Introduction of Sony ULT WEAR Review:
Sony has once again made waves in the audio market with its latest release, the Sony ULT WEAR headphones. Priced at $199.99, these headphones are a part of Sony’s new ULT Power Sound series, designed to cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. With a focus on powerful bass, advanced noise cancellation, and extended battery life, the ULT WEAR aims to provide an immersive audio experience. Here’s a detailed look at what makes these headphones stand out.
Sony ULT WEAR Headphones: Basic Information
Product Name: Sony ULT WEAR Headphones (Model: WH-ULT900N)
Price: $199.99
Release Date: Spring 2024
In Design:
Colors Available: Black, White, Forest Green
Build: Sturdy and foldable with comfortable ear cups and a padded headband
Portability: Foldable design with a carrying case
In Audio Performance:
Sound Signature: Extra bass (XB) series with deep, punchy bass
Driver Units: Specially designed for enhanced bass performance
ULT Button: Enhances bass for a concert-like experience
In Noise Cancellation:
Technology: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) powered by V1 processor from the 1000X series
Performance: Effective in reducing ambient noise, though not as advanced as the WH-1000XM5
In Ambient Sound Mode:
Functionality: Allows external sounds to filter in for situational awareness
In Battery Life:
With ANC On: Up to 30 hours
With ANC Off: Up to 50 hours
In Charging Time: Approximately 4.5 hours
In Connectivity:
Bluetooth Version: 5.0
Multipoint Connectivity: Can pair with two devices simultaneously
Additional Features:
- Touch Controls: For playback and volume adjustments
- Auto-Pause/Play: Music pauses when headphones are removed and resumes when put back on
- Voice Assistant Support: Viable with famous voice colleagues
Target Audience:
Ideal For: Bass enthusiasts, commuters, and casual listeners seeking a balance of performance and affordability
Availability: Available for purchase from various online and physical retail outlets, starting spring 2024.
Design and Comfort
The Sony ULT WEAR headphones boast a sleek, minimalist design available in black, white, and forest green. They feature a sturdy build with comfortable ear cups and a padded headband, making them suitable for long listening sessions. The headphones are foldable, enhancing portability, and come with a carrying case for easy transport.
Audio Performance
The ULT WEAR headphones are part of Sony’s extra bass (XB) series, and they live up to the name. Equipped with specially designed driver units and the V1 audio processor, these headphones deliver deep, punchy bass that is ideal for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and pop. The unique ULT button enhances bass further, providing a concert-like experience that some may find overwhelming but is perfect for bass enthusiasts.
Noise Cancellation and Ambient Sound
One of the standout features of the ULT WEAR headphones is the active noise cancellation (ANC) powered by Sony’s V1 processor, borrowed from the premium 1000X series. The ANC is effective at reducing ambient noise, making it great for commuting or working in noisy environments. However, it may not match the performance of higher-end models like the WH-1000XM5.
For those times when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, the ULT WEAR also includes an ambient sound mode. This mode allows outside sounds to filter in, making it safer to use in environments where hearing external noises is crucial.
Battery Life
Battery life is another strong suit of the ULT WEAR headphones. Sony claims up to 30 hours of playback with ANC turned on and up to 50 hours with ANC off. Real-world testing supports these claims, with users reporting substantial battery life even with frequent use of the noise cancellation feature. Charging takes around 4.5 hours, so it’s best to plug them in overnight.
Connectivity and Features
The ULT WEAR headphones support Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and robust wireless connection. They also feature multipoint connectivity, allowing you to pair with two devices simultaneously. This is particularly useful for seamlessly switching between your phone and laptop.
Additional features include touch controls for playback and volume adjustments, as well as a sensor that pauses music when the headphones are removed and resumes playback when they are put back on. These intuitive features enhance the overall user experience.
Detailed Features
Features of Sony ULT WEAR Headphones
1. Design and Build Quality
- Color Options: The headphones are available in three colors: black, white, and forest green.
- Construction: They feature a robust yet lightweight design with comfortable ear cups and a padded headband, making them suitable for prolonged use.
- Portability: The foldable design enhances portability, and they come with a carrying case for protection during travel.
2. Audio Performance
- Sound Quality: The ULT WEAR headphones are part of Sony’s extra bass (XB) series, offering a powerful and immersive bass experience. The sound is deep and punchy, catering particularly well to bass-heavy genres like hip-hop and EDM.
- ULT Button: This feature allows users to enhance the bass further, providing a concert-like audio experience that is ideal for bass enthusiasts.
3. Noise Cancellation
- Technology: The headphones feature active noise cancellation (ANC) powered by Sony’s V1 processor, which is also used in the premium 1000X series.
- Performance: The ANC effectively reduces ambient noise, making it suitable for noisy environments like public transport or busy offices. However, it might not be as advanced as the ANC found in the WH-1000XM5.
4. Ambient Sound Mode
- Functionality: The ambient sound mode allows external sounds to pass through, enhancing situational awareness. This feature is particularly useful when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, such as when walking on busy streets or in an office setting.
5. Battery Life
- With ANC On: The headphones offer up to 30 hours of playback time with ANC activated.
- With ANC Off: The battery life extends up to 50 hours without ANC.
- Charging Time: They take approximately 4.5 hours to fully charge. This extended battery life makes them ideal for long trips and continuous use throughout the day.
6. Connectivity
- Bluetooth: The headphones use Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable and robust wireless connection.
- Multipoint Connectivity: This feature allows the headphones to connect to two devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a laptop, making it easy to switch between devices.
7. Additional Features
- Touch Controls: The headphones have touch-sensitive controls on the ear cups for managing playback, adjusting volume, and handling calls.
- Auto-Pause/Play: A sensor detects when the headphones are removed, automatically pausing the music, and resumes playback when they are put back on. This feature enhances user convenience and helps save battery life.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: The ULT WEAR headphones are compatible with popular voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa, allowing for hands-free control.
Pros and Cons of Sony ULT WEAR Headphone
Pros
- Powerful Bass:
The ULT WEAR headphones are part of Sony’s extra bass series, delivering deep and punchy bass that is ideal for bass-heavy genres like hip-hop and EDM. The ULT button further enhances the bass for an immersive experience.
- Effective Noise Cancellation:
The ANC, powered by Sony’s V1 processor, effectively reduces ambient noise, making it suitable for noisy environments. While it may not match the WH-1000XM5, it is still quite impressive for the price range.
- Long Battery Life:
With up to 30 hours of playback time with ANC on and up to 50 hours with ANC off, the battery life is excellent. This makes the headphones ideal for long trips and continuous use throughout the day.
- Comfortable Design:
The headphones feature comfortable ear cups and a padded headband, making them suitable for long listening sessions. The foldable design enhances portability, and the headphones come with a carrying case.
- Advanced Connectivity:
Bluetooth 5.0 ensures a stable wireless connection. The multipoint connectivity feature allows pairing with two devices simultaneously, which is convenient for switching between devices.
- Intuitive Features:
Touch controls for playback and volume adjustments, auto-pause/play functionality when the headphones are removed and put back on, and compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa add to the convenience.
Cons
- Overwhelming Bass for Some:
While the powerful bass is a pro for many, it can be overwhelming for listeners who prefer a more balanced sound. The ULT button’s bass boost might not be suitable for all music genres or listener preferences.
- Noise Cancellation Not Top-Tier:
Although the noise cancellation is good, it doesn’t match the level of more premium models like the WH-1000XM5. It’s effective in most scenarios but might not block out all distractions in very noisy environments.
- Charging Time:
The headphones take approximately 4.5 hours to fully charge, which is longer compared to some other models on the market. This could be inconvenient if you need a quick recharge.
- Average Call Quality:
While call quality is slightly above average, it’s not exceptional. The performance is decent but doesn’t eliminate all background noise during calls.
- Ambient Sound Mode Limitations:
Although the ambient sound mode is useful, it may not be as effective as the transparency modes found in higher-end headphones like the AirPods Max. It allows external sounds to filter in but might not perfectly balance the audio levels.
The Sony ULT WEAR headphones offer a compelling mix of powerful bass, effective noise cancellation, and long battery life, all wrapped in a comfortable and stylish design. They are particularly well-suited for bass enthusiasts and those seeking a good balance of features and affordability. However, the overwhelming bass might not be for everyone, and the noise cancellation, while good, isn’t top-tier. Despite these minor drawbacks, the ULT WEAR headphones provide excellent value for their price point.
Comparison
ULT WEAR v/s XM5
| Features | Sony ULT WEAR | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
|
Price |
$199.99 |
$399.99 |
|
Release Date |
2024 |
May 2022 |
|
Design |
Sleek, Minimalist, Foldable |
Sleek, Foldable |
|
Colour Options |
White, Black, Forest Green |
Black, Silver |
|
Comfortable |
Comfortable ear cups, padded headband |
Comfortable ear cups, padded headband |
|
Weight |
Lightweight |
Lightweight |
|
Sound Quality |
Extra bass (XB) series, deep bass |
Balanced sound with superior clarity |
|
Audio processor |
V1 processor |
QN1 and V1 processors |
|
Noise Cancellation |
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) |
Industry-leading ANC |
|
Ambient Sound Mode |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Battery Life with ANC ON |
Up to 30 hours |
Up to 30 hours |
|
Battery Life with ANC OFF |
Up to 30 hours |
Up to 40 hours |
|
Charging Time |
Approximately 4.5 hours |
Approximately 3.5 hours |
|
Bluetooth Version |
5.0 |
5.2 |
|
Multiple Connection |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Touch Controls |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Auto Pause/Play |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Voice Assistant Compatibility |
Google Assistant, Alexa |
Google Assistant, Alexa |
|
Special features |
ULT button for bass boost, extra bass |
Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat |
|
Carrying Case |
Yes |
Yes |
Detailed Comparison
1. Price and Availability:
- Sony ULT WEAR: Priced at $199.99, these headphones are designed to offer high-end features at a more affordable price point, making them accessible to a broader audience.
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Priced at $399.99, the XM5s are positioned as premium headphones with top-of-the-line features, justifying their higher cost.
2. Design and Comfort:
Both models feature a sleek and minimalist design that is foldable for portability. They are lightweight and equipped with comfortable ear cups and padded headbands, making them suitable for long listening sessions.
3. Sound Quality:
- Sony ULT WEAR: Known for its deep, punchy bass as part of the extra bass (XB) series. The ULT button further enhances the bass, providing a rich audio experience for bass enthusiasts.
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Offers a more balanced sound profile with superior clarity across all frequencies, suitable for a wide range of music genres. The combination of QN1 and V1 processors delivers exceptional sound quality.
4. Noise Cancellation:
- Sony ULT WEAR: Features effective ANC powered by the V1 processor. While good, it does not match the advanced ANC capabilities of the XM5.
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Known for industry-leading ANC performance, effectively reducing a wide range of ambient noise. The dual processor system (QN1 and V1) enhances noise cancellation significantly.
5. Battery Life:
- Sony ULT WEAR: Offers up to 30 hours of playback with ANC on and up to 50 hours with ANC off. Charging takes about 4.5 hours.
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Provides up to 30 hours of playback with ANC on and up to 40 hours with ANC off. Charging is quicker, taking approximately 3.5 hours.
6. Connectivity and Features:
- Sony ULT WEAR: Uses Bluetooth 5.0 and supports multipoint connectivity, allowing pairing with two devices simultaneously. It includes touch controls, auto-pause/play, and is compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa.
- Sony WH-1000XM5: Uses the newer Bluetooth 5.2, also supports multipoint connectivity, and includes advanced features like Adaptive Sound Control and Speak-to-Chat. These headphones also have touch controls and voice assistant compatibility.
Recommendations for Choosing Between Sony ULT WEAR and Sony WH-1000XM5
Choosing between the Sony ULT WEAR and Sony WH-1000XM5 depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. Here are a few proposals to assist you with settling on an educated choices :
1. Budget
Sony ULT WEAR: If you’re looking for high-quality headphones without spending too much, the ULT WEAR is a great choice at $199.99. They offer excellent value for money with strong bass performance, good noise cancellation, and long battery life.
Sony WH-1000XM5: If you have a higher budget and want the best in terms of audio quality and noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM5, priced at $399.99, is worth the investment. They provide premium features and superior performance.
2. Audio Performance
Sony ULT WEAR: Ideal for bass enthusiasts, these headphones deliver deep, punchy bass that enhances genres like hip-hop, EDM, and pop. The ULT button further amplifies the bass, making them perfect for users who prioritize powerful low frequencies.
Sony WH-1000XM5: For a more balanced and refined audio experience, the XM5 excels. They offer superior clarity across all frequencies, making them suitable for a wide range of music genres. The advanced processors ensure exceptional sound quality.
3. Noise Cancellation
Sony ULT WEAR: Provides good ANC suitable for everyday use, such as commuting or working in noisy environments. While effective, it’s not as advanced as the ANC on the XM5.
Sony WH-1000XM5: Known for industry-leading ANC, these headphones are perfect if you need the best noise cancellation available. They excel in reducing ambient noise across a variety of settings, including travel and office environments.
4. Battery Life
Sony ULT WEAR: Offers up to 30 hours with ANC on and up to 50 hours with ANC off, making them excellent for long listening sessions and extended travel without frequent charging.
Sony WH-1000XM5: Provides up to 30 hours with ANC on and up to 40 hours with ANC off, which is still impressive and sufficient for most users. They also charge faster, which can be convenient if you need a quick top-up.
5. Features and Connectivity
Sony ULT WEAR: Includes Bluetooth 5.0, multipoint connectivity, touch controls, auto-pause/play, and voice assistant compatibility. These features make them user-friendly and versatile for everyday use.
Sony WH-1000XM5: Comes with Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint connectivity, advanced features like Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat, and superior touch controls. If you appreciate cutting-edge technology and seamless integration with smart devices, the XM5 offers a more advanced experience.
Final Recommendation
Choose Sony ULT WEAR if:
- You are on a budget and want great value for money.
- You prefer powerful bass and listen to bass-heavy music genres.
- You need long battery life for extended use without frequent recharging.
Choose Sony WH-1000XM5 if:
- You can invest in premium headphones and seek the best overall performance.
- You desire industry-leading noise cancellation and superior sound quality.
- You appreciate advanced features and the latest technology in headphones.
Both models are excellent choices, each catering to different needs and preferences. Consider your primary use cases and personal preferences to decide which model is the best fit for you.
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User Experience
The Sony ULT WEAR headphones offer a blend of premium features and user-friendly design that enhances the overall listening experience. Here’s a detailed look at what users can expect in his/her headphones:
- Comfortable Fit: Users appreciate the well-padded ear cups and headband, which provide comfort even during extended listening sessions. The lightweight design ensures that the headphones don’t feel burdensome over time.
- Stylish and Functional: The sleek, minimalist design available in black, white, and forest green is aesthetically pleasing. The foldable structure adds to portability, making them easy to carry around in the included carrying case.
- Rich Bass: As part of Sony’s extra bass (XB) series, these headphones are designed to deliver deep, punchy bass. This feature is particularly favored by users who enjoy bass-heavy music genres such as hip-hop, EDM, and pop.
- ULT Button: The unique ULT button enhances the bass further, creating an immersive listening experience akin to a live concert. This feature is a highlight for bass enthusiasts looking for that extra thump.
- Effective ANC: Users report that the active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces ambient noise, making these headphones suitable for use in noisy environments like public transportation or busy offices. While not as advanced as the WH-1000XM5, the ANC still performs admirably for most users’ needs.
- Extended Playback: One of the standout features is the impressive battery life, offering up to 30 hours of playback with ANC on and up to 50 hours with ANC off. Users find this particularly useful for long trips or extended periods without access to a charger.
- Charging Time: Although the headphones take about 4.5 hours to fully charge, the long battery life compensates for the relatively longer charging period.
- Bluetooth 5.0: The Bluetooth 5.0 connection provides a stable and reliable wireless experience. Users can enjoy seamless audio streaming without frequent disconnections or latency issues.
- Multipoint Connectivity: This feature allows users to connect the headphones to two devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a laptop. This functionality is praised for its convenience, particularly for those who switch between devices frequently.
- Touch Controls: The touch-sensitive controls on the ear cups are intuitive and easy to use, allowing users to manage playback, adjust volume, and handle calls with simple gestures.
- Auto-Pause/Play: The headphones automatically pause music when removed and resume playback when put back on, enhancing convenience and helping to conserve battery life.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: Compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa adds a layer of hands-free control, allowing users to manage their devices using voice commands.
- Ambient Sound Mode: This mode lets external sounds in, providing situational awareness when needed, such as when walking in traffic or listening for announcements.
Conclusion
The Sony ULT WEAR headphones are a compelling option for those who prioritize bass-heavy sound and robust noise cancellation without breaking the bank. While they may not offer the absolute best in ANC or sound clarity compared to more expensive models, they strike a good balance between performance and affordability. Whether you’re a bass enthusiast or just looking for reliable wireless headphones with excellent battery life, the ULT WEAR is worth considering.
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FAQs
These headphones are part of Sony’s extra bass (XB) series, delivering deep, punchy bass that is ideal for bass-heavy genres like hip-hop and EDM. They also feature the ULT button for enhanced bass performance.
The Sony ULT WEAR headphones are available in three colors: black, white, and forest green.
The ULT WEAR headphones feature active noise cancellation (ANC) powered by Sony’s V1 processor. While it effectively reduces ambient noise, it may not be as advanced as the noise cancellation found in premium models like the WH-1000XM5.
The headphones offer up to 30 hours of playback time with ANC on and up to 50 hours with ANC off. They take approximately 4.5 hours to fully charge.
Yes, they support multipoint connectivity, allowing them to pair with two devices at the same time, such as a smartphone and a laptop.
Yes, they feature well-padded ear cups and a padded headband, providing comfort even during extended listening sessions. The lightweight design also adds to their comfort.
Special features include touch controls for managing playback and volume, an auto-pause/play function when the headphones are removed and put back on, and compatibility with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa. They also have an ambient sound mode for situational awareness
The headphones feature touch-sensitive controls on the ear cups, allowing you to manage playback, adjust volume, and handle calls with simple gestures.