Sony XM4 Headphones remain the top choice in audio equipment, and I'm advocating for them once more, given this exceptional discounted price available on Amazon.
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The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones continue to be a top choice for those seeking high-quality noise-cancelling headphones, despite the release of newer models such as the XM5 and XM6.
These headphones are highly regarded for their excellent value, well-balanced sound, strong noise cancellation, comfortable solid build, and intuitive hands-free controls. The Sony WH-1000XM4 deliver good sound quality for noise-cancelling headphones, with a slightly hyped bass and bright treble that some users address via EQ, making them pleasant for most everyday listeners.
The headphones' noise cancelling performance is also commendable, though the XM5 and XM6 offer incremental enhancements. The XM4's ANC remains very effective and competitive, making it easier for users to focus on their work or enjoy their music without external distractions.
The XM4 is recognized for its solid construction and comfort, often rated slightly higher on comfort than the XM5. This, combined with its ease of connectivity and user-friendly controls, makes the XM4 a versatile choice for various scenarios, including travel and remote work.
One of the key reasons for the XM4's continued popularity is its value for money. The XM4 typically comes at a lower price point as newer models arrive, delivering much of the high-end performance at a better cost.
In comparison, the XM5 offers slightly better noise cancellation, particularly in sub-bass and high frequencies, and a lighter build with improved comfort. However, these improvements come at a higher price, with similar sound characteristics that still benefit from EQ tweaks.
The XM6 brings marginal improvements in noise canceling, sound quality, microphone performance, and adds spatial audio with head tracking and an upgraded QN3 chip, but at a significantly higher price. These design tweaks are aimed at enhancing comfort, particularly suited to frequent travelers and remote workers.
Despite these advances, the improvements from XM4 to XM5 and then XM6 have not been transformative enough to render the XM4 obsolete. The XM4 strikes a strong balance between performance, comfort, features, and affordability, which sustains its status as a top pick for many users who want excellent noise cancelling without paying premium prices for the newest model.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 are currently available at Amazon for US$198, making them a reasonable price point, at least $100 less than the newer Sony XM5. In our Sony WH-1000XM4 review, we originally gave the headphones a five-star rating, praising their unbeatable sound quality, design, and value.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 also have a folding design, making them easier to carry around compared to the newer XM5. Despite being older, the Sony WH-1000XM4 are still considered some of the best over-ear headphones, thanks to their lightweight, comfortable design.
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