There's a new WH-1000X series model on the horizon, and the XM6 headphones are landing with some exciting talking points.
Sony's flagship range is widely considered one of the best in the game, so when the latest model drops, it’s always a big deal. Whether you’re already rocking an older WH-1000XM model, or shopping for your first pair of premium headphones, these are definitely worth considering.
Let's take a look at what’s new and what’s been improved.
Oh, and don't forget to stay tuned to the Hardwired blog for more in-depth looks at the Sony WH-1000XM6 coming soon, including a hands-on review!
The Best Noise Cancellation
One of the first things that comes to mind when you think of Sony’s flagship headphones is their industry-leading noise cancellation. That’s not just a marketing line, either. Based on Sony’s testing of headband-style wireless noise-cancelling headphones across the top 10 brands in the market, the WH-1000XM6 currently offers the best active noise cancellation you can get.
So, if you’re reading this anywhere near May 2025 and crave ultimate active noise cancellation, these are your go-to headphones.
As Convenient as Ever
Long-time fans of the series will also notice the return of the foldable design - something that wasn’t available on the XM5. If you’re into saving space or want a more compact form factor for travel, this change brings some much-welcomed versatility back to the lineup.
Speaking of versatility, this is the first time you can use WH-1000X headphones with a wired 3.5mm connection while charging over USB-C. You can even use it over Bluetooth while it charges. Personally, I think this is peak convenience. Want to use them wirelessly? Easy. Prefer to plug in with one wire? Go for it. Need to use two wires at once? You can do that too. It’s one of those 'better to have it and not need it' features that just makes life easier, and now there’s literally no situation in which you can’t use your headphones.
On the comfort front, Sony’s made some subtle but meaningful improvements. The XM6 uses new soft-fit earpads for a more pleasant long-listening experience, and the headband has been updated with the same soft approach. Oh, and when you do take them off, they now rest in a new compact carry case - still hard on the outside, but with a soft-lined interior for extra protection. In summary, there's a lot more soft on offer here!
The Basics Get Better Too
Noise cancelling is the headline feature, sure, but Sony hasn’t neglected the actual audio performance either. The WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver the kind of sound that makes everything, from punchy basslines to subtle background details, come alive. Sony’s using upgraded 30mm driver units here, aimed at adding even more detail to your listening experience. The premium sound quality is also enhanced by Sony tuning the XM6 in collaboration with Sony’s top music studio engineers.
Voice pickup has also been improved, which is a fancy way of saying phone calls sound better. The XM6 uses AI-based noise reduction to isolate your voice from background noise more effectively, so whether you’re on a windy walk or in a noisy cafe, you’ll come through clearer on the other end.
Battery life is largely unchanged, which isn’t a bad thing. Sony’s 30-hour claim with ANC on is still one of the best in the category. Turn ANC off, and you can stretch it even further. A quick 3-minute charge gets you up to 3 hours of playback as well, so if you’re ever caught short, it won’t be for long.
There’s also more, like advanced music upscaling using Edge-AI, a new magnetic clasp on the travel case which allows for one-handed operation, and new Sony 360 Reality Audio Upmix.
Looking to get your hands on a pair?
The XM6 is now available for pre-order at PB Tech in both Black and Silver. Those who don’t want to wait too long should get in quick for the best chances of securing the flagship headphones.
Stay tuned - we’ll have a closer look at the WH-1000XM6 hitting the Hardwired blog very soon. Oh, and for those who'd love to get hands-on (and ears-on!), there will be live demos hitting stores throughout May, so be sure to head into your local PB Tech branch to check these out!
