Sony drops $650 headphone goliath: the 1000x collexion arrives
Sony’s aggressively premium headphone strategy continues with the unveiling of the 1000X The Collexion, a flagship offering designed to intimidate the competition – and, frankly, probably intimidate a significant chunk of its own user base.
A weighty statement: luxury at a cost
The initial reveal showcased a decidedly conservative aesthetic: two understated shades of Platinum and Black. But beneath the surface, Sony’s layered the headphones with a substantial dose of brushed metal, a stainless steel swivel hinge, and a general commitment to a feeling of palpable solidity. It adds roughly 320g, a noticeable heft compared to the more agile Sony WH-1000XM6 – which clocks in at a comparatively lightweight 254g. Let’s be honest, the added weight isn’t pleasant, but it’s undeniably a deliberate statement of intent.
Sound quality and anc: a refined experience
Sony’s partnered with Grammy-winning engineers to tweak the audio profile, emphasizing balanced sound with what they’re calling “nuanced dynamics.” The inclusion of the V3 chip and DSEE Ultimate, their AI-powered audio upscaling tech, promises to breathe new life into compressed audio files. Beyond the sound, the multi-microphone array and Adaptive NC Optimizer aims to deliver best-in-class noise cancellation – noticeably superior to the XM6’s performance in mid-range scenarios.
The devil’s in the details (and the specs)
While the XM6 offers a more practical price point ($459.99), the Collexion pushes the upper limit at $649.99. It’s a significant investment, particularly considering the limited connectivity – Bluetooth 6.0 is a welcome step up from the XM6’s 5.3, but the absence of USB-C connectivity is a serious oversight. Battery life is respectable – 24 hours with ANC on – but falls short of the XM6’s 30+ hour estimate.
Why pay this much?
Sony is hoping the Collexion’s sheer premium feel – the metal construction, the refined sound, and the expanded 360 Reality Audio Upmix – will justify the price tag. However, for the average listener prioritizing portability and value, the Sony WH-1000XM6 remains a far more compelling proposition. The fact that Sony still hasn’t fully embraced USB-C in this flagship model suggests they're catering to a very specific, and likely affluent, audience. Ultimately, this is a headphone built for conspicuous consumption, not everyday use.