Sony unleashes the 1000x the collexion: a luxe headphone gamble
Sony’s latest flagship headphones, the 1000X The Collexion, have landed, and they’re aiming squarely for the ultra-premium market. Celebrating a decade of the acclaimed XM series, this iteration is less about incremental upgrades and more about a deliberate statement – a hefty price tag and a design that screams ‘luxury’.
A metallic fortress with a weighty problem
Right off the bat, the design is all about restraint and opulence. Gone is the plastic from previous models, replaced with a stainless steel band and supple faux leather earcups. Sony’s clearly aiming for that trophy-case feel. However, that premium build also translates to a significant increase in weight – hovering around 320g, noticeably heavier than the already substantial 254g of the WH-1000XM6.
Sound and anc – refined, but not revolutionary
The promise? Grammy-winning engineers have sculpted a balanced audio profile with nuanced dynamics, aiming to truly capture the artist’s intent. DSEE Ultimate, Sony’s AI-powered audio upscaling, is also dialed up, supposedly delivering a more faithful restoration of compressed files. While the improvements are noticeable – a richer soundstage and enhanced detail – they don’t represent a seismic shift. It’s a refined experience, but not one that will fundamentally alter your listening habits.
The details that matter (and don’t)
Beyond the aesthetics, the 1000X The Collexion boasts Bluetooth 6.0 for improved connectivity and expands 360 Reality Audio Upmix. However, a baffling omission is the lack of USB-C support – users are relegated to the included 3.5mm cable for wired listening. Battery life is rated at 24 hours with ANC on, falling short of the XM6’s 30 hours. And at a steep $649.99, it’s significantly pricier than the XM6’s $459.99 launch price.
The xm6 still holds its own
The Sony WH-1000XM6 remain a far more compelling proposition for the majority of consumers. They offer comparable noise cancellation, a lighter build, longer battery life, and a considerably lower price. The 1000X The Collexion is undoubtedly a beautiful piece of engineering, but it’s a luxury that many simply won’t justify. It's a niche product for a very specific audience – those who prioritize prestige over practicality.
Final verdict: a statement, not a necessity
Sony has created a headphone that’s undoubtedly impressive, a testament to their engineering prowess. But ultimately, the 1000X The Collexion feels less like a genuine advancement and more like a meticulously crafted statement of intent. For most, the XM6 offers a superior balance of performance and value.