Sony 2024 Headphone Line Up Explained - Sony ULT Wear Vs Sony 1000XM5 Vs Sony 1000XM4 Vs WH-CH720N

Summary

This video reviews Sony's mid-2024 ANC headphone lineup, comparing the WH-720N, the Ultra, the WH-1000XM4, and the WH-1000XM5. It discusses pricing, fit, comfort, battery life, connectivity, sound quality, and active noise cancellation. The WH-720N offers basic ANC and comfort at an entry-level price, while the Ultra provides enhanced sound and ANC. The WH-1000XM4 remains a strong choice for travelers with its pressure sensor, and the WH-1000XM5 leads in noise cancellation but at the cost of comfort and case size. The video also highlights the improved microphone quality across the models.

Takeaways

• 🎧 The Sony WH-1000XM5 is currently the best in terms of active noise cancellation (ANC) for Sony's headphone lineup in mid-2024.
• 💰 The WH-1000XM5 retails for $400 but can be found on sale for $330, making it a premium option.
• 🛍️ The WH-1000XM4 and XM5 come with a hard shell carrying case, unlike the entry-level WH-720N which does not include a case.
• 🔋 All Sony headphones reviewed have above-average battery life, with the WH-720N offering up to 35 hours of use.
• 🎵 The WH-1000XM5 has improved instrument separation and clarity compared to the XM4, but less bass physicality.
• 🎚️ All headphones are compatible with Sony's app for EQ customization, allowing for personalized sound profiles.
• 👂 The WH-1000XM5 has the best microphone performance, significantly reducing background noise during calls.
• 🚫 The WH-720N uses physical buttons, while the others use touchpads, which are found to be easy to use and accurate.
• 📲 The WH-1000XM5 and XM4 have 'Speak to Chat' feature, which lowers music volume and lets in ambient sound when the user starts talking.
• 🛫 For those who fly frequently, the XM4 and XM5 are recommended due to their superior noise cancellation at cruising altitude.

Q & A

What is the retail price of the entry-level Sony WH-720N headphones?

The retail price of the Sony WH-720N headphones is $150, but they often go on sale for $120, and during major shopping holidays, they can be as low as $100.

How does the fit and comfort of the Sony WH-720N compare to other models in Sony's lineup?

The Sony WH-720N is praised for its lightweight design and spacious earpads, making it one of the most comfortable models in Sony's lineup, especially suitable for the gym.

What are the key differences between the Sony WH-1000XM4 and the WH-1000XM5 in terms of noise cancellation?

The WH-1000XM5 has improved noise cancellation capabilities and includes an atmospheric pressure sensor, which helps it block out more noise, especially at higher frequencies, compared to the WH-1000XM4.

Which Sony headphones are recommended for flying due to their noise cancellation performance?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM4 are recommended for flying due to their superior noise cancellation, especially when calibrated with the atmospheric pressure sensor.

How do the Sony Ultra headphones differ from their predecessors in terms of sound quality?

The Sony Ultra headphones have a more audible bass compared to their predecessors, offering a different bass experience that is more about hearing the bass rather than feeling a strong kick.

What is the battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM5 when using the LDAC codec?

The battery life of the Sony WH-1000XM5 is advertised as 30 hours with active noise cancellation turned on when using AAC. However, when using LDAC, the battery life reduces to 25 hours.

Which Sony headphones have the best sounding ambient mode?

The Sony Ultra headphones have the best sounding ambient mode, as it sounds the most natural and closely resembles not wearing any headphones at all.

How do the Sony WH-1000XM4 and WH-1000XM5 perform in terms of microphone quality for phone calls?

The Sony WH-1000XM5 has the best performing and best sounding microphone, effectively blocking out noise and focusing on the user's voice, making it suitable for phone calls even in noisy environments. The WH-1000XM4 also has good microphone quality, but it's not as effective as the XM5.

What is the main advantage of the Sony WH-1000XM4 over the WH-1000XM5 according to the script?

The main advantages of the Sony WH-1000XM4 over the WH-1000XM5 include better comfort, a smaller case for easier travel, and more kick in the bass sound.

Which Sony headphones lack a carrying case in the box?

The Sony WH-720N does not come with a carrying case, which is noted as a disappointment compared to other entry-level ANC headphones that do include a case.