Sony has expanded its flagship audio lineup with the launch of the WH-1000X “The ColleXion,” a high-end addition to its well-known WH-1000X series of over-ear noise-cancelling headphones.
The release coincides with the 10th anniversary of Sony’s original MDR-1000X model, which marked the beginning of the company’s modern noise-cancelling headphone lineup and paved the way for the WH-1000X series.
Sony states that the new model, pronounced “The Collection,” incorporates key features from the WH-1000XM6 while introducing upgraded materials, refined engineering, and premium design enhancements to position it as a top-tier offering in the lineup.
The WH-1000X “The ColleXion” features a synthetic leather finish inspired by the original MDR-1000X design language. It includes deeper ear cushions, a wider headband for improved comfort, and stainless steel components for added durability.
Unlike previous models, the headphones do not fold and instead only swivel inward. A redesigned carrying case with an integrated handle is also included. The model will be available in black and white color options.
All physical controls are positioned on the left ear cup, including power, ANC, ambient sound, and a new spatial audio mode switch. The device supports Sony’s 360 Upmix technology, offering optimized sound profiles for music, cinema, and gaming, along with DSEE Ultimate AI upscaling for enhanced playback of compressed audio files.
The headphones use 30mm drivers similar in size to the WH-1000XM6, but feature redesigned soft-edge driver technology aimed at improving bass response and noise isolation. Sony has also re-engineered the internal circuit layout, introducing a thicker copper substrate to enhance sound clarity, depth, and overall audio staging.
The tuning process was carried out in collaboration with professional mastering engineers from Battery Studios, Sterling Sound, and Coast Mastering.
The WH-1000X “The ColleXion” includes 12 microphones with adaptive noise cancellation and beamforming technology for improved voice clarity. It is powered by Sony’s QN3 noise-canceling processor, along with a new V3 integrated processor designed to further enhance ANC performance and audio processing efficiency.
The headphones offer up to 24 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation enabled and up to 32 hours with ANC off. Pricing starts at $649, €629, and £549, positioning the model above the WH-1000XM6 in Sony’s premium segment.
The WH-1000X “The ColleXion” represents Sony’s latest effort to combine advanced audio engineering with a refined, luxury-focused design approach in its flagship headphone series.
