Sony’s New 1000X Headphones Prioritize Comfort, Sound and a Premium Price
Sony has launched a special anniversary model in its 1000X headphone line, the Sony 1000X The Collexion, marking 10 years for the series. The new over-ear headphones focus on two main selling points, comfort and sound quality with noise cancellation, and the review says Sony set out to solve common complaints about pressure on the head and on the ears.
The design has been updated with softer vegan-leather padding, a wider headband and larger ear cushions that do not trap the ears. The result is a lighter-feeling fit despite the actual weight rising to 320 grams, compared with 253 grams for the WH-1000XM6. The carrying case was also redesigned, with a black denim-like texture and an integrated handle. The reviewer noted that people who sweat easily may find the padding less pleasant in hot weather.
Sony also improved sound. The headphones deliver strong bass, precise highs and a wider, more detailed soundstage, helped by a new driver with soft edges and a rigid carbon-fiber dome. Sony said it worked with top engineers who are Grammy winners and nominees, and it added AI-based features in the companion app. There is also a dedicated gaming mode using 360 Reality Audio Upmix. For noise cancellation, the headphones use the same core technology as the WH-1000XM6, plus 12 microphones and an Adaptive NC Optimizer that analyzes background noise in real time.
Controls are gesture-based on the right earcup and were described as precise after a short learning period. Covering the earcup with a hand lowers the volume and activates transparency mode. The reviewer did report problems with the iPhone app disconnecting and with the wear sensor sometimes failing to detect when the headphones had been removed. Sony promises up to 24 hours of battery life with ANC on, and 32 hours with it off, and the test largely matched that claim. The biggest downside is price: the headphones are launching in Israel at about 2,300 shekels, more than the Apple AirPods Max 2 at about 2,190 shekels and far above the WH-1000XM6 at about 1,370 shekels in some stores. The article also compares them with Apple and Bose as the main rivals in the premium segment.
