Sony WH-1000XM6: 12 Microphones, Smarter Noise Cancelling, and Cinema-Quality Sound

Sony has updated its premium wireless over-ear headphones. The latest WH-1000XM6 features enhanced Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) thanks to the incorporation of a new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3 chip, utilizing twelve microphones for real-time sound management. Customers can select from three color options.

Sony WH-1000XM6: Twelve microphones for optimal ANC

The 12 microphones in Sony's WH-1000XM6 should detect noise more accurately, allowing it to be filtered and suppressed better, according to Sony. The processor can also predict and optimize noise, while quickly responding to sudden changes in sound. According to Sony, this improves audio quality. Furthermore, the Adaptive NC Optimizer has been added to the headphones, a system that ensures that the headphones adapt to ambient noise and air pressure.

The Sound Connect app offers the wearer the possibility to adjust the audio profile to their preference, using the ten-band tone control or the Background Music Effect. For computer game players, a Game EQ has been developed to improve the sound quality for so-called “first person shooters” (Doom, Quake, Duke Nukem, etc.). For films, 360 Reality Audio Upmix for Cinema has been added, which should simulate the sound experience of a visit to the cinema.

These headphones are equipped with High-Resolution Audio and High-Resolution Audio Wireless capabilities, enabled by Sony's LDAC audio coding technology. The manufacturer claims that high-frequency sounds lost during compression are restored through Edge AI and the DSEE Extreme algorithm. Additionally, the headphones feature a broader headband compared to the previous model and have hinged ear cups. Contrary to rumors, the ear pads are not easily replaceable. The battery can be fully charged in just three minutes, providing enough power for three hours of listening, which is ideal for users on the go. Moreover, the company highlights that the headphones can be charged while in use. The WH-1000XM6 will launch later this month in Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue, with a suggested retail price of $450.