The Sony 1000X The Collexion fixed my biggest problem with the XM6

Earlier this year, I wrote about why I can’t wear the Sony WH-1000XM6. Despite the excellent sound quality and noise cancellation, I couldn’t get past the comfort issues. Shallow earcups, a thin headband, and an annoying ANC microphone that rattles my ears. Unfortunately, it was a dealbreaker, and I wore other comfortable things, like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2, on planes and trains instead.

The Collexion is Sony’s $649.99 ultra-premium take on the 1000X line – same noise cancellation, same sound, but dressed in a luxurious leather and aluminum build. But without being wrapped in the finest material, they have plenty of cushion and are a pleasure to wear.

First, the headband is about 40% thicker and 10% wider than the XM6’s, and the metal band wraps more outward than inward. All of this is like a nice pillow on top of my cranium with no pressure.

Second, the internal seating area of ​​the earcups is large, so my ears fit inside without feeling cramped. The internal drivers are also angled rather than sitting straight in my ears like the XM6, which gives the earcups more interior space and makes the sound feel more spacious. As a result, I didn’t mind that the earpads themselves are 5mm thinner in profile. It may seem strange that Sony has lowered the earpads, but the light weight means less drag, which helps the headphones feel lighter.

One thing I really wish Sony had done was add magnetic earcups. If you want to replace the earpads for something bigger, lining up the little plastic snaps might be easier. For a headphone that leans this hard on the comfort angle, flexible magnetic pads like Apple’s AirPods Max would have enhanced the whole experience.

As it stands, the Collexion are the first 1000X headphones I’ve worn all day since the WH-1000XM4. I’ve worn the Collexion express buses to work and hour-long summer commutes, and so far I’ve had no issues with comfort or fit. That’s what I wanted to say about the XM6, but at least I can say it now.

Yes, $649.99 is a significant jump from $400, and honestly a small barrier for me to purchase a personal pair. But the Collexion solves one problem that makes the XM6 a non-starter for me as a daily driver. If comfort is your sticking point with the XM6, this is Sony’s answer. Now let’s hope they will eventually sell.