Sony WH-1000XM6: These are the headphones Sony is strong. Launched with audio quality and long battery life...
.jpg "Sony WH-1000XM6") |
-Sony WH-1000XM6 |
The Sony WH-1000XM6 was launched on 15 May 2025, and is the latest model in Sony's WH-1000XM series of headphones. If you like to listen to music, travel, or just want peace in the noise, these headphones can be a game-changer for you.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery | |
| Battery Life (Continuous Communication) | Max. 24 hours (NC ON), Max. 28 hours (NC OFF) |
| Battery Charge Method | USB |
| Battery Life (Continuous Music Playback) | Max. 30 hours (NC ON), Max. 40 hours (NC OFF) |
| Bluetooth® Specification | |
| Bluetooth® Version | BLUETOOTH Specification Version 5.3 |
| Effective Range | Approx. 10 m |
| Frequency Range | 2.4 GHz band (2.4000 GHz - 2.4835 GHz) |
| Profile | A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP, TMAP, PBP |
| Supported Audio Format(s) | SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 |
| Supported Content Protection | SCMS-T |
| General Features | |
| Cord Length | Approx. 1.2 m |
| Cord Type | Single-sided (detachable) |
| Driver Unit | 30 mm |
| Frequency Response | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (JEITA) |
| Frequency Response (Active Operation) | 4 Hz - 40,000 Hz (JEITA) |
| Frequency Response (Bluetooth® Communication) | 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz (44.1 kHz sampling), 20 Hz - 40,000 Hz (LDAC 96 kHz sampling, 990 kbps) |
| Headphone Type | Closed |
| Impedance (Ohm) | 48 ohm (1 kHz) (unit ON, via headphone cable), 16 ohm (1 kHz) (unit OFF, via headphone cable) |
| Magnet | Neodymium |
| Passive Operation | Yes |
| Plug | Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug |
| Sensitivities (dB/mW) | 103 dB/mW (unit ON, via headphone cable), 102 dB/mW (unit OFF, via headphone cable) |
| Wearing Style | Over Ear |
| Noise Canceling | |
| Ambient Sound Mode | Yes |
| Ambient Sound Mode - Normal | Yes |
| Personal NC Optimizer | Adaptive NC Optimizer |
| Quick Attention | Yes |
| Size & Weight | |
| Weight | Approx. 254 g |
| What's In The Box | |
| Supplied Accessories | Carrying case, Headphone cable (approx. 1.2 m), USB charging cable |
Sony WH-1000XM6: Build quality and design:
The Sony WH-1000XM6 features a number of significant improvements in terms of design, differentiating it from the WH-1000XM5. The most notable change is the return of the foldable design. Many users had complained of its inconvenience due to the lack of a folding hinge in the WH-1000XM5. Sony has introduced a new metal hinge design this time, which makes the headphones compact and makes storage easier on the go.
The headband has also been upgraded, which is now wider and asymmetrical, thereby increasing comfort in long-term wear. The headphones weigh 254 grammes, only 4 grammes more than the WH-1000XM5, but it's still lighter than the Apple AirPods Max (385 grammes). The use of vegan leather and large ear cups make it more comfortable.
The carry case has also been redesigned, using a magnetic closure instead of a zipper. The case also includes a small pocket for the 3.5 mm audio cable and USB-C charging cable.
Sony WH-1000XM6: Noise cancellation and processor:
The Sony WH-1000XM6 has been promoted as "the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market." This includes the new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3, which is seven times faster than the WH-1000XM5's QN1 chip. With this processor, there is a new setup of 12 microphones, which is 1.5 times more than the earlier 8 microphones. It combines with multi-noise sensor technology and Auto NC Optimiser to effectively block noise at various frequencies, especially low-frequency noise.
However, there is no option for manual noise cancellation adjustment like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. Still, Sony's new AI-based algorithms and improved microphone setup make it ideal for use in the office, commute, or noisy environments. The new Auto Ambient Sound mode is also included, which helps pass ambient noise naturally.
Sony WH-1000XM6: Audio Quality:
The Sony WH-1000XM6 comes with a host of enhancements to further enhance the audio quality. It uses 30mm drivers, which support high-resolution audio. The new drivers use more rigid domes and holes in the voice coil, which improves high-frequency sounds and enhances the overall sound balance.
Sony has tuned the headphones with Grammy-winning engineers from three major recording studios, Sterling Sound, Battery Studios, and Coast Mastering. The result is a sound signature that includes deep bass, clear vocals, and rich detail. Audio can be further optimised through the Sony SoundConnect app with DSEE Extreme and 10-band EQ.
The battery life on the Sony WH-1000XM6 has been improved over the WH-1000XM5. This noise cancellation or passthrough mode lasts for 30 hours when turned on and 40 hours when turned off. The fast charging feature is also present, which gives 3 hours of playback from 3 minutes of charging. The headphones can be used while charging, which is a useful upgrade.
> connectivity
For connectivity, it supports Bluetooth 5.3 and offers multi-point connection and auto switch feature, making device switching easy. It also supports LE Audio, which provides ultra-low latency for gaming. However, the lack of USB-C audio and aptX support can be frustrating for some users. There is support for the LDAC codec, which ensures high-quality Bluetooth audio streaming.
Call quality and Extra features :
The Sony WH-1000XM6 includes six beamforming microphones and a new AI Noise Reduction model to improve call quality, which has been trained on more than 500 million voice samples. This ensures clear calls even in noisy environments.
The touch controls have been redesigned, and now these can be on the left ear cup, which is different from the right ear cup of the WH-1000XM5. The presence of the 3.5 mm audio jack makes it suitable for wired use. However, the lack of IP rating (water and sweat resistance) may be a drawback for some users.
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Price and launch :
The Sony WH-1000XM6 is priced at $449.99, and will be available in India for around ₹42,999. It's slightly more expensive than its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5, but its new features justify the price. Launched on May 15, 2025, these headphones are the latest model in Sony's WH-1000XM series. Deliveries have started as soon as the launch.
> Colour
It comes in three colour options: Black, Blue, and Rose Gold. The special thing is that Sony's logo now comes with gold-accent, which gives it a premium look.
Conclusion
The Sony WH-1000XM6 emerges as one of the top noise-cancelling headphones in 2025 with its advanced noise cancellation, improved audio quality, and design improvements. Although priced higher, it justifies the investment with a premium audio experience, long battery life, and versatile connectivity. The Sony WH-1000XM6 is ideal for those who want the best audio experience for travel, work, or entertainment.
Disclaimer: This information is based on information available as of May 15, 2025 about the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones. Pricing, availability, and features may change over time. Verify the information from Sony's official website or authorised retailers before purchasing. This article is for general information only.