apply Background Music (BGM) effects.
Optimized Audio for Gamers and Movie Enthusiasts
Sony has catered to a wide audience with specific sound tuning options. For gamers, especially those who enjoy First-Person Shooter (FPS) games, the WH-1000XM6 includes a dedicated Game EQ mode. This mode is inspired by Sony’s INZONE gaming audio technology, offering heightened awareness of in-game sounds such as footsteps or gunfire.
For cinephiles, Sony introduces 360 Reality Audio Upmix for Cinema, transforming traditional 2-channel stereo audio into a spatial cinematic experience. Thanks to 360 Spatial Sound and Sony’s up-mixing technology, users can experience surround sound comparable to a movie theater from any regular content source.
