Sony releases the WH-1000XM4C headphones in a new lilac colorway

Sony has introduced the WH-1000XM4C, a second-generation iteration of its popular WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones, featuring a new lilac color option. While the device retains the core design and functionality of the original XM4 series, it offers improved audio tuning that the reviewer notes is more comparable to the higher-end XM6 and Collection models. The headphones maintain key features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), touch-sensitive ear cup controls, and a foldable design that fits into a lightweight carrying case. Despite these refinements, the battery life has decreased from 30 hours in the first generation to 27 hours in this model, though it retains a quick-charge capability providing one hour of playback from a three-hour charge. The headphones are priced at $299, positioning them as a mid-to-high-tier option that avoids the $500 price point common among current flagship audio products. The device supports LDAC, SBC, and AAC codecs, alongside a 10-band equalizer and specialized gaming audio settings accessible through the companion mobile application.

Tech4K StaffVideo report

Sony has introduced the WH-1000XM4C, a second-generation iteration of its popular WH-1000XM4 noise-canceling headphones, featuring a new lilac color option. While the device retains the core design and functionality of the original XM4 series, it offers improved audio tuning that the reviewer notes is more comparable to the higher-end XM6 and Collection models. The headphones maintain key features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), touch-sensitive ear cup controls, and a foldable design that fits into a lightweight carrying case. Despite these refinements, the battery life has decreased from 30 hours in the first generation to 27 hours in this model, though it retains a quick-charge capability providing one hour of playback from a three-hour charge. The headphones are priced at $299, positioning them as a mid-to-high-tier option that avoids the $500 price point common among current flagship audio products. The device supports LDAC, SBC, and AAC codecs, alongside a 10-band equalizer and specialized gaming audio settings accessible through the companion mobile application.

The Sony WH-1000XM4C features a new lilac colorway while maintaining the classic foldable design of the original XM4 series. Audio performance has been improved with crisper mid-range frequencies compared to the first-generation XM4 headphones.

The battery life is rated at 27 hours, which is a slight reduction from the 30 hours provided by the original model. Users can achieve one hour of playback time with a three-hour charging session.

The headphones include active noise cancellation and touch controls on the right ear cup for playback and volume management. The companion mobile application provides access to a 10-band equalizer and specific gaming audio presets.

Chapter guide

Introduction to the WH-1000XM4COverview of the new lilac-colored Sony headphones and their relationship to the original XM4 series.Design and ComfortDiscussion of the physical design, weight, and comfort of the headphones during extended use.Controls and FeaturesDemonstration of the touch-sensitive controls and core features like ANC and Bluetooth connectivity.Battery Life and PortabilityComparison of battery performance between generations and the utility of the included carrying case.Audio Quality and TuningAnalysis of the sound profile, specifically the clarity of the mid-range frequencies.App Functionality and PricingReview of the companion app settings, codec support, and the $299 price point.

Worth noting

  • The reviewer notes that the headphones use the same microphones and ANC processor as the original XM4 and XM5 models, suggesting the improved audio performance is primarily due to software tuning.

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