Sony WH-1000XM6 Review: A Deep Dive Comparison with Top Headphones

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones have arrived, and they're bringing a significant upgrade to the already impressive Sony noise-canceling lineage. This in-depth review delves into a comprehensive comparison of the XM6 with its predecessor, the XM5, and other leading contenders in the premium headphone market, including the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, AirPods Max, Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3, and Sennheiser Momentum 4. We'll dissect the XM6's performance across key areas: noise cancellation, microphone quality, sound signature, and overall user experience. Prepare for a detailed exploration of what makes this headphone a standout performer, and where it might fall short compared to the competition.This review assesses not only the technical specifications but also the practical application of the XM6's features in real-world scenarios. We'll analyze its strengths and weaknesses, highlighting the improvements over the XM5, such as its foldable design and enhanced noise-canceling capabilities. Discover whether the XM6's exceptional noise cancellation and improved microphone performance outweigh any potential drawbacks in its sound profile. Ultimately, we aim to equip you with the information needed to determine if the Sony WH-1000XM6 is the perfect fit for your audio needs and budget.

Pros And Cons

Sony WH-1000XM6
  • Best active noise cancelling in the group
  • Improved mic pickup compared to XM5, with less background noise
  • Foldable design
  • Smaller case with magnetic clasp
  • New auto transparency mode
  • New EQ presets, including a 10-band graphic EQ
  • Improved fit and weight distribution compared to XM5
  • Slightly heavier bass, more focused mids, and more pronounced upper mids than XM5
  • More customizable sound quality than Bose QC Ultra
  • Supports LDAC codec
  • Noise gating cuts into voice during calls
  • Default sound may be dull for those used to crisper headphones
  • Head tracking for spatial audio only works with 360 Reality Audio content on certain devices
BMW PX7 S3
  • More hi-fi sound than XM6
  • Better detail retrieval than XM6
  • Crisper vocals than XM6
  • Clean track separation
  • More accurate and deeper bass than XM6
  • More premium build quality
  • Supports 34-bit 96 kHz audio over USB-C
  • Seamless multi-point pairing
  • Operable with gloves
  • Can be less comfortable and have less roomy earcups than XM6
  • XM6 offers better noise cancellation and value for money
  • Bare-bones app
AirPods Max
  • Adaptive noise cancelling can almost match XM6
  • Cleaner track separation
  • Crisper, clearer, and airier sound than XM6
  • Clean transparency mode
  • Seamless switching between Apple devices
  • Audio sharing with other AirPods users
  • Supports wired 24-bit 48 kHz audio over USB-C
  • More comfortable for long periods of wear
  • Doesn't support high-res wireless streaming
  • Less bass and body than XM6
  • May be less feature rich than XM6
  • Can sound superior to XM6 in terms of crispness but may not have a superior overall experience
Cambridge Audio Melomania P100
  • More hi-fi sound than XM6
  • Cleaner separation
  • More focus and clarity in the mids
  • More layered and realistic sound staging
  • Supports 24-bit 96 kHz audio over USB-C
  • Doesn't resolve details as well as XM6
  • Sounds more bloated than XM6
  • Less bass than XM6

Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?

XM6 vs XM5: Subtle Yet Significant Upgrades

The Sony WH-1000XM6 boasts a new QN3 noise-canceling processor and 12 microphones, including two on the driver—a unique design. This results in improved noise cancellation, transparency mode, and microphone pickup compared to its predecessor, the XM5.

Close-up of the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones showcasing its new design features.
Close-up of the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones showcasing its new design features.

Beyond the enhanced audio technology, the XM6 introduces foldable design, a feature absent in the XM5, along with a smaller, magnetic-clasp carrying case. The new spring-loaded earcup hinge system improves the fit and potentially increases durability.

The foldable design of the XM6 headphones compared to the XM5.
The foldable design of the XM6 headphones compared to the XM5.

While both models offer excellent sound quality, the XM6 provides a slightly heavier bass, more focused mids, and more pronounced upper mids, leading to a more engaging listening experience. The XM6's auto-transparency mode, which automatically adjusts based on ambient noise, is a welcome addition but might not be for everyone.

Microphone Performance: A Clear Winner

In terms of microphone quality, the XM6 shows a noticeable improvement over the XM5, exhibiting virtually no background noise pickup even in noisy environments. The voice pickup is amplified, fuller, and louder, although the noise gating might still be a little aggressive.

A comparison graphic highlighting the superior microphone performance of the XM6.
A comparison graphic highlighting the superior microphone performance of the XM6.

Compared to competitors like the AirPods Max and the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3, the XM6 and XM5 maintain a lead in microphone quality. Tests under both quiet and noisy conditions, including loud cafe noise and wind, confirmed this superiority.

This is crucial for clear calls and voice assistant usage, making the XM6 a strong contender for users who frequently make calls or use voice commands.

Active Noise Cancellation: Top-Tier Performance

The XM6's active noise cancellation (ANC) is exceptional, surpassing all competitors in this review. The QN3 chip and additional microphones effectively attenuate noise across various frequencies, particularly excelling in the upper bass, mids, and treble.

A sample audio comparison to showcase the difference in noise cancellation among different headphones.
A sample audio comparison to showcase the difference in noise cancellation among different headphones.

While the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and AirPods Max adapt well and perform strongly, they don't match the XM6's ability to suppress high-pitched noises. The improved passive noise isolation from the XM6's tighter fit also contributes to its exceptional ANC.

For users prioritizing noise cancellation in diverse environments, the XM6 is the clear champion, offering superior performance compared to others.

Sound Quality and Customization: A Personal Preference

On default settings, the XM6's sound signature is similar to the XM5 – bassy, spacious, and detailed, but with some bloat in the lower mids and a slightly dark treble. This might sound dull compared to brighter headphones like the AirPods Max or the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3.

Screenshot showing the equalizer settings in XM6.
Screenshot showing the equalizer settings in XM6.

However, the XM6's sound is highly customizable. Using the equalizer, including a dedicated “Hard” preset, users can adjust the sound to their liking, reducing bass bloat and brightening the treble. The reviewer promises to share a custom EQ preset in a future video.

While the XM6 offers a flexible sound profile, its baseline might not appeal to everyone. Personal preference plays a crucial role in determining whether the sound signature meets one's needs.

Comprehensive Comparison and Conclusion

Compared to the Bose QC Ultra, the XM6 offers a more engaging sound with better noise cancellation and microphone quality. The Bose QC Ultra sounds more laid-back and crisp, with a wider soundstage.

A shot summarizing the comparisons made in the video.
A shot summarizing the comparisons made in the video.

Against the Sennheiser Momentum 4, the XM6 offers a more vibrant and heavier sound, while the Sennheiser provides a cleaner bass and a more open soundstage. The XM6 is noticeably louder than the Sennheiser.

A graphic comparing the overall sound profile of the headphones.
A graphic comparing the overall sound profile of the headphones.

The AirPods Max delivers a cleaner and crisper sound with superior transparency mode. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 outperforms the XM6 in sound quality, offering a more hi-fi experience with exceptional detail and clarity, superior bass accuracy, and seamless multi-point pairing.

Final Verdict: Which Headphones Should You Choose?

The Sony WH-1000XM6 emerges as a compelling choice due to its superior noise cancellation, microphone quality, extensive features, and extensive sound customization options. While its default sound might not be as crisp as competitors, the adjustable EQ easily compensates for this. The foldable design and smaller case are substantial improvements over the XM5.

The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3 surpasses the XM6 in raw audio quality, but at a higher price. The AirPods Max excel in transparency, seamless Apple ecosystem integration, and wired high-resolution audio, but lack the XM6's feature richness and noise cancellation.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities. If you need top-tier noise cancellation and a versatile feature set, the XM6 is a winner. For pristine audio quality and premium build, the PX7 S3 is worth considering. The AirPods Max is the ideal option if you're deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem.