The company also debuts two new budget-friendly options. Sony is taking a unique approach to its headphone lineup for the rest of the year. Instead of building an all-new upper-midrange model, the company is reviving an old favorite: the WH-1000XM4C (or WH-1000XM4 second-generation). This model brings back the well-reviewed entry in its iconic 1000X headphone line with a few upgrades and a lower price compared to the current WH-1000XM6. The WH-1000XM4C has the same design as the regular 1000XM4 headphones and retains all features from the previous version, including active noise cancellation (ANC) powered by the QN1 chip, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, and more. It comes with Sony's latest sound profile, 10-band EQ, and gaming-specific EQ for audio enhancement. Quick Access allows one-touch launch of streaming services. However, battery life is reduced to 27 hours with ANC enabled (down from 31 hours in the original M4) and improved quick-charge capability (3 minutes gives 1 hour of listening time). The WH-1000XM4C will cost $300, $50 less than the original M4 and $150 less than the WH-1000XM6.
For a true midrange option, Sony introduces the WH-CH730N, arriving this month. It replaces the WH-CH720N, offering a redesigned ear cup and folding headband. The new model features 10% less noise through a revised ANC system, improved AI-based noise reduction, and better call quality. Audio upgrades include a natural-sounding vocal profile, 10-band EQ, gaming EQ, and background music mode. Battery life is significantly improved to 50 hours with ANC on (75 hours without), a 15-hour increase over the WH-CH720N. It also includes a safe listening mode, weekly sound allowance checks, and usage tracking. The WH-CH730N will be available in black, blue, tan, white, and pink for $180.
The last model, the WH-CH530, replaces the WH-CH520 as Sony’s budget-friendly on-ear option. It offers improved sound quality with 10-band and gaming EQs, though it lacks ANC. Battery life is up to 55 hours, and it includes AI-assisted call quality and Sony’s hearing health features. The WH-CH530 will arrive in September for $70, matching the previous model’s price. It comes in black, purple, green, white, pink, and coral colors.
Source: Engadget
