With the integration of an AI (artificial intelligence) module, Sony's Bluetooth 5.2 LDAC WH-1000XM5 headband headphones are undoubtedly the most complete model on the market.
Sony WH-1000XM5, main features
As proof, the many new features like Quick Attention or Speak-to-Chat. The first allows you to perceive a sound or the voice of an interlocutor just by placing your hand on the right atrium. The second recognizes the user's voice and automatically lowers music and active noise writing. All you have to do is talk to be at the heart of your environment again.
New this year, the Quick Access function allowing you to configure the Sony WH-1000XM5 to restart Spotify playback very quickly without having to access your smartphone.
Adaptive Sound Control, Auto NC Optimizer, Precise Voice Pickup…
Similarly, the Adaptive Sound Control mode selects optimized settings according to the location (GPS) of its user (station, strolling in a street, etc.) to facilitate its ergonomics. For its part, the Auto NC Optimizer function improves the performance of active noise reduction by taking into account the ambient pressure (aeroplane, etc.). Namely, the active noise reduction algorithm within the QN1 chip has been modified in order to be even more effective at high and medium frequencies (see diagram below). We can also mention the Precise Voice Pickup process, which is very useful for enjoying clearer voices during telephone calls.
Of course, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones also recognize whether they're worn over the ears or resting on the neck, adapting their operation to save battery life as much as possible. On the other hand, unlike its predecessors, the Sony WH-1000XM5 no longer adopts a foldable configuration.
Acoustic package
Concerning the rest of the specifications of the Sony WH-1000XM5, there are new transducers with a 30 mm diaphragm specifically developed to optimize active noise reduction. The management of the various voice assistants on the market (Alexa and Google Assistant are integrated and do not require the smartphone, unlike Siri) is of course still in the game. To come back to the battery, the autonomy shows 30 hours of wireless listening and with active noise reduction engaged. We also notice a Quick Charge mode which gives 3 hours of listening time for only 3 minutes of charging. Note, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is equipped with a Jack socket for an optional wired connection.
360 Reality Audio and DSEE EXtreme functions
In terms of sound, Sony has equipped its latest with 360 Reality Audio technology to be literally immersed in sound, and the DSEE Extreme system which restores luster to compressed music pieces, with the aim of approaching high-resolution rendering, even when streaming (Android only).
Of course, Hi-Res Audio certification is required, in wired and wireless mode, with native management of 96 kHz/24 bits, and even 192 kHz/24 bits with a Bluetooth LDAC connection. Finally, the Fast Pair and Swift Pair functions are on the menu, for quick pairing with an Android device for the first, Windows for the second. Precision, the Sony WH-1000XM5 can be paired simultaneously with two audio sources, and switch from one to the other by simply pressing a button. Similarly, in the event of a call, the headset directly selects the correct device.
Sony Headphones Connect App
Finally, the Sony Headphones Connect mobile application allows you to customize the various functions of the headphones and to fully control them. Available immediately in black or white. Indicative price: 420 euros.
Reminder of the key features of the Sony WH-1000XM5:
• Type: closed dynamic circum-aural headphones
• Loudspeaker(s): 30 mm diameter transducers
• Frequency response: 4 Hz-40 kHz
• Sensitivity: 102 dB
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2
• Supported Bluetooth profiles: A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP
• Codecs: SBC/AAC/LDAC
• Certification: Hi-Res Audio
• Function(s): DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, port detection, Adaptive Sound Control, Auto NC Optimizer, Precise Voice Pickup, Quick Attention, Quick Access and Speak-to-Chat
• Active noise reduction: yes
• Voice assistants Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri
• Autonomy: 30 hours (in Bluetooth and reduction noise activated)
• Charging time: 3.5 h (3 min gives 3 hours of use)
• Other(s): Sony Headphones Connect app, operation in Passive mode
• Weight: 250g