Sony is preparing a special edition of its premium headphones, the 1000X The ColleXion Edition, to mark the 10th anniversary of the series. The company had already revealed some details, but a new extensive leak has essentially shown the device from all angles, filling in the rest of the picture with specifications, design details, accessories, and pricing.
According to well-known insider OnLeaks and HotEUDeals, one of the key features of the Sony 1000X The ColleXion is a more upscale look with polished metal elements. Unlike the WH-1000XM6, metal is used not just as a decorative accent but also in the hinge area between the headband and ear cups. This could improve build durability and address some longevity concerns raised by XM6 owners.
The headphones are expected in black and white. From the leak, Sony has also redesigned the earpads: they appear thicker, denser, and more neatly integrated into the cup housing. The cups themselves are reportedly spacious enough for long listening sessions without discomfort. Buttons and microphone grilles are now more flush with the body, and the elements visually resemble metal, though they may be plastic with a metallic coating.
Under the hood, there are notable upgrades. The new model is rumored to feature an additional V3 coprocessor alongside the familiar QM3 chip used in the WH-1000XM6. Also mentioned is a 12-microphone array, six per cup. This system should enhance active noise cancellation, voice transmission quality, and AI algorithms that Sony will likely use for more precise processing of ambient sounds.
Sony is placing particular emphasis on sound quality. According to the leak, the drivers in the 1000X The ColleXion were tuned in collaboration with three studios linked to Grammy winners: Battery Studios, Coast Mastering, and Sterling Sound. This underscores the model's status as a more premium, studio-oriented product compared to the regular series headphones.
Battery life might be slightly lower than that of the WH-1000XM6. With ANC enabled, the Sony 1000X The ColleXion is expected to last around 24 hours, while the XM6 offer up to 30 hours. Without ANC, it can reach 32 hours. Fast charging is included: five minutes at the outlet should provide about 1.5 hours of playback.
The package will include a new premium case that closes with magnets instead of a zipper. This accessory better suits the fashion-forward image Sony is cultivating for this model. Also in the box are a USB-A to USB-C cable and a 3.5mm audio cable for wired use. However, USB-C audio playback is reportedly not supported again.
The price of the Sony 1000X The ColleXion in the US is said to be $649, about $200 more than the WH-1000XM6, highlighting its positioning as a more exclusive version. The official launch is expected on May 19, with sales reportedly starting the same day.