Sony WH-1000XM6 Review: The King of ANC Headphones Gets Even Better

After a three-year break, Sony has returned with the WH-1000XM6, the newest addition to its premium noise-canceling headphone line. While it comes with a $50 price increase, it promises class-leading ANC and refined sound. Longtime fans of the series, like myself, will find a lot to appreciate here – and a few quirks to keep in mind.

Design & Comfort

The WH-1000XM6 sticks to the familiar Sony over-ear silhouette and is available in Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue. Notably, the XM6 reintroduces folding hinges, allowing for a more compact (albeit not much smaller) case. The return of hinges will be a welcome change for some, though the folding mechanism feels fussier than in older models.

The headset feels premium with a matte carbon fiber finish that resists fingerprints better than the XM5. The ear pads are plush and provide a secure seal, though users with glasses may struggle to get a perfect fit, which can slightly impact ANC performance. The new magnetic latch case is easier to open and more elegant than the previous zipper design.

Features & Software

Controlled via the Sony Sound Connect app, the XM6 introduces new “Scenes” and exclusive listening modes such as “Background Music” and “Cinema,” powered by 360 Reality Audio Upmix. These simulate relaxed or cinematic environments, adding versatility to your listening experience.

Unfortunately, the app still suffers from bloat and reliability issues, sometimes forgetting saved settings. Features like Adaptive Sound Control and Speak-to-Chat remain present but are hit-or-miss in practical use.

Audio Quality

This is where the XM6 truly shines. With a warm yet balanced tuning, deep bass, and enhanced clarity in the mids, the headphones deliver a rich, full sound. The customizable EQ and “Find Your Equalizer” tool are perfect for fine-tuning preferences. Backed by input from professional audio engineers, the sound quality feels both refined and enjoyable across all genres.

Microphone & Calls

Despite six beamforming microphones and AI noise isolation, the XM6’s mic is still its weakest point. It’s decent in quiet environments but falters outdoors, struggling with clarity during calls in noisy spaces. While voice isolation is present, it behaves more like a noise gate than true enhancement.

Noise Cancellation

The HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3 delivers top-tier ANC, particularly excelling at neutralizing droning noises like airplane engines and urban traffic. It’s a clear step up from the XM5. The Ambient Mode is also improved, making external voices more audible when needed. However, poor ear pad sealing due to the fit can diminish ANC performance.

Connectivity & Battery

Bluetooth connectivity is rock-solid, supporting both AAC and LDAC codecs. Multipoint pairing works seamlessly, and latency is minimal. The battery life remains excellent, lasting around 40 hours in real-world tests – well beyond the advertised 30 hours. A quick 3-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback.

Final Verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM6 is a worthy successor that refines nearly every aspect of its predecessor. Its stellar ANC, superior sound quality, and long battery life make it a standout in the premium headphone market. However, the microphone still lags behind, and the price increase may be hard to justify for those upgrading from the XM5. For anyone with an older model – or looking for a top-tier ANC experience – the XM6 is a compelling, if pricey, investment.