Sony, a Japanese multinational conglomerate corporation, has a long history of producing high-quality audio equipment, from the iconic Walkman series to a range of highly-praised headphones. Among their offerings, the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones stand out, commanding a significant position in the premium headphones market.
Design and Build Quality
With a sleek design and choice materials, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones exude a premium feel. The headphones feature a matte finish, available in either black or silver, with plush padding on the ear cups and headband for enhanced comfort. The fit is adjustable, enabling prolonged usage without discomfort, which is particularly crucial for long flights or workdays.
Technical Features
The noise-canceling capabilities of the Sony WH-1000XM4 are top-notch. Leveraging Dual Noise Sensor technology and the new Bluetooth Audio SoC, these headphones effectively reduce ambient noise for an immersive audio experience. The headphones support Bluetooth 5.0, with an impressive ability to pair with multiple devices simultaneously.
The battery life is formidable, providing up to 30 hours of playback time on a single charge. The headphones also support fast charging – a 10-minute charge can offer up to 5 hours of playback. The touch controls located on the ear cups are intuitive, and the headphones come with built-in voice assistant capabilities, compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Siri.
Sound Quality
In various environments, the Sony WH-1000XM4 delivers high-quality sound. The headphones handle different music genres well, thanks to the 40mm drivers with Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) diaphragms. The sound produced is well-balanced, with rich lows, clear mids, and crisp highs, making it a delight for audiophiles.
The Sony Headphones Connect App
Sony provides a dedicated app, the Sony Headphones Connect App, offering several customization options to fine-tune the listening experience. It includes features like Adaptive Sound Control, customizable EQ settings, and 360 Reality Audio setup.
Comparisons with Other Top-tier Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM4 improves upon its predecessor, the Sony WH-1000XM3, particularly in multi-device pairing and voice assistant integration. When compared to other top-tier headphones in the market, such as the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700, the Sony WH-1000XM4 often wins praise for its superior noise-canceling performance and sound quality, although some users may prefer the fit and design of alternative options.
Conclusion
The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones emerge as a formidable choice for anyone seeking high-quality audio with remarkable noise cancellation. With an array of features, including a long battery life, intuitive touch controls, and a customizable sound experience through the app, these headphones are worth considering for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. Though positioned in the premium segment, their performance and quality justify the investment for those seeking an unparalleled listening experience.
