THE DEFINITIVE Sony WH-1000XM5 Review & Comparison by an AUDIO ENGINEER

Summary

This comprehensive review by a professional audio engineer compares the Sony WH-1000XM5, Sony WH-1000XM4, Apple AirPods Max, and Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones. The video offers an immersive listening experience, detailing build quality, comfort, ANC performance, and sound signature. Custom EQ settings for the Sony headphones are highlighted, showcasing significant improvements. The review also covers Bluetooth connectivity, microphone quality, and transparency mode, providing an objective analysis to help viewers make an informed decision based on their preferences and needs.

Takeaways

• 🎧 The Sony WH-1000XM5S are reviewed favorably against the Sony WH-1000XM4S, Apple AirPods Max, and Bose QuietComfort 45 by an experienced audio engineer.
• 👂 The video uses a $2,000 binaural microphone to simulate a realistic listening experience, aiming to provide an accurate representation of what the reviewer hears.
• 🎶 Custom EQ settings for the Sony headphones are highlighted, demonstrating a significant improvement over the default settings.
• 🔍 The review includes a detailed comparison of build quality, comfort, and sound characteristics of the different headphones.
• 📊 Active noise cancellation (ANC) performance is analyzed, with the Sony WH-1000XM5S claiming to have twice the processing power and additional microphones for improved ANC.
• 📈 A demonstration of the effectiveness of ANC on low frequencies is provided, showing the Sony and Apple products performing well in this area.
• 🔊 The video discusses the transparency mode of the headphones, with the AirPods Max receiving praise for its natural sound.
• 📲 Bluetooth connectivity tests show varying results, with the Sony headphones maintaining a strong connection at a distance.
• 🎵 The script includes a discussion on the suitability of the headphones for gaming, noting significant audio delay over Bluetooth.
• 💬 A comparison of microphone quality during calls is provided, with the Sony WH-1000XM5S performing well without echo.
• 💵 Price considerations are discussed, with the Sony WH-1000XM5S being priced higher than the other models but offering superior sound quality and features.

Q & A

What is the focus of the video review?

The video review focuses on an experiential comparison of the Sony WH-1000XM5, Sony WH-1000XM4, Apple AirPods Max, and Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones from the perspective of an audio engineer.

What is the professional background of the reviewer?

The reviewer is a professional audio engineer with over 15 years of experience in mixing for concerts and bands.

What unique feature does the reviewer use to record the audio for the review?

The reviewer uses a $2,000 BI neural mic that records audio the way human ears perceive it within the environment, providing a high fidelity experience.

How does the reviewer ensure an immersive listening experience in the video?

The reviewer ensures an immersive experience by using a neural mic to record audio, providing custom EQ settings for the Sony headphones, and instructing viewers to wear headphones or earbuds for the best experience.

What are the standout features of Sony's headphones according to the reviewer?

The standout features of Sony's headphones include industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), refined build quality, and effective microphones for calls.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the build quality of the Sony WH-1000XM5 compared to other models?

The reviewer finds the build quality of the Sony WH-1000XM5 to be softer and more comfortable, with a high-quality feel due to the soft touch coating and leather-like material, compared to the plastic feel of other models.

How does the reviewer test the headphones' ANC and transparency modes?

The reviewer tests the ANC and transparency modes by playing music and environmental sounds, using a studio monitor setup with a subwoofer, and recording outside with ambient noise.

What is the reviewer's assessment of the microphone quality on the Sony WH-1000XM5?

The reviewer states that Sony has doubled the amount of microphones on the WH-1000XM5 compared to the XM4, and with AI noise reduction, they claim it offers the best call quality among the tested headphones.

How does the reviewer evaluate the Bluetooth connectivity of the headphones?

The reviewer evaluates Bluetooth connectivity by testing the range at which the headphones maintain a stable connection with a device placed at a distance.

What is the reviewer's final recommendation for the best sound quality among the tested headphones?

The reviewer recommends the Sony WH-1000XM5 for the best sound quality after applying custom EQ tweaks, noting that it handles EQ adjustments well and offers a balanced sound profile.

How does the reviewer address the potential for subjective preferences in sound quality?

The reviewer acknowledges that sound quality can be subjective and encourages viewers to consider their personal preferences when choosing headphones, while also providing his own recommendations based on objective testing.