Sony WH-1000XM5 unveiled with new design, better sound, and ANC

After the design of the Sony WH-1000XM5 was leaked in advance, the official presentation of the new ANC flagship headphones follows. The Japanese speak of, among other things, improved noise reduction and audio quality. The price is 419 euros. Alongside the Bose Noise Canceling 700 and the QuietComfort 45, Sony’s 1000X series is one of the most popular active noise canceling headphone ranges. With the Sony WH-1000XM5, a new model is now available, which will be on sale in Europe from the end of May. The manufacturer is once again focusing on the ANC functions and sound quality.

Sony WH-1000XM5: New Chips, Drivers, Design, and More

Two processors (V1 + QN1) and eight microphones are responsible for filtering out disturbing sounds, especially in the mid and high-frequency range. The automatic NC optimizer should also help to tailor the noise reduction “exactly to the individual and environment in question”. Unsurprisingly, Sony would also have tweaked the sound quality of the WH-1000XM5. Particularly on the new 30mm driver units, which according to the manufacturer use a new carbon fiber composite.

This should improve the sensitivity to high frequencies and thus create a more natural sound. Combined with the LDAC and DSEE Extreme codecs and a 360 reality audio certification for 3D sound, Sony promises “excellent, authentic quality”. However, the first practical tests are yet to be seen. Sony is also changing the design of its 1000X series. The WH-1000XM5 features an infinitely adjustable headphone strap, new soft-fit leather (synthetic), and “noiseless construction”. Visually, the ANC headphones are a bit reminiscent of Apple’s AirPods Max. In addition, many functions have been taken over from their predecessors, from touch control via Google Assistant and Alexa to simple Bluetooth connection with multiple devices.

Battery Time

Sony ultimately puts the battery life at a maximum of 30 hours. With Quick-Charge, 3 hours of playback can be charged in three minutes. The market launch of the new Sony WH-1000XM5 is planned for the end of May. The headphones will then be available in black and silver at a suggested retail price (RRP) of 419 euros. See also: Sony, Headphones, Bluetooth, Wireless, ANC, Noise Canceling, Active Noise Canceling, WH-1000XM5 Sony