Sony is set to release its WH-1000X headphones tomorrow, but an extensive leak has outpaced the announcement. It has revealed detailed, official-looking product images and key specifications ahead of the official launch.
Sony WH-1000X The ColleXion
The leak indicates that the WH-1000X are positioned as a higher-end model compared to the WH-1000XM6, although they are not direct replacements.
The design seen in previous leaked renders is confirmed in the new leak. The WH-1000X features a modified yoke (hinge), which appears to be made of brushed metal.
Sony WH-1000X The ColleXion in black
The brushed metal extends to the outer part of the headband, while the inner side features a plush, leather-like material. The headband on the upcoming headphones appears thicker and wider than the one on the WH-1000XM6. Additionally, there are three physical buttons on one of the earcups, one more than the XM6s.
Sony WH-1000X The ColleXion in white
The ColleXion pair will be available in black and white, and they will also come with a new carrying case. The case features an integrated carrying handle and is made from the same fabric material as previous generation WH-1000X series cases.
Sony WH-1000X The ColleXion case and accessories
Images of the headphones inside their case suggest they will not fold like the XM6 generation but will revert to the swivel mechanism found on the XM5s. The headphones will include a 3.5mm audio cable and a USB cable for charging.
In terms of audio, the 1000X are said to feature “bespoke drivers”, co-tuned with mastering engineers from Battery Studios, Sterling Sound and Coast Mastering. There’s no exact information on the driver size yet.
Sony WH-1000X The ColleXion key specs
The headphones will feature a total of 12 microphones, split evenly between both sides, with adaptive ANC and beamforming for precise voice pickup. The leaked information confirms they feature the same QN3 Noise Canceling Processor as the XM6s, but the 1000X are getting a new V3 integrated processor. This could imply improved ANC performance and/or sound processing.
Sony WH-1000X The ColleXion key specs
The slides also claim 24 hours of battery life with ANC and up to 32 hours with ANC off. These numbers are actually lower than the WH-1000XM6’s claimed 30 hours of playback with ANC on and 40 hours with ANC off.
The WH-1000X are expected to launch at €649, which would make them €180 more expensive than the XM6s at launch.
