Sony 1000X “The ColleXion” – Full specs, design, price and launch details

Sony’s next flagship over‑ear headphones have finally been laid bare. The 1000X “The ColleXion” pushes the WH‑1000XM line into true luxury territory, targeting audiophiles and fashion‑focused buyers who have outgrown the usual "WH" naming scheme.

What’s new

• Continuous curved headband – Polished metal hinges replace the plastic pivots that have caused durability complaints on the XM5 and XM6. The new curve distributes pressure more evenly across the crown, reducing fatigue on long listening sessions.
• 12‑microphone ANC array – A dual‑processor system (QN3 + V3) drives a twelve‑mic layout that samples ambient sound from all angles. Real‑time adaptive algorithms keep the cabin quiet even in turbulent environments such as trains or open‑plan offices.
• Studio‑tuned drivers – Engineers from Battery Studios, Sterling Sound and Coast Mastering co‑tuned the 40 mm drivers. The result is a flatter frequency response that retains the signature Sony warmth while delivering more accurate mids and crisp highs.
• AI‑enhanced voice pickup – Six microphones form a beam‑forming array that isolates the speaker’s voice, suppresses wind and background chatter, and feeds the signal to Sony’s on‑device AI for clearer calls.
• Premium build – Leather‑wrapped ear cushions sit on a metal slider frame. The finish is offered in matte Black and a high‑gloss Platinum White, both with subtle branding that leans toward a fashion accessory rather than a tech gadget.
• Battery life – With ANC on, the headphones promise 24 hours; turn ANC off and the figure climbs to 32 hours. A quick‑charge burst of five minutes yields 1.5 hours of playback, and a full charge reaches the 34‑hour mark when the case is used as a power bank.
• Physical controls – A classic 3.5 mm jack, dedicated power and Bluetooth buttons, plus a pill‑shaped multifunction button for ANC toggle, playback and voice assistant activation.

How it compares

Feature	1000X “The ColleXion”	AirPods Max 2	Bowers & Wilkins Px8
ANC microphones	12 (dual‑processor)	8	10
Battery (ANC on)	24 h	20 h	22 h
Quick charge	5 min → 1.5 h	5 min → 1 h	10 min → 1 h
Materials	Leather + metal	Mesh + aluminum	Leather + carbon fiber
Price (launch)	€629 / £549 / $649	€799 / £749 / $849	€999 / £899 / $1099

The ColleXion’s battery life exceeds the AirPods Max 2 by four hours and its microphone count outstrips both rivals, suggesting a more aggressive approach to active noise cancellation. Pricing, however, sits comfortably below the B&W Px8, making Sony’s offering the most affordable true‑luxury over‑ear set in the segment.

Who it’s for

• Audiophiles who want a neutral sound – The studio‑tuned drivers aim for a reference‑grade response, a step up from the consumer‑oriented tuning of the XM series.
• Travel professionals – The 12‑mic ANC and long battery life make the headphones suitable for long‑haul flights and noisy train cabins.
• Style‑conscious users – The leather‑wrapped cushions and metal headband give the headphones a premium aesthetic that pairs well with business attire or high‑end casual wear.
• Call‑heavy workers – AI‑driven voice pickup and wind reduction improve call clarity in outdoor or windy settings.

Box contents and launch details

The leak confirms a May 19, 2026 announcement, with retail pricing set at €629 / £549 / $649. Inside the box you’ll find:

• The 1000X “The ColleXion” headphones
• A 1.2 m 3.5 mm audio cable
• A sculpted purse‑style carrying case with magnetic closure and integrated handle
• A USB‑A to USB‑C charging cable (despite a contradictory “no cable” note in the official slide, the promotional images show the cable included)

Sony’s decision to bundle a dedicated case signals a shift toward treating headphones as a fashion accessory rather than a purely functional device. The case’s design mirrors the headphones’ sleek lines, offering a premium unboxing experience that should appeal to the target market.

Bottom line

Sony’s 1000X “The ColleXion” appears to be a well‑rounded upgrade over the XM6, with a focus on durability, high‑grade sound and a luxury feel. Its spec sheet positions it squarely against the AirPods Max 2 and B&W Px8, but at a lower price point and with a longer battery life. If the leaked figures hold up, the ColleXion could become the go‑to premium over‑ear set for professionals who value both sound quality and style.

Stay tuned for the official datasheet on May 19, 2026 for final confirmation of the specs and accessories.