After more than 2 years since the start of the global pandemic, things are, to a certain extent, starting to revert back to normal. Though happening slowly but surely, we have seen people become more and more acclimated to this new normal. Consequently, our fast-paced and active lifestyles are likewise returning; with this, wouldn’t it be great to have a device that can be the perfect companion for such situations?
Queue Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones.
Based on its predecessors, we know that there are certain things we can fully expect from this device: an excellent combination of Sony’s Noise Canceling Technology and superlative sound quality.
Now, if those two characteristics aren’t already enough, Sony looks to further add on to its WH-1000XM5 with a more comfortable design, exceptional call quality, easy connectivity, as well as being a smart, intuitive device.
So, how exactly can the WH-1000XM5 suit the new normal lifestyle? Well, here are just some of the reasons why:
Design:
Coming in two different colors, black and silver/cream, the WH-1000XM5’s design isn’t necessarily eye-popping at first glance, especially due to it being solid-colored and sporting a minimalist design. However, it’s in the sleek and subtle detailing where you can truly appreciate its composition.
I’m a big fan of its newly-developed soft fit leather that coats the headphones, giving it a glossy and silky finish. Moreover, its monochromatic design allows the gold Sony logos on either side of the headphone to standout, which adds to its overall elegant and sophisticated appearance. All of these add up to not only create slick styling, but its smooth and consistent texture make it a pleasure to both feel and wear.
From its rather minimalist design, sleek appearance and the leather used to coat it, the WH-1000XM5 definitely has both a premium look and feel to it. Even after extensive use, wearing the headphones doesn’t get uncomfortable or even hot, especially with the Manila weather. As someone who wears glasses, however, long usage can sometimes make it feel tight on the sides of the head.
Located at the bottom of the right headphone is the Type-C charging port. At the bottom of the left, on the other hand, is a button to control power and BlueTooth, another to quickly shift to and from the Noise Canceling and Ambient Noise modes, as well as an audio jack, if need be.
Another thing worth noting is the case/sleeve that the WH-1000XM5 comes with which I, personally, am a big fan of. Its styling and design emulates that of the headphones, with its all-around dark-toned finish and its zipper with the Sony logo that catches the eye due to its gold detailing. Inside consists of a cute little pocket that houses the charging cord and the audio jack. Aside from being conveniently sized, the case is also hard-bound to help protect the WH-1000XM5’s wellbeing.
Noise Canceling Technology:
As previously mentioned, Sony has been making a name for itself in the Noise Canceling category, and its latest WH-1000XM5 seeks to defy that even more. With Sony’s Multi-Noise Sensor Technology, a 4-microphone setup is utilized to keep out more high- and mid-frequency sounds. Moreover, Auto NC Optimizer impressively optimizes noise cancellation based on your own wearing conditions, as well as the current environment you’re in.
Being in various different scenarios, I was able to truly experience the capabilities of Sony’s Noise Canceling Technology– from strolling through the mall, working in coffee shops, receiving calls in noisy environments, traveling or simply going for a stroll –it seems as if there’s only one thing the WH-1000XM5 can’t cancel out: my dogs’ incessant barking.
Of course, there’s more to all of this than merely listening to music unadulterated; Sony also integrates this technology into the more social aspect of the device. Precise Pick Up Technology isolates and, ultimately, calibrates itself with your voice, allowing it to solely focus on that, whilst shunning all other noises. This makes the WH-1000XM5 all the more appealing for those who frequent work conferences online, zoom catch-ups with friends, or spending all day on FaceTime with your significant other.
All these indicate how much significance in noise canceling Sony places on its products, such as this one.
Additional Features:
Other than noise canceling, Sony has added a number of useful features as well, such as facilitating higher quality audio levels, easy access switching to and from noise canceling and ambient sound modes, as well as the audio pausing once it detects speech. I’ve found these facets to be very accessible and easy to use, adding to its overall convenience.
On a side note, however, the audio would pause automatically upon singing along to the music. Either its speech detection is superb, or maybe it just wants me to stop singing altogether. Fortunately, customizing and personalizing the headphones and its many functions is quite a breeze with Sony’s Headphones Connect App.
Another noteworthy aspect is that the headphones can connect to multiple devices (2 max) at once, making it increasingly more convenient when multitasking and/or constantly switching between different devices. As someone who constantly uses both phone and laptop while working, connecting to multiple devices and being able to swiftly switch between the two makes these headphones all the more practical and functional.
Battery:
The WH-1000XM5 is powered by a battery that can last a whopping 30 hours total and can replenish 3 hours of charge in just 3 minutes, perfect for those long, extensive days without having to worry about low levels of battery. Especially for a device expected to undergo heavy and extensive usage, possessing such a capable battery makes this device all the more a great companion.
Verdict:
As headphones that exude Noise Canceling Technology, superior sound quality and sporting a number of useful functions, Sony’s WH-1000XM5 is the perfect companion for the on-the-go, bustling lifestyle. Even with the relatively large price tag of P20,999, the WH-1000XM5 is the type of headphone that would make it quite difficult to go back to any other product you were previously using.
