5 reasons we can’t wait for the new Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones
Sony's new WH-1000XM5s are an extremely promising update to one of the best pairs of headphones on the market.
Pre-order WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones
There aren't many companies that deliver outstanding tech as consistently as Sony, so we couldn't be more excited for the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.
Pedigree is important for high-end consumer tech and you can't do much better than the WH-1000XM4. Rather than mess with perfection, Sony has held onto what made the 1000XM4s great, with a few additional tweaks for 2022. For more information, check out our review of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones or read on for 5 reasons we simply can't wait to get the WH-1000XM5s in our hands.
The WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones are set to be released on 13 June 2022, with an RRP of $549.95. Pre-order on Amazon now.
Noise cancellation
Arguably the marquee feature of Sony's wireless headphone line is exceptional noise cancellation. Sony claims the 1000XM5s represent a new benchmark in this world, thanks to an Integrated Processor V1 and Bluetooth "system on chip" technology. The WH-1000XM5s have 4 microphones in each earcup to capture ambient noise and cancel it out before it reaches your ear. That's double the number of microphones in the WH-1000XM4s.
What does all this mean? Put simply, Sony claims the 1000XM5s will feature the most advanced noise cancellation of any headphones. Given what it pulled off with the 1000XM4s, we're inclined to believe it.
Exceptional audio
There have been some incredible strides in consumer audio technology in recent years, so what do the 1000XM5s bring to the table? Well, Sony's proprietary LDAC audio coding technology transmits about 3 times as much data as conventional Bluetooth technology, leading to a far superior listening experience.
But the industry-leading functionality doesn't stop there. DSEE Extreme uses Edge-AI to automatically upscale compressed digital audio files. If you're wondering how often you come across highly compressed audio files, the answer is just about every time you listen to anything on a streaming service. DSEE Extreme restores the high-range sound lost in the digital compression process.
360 Reality Audio
This audio feature demands special mention. Sony's 360 Reality Audio aims to create a completely authentic and realistic listening experience, throwing sound at you from every direction, like at you're at the rowdiest concert or the most intimate recording session.
You can use the Sony Headphones Connect app to analyse your ear shape and deliver a personalised ultimate listening experience. How many headphone manufacturers are going to these lengths to offer the best to its customers?
Made for everyday living
We all love jamming to our favourite music, but the best headphones integrate themselves into all aspects of our lives. I'm happy to report the WH-1000XM5s do just that with a bevy of features. You might not think of them as professional-style headphones, but why not?
Those 4 microphones mentioned above come in handy once again on AI-powered precise voice pickup, ensuring your voice won't be missed in your next work call. And with wind noise reduction mode, you can call in from anywhere and always sound crystal-clear. These features work just as well for your social calls, as do the speak-to-chat and voice assistant functions.
Up to 30 hours of battery life mean you don't need to frantically monitor charge levels to get through your day.
Good for your ears and the environment
Enjoy your music without worrying about long-term impacts on your health or to the environment. The WH-1000XM5s' industry-leading noise cancellation allows you to listen to your music at your ideal volume without needing to crank it up to unsafe levels. You'll have access to advanced integrated sound pressure data, allowing you to compare your listening levels to the recommended limits.
Tree huggers rejoice as Sony hasn't pressed pause on its Road to Zero environmental plan with the WH-1000XM5s. The headphones use recycled acrylonitrile butadiene styrene in their design, sourced from car parts. They will be packaged in plastic-free Sony Original Blended Material.
Best deals on headphones
If you aren't sold on the WH-1000XM5s, here are some other exceptional deals on headphones. Check out our guide to the 13 best headphones in Australia for more information.
Sony WH-1000XM4 on Amazon
Get some great value on these headphones, offering premium features such as advanced noise cancellation and 360 Reality Audio for a far more affordable price compared to the WH-1000XM5s.
Buy now for $348
$250.95 off Sennheiser PXC 550-II Wireless
These headphones allow you to use the Voice Assistant button to seamlessly connect to all major virtual assistants.
$140.95 off Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
On top of advanced audio technology, the Momentum 3s feature intuitive controls and active noise cancellation.
26% off Bose 700 noise cancelling headphones on Amazon
If you're after some premium headphones, this offering from Bose is a great choice, with 11 levels of noise cancellation and 20 hours of wireless battery life.
Buy now for $445 (was $599)
$190 off Apple AirPods Max on Amazon
Proprietary Apple software and the H1 chip make these headphones exceptional.
Buy now for $709 (was $899)
Need more info on the latest and greatest tech? Head over to Technology Finder.
