It's been a while since the release of the previous generation of flagship true wireless earbuds, and Sony officially launched them in Taiwan today (March 5th).New generation true wireless noise-canceling headphones WF-1000XM6This time, Sony not only completely redesigned the headphones' appearance, but also incorporated four microphones into each earbud (a total of eight), and replaced them with the new QN3e noise-canceling processor, claiming a significant 25% improvement in noise cancellation performance. Furthermore, they enlisted the engineers who worked on the legendary flagship wired headphones, the IER-Z1R, to assist with the tuning, aiming to redefine market standards in both sound quality and noise cancellation.
For audiophiles and business professionals seeking ultimate quietness and high-resolution sound quality, the upgraded specifications of the WF-1000XM6 are undoubtedly the most anticipated feature of the year. Meanwhile,The WH-1000XM6 over-ear flagship headphones launched last yearA brand new "sand pink" color has also been added.
Major exterior redesign: Abandoning the "bean-shaped" design in favor of a rounded oval cylinder.
The most noticeable change in the WF-1000XM6 is the complete abandonment of the iconic "bean-shaped" or triangular design of previous generations, in favor of a more rounded oval columnar appearance.
Although it may appear slightly larger than its predecessor at first glance, Sony emphasizes that through optimization of the internal structure, the actual contact area between the headphones and the ear has actually been reduced by 11%. Combined with an improved airflow channel design and a new vent structure, it can significantly reduce the "stuffiness" when wearing them, as well as interference from footsteps or chewing sounds, ensuring comfort and stability during long-term wear.
In terms of surface material, the WF-1000XM6 has changed from the glossy surface of its predecessor, which was prone to fingerprints, to a matte finish with a slightly rough texture. This not only makes it non-slip and oil-resistant, but the charging case has also been replaced with a minimalist oval cylindrical design, further enhancing the overall quality.
Noise cancellation at full power: 8 microphones + the new QN3e processor
As a signature feature of the 1000X series, the WF-1000XM6 boasts top-of-the-line noise cancellation specifications.
The number of microphones in each earbud has been increased from 3 to 4, for a total of 8 microphones in both earbuds. These 8 microphones are responsible for feedforward and feedback noise cancellation sampling, which can more accurately capture external ambient noise and sound leakage in the ear canal.
In terms of computing core, it features an integrated processor V2 and the new "HD noise-canceling processor QN3e". Through the collaborative operation of these two chips and the real-time analysis of "adaptive noise cancellation optimization technology", Sony claims that the WF-1000XM6 has achieved a significant leap of 25% in overall noise cancellation performance compared to its predecessor. Especially in suppressing mid-to-high frequency noise, it can create a quieter and purer listening space, whether it is the noise of the subway during daily commutes or the noisy environment of a coffee shop.
Sound quality and call quality: IER-Z1R engineers have enhanced it with bone conduction sensing and AI noise reduction.
In terms of sound quality, the WF-1000XM6 features a newly developed 8.4mm driver unit. A unique groove design has been added to the surround, which is expected to provide better low-frequency control.
What excites audiophiles even more is that, in addition to continuing its collaboration with several Grammy Award-winning masters, Sony has also enlisted Eiji Kuwahara, the tuning engineer who was responsible for the legendary flagship wired headphones IER-Z1R, to assist in the development. This suggests that the sound signature of the WF-1000XM6 may be more inclined towards studio monitoring and the clear, dynamic, and detailed natural sound that audiophiles love.
The WF-1000XM6 also fully supports technologies such as Hi-Res Audio Wireless, DSEE Extreme, and 360 Reality Audio. In terms of call quality, the WF-1000XM6 combines two microphones on one side, a bone conduction sensor, and an AI beamforming noise reduction algorithm to intelligently separate voice and cancel wind noise, ensuring clear call quality even in noisy environments.
Smart features and availability: Supports Google Gemini and head motion control
The WF-1000XM6 also brings several upgrades to the intelligent listening experience:
• Background music mode:It simulates a listening sound field like that played from a distant speaker, making it suitable for use when focusing on work or study.
• Intelligent voice control:It supports voice integration with Google Gemini and allows you to control phone calls by nodding or shaking your head.
• Connectivity and battery life:The antenna area has doubled, resulting in a more stable connection and support for LE Audio low-latency audio. With the charging case, it supports up to 24 hours of battery life and has an IPX4 waterproof rating.
The WF-1000XM6 has a suggested retail price of NT$9990 and is available in black and silver. It will be officially launched in Taiwan starting today.
