Sony raises the bar with WH-1000XM6

Sony has launched its latest premium headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM6, in India for Rs 39,990. These new headphones carry forward the brand’s strong reputation in the audio world while competing against top rivals like Bose, JBL, and Sennheiser. With upgrades in design, adaptive noise cancellation, and personalized sound features, Sony positions the WH-1000XM6 as its most advanced headphones yet. But how much of an improvement is it over the WH-1000XM5, and does it really lead the pack?

Design refined for comfort

The WH-1000XM6 has a sleek design that looks modern and premium. I tested the Platinum Silver version, which felt light yet durable. The wider headband with vegan leather padding made long listening sessions very comfortable. Unlike the WH-1000XM5, this model feels less bulky and fits more naturally around the ears. Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra still wins when it comes to pure comfort, but Sony is not far behind now.

The foldable design with a magnetic closure case makes these headphones travel friendly. Small touches like fingerprint resistance and sturdier joints show Sony’s attention to detail. Compared to Sennheiser’s Momentum 4, which feels more traditional, Sony offers more finesse and usability.

Smarter controls and style

Sony has balanced touch and physical controls well on the WH-1000XM6. The new buttons feel more defined, fixing an issue from the XM5. Switching between noise cancellation, ambient mode, or muting the mic is smooth. Bose keeps controls simpler, but Sony provides more control without losing elegance. With colors like Midnight Blue, Black, and Silver, there is also enough variety to match personal style.

Connectivity made effortless

Pairing the XM6 is quick with both Android and Windows, thanks to Fast Pair and Swift Pair support. Multipoint connectivity works without lag, letting me switch easily between my laptop and phone. Bose often struggles here, while Sennheiser and Sony are on par.

Sony’s app adds extra value. It not only offers EQ tuning but also creates a personalized spatial sound profile by scanning your ears. This makes movie watching and gaming more immersive. Bose and JBL have good apps, but Sony pushes personalization further.

Sound that adapts to you

The Sony WH-1000XM6 delivers clear, detailed, and balanced sound. Vocals are sharp, bass is controlled, and instruments sound distinct. The new driver unit and carbon-fiber dome improve clarity. Sony also adds adaptive sound modes that adjust for cinema, music, or gaming.

For movies, dialogue stays crisp while background music feels cinematic. In gaming, directional audio makes it easier to locate sounds, something Bose and JBL don’t handle as well. Compared to Sennheiser’s Momentum 4, Sony feels brighter and more detailed, while Bose leans warmer.

Sony also shines in handling compressed music. The AI-powered DSEE Extreme restores lost details in streaming tracks, making even Spotify sound richer. With LDAC support for Hi-Res audio, the XM6 also appeals to audiophiles. This is a big edge over Bose and JBL, which lack advanced codecs.

Noise cancellation and spatial audio

Noise cancellation has been one of Sony’s strengths, and the XM6 improves further. The processor works with AI to block more background noise without creating pressure in the ears. On flights and in crowded areas, the headphones cut out distractions with ease.

Sony’s 360 Reality Audio with head tracking adds another dimension. Watching films or playing AR games felt more natural because the soundstage shifted with movement. This feature is not yet matched by Bose, JBL, or Sennheiser.

Call quality still needs work

Despite six microphones and AI optimization, call quality is only average. Indoors, my voice sounded sharp, but in noisy environments, Bose and Sennheiser performed better. Outdoor wind reduction is improved over the XM5, yet it still does not match Sony’s premium audio performance.

Battery life trails rivals

The XM6 lasts up to 30 hours on a full charge. Quick charging adds one hour of use in three minutes, which is handy. But battery life is an area where rivals win. Sennheiser offers 60 hours, and JBL stretches even further. Sony feels conservative here, considering the price point.

Verdict: Sony leads with balance

The Sony WH-1000XM6 at Rs 39,990 is a strong contender in the premium headphone market. Its design, immersive sound, intelligent personalization, and noise cancellation put it ahead of most rivals. It sets a high standard as an all-rounder.

Still, Sony could improve call performance and battery life to match its competition fully. If comfort, sound detail, and smart personalization matter most, the WH-1000XM6 is the headphone to beat. For many, it proves that Sony continues to lead the race in personal audio.