Latest news with #Sonys
Fashion Value Chain
11-07-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Sony India Launches Second-generation Flagship Alpha™ 1 II Full-Frame Camera
Sony India today launched the second-generation Alpha™ 1 II, a new flagship full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera powered by Sonys latest AI processing unit. The camera features an approximate effective 50.1 MP (megapixel) resolution sensor, up to 30 fps (frames-per-second) blackout-free continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking(i), an anti-distortion shutter, and improved image clarity at mid-to-high sensitivities. The AI processing unit brings advanced AI-based subject recognition performance and features including a new 'Auto' mode which can detect a wide variety of subjects. In addition, the Alpha 1 II also inherits innovations from the Alpha 9 III, including Pre-Capture of up to one secon([ii), and an improved ergonomic design. The camera maintains a lightweight form factor of approximately 743 grams (1 lb, 7.3 oz)(iii) for usability in a variety of professional scenarios. Alpha 1 II Mukesh Srivastava, Head of Imaging Business, Sony India said, 'The Alpha 1 II is a reflection of Sony's leadership in the professional domain of digital imaging category. By combining high resolution, exceptional speed, advanced AI-powered subject recognition and seamless workflow enhancements, this flagship model sets a new industry standard. It is purpose-built to offer professionals the creative freedom and reliability demanded by modern visual storytelling.' 1. 50.1 MP (approx., effective) Exmor RS™ stacked CMOS sensor and powerful BIONZ XR™ image processing engine The Alpha 1 II produces high-resolution images with a wide dynamic range through the combination of the full-frame Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor with approx. 50.1 effective MP resolution and the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine. The camera delivers high-resolution images even in APS-C crop mode, capturing approximately 21 effective MP. 2. State-of-the-art AI processing unit achieves Real-time Recognition AF for both stills and movies In addition, Real-time Recognition AF has been added to the latest Alpha 1 II with the addition of the AI processing unit. This technology maintains focus on subjects, including a human pose estimation that instantly recognises a persons head and torso, as well as accurately tracks animals, birds, insects, and vehicles. The Alpha 1 II introduces the latest evolution to Real-time Recognition AF with a newly added 'Auto' feature that allows the camera to automatically recognise the subject target without specifying a subject mode(iv). 3. Advanced Real-time Tracking with 30fps with Pre-Capture and Continuous Shooting Speed boost functions The camera offers blackout-free high-speed continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking at up to 30 frames per second(v), which can track complex movements with AF/AE calculations at up to 120 times per second(vi). The camera also includes the highly requested Pre-Capture function, which allows images to be captured up-to one second before the shutter button is pressed(vii), and the Continuous Shooting Speed Boost that can temporarily change the burst shooting speed. 4. 8K 30p and 4K 120p movie recordingfor impressive realism 4K (3840 x 2160) movies can be cropped and edited from 8K source footage with overwhelming resolution from 8.6K oversampling. 8K 4:2:2 10-bit XAVC HS recording with optional Full HD proxy is available, as are 4K recording in XAVC HS, S, or S-I formats in full-frame, or Super 35 mm oversampled from 5.8K with full pixel readout and no pixel binning. XAVC S-I allows recording at up to 600 Mbps for outstanding image quality. 5. Image stabilization with up to 8.5-step central and 7.0-step peripheral compensation To support the need for high-performing speed required by many professionals, the Alpha 1 II features an anti-distortion shutter that enables shooting with reduced distortion. The low noise performance at mid- to high-sensitivity, which is highly requested by professional photographers, has also been improved through tuning, allowing you to capture images with less noise and clear backgrounds even in indoor sports where a high shutter speed is required. Additionally, the Alpha 1 II has impressive improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops (center) and 7.0 stops (periphery)(viii) when shooting still images, as well as a newly supported Dynamic active Mode for video shooting(ix). 6. Comfortable operability and highly responsive workflow with ergonomic grip and buttons The camera features a 3.2-type LCD monitor with a highly requested 4-axis multi-angle that can be freely adjusted to any angle. This second-generation camera body has improved ergonomics compared to the original Alpha 1, including thoughtful design updates to the grip, position of the shutter button, and evolved custom buttons. The Alpha 1 II includes a new deep-type padded eyepiece cup (model FDA-EP21) accessory for additional viewing support. A standard eyepiece comes attached to the camera by default but can be swapped with the deep pad option based on the user's preference. 7. Supplied charger charges two NP-FZ100 batteries in 155 minutes For additional battery support, the Alpha 1 II comes with the BC-ZD1 Dual-Battery Charger that rapidly and stably charges two Z batteries (model NP-FZ100) simultaneously in 155 minutes to full charge(x). In addition, the VG-C5(xi) compatible vertical grip offers additional ergonomic support with additional battery performance for extending shooting needs. For professionals seeking a quick, real-time image transfer solution, the Alpha 1 II supports 2.5GBASE-T via wired LAN. This high level of connectivity dramatically improves workflows from data transfer to content creation and distribution, increasing the work efficiency of professionals. Additionally, captured data can be automatically transferred to Adobe Lightroom™ or Google Drive™ via Sonys cloud storage service, Creators Cloud(xii). This makes editing work after shooting even more convenient. 8. Alpha series offers environmentally conscious packaging To prioritise sustainability, this model's packaging is entirely free of plastic, marking the first Alpha series camera (excluding ZV-series) to use Sony's Original Blended Material – a unique mix of bamboo, sugarcane, and recycled paper(xiii). Pricing and Availability The Alpha™ 1 II Full-Frame camera is now available across all Sony Center, Alpha Flagship stores, major electronic stores, and other e-commerce portal in India. Model Name Best Buy (in INR) Availability ILCE-1M2/BQ IN5 579,990 Available Now About Sony Alpha Community In an effort to build a robust Alpha community with a strong network of amateur and professional photographers on one platform, a special initiative has been undertaken by Sony India where users can now avail several benefits by simply registering their Alpha cameras, lenses and accessories on the Alpha Community. Some of the benefits of registration include an extended warranty of 3 years (2-year standard warranty + 1 Year extended warranty) and free exclusive workshops by Sony experts and Artisans. Customers can also avail attractive discounts on photo tours (50% discount on photo tours for their first trip and 25% discount for the consecutive trips) and a chance to participate in photography/videography contests to win exciting prizes like cameras, lens and professional camcorders and a lot more. The platform will be a one-stop destination to get all latest updates, firmware updates, free service camps, workshops and new launches for Sony Alpha. For more information, visit Alpha Community. Explore the new Sony Alpha Community App. We invite you to download, experience, and share feedback on the app. Register your Sony products with ease Join expert-led Alpha Classroom sessions Stay informed about upcoming workshops near you Download Now: Android: iOS: Alpha Classroom: Alpha Classroom is a series of tutorials where experts will take you through the nuances of photography & Videography, advise you on the right gear and help you explore your creative potential to reach its fullest expression. Come, learn with us and together, we will conquer the world of your dreams. Ask an Expert: Ask an Expert is a one-stop platform to get all your questions related to cameras, lenses, gear and more answered by a Sony Alpha Expert. It's easy, convenient and absolutely free! Yup! You heard it right. Choose your slot and book an appointment with an expert today! About Sony India Pvt. Ltd. Sony India Private Limited (Sony India), a private limited company with its ultimate holding company as Sony Group Corporation, Japan, has established itself as a premium brand in various product categories including television, digital imaging, personal audio, home entertainment, gaming, car audio, and professional solutions. The company places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and maintains high standards in sales and services. Sony also prioritizes environmental sustainability, aiming to achieve a zero environmental footprint throughout the lifecycle of its products and business activities to contribute to a healthier and enriched life for all of humanity and future generations. (i) When using electronic shutter. Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous frame rate may be lower in some shooting conditions. Continuous shooting speed may vary depending on the lens used in AF-C focus modes. Visit Sony's support web page for lens compatibility information. (ii) Maximum pre-capture time may be less in some situations. High continuous shooting speeds can cause an increase in camera temperature. Pre-capture may be limited to protect the device in high ambient temperature conditions. (iii) Including a battery and standard media card. (iv) When Auto is selected the camera will normally recognise the subject type automatically, but the wrong type may be selected in some situations. In such cases manually selecting the intended subject type may solve the problem. (v) When using electronic shutter. Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous frame rate may be lower in some shooting conditions. Continuous shooting speed may vary depending on the lens used in AF-C focus modes. Visit Sony's support web page for lens compatibility information. (vi) At shutter speeds of 1/125 sec. or higher. May be less depending on shooting conditions and the lens used. (vii) Maximum pre-capture time may be less in some situations. High continuous shooting speeds can cause an increase in camera temperature. Pre-capture may be limited to protect the device in high ambient temperature conditions. (viii) CIPA 2024 standards. Pitch/Yaw/Roll compensation. FE 50mm F1.2 GM lens. Long exposure NR off. (ix) Dynamic Active Mode is not available when shooting in 8K or at frame rates of 120 fps or higher. (x) Simultaneous two-battery charging requires a USB PD (30 W min.) compatible power and cable (3 A min.) The CHARGE lamp will turn off when battery charge level exceeds 90% (operational charge). Continue charging for another 30 minutes to achieve a full charge. Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, and usage. (xi) The VG-C5 vertical grip is sold separately. (xi) Priory settings in the Creators Cloud mobile application 'Creators App' or 'Creators Cloud Web' is necessary. Creators' Cloud may not be available in all regions. (xiii) Not including materials used in coatings and adhesives.
Tom's Guide
10-07-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
These 'budget' headphones are so good I stole them from my colleague — now they're $86 off for Prime Day
With Prime Day deals now well and truly rolling, there are only a couple of days of sales left. But it isn't too late to bag yourself some of the best headphones around. And I'm not talking about your Apples, your Sonys, your Boses. No no. I had the pick of all of those headphones, and I still chose these "budget" cans. The Soundcore Space One Pros, which are currently $86 off at Amazon and the cheapest they've ever been. They're so good, in fact, that I pinched them from my colleague Erin Bashford after her Soundcore Space One Pro review (in which she gave the headphones 4.5 stars!) The Soundcore Space One Pros are premium cans from Soundcore, usually seen as a budget manufacturer. There's very little about these headphones that's budget, though, except for the price this Prime Day. Soundcore has slashed the price by a huge $86 to $113 — the cheapest these headphones have ever been. All right, so I didn't fully steal them. It's more that I took them without asking. Is that the same thing? Some key context is that we have the pick of a huge array of headphones in the Tom's Guide U.K. testing lab, so Erin wasn't too bothered. Still, as I mentioned above, I could've had any of those headphones, but chose the Space One Pros. And there are a few reasons for that. Firstly, there's the styling. Personally I think these headphones are gorgeous. The sleek leatherette combined with the brushed matte metal gives an understated but premium look. They're also incredibly comfortable, with soft earcups and padding across virtually the entire headband. More importantly, there's the sound quality. We awarded the Space One Pros 4.5 stars in our review, and a huge part of that was because of how good they sound. Bass performance is very strong, although not enough to overwhelm other frequencies. Mids and treble also sound great, and the profile is generally very balanced. I'm also a big fan of the Soundcore app, having used it with other of the brand's products. It's great for customizing your experience. These headphones are usually much more expensive than typical Soundcore products, which usually sit at the top end of the budget category. They typically retail for $199, so they're more a set of mid-range cans. And they're worth it. At $113 on sale, though, these headphones are an actual steal. Make sure you get them while they're still on offer! For more great savings, stay locked to our live coverage of the best Prime Day deals under $25.
Fashion Value Chain
19-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Sony India Launches FE 50-150mm F2 GM Lens
Sony India introduces the FE 50-150mm F2 GM, the world's first(1) telephoto zoom lens with a maximum focal length of 150 mm and F2 aperture. This lens features a standard focal length of 50mm at the wide-angle end and combines an open aperture of F2 with high resolution comparable to that of a prime lens. This allows for a wide range of scenarios with just one lens for various situations and subjects. As part of Sony's renowned G Master™ series, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM offers an exceptional combination of high resolution and stunning bokeh, enhancing the imaging results for professionals using the Sony Alpha camera system. FE 50-150mm F2 GM Lens™ 'At Sony, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of imaging technology. With the launch of the FE 50-150mm F2 GM lens, we are proud to introduce a world-first innovation that delivers unmatched image quality, versatility and performance. From stunning bokeh in portraits and weddings to sharp, high-speed capture in sports and events, this lens is a versatile powerhouse. It's compact, internal zoom design and advanced autofocus makes it perfect for handheld use, truly redefining creative possibilities in the field,' said Mukesh Srivastava, Head of Digital Imaging Business, Sony India. Exceptional image quality and smooth F2 Bokeh The FE 50-150mm F2 GMs internal optical design plays a crucial role in producing its exceptional image quality. By integrating two XA (extreme aspherical) elements, two Super ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements, and three ED elements, the lens effectively suppresses aberrations, ensuring sharp, high-contrast imagery across the entire zoom range. Additionally, the floating focusing system enables a minimum focusing distance of 0.4m at the wide end and a maximum magnification of 0.20 for detailed shooting. The FE 50-150mm F2 GMs constant F2 aperture creates beautifully smooth bokeh, making it an ideal choice for portrait, wedding, and event photographers aiming to isolate subjects with a shallow depth of field. A newly developed 11-blade circular aperture further enhances the signature G Master bokeh. When shooting videos, the lens delivers stunning cinematic results and exceptional clarity. In addition, Sonys proprietary 'Nano AR Coating II,' applied uniformly across the entire lens surface, significantly reduces ghosting and flare even in backlit conditions, delivering clear and crisp imagery. Internal zoom and compact design Measuring at approximately 200 mm (7-7/8 inches) in length and weighing approximately 1,340g(2) (47.3 ounces), the FE 50-150mm F2 GM offers remarkable portability considering its impressive combination of wide zoom range and bright aperture. This lens is ideal for both handheld and gimbal use with its featured internal zoom design that maintains the lens' length and weight balance despite focal length changes. With its practical design, this lens serves as a versatile, all-in-one solution for those seeking a standard 50mm through 150mm telephoto range. Fast and precise Autofocus performance Equipped with four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors and Sony's advanced control algorithms, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM delivers fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus (AF). This high-performance AF system is compatible with Sonys Alpha 9 III, supporting continuous shooting at up to 120 frames per second with full AF/AE tracking(3). With a fast AF system and a versatile 50-150 mm zoom range, the lens excels at capturing fast-paced indoor sports, portraits and events. Cinematic video production Designed with filmmakers in mind, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM minimises focus breathing and is compatible with Sonys Breathing Compensation(4) feature on select Alpha cameras. Linear Response MF ensures intuitive manual focus control, while the lens's internal zoom design maintains stability even while zooming mounted on gimbals. Additionally, the XD linear motors operate quietly to prevent unwanted noise from being captured during recording. Built for durability, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM features a robust dust- and moisture-resistant design(5). A fluorine coating on the front element repels contaminants, making it easy to clean and ensuring the lens remains in top condition even in challenging environments. Pricing and Availability The FE 50-150mm F2 GM (SEL50150GM) lens will be available across all Sony Center stores, Alpha Flagship stores, Sony authorized dealers, major electronic stores across India & also on Amazon & Flipkart from 5th May 2025 onwards. Model MRP (in Rs.) FE 50-150mm F2 GM 369,990/- About Sony Alpha Community In an effort to build a robust Alpha community with a strong network of amateur and professional photographers on one platform, a special initiative has been undertaken by Sony India where users can now avail several benefits by simply registering their Alpha cameras, lenses and accessories on the Alpha Community. Some of the benefits of registration include an extended warranty of 3 years (2-year standard warranty + 1 Year extended warranty) and free exclusive workshops by Sony experts and Artisans. Customers can also avail attractive discounts on photo tours (50% discount on photo tours for their first trip and 25% discount for the consecutive trips) and a chance to participate in photography/videography contests to win exciting prizes like cameras, lens and professional camcorders and a lot more. The platform will be a one-stop destination to get all latest updates, firmware updates, free service camps, workshops and new launches for Sony Alpha. For more information, visit Alpha Community. Alpha Classroom Alpha Classroom is a series of tutorials where experts will take you through the nuances of photography & Videography, advise you on the right gear and help you explore your creative potential to reach its fullest expression. Come, learn with us and together, we will conquer the world of your dreams. Ask an Expert Ask an Expert is a one-stop platform to get all your questions related to cameras, lenses, gear and more answered by a Sony Alpha Expert. It's easy, convenient and absolutely free! Yup! You heard it right. Choose your slot and book an appointment with an expert today! About Sony India Pvt. Ltd. Sony India Private Limited (Sony India), a private limited company with its ultimate holding company as Sony Group Corporation, Japan, has established itself as a premium brand in various product categories including television, digital imaging, personal audio, home entertainment, gaming, car audio, and professional solutions. The company places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and maintains high standards in sales and services. Sony also prioritizes environmental sustainability, aiming to achieve a zero environmental footprint throughout the lifecycle of its products and business activities to contribute to a healthier and enriched life for all of humanity and future generations. Sony India Pvt. Ltd. A-18, Mohan Co-operative Industrial Estate, New Delhi – 44 | (1) As of the April 2025 product announcement according to research by a Sony survey of lenses for interchangeable lens cameras. (2) Excluding tripod mount. (3) Sony test conditions. Maximum continuous shooting speed may be lower in some conditions. Continuous shooting speed may vary in the AF-C focus mode. (4) See camera compatibility info at: Angle of view and image quality may change slightly when this function is [ON]. Effective compensation may not be achieved in all situations. (5) Not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof.
Tom's Guide
07-06-2025
- Tom's Guide
Sony WH-1000XM6 vs WH-1000XM4: Is it finally time to upgrade?
Sonys latest over-ear noise canceling headphones have landed, and they bring some key upgrades to the table. They fold, feature excellent noise canceling, and pack in a newly designed carrying case. They're not a massive step up from the XM5, but XM4 users might have just found the perfect time to upgrade. Sony's older XM4 are still a very solid pair of headphones that you can grab even years after their initial release. The ANC remains excellent, sound is very good, and comfort is as good as ever. They're also available at lower prices than either the XM5 or the brand new XM6 — perfect if you're looking for flagship specs at a lower price. It's very possible that you've got a pair of Sony's WH-1000XM4 headphones. They really put the marque on the map, with a host of features that made them the best wireless headphones of their day. They remain an excellent option, in fact, given that you can still buy them for what are often now much lower prices than the newer and more advanced competition. But Sony has just released the most compelling reason to upgrade your best noise-canceling headphones to date — the Sony WH-1000XM6. They've got a new design, a new sound signature, and some of the best call quality we've ever experienced. They could be just what you've been waiting for if you've been rocking the XM4 since their first release. So let's put the two head-to-head and find out which ones are the better pair of headphones to spend money on in 2025, or whether you should upgrade your aging cans. Sony WH-1000XM6 Sony WH-1000XM4 Price $449 / £399 / AU$699 $348 / £229 / AU$399 Colors Black; Silver; Midnight Blue Black; Midnight Blue; Silver Size Not specified Not specified Weight 8.9 ounces 9 ounces Battery life (rated) Up to 40 hours Up to 30 hours Connectivity Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC and LDAC support Bluetooth 5.0 with SBC, AAC and LDAC Special features Adaptive ANC, Ambient Sound Mode, DSEE Extreme Audio, Bluetooth multipoint, customizable sound, quick charge, passive mode, 360 Reality Audio Adaptive ANC, Ambient Sound Mode, DSEE Extreme Audio, Bluetooth multipoint, customizable sound, quick charge, passive mode, 360 Reality Audio With the release of the XM6, Sony has raised the price of its flagship cans. They cost $449, a full $50 more than the previous model. That also makes them more than some of their key competitors, like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, and the same as the brand new Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 — which I awarded 4 and a half stars. You can also still pick up the XM5 for $399, so if you're looking for a way to upgrade without spending as much money, that might be a good way to go. You won't get all of the shiny new features of the XM6, but you get a very good pair of headphones for less money. On launch, the XM4 were $380 — around $70 less than the launch price of the XM6. Since then they've seen significant price drops. If you shop around, you can find a pair for as little as $340, and potentially even less. Wait for sales events like Black Friday and you'll be able to pick up a pair for less than $300, making them a flagship headphones bargain. Sony still produces the XM4 as well, so you won't have any problems finding either on Amazon or other retailers like Best Buy. Given that the XM6 are the more expensive pair and that you can still buy the XM5, this first round is going to go to the XM4. The Sony WH-1000XM6 present a much bigger visual update over the XM4 than they do the XM5. They've got a more minimalist style than the older headphones, with cleaner looking earcups and a completely redesigned headband. It would be difficult to argue that they're not the better looking headset. While available in the same colors as the XM4, the XM6 wrap the headset in a more premium finish, set off by more subtle design focal points in the hinges. They're clean and attractive. Unlike the direct successor to the XM4, the XM6 bring back the folding hinges that many users loved on their headphones. That allows for a smaller carrying case so that you can fit them into a wider range of backpacks. That case is a big design departure from the traditional headsets we've seen from Sony as well. Instead of a zipper holding everything in place, there's now a magnetic clasp mechanism. It's harder, too, making the whole package feel more confidence inspiring. There are some benefits to the XM4, however. The hinge mechanisms feel sturdier than the thinner versions on the XM6, and some might appreciate their more involved design. Both headphones are extremely comfortable, with the XM6 and its wider headband doing away with the cranial pressure often found in the XM5. You'll have little problem wearing either for long periods of time. Put the two side by side and you can see the progression — but the XM6 and their new design touches and unexpected returns to form means they take this round. As with all of its headphone models, Sony has stuck with touch controls for the XM6. They're intuitive and easy to use. Swipe left and right to skip tracks, and double tap to pause playback. The most useful touch control is the instant transparency mode trigger — hold your hand over the right earcup, the volume drops, and transparency mode turns on. It's very helpful to quickly order a coffee at a cafe, or grab a bus ticket. There are two physical controls on the XM6: The power button and the ANC button. These have been redesigned. The power button is a round button, and the ANC control a small rectangle. This distinction between the two makes it much easier to work out which is which when you can't see what you're doing. No more accidental ANC activation when you want to turn the headphones off, and vice versa. The WH-1000XM4 share the same touch controls with the XM6, all the way down to their gestures. Much like the newer pair, they're intuitive and easy to use. They lack the round power button for easier on-head activation and de-activation of ANC — so the XM6 take this round. Sony went back to the sonic drawing board with the XM6, focusing on vocal clarity rather than bass response and soundstage. The result is an excellent-sounding pair of headphones, with the clearest vocals you'll find in a pair of wireless headphones. They sound good for all genres, from R&B to classical and everything in between. Managing Editor of AV at Tom's Guide, Nick Pino, was a particular fan of the "unmatched" vocal clarity. There are some caveats. Soundstage is restricted, and there's still the pervasive bass that Sony has become known for. They're still an excellent-sounding pair of headphones, but their sonic shortcomings are well worth noting. The XM4 are a less refined listen than the XM6, but they retain that signature Sony low-end grunt. They don't have the vocal clarity of the XM6, but they have a wider soundstage and slightly improved bass response. This is going to be mostly down to taste, although the XM6 manage greater control over the frequency range. As a result, the new headphones win out. It is closer than you might expect, however. The XM6 pack in an incredible array of features, with many shared from previous iterations of the line. Thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, you get excellent codec support, including LDAC, SBC, AAC, and LC3. Then there's Sony's proprietary DSEE Extreme, which can make wireless playback sound even better. Sony also has the best array of noise canceling modes out of just about anything. There are not just levels to the ANC so that you can dial it, but the chip inside the headphones will change the ANC dynamically depending on ambient noise levels. The GPS activated ANC that changes depending on your location is also here as a bonus. You can also adjust the EQ with a comprehensive 10-band EQ. There are customized options as well for different genres too. The feature set is nicely rounded out by Sony's 360 Reality Audio, although it only works with Amazon Music Unlimited. There's a "Spatial Upmix" feature coming down the road, but we are yet to get our hands on it to test it out. You'd be surprised how few features the XM4 forgo due to their age. You still get the solid Codec support, although there's no Auracast on account of the aging Bluetooth 5.0 specification. You still get a host of noise canceling modes, although the ANC doesn't shift dynamically depending on ambient noise. There are only 5 bans in the customizable EQ. For the price, though, the feature set remains very much appreciated. Sony's noise canceling algorithm has long kept its headphones amongst the best noise canceling headphones, and the WH-1000XM6 are no exception. They block out loads of noise and easily silence a noisy office or chaotic commute. It might not be as big an improvement as we were hoping for over the XM5, but it still does a great job of keeping the noise out. There's a focus this time around on the high frequencies, making it easier to listen to podcasts and audiobooks in louder environments. There are still struggles for the ANC — crying children, very busy coffee shops, and the like. Engine noise on flights might not be completely defeated either, so long-haulers may want to consider something like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones instead. The noise-canceling performance of the WH-1000XM4 isn't as big a downgrade from the new model as you might expect, with some great noise blocking on offer. They lose out in the high-range sounds, with more voices coming through, but you'll still find relative silence in most environments while listening to music. They struggle with really loud sounds, and sometimes noises like keyboards and sudden sounds can creep through. Loud airplane trips are also a struggle, so again, frequent flyers will want the Bose equivalent. In this case, the Bose QuietComfort Headphones. Thanks to their superior noise-blocking ability, the Sony WH-1000XM6 take this round. Battery life on the XM6 hasn't stepped it up all that much from the previous XM models. There are 30 hours of staying power with ANC turned on, and that rises to 40 hours if you turn it off. Quick charge is better than ever, though. Three minutes of charge will net you an extra three hours of battery life when you run out in a pinch, which is always a nice bonus considering how much you're likely to use them. The battery life of the XM4 is very similar to the XM6. You get 30 hours of life with ANC turned on, and then 38 if you turn the noise canceling on. There is also a quick charge function, but you need a special wall wart. 5 hours of use out of 10 minutes of charge is a nice bonus, though. Overall, the battery life is extremely similar — although the more useful quick charge and better ANC off time gives the XM6 the win here. It's no great surprise that at the end of it all, the Sony WH-1000XM6 take the crown between the two pairs. They sound better, have an updated design, and have more features and better noise canceling. They are the better pair of headphones. Yet there is still a case to buy the XM4. Given their much lower price and just how close they where to the XM6 in all of our testing, they're still a very compelling buy if you're looking for good headphones without breaking the bank. XM4 users looking to upgrade to Sony's latest flagship will find plenty of reasons to part with their cash as well — and given that your headphones are now likely closing on 4 years of use, the time might be right. Sony WH-1000XM6 Sony WH-1000XM4 Price and value (5) 3 4 Design (15) 13 12 Controls (10) 7 7 Sound quality (25) 22 19 Active noise cancelation (20) 19 17 Call quality (10) 9 7 Connectivity (5) 5 4 Battery life (10) 8 8 Total Score (100) 84 78
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Yahoo
My mom says these Sony headphones (down to $38) are the best gift I've given her
Have you ever had to shop for someone who's a little ... particular? I love my mom, but she can be a bit like Meg Ryan in When Harry Met Sally; she wants things the way she wants them. That's why, when I was tasked with buying her a gift for our family's Secret Santa exchange last year, I spent a lot of time considering what to get. She prefers practical gifts, but I didn't want to buy anything too boring. Just as I was about to cheat and text my dad to ask what she would want, I remembered hearing her say how uncomfortable earbuds were for her to wear. Well, wireless headphones it was! I compared different models and opted for an affordable yet highly rated pair of Sony Wireless Headphones. Spoiler alert: She loves them, and they're down to an insane $38 at Amazon as we speak. At nearly 40% off, these headphones are within a few bucks of their lowest price ever. That said, even their full price of $60 is a steal when you consider that a similar pair of Beats retails for nearly $200. Plus, Sony is a longtime respected name in electronics, so you're not taking a gamble on an unknown brand. Now, my mom is no audiophile, so comfort and affordability were my main focuses when deciding which headphones to buy. The Sonys are super lightweight and have an adjustable, cushioned headband, as well as soft padded ear cups for long-term wear without pain. I also wanted to ensure my 63-year-old mom would have no trouble pairing them to her devices, so user-friendliness was a factor as well. I'm happy to report they checked all of these boxes, as she says, "They are comfortable and easy to hook up to via Bluetooth." (They can actually be paired with two devices at a time.) Something else she appreciates? "The battery stays charged for a pretty long time" — up to 50 hours, according to the brand. And while these headphones don't have a true noise-canceling feature, she says the sound quality more than meets her standards, and there are different presets she can choose from to suit whatever type of music she's listening to. Need to take a call? The built-in microphone makes doing so a hands-free task. One note: "Like all headphones, they hurt my ears if I wear them too long," she says. That said, she thinks they're the most comfortable pair she's ever tried overall. My mom isn't alone — nearly 13,000 Amazon customers say these headphones are worthy of a perfect five-star rating. "[I] can't stand the feel of earbuds, so these are great," shared a kindred spirit of my mom's. "They are lightweight and comfy to wear. Great sound quality as well. I wear them working out, traveling and I have even used [them] ... to block out annoying snoring." "I've had these headphones for about six months now and the battery life [is] incredible," raved another satisfied shopper. "I will charge it for an hour on Sunday and they will last the rest of the week." "I am not tech-savvy, and these headphones are so easy to use," said a third. "They are comfortable and can fold down pretty flat, so I can take them to work in my laptop case. Highly recommend!" "I would not say they're noise-canceling," wrote a mostly satisfied buyer, "but they do have good insulation from outside noise. ... Battery life is impressively long, they charge quickly and the sound quality is great." "Good sound, easy to use," echoed a final fan, noting, "My only complaint is the buttons in the earpiece are very small. It would be nice to have them larger for easier operation." And to keep them protected and pristine in transit: If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.) The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
