[New Product Review] Sony’s Latest Wireless Headphones WH-1000XM5 is Released!

Among the many wireless headphones on the market from various companies, Sony's wireless headphones are always one step ahead in performance and design.
A new model has appeared from the flagship model, WH-1000X series. That is WH-1000XM5, the 5th generation of the series.

It has a sophisticated design that anyone would want, not just heavy users of Sony products. In addition, the WH-1000XM5 is equipped with performance that goes even further than the previous model, which seemed to have a fairly high spec. Whether you are particular about sound quality, ease of use, or appearance, everyone has different requirements, but these wireless headphones are sure to satisfy everyone.

We were able to get our hands on a demo unit right away, so I had a chance to listen to the headphones first.

■ Industry-leading Noise Canceling Performance

First of all, Sony wireless headphones are known for their noise canceling performance. The previous WH-1000XM4 model used dual noise-sensing technology with two microphones on each side, but the new WH-1000XM5 model uses multi-noise-sensing technology with four microphones on each side for a total of eight. The sound collection performance has been dramatically improved, effectively reducing noise in the mid- and high-frequency range more than before. Conventional noise cancellation systems cut noise in the relatively low frequency range, but left some noise in the mid- and high-frequency range. However, by effectively reducing noise in the mid- and high-frequency range, it reduces bothersome ambient noise to a greater extent. This allows users to concentrate on the sound of music, videos, and online calls.
In addition, the Auto NC Optimizer function automatically adjusts to the optimum noise cancellation characteristics for each user.

■ High-quality Sound Reproduction with Specially Designed Driver Units

The WH-1000XM5 features a driver unit that reproduces rich, well-balanced sound from low to high frequencies. In addition, by making full use of proprietary technologies used in the design and development of the Walkman, the WH-1000XM5 achieves a sense of sound localization, transparent and glossy sound with no distortion, and high original sound reproduction capability that accurately delivers the original sound.
When you listen to it, you can agree with the phrase, "transparent and glossy sound". The sound quality is very pleasant to the ear, and you will be able to listen to it for a long time.
I found the sound rather "elegant" than "quiet".

■ Advanced Voice Pickup Technology with AI Technology

Remote working and online meetings have become commonplace in recent years, and it is now also common to have conversations through headphones.
The WH-1000XM5 is equipped with a microphone that uses four beamforming technologies, and by reducing ambient noise using AI technology, it is able to extract only the call audio clearly. Even in places where the surrounding noise is loud or outdoors where wind noise is a concern, you can still make calls with clear sound quality.

■ 40 Hours of Reliable Playback

The WH-1000XM5 can play music continuously for up to 40 hours with noise cancellation turned off. Even with noise cancellation turned on, it can play for up to 30 hours, so you can use it with no worries even when you're out and about. It supports the USB PD rapid charging standard, and with USB PD charging, you can get about 3 hours of playback from a 3-minute charge. Even if the battery runs out, you can just charge it in between getting ready or doing a bit of work, and you'll be able to use it straight away.

■ Comfortable to Wear

When you hold them in your hands, you'll be surprised at how light the WH-1000XM5s are. Even when you wear them, you won't notice the weight, and the ear pads are soft and comfortable, giving you a good fit.
I think there are many people who do work or study while wearing headphones, but with these, you can continue wearing them without your ears getting tired.

■ Stylish Design

They have inherited the minimalist design represented in the 1000X series, but the headband is thinner. In addition, compared to WH-1000XM4, there are fewer seams on the parts, giving it a more refined atmosphere. Also, while WH-1000XM4 could be folded, WH-1000XM5 cannot be folded.

I can't tell all the attractive features of them.
Please try them out for yourself.