@@DroidLocks6971 omg SAME, it literally starts to hurt after wearing them for 1 hour, but i love them, the sound, etc and got them for cheaper (330) so i rlly don’t know what to do now🥲
I went from Bose QC 35 II's to Sony XM4's and now recently to the XM5's. The XM5's are hands down the best of the bunch. Bose headphones just aren't as comfortable for me as Sony for some reason. Love my XM5's and have absolutely no regrets.
In my opinion I have the Bose QC 35 and 45 and recently gave the XM4 to this girlfriend I had . The Sony xm4 are nowhere near as comfortable as the XM5. The XM5 i like more than the XM4 because comfort is the most important thing to me with these headphones.
Considering I got my xm5 for cheap, I'd say the price was well worth it for me. Had the xm4's, and the xm5's.The xm5's both sound better and are more comfortable to me. Sure the case is a bit bigger, and they don't fold down onto my neck, but neither of these things bother me at all. I recommend for people on the fence about xm4 vs xm5, to go to a store that has them on display, or find some friends with them, and try them both out. It is all subjective, and the only way to truly know what is right for you is to get a hands on experience with both. That being said, if you can't get a hands on experience, then yea watching a crap ton of TH-cam videos and Reddit posts is about the best you can do.
I was initially gonna get the XM4's. Tried on XM5, XM4, and a whole bunch of similar level/priced headphones in the shops. XM5's to me stood out as best noise cancelling (by far - which is why you get them!), best feel, one of the best comfort and one of the best sounds. I carry around a big backpack with my large gaming laptop normally, so size doesn't matter. The case is actually smaller than my last headphones lol. And folding down doesn't matter. In fact, when headphones fold - they're also more flimsy, cheap feeling and squeaky!
@@AvengeButterscotch sorry for late reply. White noise is next to non-existent. I assume you mean when hesdphones are on with anc active but no music. Music on definitely adds to the impact of ANC. I wear them every time i vacuum and it makes doing chores much easier
I just got back from testing the sony xm5 and bose 700. There is no way the sound quality and the comfort of the bose is better than the sony. No way. Still love yr work guys😊
I’m doing some research before buying and I understand what they said when comparing but it got annoying after a moment, like they were really biased. Bose 700 and xm5 are my options now so I’m happy that you did compared them. Where I live they are at the same price range and I think both are pretty. I’ll keep doing more research about it because they are equally expensive to me, but I’m preparing myself to buy a really good headphone. Thanks for the review. Ps: the blond guy is totally biased kkkkkkkkkkkk
I had the Sony XM5s and the ANC was excellent and receiving/ making phone calls excellent. The big problem was after wearing them for an hour or more the headband caused pain on the top of my head. I returned them and will try the Bose Ultra headphones.
Sony xm5- I'm not a pro but this is my experience with them: sound is 👍 very good. Noisy gym goes silent once I put them on. very lightweight and comfortable.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
The XM5 are way way better noise cancelling than anything else on the market, nothing is even close.Sound is improved enough from the 4s, this review so clearly shows me how to approach all reviews with a pinch of salt, this time you really got it so wrong guys
Go watch This is Tech Today's comparison, He's an Audio engineer and uses Binaural micrpohones to test each pair of headphones. You'lll clearly see the XM5s are better than the Bose, Apple and XM4 in every category.
Seeing this video gave me a satisfied smile I bought xm5 and I am satisfied I mostly listen to music with speakers and I can definitely say that no headphones can compete with my speakers in terms of power and quality. The only reason I bought the xm5 was for conversation and noise cancellation because I use it outdoors a lot and I'm glad that Sony is the best in these two cases. The XM5 is not an audiophile gadget But for people like me who mostly use the speaker for music and want headphones for calls and noise cancellation, I really recommend it. Thank you for the video with your positive and friendly energy Because of this positive energy and your honest words, I will sub your channel
Would of been interesting to hear your opinion after changing the EQ of the XM5s, I've been thinking about getting a pair and I've seen a lot of people mention the default EQ isn't great and lacks treble, but after slightly tweaking the EQ with the app the difference is supposed to be insane. Please consider making a short video of your reviews after playing with the features, as you both seem very honest that would definitely be the deciding factor for me!
Changing the EQ settings is a must and makes a world of difference. Light years. (I go bright and tack on a little clear bass). The xm5s are way better than the 4s (I have both). Disagree with the reviewers on this one.
What is the best eq setting? I got mine and they sound great even without tweaking it. I can't imagine how they'd be after tweaking the eq like yall say.
@@nobody-nl6mc depends on what you like. For me the bright setting with a +2 on the clear bass is perfect for me. Separates the highs and mids perfectly and adds a slight bit of thump.
@@domd8290 So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
Watched this video with my new Sony XM5. When i played this video, i noticed that the sound quality of this video is reallyyyy bad. I thought something broke on my new XM5, but then when i play other video, it was fine. Then I watch this video up until you talked about you turn on the DSEE on XM5. SO, I went and check that out. My DSEE was off....So switch that to "Auto"? (Either Off or Auto) And then the sound of this video became realllyyyyyyy gooodddd.....Weird. But, the sound of my XM5 is reallly great now and I think, it was worth for me to spend the money for it. And thank you for the DSEE advice?
I had the Sony XM4 for several years. I have the new XM5 . I love the XM5 in every aspect . Better sound quality . better noise reduction and more comfortable. I like the new case design where the phones just snugly fit in without the hassle of folding it. The case is slim and easily slides in my bag
I cant lie these guys missed out a crucial part. When you eq the xm5 they are head and shoulders better than the competition with sound quality. It makes such a difference that it is scary. And also considering the fact that i got my xm5's for £275 brand new, its an absolute steal and for me they are the best headphones money can buy at the moment.
The lack of folding in a lot of the recent ANC headphones is really bumming me out. As a gear junkie I'm always looking for excuses to splurge on a new pair of cans but that larger footprint of the new flagships feel like a real downgrade.
Agree. Just bought XM5, and absolutely dissapointed. I have Major IV. One biggest reason to buy these things are for sound quality. Major IV is stellar, while XM5 sound feel like $20 headphones. Sorry to say, but that's what i feel. I spent almost $400 headphones thinking it should have sound quality better than Major IV. I was wrong.
I don´t care any case, those gone some storage anyway. But main reason why I return my XM5 is forced ANC- you cannot use it when traveling in car. When I travel, I need quiet and relaxed time, not any surround sound. Even my XM3 is better.
Xm4 doesn't sound better, they distort bass, highs and mids. Xm5 got better with mids and highs but they don't go low at bass which is a problem for most people I guess. More bass =/ better sound.
@@alexsmith1207 It doesn't have more bass in any way. Also extra bass cuts off bass at around 40-60hz which means your boosting 80-160hz range so its kinda useless
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
I upgraded to the XM5 on a whim at the airport. I noticed that my Bose QC35ii had a little distortion in the left ear after around 6 years of use. I do find the XM5 more comfortable than the Bose headphones. Noise Cancellation is good on the XM5's but I found it takes a little while to kick in, I'll be in the gym or on the underground and will initially be hearing background noise for a minute or so then all of a sudden the noise cancellation will kick in, where as the Bose used to kick in automatically. The one thing that I really don't like about the XM5 is they don't fold away nicely like the Bose QC35ii.
You guys forgot about Best Buy. I purchased my Sony SM4's last Black Friday 2022 on sale for $228. I use my Sony Headphones to watch my 2022 OLED S95B Samsung 4K Smart T.V. I hope the Sony Sm5's will be on sale this Black Friday 2023 because I want to upgrade from the SM4's to the SM5's.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
I bet most of you haven’t heard the Sennheiser momentum 4 post EQ from their app. Sony cannot come close in the sound quality department compared to sennheiser. I’ve got 4 premium headphones and the M4 is levels above all others. The sound signature is absolutely clean with crystal clear instruments separation. I only prefer the noise cancelling in the XM5 over the rest. Comfort is subjective and I have no issues with any of them. Sennheiser is basically a mobile nightclub strapped to your head. I can literally spend hours listening and actually enjoying my music on them.
I'm curious why you didn't talk about 'transparency mode'. This is for sure one of the most important features of both headphones and earbuds. While listening to music or TH-cam video etc., most people still need to be keenly alert to things like coworkers approaching, baby in the next room, dog scratching at the door, delivery person knocking at door, traffic when jogging outdoors, etc. This glaring oversight in your review makes me suspect a bias ... ie: let's simply bypass the weakest features of these headphones ... a vital feature that if considered, would likely have redeemed the AirPods Max.
Be careful not to confuse oversight with bias. :) Next time we'll include a transparency mode component to our review - it certainly is an important feature.
It seems that you may be the one who is biased, I don't think that one feature is enough to redeem Apple's cash grab. At the price they are charging, they should be the best in all the categories.
I just returned mine. The top bar was uncomfortable. The sound quality was good but i had to use to equalizer to make it sound better. The transparency mode was not great.
I just bought the XM5's yesterday. For those who are complaining about the sound, they definitely need running in - it's not fair to assess them or compare them to anything when they have just been removed from the box for the first time! I'll not lie, I was really disappointed with the sound quality when I first started listening to them - voices were really recessed, they were far from transparent and the bass was muddy and bloated. Don't get me wrong, I'm used to having to run in speakers and headphones, but these were worse than I was expecting to the point where I wondered whether they could redeem themselves after giving them a chance to run in. However, after only about 10 hours of playtime, they are starting to sound pretty good, the bass is now a lot better controlled and the midrange is really starting to shine through. I'll hold off full judgment on them until they've had at least 30 hours of playtime, but based on what I've heard so far, I think they could be pretty awesome headphones for the money.
Alright lads, the best measuring noisr cancelling headphones are the xm3s , xm5 have better computantional processes but tbh that's it, their sound quality, coming from wired headphones Is alright. I really like that you've opened a dialogue with your controversial thumbnail, great job.
I have the XM3s - they have excellent ANC, great sound quality, excellent build quality, excellent battery life, but man o man they are an absolute PITA if you want to use them with more than 1 device. Reviews should check how difficult and how long it takes to swap between at least 3 or 4 devices. Swapping between phone, tablet, TV and PC is surely a very common use case, and Sony completely embarrassed themselves in this regard (which is quite surprising given the amazing job they did with ANC, etc). The other (lesser) drawback with the XM3s is the sound quality while on a call (not the mic quality, although people at the other end do sometimes have difficulty hearing). For some reason, Sony chose to not just disabled the ANC during calls, but they actually amplify ambient noise. Why Sony? Why!!!
@@marsbase3729 thanks for the reply! I have brought high end earphones but never headphones, i have a low end £30 sony headphones and what to try the high end ones, ok I will hopefully get the xm4 headphones, do you use headphones out and about, outdoors? do you ever use earphones? what do you use the most? one thing is earphones can make my ears produce wax as they are going deep in my ear, so maybe i should use headphones more.
I tried the XM5 and did not like the touch controls. I prefer the Bose. Reviewers need to stop saying using steel and aluminum is build quality. No one else uses heavy metals because of weight. The plastic based headphones are plenty sturdy and better comfort.
I love the XM5 just upgraded from Bose qc 35 , although I disagree with your take about the sound (you can change it in EQ) but I respect your opinion. And best microphone in an over ear headphone period.
i do too. But the i agree with them about the tight fit and sweatiness. I had to swap them for the 45s they didnt sound as good but were more comfortable for me.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
Picked up a pair of the Bose 700's and they were the only pair of headphones that I hated enough to return. I thought the sound quality was weak and they got uncomfortable very quickly, plus the case felt cheap. For me, nothing has been able to beat the Sony XM4's
As a video creator I have to use wired connection when editing due to the Bluetooth ~150-200ms latency. How do these two perform wired? Is the ANC as good? Can it even be on? How is the audio quality? Is there still a latency due to internal buffering? Someone mentioned a 80ms latency wired which would be bizarre and destroy the use case. Very curious about this. (Wired latency is usually 5-10ms from computer application to sound in your ear.)
@@tomn2765 As someone with the XM4s I can't notice a delay at all using them wirelessly on PC. Most of the complaints about latency are codec/hardware problems. I've even let people borrow my XM4s for gaming and they can't notice a delay either.
Seriously????? I don’t think u people are reviewing it only for your self, The best headphones in the market…. They fit sooo well and very comfortable for ear….. U people need to review something else
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
In my opinion I have the Bose QC 35 and 45 and recently gave the XM4 to this girlfriend I had recently . The Sony XM4 are nowhere near as comfortable as the XM5. The XM5 i like more than the XM4 because comfort is the most important thing to me with these headphones. The airpods max technologically are really and the transparency mode is incredible but they are way too heavy when i used them with design flaws. Also the Bose QC 35 and 45 are the best I've ever owned and the only headphones I can wear for 12 hours and my ears feel great . I can't say that about any other headphones. BOSE >>> APPLE AND SONY
I disagree, they're the best on the market IMO. I've has Bose and after that the XM3 and now on the XM5. I recommend both but obviously the XM5 are the best. It seems to me the release a new version every 2 years, so keep that in you mind.
XM5's build quality is incredible. The audio is more than sufficient for most users. The audio is very good. Comparing XM5 with airpod is irrelevant because of the price difference. The XM5's have incredible noise cancelling. Amazing for flights. To tell people not to buy them is stupid. Considering sony uses better components also. I hate headphones that fold up. More moving parts = more breaking points. In regards to comfort, XM5s are the most comfortable headset I've ever worn, rivalling with my old astro A40s. How they look on your head is important too. XM5's are hands down the best looking headphone.
I love your take on your tests not other reviewers tests. I seen reviewers of XM5 the voices and mids sounds better fuller than Max's which sounds hollow. I think your ears and your taste of sound signature is what the majority is. Good Bass frequencies which some headphones lack, middle ground treble yet detailed which some cheap bass headphones lack, warmer yet neutral sound preferences, and the highs that aren't fatiguing. I got the Beoplay H95 btw and they are durable yet uncomfortable.
Thanks so much! We really try to go for a balanced, real-world approach. It all comes down to… do these headphones sound good? Feel good? Look good? When you line them all up, the differences are obvious!
I had the beoplay. I enjoyed them but my had was too big for the headband, just by a very small amount. But for the price...I couldn't keep a pair of uncomfortable headphones. I also enjoy the weight of the xm5 and think they fit my ears better than the xm4 which I also have.
Appreciate the review, but if you're not using the EQ capabilities to even try to dial in your sound preference, what's the point? You're obviously both discerning in your tastes and probably have different EQ preferences. Dial them in and then tell us if you like your individual experiences. Some headphones offer better EQ options than others, so that is absolutely a factor that you're not exploring - and I'd argue it's a disservice to your viewers.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
The main reason to buy wireless headphones is to use them wirelessly and for the ANC. If you wanted to listen to cd quality audio with a cable, you can buy a pair of DT770 pro at 1/4 of the price and have sound quality and comfort that demolishes all of them. I still find all the sony headphones overly muddy and narrow, the bose 700 are decent but I wonder if they will ever make a 700 successor. I have mostly gone off wireless over ears as I can't find one that I think is worth the money... in ears like airpods pro or galaxy buds pro are 100x more convenient for going out. I tried out my friends xm5 and I think it is better than xm4 but not enough to justify paying more... ANC is as brilliant as ever though. He is going to give them till the return period to make a decision on whether he will keep them.
Very thoughtful comment with some good points, floony! I think at a fundamental level, I don't think CD-quality is too much for ask for from Apple - especially from headphones that cost $400, and when Sony and Qualcomm are doing it on Android. With regard to earbuds, I wonder if you've tried the XM4 earbuds or the Sennheiser Momentum TW 3s? I picked up the Sennheisers the other day - I think I still prefer the XM4s - but it's very close. I'd have to give both another listen before making a final decision.
Okay guys I love your channel but I'm going to have to disagree with you here. I have a pair of these and I found them to be amazing. The sound quality improvement over the previous session is paramount as soon as you out then on and I know that I am going to sound like I am contradicting myself here. But no 2 people can agree on what they are watching or hearing and no 2 people can agree on what they are listening to. We all have a unique hearing as human being some will hear some quality that others will not hear and that is down to the unique quality of the human ear. I have impeccable hearing and when I first saw these the quality of the bad was an issue strain off the bat I agree with you. But you change the quality of the sound by using the app to improve the sound I have mine set to extra bass for watching a movie and there are some fundamental issues which I agree Sony hasn't addressed from XM4 but overall I love them I am impressed with them I think the £379 price tag is worth it.
I love your comment and thank you for it! You make good points about how everyone’s hearing is unique and it’s interesting to me that you actually turned up the bass for watching movies! And your profile picture is a very cute cat. So thank you :)
I have a pair of Airpods Max. The weight doesn't bother me in the slightest and yes, the case is pretty pathetic and I do wish there was a proper power-off button but I can live with that. For me the fatal mistake which you allude to is that the Apple arrogance is strong in this product - we know best so the only way you can experience this product is the way we think is the best - i.e. Apple only offers one unalterable (in theory) audio tuning. The problem I have with the Apple tuning is the relatively recessed upper bass and lower mids right where the rhythm section sits (primarily drums and bass in a rock/indie/etc bands). With the Apple default tuning the Airpod Max simply sucks the life out of most of the music I listen to. The twist in the talf for me though is that I listen to my music via streaming software that allows me to EQ the headphones and boost the frequencies that for my tastes are too recessed and that has shifted the Airpod Max from "I'm sending this back for a refund" to being my go-to headphones when I'm sitting out on my balcony. If I was stuck listening to them without being able to tweak the EQ then they would not have lasted beyond the refund window for me.
Great feedback. We both agree on the "Apple-optimized sound". When you listen to lossless audio through an external DAC (or even through the 24-bit/48kHz dongle), you realize how much you're missing with compressed audio.
The biggest problem with xm4s is the hinge holding the cups it often breaks just with normal use. These clasps look to have been redesigned to fix this issue though
I've had the xm4's for about 2 years now and use them every day even at work. They've fallen plenty of times, I fall asleep with them sometimes and have had no issues with them. Can't for others but I've had no issues with them. I'll be holding on to these and maybe wait for the xm6s LOL
Not true at all. Had my xm4 since launch. Used it almost everyday and had 0 problems with the band or hinges. Xm4 uses stronger material compared to the xm2 and 3
@@marsbase3729same, had mine since launch and stepped on them so many times. Had them fall on concrete, put them over my ears at night and have had absolutely no problems. Still rock them today
Should I buy the xm5 or the xm4 model? They both cost almost the same here (xm5 is just a little more expensive) and I want an overall good headphone for music/studying/gaming/general use. I also want something that is more durable, something that lasts longer. I also don't really travel much. But I do really like ANC/Transparency.
On the XM-5's - When the ANC is on, and the ear cups are sealed - it’s great. Definitely better than the XM4’s. My BIGGEST problem with these things is that every time it THINKS i’m breaking the seal (chewing, hoodie rubs external cup…) it reduces ANC as if on its way to allow talk-through / ambient sound ! This is my first flight with these - and maybe there’s a setting i’m missing. But i turned OFF voice assistant, pause when headphones are off, speak to chat …etc. This is REALLY bugging me and it didn’t happen on my M4’s. Is this on / off issue what others are talking about when complaining about ANC ?? Is there another setting someone can point me to ?
I also own a pair of XM5s and I agree with you. When the ANC works its fantastic. But with the automatic ANC optimiser, its very inconsistent. Hopefully Sony launches a software update later down the road.
same here! coz I always study myself, and I speak to myself, when I pause the music or the lesson, and speak to myself, the noise cancellation adjust its strength itself! How to solve it?
Yes I Agree You Should Shower More , XM5 Great ANC Wonderful sound , calls OK No Issues best headphones ever XM% , Huge Sound Stage , XM5 Awesome with my Sony Walkman NW-WM1Z M2
Well I have a pair of Bose 700. I have absolutely zero experience of other models and brands. But recently I have been looking around for a cheaper pair for my adult daughter. I chose the 700's because they sounded clear and comfortable. I am old, so my hearing will of course not be perfect. The more I have investigated headphones for my daughter, really is about phone calls. Phone call sound quality at her end has been terrible. I am hoping headphones will help solve echoes, and interruptions, which I blame on so many WiFi's in her appartment block. My 700's don't have that problem. But I find, some headphones do calls better and others do music better, and many have assistants like Alexa. How can I make sense of all this? Well she has no more ideas about this than I do. I have been checking out M5's and M4's in the hope of finding the latter discounted. But I have no gripes about my 700's. The case is robust. When I am in noisy places, I can make clear phone calls and the othter party does not hear my background clamour. Maybe I am a bit awkward, but often I have difficulty adjusting volume or skipping tracks, which means I need to swipe the correct section of the Right side cup to do. Altzheimers . . . !!! :-)
Bought the XM4 and after 1 hour listening session I couldnt bare the pain on my ears anymore, so I immediatiely returned it. They feel way too heavy. I have a Corsair Headset that cost like 1/4 the price and it doesn't hurt me at all, even after a 5 hours playing session. Im thinking about givint it a try to the XM5, since the reviews say it is lighter and more comfortable, but I am still undecided.
I have both the Bose QC45 (for when I'm on Windows PC) and the Airpods Max (for Macbook). I enjoy your channel a lot, but you need to stop hating on Airpods Max. I think they have awesome sound and love the way they connect to all my devices automatically. The spatial audio is also great. Yes, the case is a joke but I bought a $12 case on Amazon and it's working out perfectly.
It’s really easy to get the Max for for less that’s days. I got mine for $400 brand new. This review is the first I have seen from this channel and it will be my last.
I agree with your comments. people moaning about the max set aren't thinking about the bigger picture, the integration with other Apple products. I have the Airpods max, the Bose 700 and the XM5s. I like the XM5S for the battery life, the max for the ability to switch from iPad to iPhone and I'm a bit sick of the 700s because the creaky design of the cups.
I think you all have to stop fan boying for products, to audiophiles maybe most of these ANC devices don't even make top 5, you just have a bias on a brand name. If truly, people test them with regards to audio quality and not just how heavy the bass is, then we will find out the real drawbacks to people who enjoy real quality and not just bass heavy shiny headphones. Personally I like bass, so I will always go for any bass heavy headphones or earphones starting from those $45 earphones to as expensive as I can afford headphones. If someone gives you a user acceptance test scenario and that fails, then it is not hating, it is a clear observation. I also hate how apple really cripples integration between it's products and other devices. I am an ICT guy, apple devices are so limited for what I do, they are basically for the plug and play layman, but for those of us who enjoy real tweaking and configuration, our tv's, laptops, phones, cars, surround systems etc etc are on different platforms running different software, the likes of apple do not work well in the real world for most people. If I have to use your brand to get full audio quality then you are the problem.
Hi guys, I listen to mainly Reggae music and hope you can help recommending the dopest pair for deep, clean, low bass Bluetooth headphones. Been left a little confused to say the least after watching your review on the Sony XM4's, the 5's the Bose 700's and the Quiet 45's. I've got my eye on all but most reviews I see put the Sony XM5's top of the chart? Wonder if you guys are agents, haters or just being 'cold spoilers'? I guess the best thing is to go to store and check em all out for myself. The dynamic duo of gadget reviews! Like your video, your '2-up' appearance, but there's stiff competition from the 1-up stand alone's. ✌️Bless Peace.
To be fair, the XM5s have gotten A LOT better since they came out. The review would be much different today. Firmware updates are everything on quality wireless headphones. Thank you so much for being a member. :)
@@HelloNotMe9999 Yeah! I’ve worn those in studios tracking piano! You know they’re good if they still sell them new after all these years. And very comfortable.
I'm sorry I don't consider Sony XM5's premium, upper mid-range at best. They don't even use premium materials. Cheap-feeling recycled plastics. They don't feel premium like Focal, Bang and Olufsen, Bowers and Wilkins.
I tested some headphones out wore them in the market for a few minutes, i have a big head and can say that the xm5s were the most comfy at least first impression. I tried a bunch out the bose 700, qcs, xm4s, Technics, yamaha ones. The xm5s just felt so light and nice but i have to say it took me some time to get used to the headband.
they felt the most comfortable in the shop but after having them on your head for 30 minutes they feel hot sweaty and tight :( i had to swap them for the 45iis.
Exact opposite of what I thought with the ultraquietcomfort bose vs wh1000mx4 sonys had the best audio and bose had the best noise blocking. Bose audio quality was colder and less full sounding than the sonys
it all depends on how you use it... if u sit at home, surely it's the bose 700. If you go out and listen to music and watch movies in noisy environment and have to make calls to do business, it's the sony xm5.
Don’t mean to sound like an apple fan boy here, but how could you guys think the sound quality in the airpods max does not stack up to other premium headphones? My wife just got a pair and they sound amazing. Cannot comment on the xm5s as I have not heard them but I 100% disagree with you on the airpods max.
Appreciate that! The AirPods Max do sound great - but they don't sound amazing, and they aren't sonically flat. I like MKBHD's review - I think it was called something to the effect of "Luxury Listening". They have the bells and whistles like spatial audio, but given their lack of ability to play even CD-quality music, I don't think the price point is justified.
Specs wise the XM5 is amazing no questions. But why for the love of God are the XM5 so UNCOMFORTABLE. The earcups are SO shallow compared to Airpods Max, Bose QC45 or Bowers and Wilkins. I was really hoping since they made the earcushions rectangular then it will be like the airpods max but nope, they made them even shallower than the XM4
Yep I just tried the xm5s at Best Buy yesterday and although I thought they sounded good, my ears were rubbing inside and I found them really uncomfortable compared to my XM3s.
It's impossible to give a definitive review for headphones. Different people like different sounds. Some people like a lot of bass, some people like the vocals to be more pronounced, some people like a lot of treble. Most of the flat sound response headphones are both expensive and a little lacking in bass but the sound stage is excellent. The target audience for them is older people who mostly prefer that sound. The target audience for makers like Sony and (now apple) beats etc is the younger audience who prefer a lot of bass.
Interesting, as several other very credible top reviewers put Sony on overall as #1, with XM5 over the XM4. I have the Bose and XM5, and for me Bose can’t come close to the XM5. Apple is below this class. I really like the Sony XM5, but then I don’t figure cost into any equation on purchasing as to me it’s not logical to pay less for something not as good. You soon forget about the cost, but you have to live with the defects of less every time you use whatever you bought.
I triedd the XM5s in a Best Buy today and they sounded awful compared to the AirPods Max I have. Not the first time I have had that experience from a store demo model so I don't know if that makes the difference, but I am just not getting the same results as the reviewers. I actually think the XM4s sound better than the 5s.
Sorry, but I feel like you guys went into this review a little biased. Yes, 400 Euros are too much, but if the price is falling to ~ 320 - 360 than they are worth it.
Deciding between beats studio and these. Even though the sound was more full/rich from the Sony's, the way the beats hugged my ear, made the sound..sound better. Idk how to explain it. The lower frequency response came from Sony. But it didn't sound as good as the beats that cup and hug my ears perfectly.
I consider your tech reviews to among the best on the WEB. However, in your review of the SONY XM5 headphones you disliked the sound quality without saying the user can adjust the sound using the built -in equalizer. Qualified reviews have agreed they were satisfied with the XM 5 headphones after making EQ adjustments. Dan
I don't know how you measured sound quality but pretty much every single objective (FR) and subjective reviews tell us that Max is better in sound quality part. Sony's sound is muffled and bass leaks into other frequencies. You can listen to the samples all over the internet. EQ can't fix this.
This is just a terrible review. There is no way to objectively say that the Bose 700 sounds better and if that is your opinion- no one should watch your videos as you're giving incredibly biased suggestions, disguised as actual reviews. 700s do have good ANC, probably in the ballpark of the XM5, but that's it. That is the closest they get to XM5.
actually "the first thing you'll notice is" (0:23) that he took the 1-2-3 instruction booklet out of the box and PUT IT ASIDE in a way that suggests he discarded it. I opened the box on my new Sony XM5 and there was no such booklet in the box. I wish he would mail it to me. There are many, many, many setup steps skipped over. This is not a video for newbies. But then it doesn't claim to be that either. My bad.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift What’s your eq seeing settings ? Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
You mentioned that you test headphones and earbuds in their stock EQ settings: Do you, with your own Bose NC 700 keep it in its stock EQ setting when you are using them in your personal life?? 🤔 I understand why you test the headphones and earbuds in their stock factory settings... BUT, if their companion app offers an adjustable EQ, I think you should adjust them to your ideal EQ settings and give your viewers your opinions based on this optimal setting, just to be fair... Therefore an opinion on stock setting and a second opinion on the adjusted EQ setting and tell us if that made any improvements on the sound quality... 🤔
I'm Using the MDR-1000X and bought the WH-1000XM4, but I'll sell them, because the WH-1000XM5 sound much better. The difference is bigger than from the 1000X to the 1000XM4. At least with a correction for the EQ, because they have the same drivers
Look for the XM3s.....you can probably still find new ones under $200... great fit and sound....great ANC....however, you must manually switch between BT sources, a very minor inconvenience
Highly disagree. I have both XM4 and XM5. They are totally worth the upgrade over the XM4. I have zero regrets and passed down the XM4 to my sister.
We love this comment even though you completely disagree with us! Appreciate it! Also you are a really good brother. 🙏
I wanted to keep the xm5 but the thin headband started hurting the top of my head
As a poor man who got the XM4 on a super sale...I won't upgrade.
@@RatusMax He who owns the XM4s is not poor; he who buys them on sale is wise. (Original quote) 😂
@@DroidLocks6971 omg SAME, it literally starts to hurt after wearing them for 1 hour, but i love them, the sound, etc and got them for cheaper (330) so i rlly don’t know what to do now🥲
I went from Bose QC 35 II's to Sony XM4's and now recently to the XM5's. The XM5's are hands down the best of the bunch. Bose headphones just aren't as comfortable for me as Sony for some reason. Love my XM5's and have absolutely no regrets.
In my opinion I have the Bose QC 35 and 45 and recently gave the XM4 to this girlfriend I had . The Sony xm4 are nowhere near as comfortable as the XM5. The XM5 i like more than the XM4 because comfort is the most important thing to me with these headphones.
Idk the xm5 doesn’t sound as good as xm4’s to me .. and I own both
Noise cancelling yes but sound quality I agree with the guys .. Sony fkd up
Going to purchase my first set of proper noise cancelling headphones would you advise on the xm5?
The sound quality of the xm5s blew the 35ii out the water but the sonys are too tight and sweaty and ruined them for me so had to sell them off.
Just bought the xm5 and love them
Considering I got my xm5 for cheap, I'd say the price was well worth it for me. Had the xm4's, and the xm5's.The xm5's both sound better and are more comfortable to me. Sure the case is a bit bigger, and they don't fold down onto my neck, but neither of these things bother me at all. I recommend for people on the fence about xm4 vs xm5, to go to a store that has them on display, or find some friends with them, and try them both out. It is all subjective, and the only way to truly know what is right for you is to get a hands on experience with both. That being said, if you can't get a hands on experience, then yea watching a crap ton of TH-cam videos and Reddit posts is about the best you can do.
how much did u get it for?
I was initially gonna get the XM4's. Tried on XM5, XM4, and a whole bunch of similar level/priced headphones in the shops. XM5's to me stood out as best noise cancelling (by far - which is why you get them!), best feel, one of the best comfort and one of the best sounds. I carry around a big backpack with my large gaming laptop normally, so size doesn't matter. The case is actually smaller than my last headphones lol. And folding down doesn't matter. In fact, when headphones fold - they're also more flimsy, cheap feeling and squeaky!
I carry around an Alienware for school i feel your pain 😄 how was the white noise on your xm5?
AirPod max has better anc
@@AvengeButterscotch sorry for late reply. White noise is next to non-existent. I assume you mean when hesdphones are on with anc active but no music. Music on definitely adds to the impact of ANC. I wear them every time i vacuum and it makes doing chores much easier
@@NikoStark1 i didn't find this to be the case unless i was heavily sweating. But that's going to be the case with any leather over ear muffs i think
@@BigWisper I've not tested it for comparison but am happy a year later. Perfect for screaming babies
I just got back from testing the sony xm5 and bose 700. There is no way the sound quality and the comfort of the bose is better than the sony. No way. Still love yr work guys😊
they were obviously just pissed beyond comprehension because sony wouldn't send them a 'test sample'
@@gerksterr absolutely these youtubers are becoming a joke. Glad i can watch without subscribing.
It makes no sense anyway, most other TH-cam reviewers call the air max the gold standard of noise cancelation and sound quality. So who's lying?
@@stevenc9207 i personally tried the airpods max noise cancellation out... it's weak... not even close to the small airpods pro
@@misterchamstandupcomedy5560 Agreed, sony is the king of noice cancelling, apple on the other hand do have better transparency mode.
I’m doing some research before buying and I understand what they said when comparing but it got annoying after a moment, like they were really biased.
Bose 700 and xm5 are my options now so I’m happy that you did compared them.
Where I live they are at the same price range and I think both are pretty.
I’ll keep doing more research about it because they are equally expensive to me, but I’m preparing myself to buy a really good headphone.
Thanks for the review.
Ps: the blond guy is totally biased kkkkkkkkkkkk
What did you buy in the end? Because I in a similar position rn
I had the Sony XM5s and the ANC was excellent and receiving/ making phone calls excellent. The big problem was after wearing them for an hour or more the headband caused pain on the top of my head. I returned them and will try the Bose Ultra headphones.
update?
Update?
@@reecechadwick8504Bose Ultra for the win. A lot more comfortable to wear during long flights and the Boss Ultra’s ANC beats the Sony XM5s.
Sony xm5- I'm not a pro but this is my experience with them: sound is 👍 very good. Noisy gym goes silent once I put them on. very lightweight and comfortable.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
@@Ohkeh640i have a pair of sony headphones and it didn't have any lags on any eq
@@Ohkeh640 this is on setting in sound
The XM5 are way way better noise cancelling than anything else on the market, nothing is even close.Sound is improved enough from the 4s, this review so clearly shows me how to approach all reviews with a pinch of salt, this time you really got it so wrong guys
No
APM
the xm5 have smaller drivers so the xm4 has better sound
@@luisparga7001 logical right?
Just that it isn't that simple and completely untrue. If you owned both you'd know
@@luisparga7001 By this logic how would you evaluate BA and EST drivers in IEMs?
Go watch This is Tech Today's comparison, He's an Audio engineer and uses Binaural micrpohones to test each pair of headphones. You'lll clearly see the XM5s are better than the Bose, Apple and XM4 in every category.
Seeing this video gave me a satisfied smile
I bought xm5 and I am satisfied
I mostly listen to music with speakers and I can definitely say that no headphones can compete with my speakers in terms of power and quality. The only reason I bought the xm5 was for conversation and noise cancellation because I use it outdoors a lot and I'm glad that Sony is the best in these two cases.
The XM5 is not an audiophile gadget
But for people like me who mostly use the speaker for music and want headphones for calls and noise cancellation, I really recommend it.
Thank you for the video with your positive and friendly energy
Because of this positive energy and your honest words, I will sub your channel
Would of been interesting to hear your opinion after changing the EQ of the XM5s, I've been thinking about getting a pair and I've seen a lot of people mention the default EQ isn't great and lacks treble, but after slightly tweaking the EQ with the app the difference is supposed to be insane.
Please consider making a short video of your reviews after playing with the features, as you both seem very honest that would definitely be the deciding factor for me!
Changing the EQ settings is a must and makes a world of difference. Light years. (I go bright and tack on a little clear bass). The xm5s are way better than the 4s (I have both). Disagree with the reviewers on this one.
@@domd8290 completely agree with adding in the highs and a touch more clear bass.
What is the best eq setting? I got mine and they sound great even without tweaking it. I can't imagine how they'd be after tweaking the eq like yall say.
@@nobody-nl6mc depends on what you like. For me the bright setting with a +2 on the clear bass is perfect for me. Separates the highs and mids perfectly and adds a slight bit of thump.
@@domd8290 So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
Watched this video with my new Sony XM5. When i played this video, i noticed that the sound quality of this video is reallyyyy bad. I thought something broke on my new XM5, but then when i play other video, it was fine. Then I watch this video up until you talked about you turn on the DSEE on XM5. SO, I went and check that out. My DSEE was off....So switch that to "Auto"? (Either Off or Auto) And then the sound of this video became realllyyyyyyy gooodddd.....Weird. But, the sound of my XM5 is reallly great now and I think, it was worth for me to spend the money for it. And thank you for the DSEE advice?
I had the Sony XM4 for several years. I have the new XM5 . I love the XM5 in every aspect . Better sound quality . better noise reduction and more comfortable. I like the new case design where the phones just snugly fit in without the hassle of folding it. The case is slim and easily slides in my bag
I cant lie these guys missed out a crucial part. When you eq the xm5 they are head and shoulders better than the competition with sound quality. It makes such a difference that it is scary. And also considering the fact that i got my xm5's for £275 brand new, its an absolute steal and for me they are the best headphones money can buy at the moment.
where did you buy them for that cheap?
Jbl tour one kills it anyway
The lack of folding in a lot of the recent ANC headphones is really bumming me out.
As a gear junkie I'm always looking for excuses to splurge on a new pair of cans but that larger footprint of the new flagships feel like a real downgrade.
The hinges on the XM3s of mine broke, and I’m not the only one. I have big issues with the XM5, but the design isn’t one of them
Agree. Just bought XM5, and absolutely dissapointed. I have Major IV. One biggest reason to buy these things are for sound quality. Major IV is stellar, while XM5 sound feel like $20 headphones. Sorry to say, but that's what i feel. I spent almost $400 headphones thinking it should have sound quality better than Major IV. I was wrong.
In my opinion, it should be mentioned the call quality of both in loud and noisy environments. The XM5 wins it.
do these guys just listen to them out the box just curious if they might use the ldac codec whilst doing the review
I don´t care any case, those gone some storage anyway. But main reason why I return my XM5 is forced ANC- you cannot use it when traveling in car. When I travel, I need quiet and relaxed time, not any surround sound. Even my XM3 is better.
My husband and I have ours for a well now and they are still going on strong. Thank you so much for all your advice. You guys are awesome💕💕👏🏼
I bought a Sony XM5 and I love it. Thanks guys.
Xm4 doesn't sound better, they distort bass, highs and mids. Xm5 got better with mids and highs but they don't go low at bass which is a problem for most people I guess. More bass =/ better sound.
Actually some say the XM5 has slightly more bass than XM4 which had even less bass than XM3
@@alexsmith1207 It doesn't have more bass in any way. Also extra bass cuts off bass at around 40-60hz which means your boosting 80-160hz range so its kinda useless
It caters to the casuals who love that extreme V - shape signature. XM5 are a step in the right direction from Sony IMO.
guys I disagree the xm5s are the best around
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
I upgraded to the XM5 on a whim at the airport. I noticed that my Bose QC35ii had a little distortion in the left ear after around 6 years of use. I do find the XM5 more comfortable than the Bose headphones. Noise Cancellation is good on the XM5's but I found it takes a little while to kick in, I'll be in the gym or on the underground and will initially be hearing background noise for a minute or so then all of a sudden the noise cancellation will kick in, where as the Bose used to kick in automatically.
The one thing that I really don't like about the XM5 is they don't fold away nicely like the Bose QC35ii.
You guys forgot about Best Buy. I purchased my Sony SM4's last Black Friday 2022 on sale for $228. I use my Sony Headphones to watch my 2022 OLED S95B Samsung 4K Smart T.V. I hope the Sony Sm5's will be on sale this Black Friday 2023 because I want to upgrade from the SM4's to the SM5's.
In Germany the xm5 are 300€
Yeah you guys dropped the ball on this one…XM5 are amazing.
Not that amazing apparently
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
You’re wrong. I have both. The XM5s are worse in some areas.
Yayyy broken hinge are awesome on the xm5 .
My sony Xm4s lasted 4 days and stopped working I just went with apple air pods
I bet most of you haven’t heard the Sennheiser momentum 4 post EQ from their app. Sony cannot come close in the sound quality department compared to sennheiser. I’ve got 4 premium headphones and the M4 is levels above all others. The sound signature is absolutely clean with crystal clear instruments separation. I only prefer the noise cancelling in the XM5 over the rest. Comfort is subjective and I have no issues with any of them. Sennheiser is basically a mobile nightclub strapped to your head. I can literally spend hours listening and actually enjoying my music on them.
I'm curious why you didn't talk about 'transparency mode'. This is for sure one of the most important features of both headphones and earbuds. While listening to music or TH-cam video etc., most people still need to be keenly alert to things like coworkers approaching, baby in the next room, dog scratching at the door, delivery person knocking at door, traffic when jogging outdoors, etc. This glaring oversight in your review makes me suspect a bias ... ie: let's simply bypass the weakest features of these headphones ... a vital feature that if considered, would likely have redeemed the AirPods Max.
Be careful not to confuse oversight with bias. :) Next time we'll include a transparency mode component to our review - it certainly is an important feature.
It seems that you may be the one who is biased, I don't think that one feature is enough to redeem Apple's cash grab. At the price they are charging, they should be the best in all the categories.
I just returned mine. The top bar was uncomfortable. The sound quality was good but i had to use to equalizer to make it sound better. The transparency mode was not great.
a lot of people are saying the narrower headband is uncomfortable.
@@asterfield02 I don't think they're as comfortable as the XM4s.
I bought a third-party headband for the XM's and I hope that corrects the issue. Otherwise I will go to Bose.
@@Kamakzie1976from where
I got my xm4s on sales (8 months ago) for just 250 usd and I think that’s the best deal I had.
Great deal; keep them.
I just bought the XM5's yesterday. For those who are complaining about the sound, they definitely need running in - it's not fair to assess them or compare them to anything when they have just been removed from the box for the first time! I'll not lie, I was really disappointed with the sound quality when I first started listening to them - voices were really recessed, they were far from transparent and the bass was muddy and bloated. Don't get me wrong, I'm used to having to run in speakers and headphones, but these were worse than I was expecting to the point where I wondered whether they could redeem themselves after giving them a chance to run in. However, after only about 10 hours of playtime, they are starting to sound pretty good, the bass is now a lot better controlled and the midrange is really starting to shine through. I'll hold off full judgment on them until they've had at least 30 hours of playtime, but based on what I've heard so far, I think they could be pretty awesome headphones for the money.
I’d love to know what your final verdict is! HOW IS THE BASS COMPARED TO THE XM4’s?
Thanks in advance!
Alright lads, the best measuring noisr cancelling headphones are the xm3s , xm5 have better computantional processes but tbh that's it, their sound quality, coming from wired headphones Is alright. I really like that you've opened a dialogue with your controversial thumbnail, great job.
I have the XM3s - they have excellent ANC, great sound quality, excellent build quality, excellent battery life, but man o man they are an absolute PITA if you want to use them with more than 1 device. Reviews should check how difficult and how long it takes to swap between at least 3 or 4 devices. Swapping between phone, tablet, TV and PC is surely a very common use case, and Sony completely embarrassed themselves in this regard (which is quite surprising given the amazing job they did with ANC, etc).
The other (lesser) drawback with the XM3s is the sound quality while on a call (not the mic quality, although people at the other end do sometimes have difficulty hearing). For some reason, Sony chose to not just disabled the ANC during calls, but they actually amplify ambient noise. Why Sony? Why!!!
i am going to buy the xm3s to save money, am sure they just as good, i love my xm3 earphones
@@antoneckhart4010 I would consider the xm4's, I've had both xm3 and 4, both good but the 4's are a definite improvement especially with phone quality
@@marsbase3729 thanks for the reply! I have brought high end earphones but never headphones, i have a low end £30 sony headphones and what to try the high end ones, ok I will hopefully get the xm4 headphones, do you use headphones out and about, outdoors? do you ever use earphones? what do you use the most? one thing is earphones can make my ears produce wax as they are going deep in my ear, so maybe i should use headphones more.
@@marsbase3729 ive had the xm3, xm4 and now the xm5's. I would probably recommend the xm4's just cus of there price to performance ratio
I tried the XM5 and did not like the touch controls. I prefer the Bose. Reviewers need to stop saying using steel and aluminum is build quality. No one else uses heavy metals because of weight. The plastic based headphones are plenty sturdy and better comfort.
I just got the xm4s for 228 on amazon! What a steal.
I love the XM5 just upgraded from Bose qc 35 , although I disagree with your take about the sound (you can change it in EQ) but I respect your opinion. And best microphone in an over ear headphone period.
i do too. But the i agree with them about the tight fit and sweatiness. I had to swap them for the 45s they didnt sound as good but were more comfortable for me.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
Picked up a pair of the Bose 700's and they were the only pair of headphones that I hated enough to return. I thought the sound quality was weak and they got uncomfortable very quickly, plus the case felt cheap. For me, nothing has been able to beat the Sony XM4's
I totally agree with u on the XM4!! Great choice 👍🏿
I liked my xm4s too but since 2 week I have the Sennheiser Momentum 4 ,now Rest in Peace xm4
As a video creator I have to use wired connection when editing due to the Bluetooth ~150-200ms latency. How do these two perform wired? Is the ANC as good? Can it even be on? How is the audio quality? Is there still a latency due to internal buffering? Someone mentioned a 80ms latency wired which would be bizarre and destroy the use case. Very curious about this. (Wired latency is usually 5-10ms from computer application to sound in your ear.)
Exact situation im in too. Eager for a response from someone with hands on experience and if the xm4 is an option (idk what their latency was like)
@@tomn2765 As someone with the XM4s I can't notice a delay at all using them wirelessly on PC. Most of the complaints about latency are codec/hardware problems. I've even let people borrow my XM4s for gaming and they can't notice a delay either.
@@jessdadude777 oh that's hopeful, maybe I'll look at a Bluetooth card for my pc rather than usb
Seriously?????
I don’t think u people are reviewing it only for your self,
The best headphones in the market….
They fit sooo well and very comfortable for ear…..
U people need to review something else
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
I recently got my pair of XM5s, had the AirPods before that, oh, boy, was I missing out. These are the best pair of wireless headphones I’ve ever had.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
In my opinion I have the Bose QC 35 and 45 and recently gave the XM4 to this girlfriend I had recently . The Sony XM4 are nowhere near as comfortable as the XM5. The XM5 i like more than the XM4 because comfort is the most important thing to me with these headphones. The airpods max technologically are really and the transparency mode is incredible but they are way too heavy when i used them with design flaws. Also the Bose QC 35 and 45 are the best I've ever owned and the only headphones I can wear for 12 hours and my ears feel great . I can't say that about any other headphones. BOSE >>> APPLE AND SONY
The xm5 are soo good, maked your brain vibrate with that thumpy bass
My biggest recommendation for any xm5’s users, is eq your headphones, it’s much much much better one you do it
I disagree, they're the best on the market IMO. I've has Bose and after that the XM3 and now on the XM5. I recommend both but obviously the XM5 are the best. It seems to me the release a new version every 2 years, so keep that in you mind.
XM5's build quality is incredible. The audio is more than sufficient for most users. The audio is very good. Comparing XM5 with airpod is irrelevant because of the price difference. The XM5's have incredible noise cancelling. Amazing for flights. To tell people not to buy them is stupid. Considering sony uses better components also. I hate headphones that fold up. More moving parts = more breaking points. In regards to comfort, XM5s are the most comfortable headset I've ever worn, rivalling with my old astro A40s. How they look on your head is important too. XM5's are hands down the best looking headphone.
I love your take on your tests not other reviewers tests. I seen reviewers of XM5 the voices and mids sounds better fuller than Max's which sounds hollow. I think your ears and your taste of sound signature is what the majority is. Good Bass frequencies which some headphones lack, middle ground treble yet detailed which some cheap bass headphones lack, warmer yet neutral sound preferences, and the highs that aren't fatiguing.
I got the Beoplay H95 btw and they are durable yet uncomfortable.
Thanks so much! We really try to go for a balanced, real-world approach. It all comes down to… do these headphones sound good? Feel good? Look good? When you line them all up, the differences are obvious!
I used h95 for few days and I still would choose sony. Even tho I work at hifi store and got 50% discount on b&o.
I had the beoplay. I enjoyed them but my had was too big for the headband, just by a very small amount. But for the price...I couldn't keep a pair of uncomfortable headphones. I also enjoy the weight of the xm5 and think they fit my ears better than the xm4 which I also have.
Appreciate the review, but if you're not using the EQ capabilities to even try to dial in your sound preference, what's the point? You're obviously both discerning in your tastes and probably have different EQ preferences. Dial them in and then tell us if you like your individual experiences. Some headphones offer better EQ options than others, so that is absolutely a factor that you're not exploring - and I'd argue it's a disservice to your viewers.
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
Bose 700 is always expensive, and doesn't seem to go on sale quite as much. Even at the moment, the xm5s are cheaper.
just bought one for 50$ its in shipping rn
The main reason to buy wireless headphones is to use them wirelessly and for the ANC. If you wanted to listen to cd quality audio with a cable, you can buy a pair of DT770 pro at 1/4 of the price and have sound quality and comfort that demolishes all of them.
I still find all the sony headphones overly muddy and narrow, the bose 700 are decent but I wonder if they will ever make a 700 successor. I have mostly gone off wireless over ears as I can't find one that I think is worth the money... in ears like airpods pro or galaxy buds pro are 100x more convenient for going out.
I tried out my friends xm5 and I think it is better than xm4 but not enough to justify paying more... ANC is as brilliant as ever though. He is going to give them till the return period to make a decision on whether he will keep them.
Very thoughtful comment with some good points, floony! I think at a fundamental level, I don't think CD-quality is too much for ask for from Apple - especially from headphones that cost $400, and when Sony and Qualcomm are doing it on Android.
With regard to earbuds, I wonder if you've tried the XM4 earbuds or the Sennheiser Momentum TW 3s? I picked up the Sennheisers the other day - I think I still prefer the XM4s - but it's very close. I'd have to give both another listen before making a final decision.
Upgrading from XM1 to XM4, $228 (on sale until 6Nov22) I think is a good price.
Okay guys I love your channel but I'm going to have to disagree with you here. I have a pair of these and I found them to be amazing. The sound quality improvement over the previous session is paramount as soon as you out then on and I know that I am going to sound like I am contradicting myself here.
But no 2 people can agree on what they are watching or hearing and no 2 people can agree on what they are listening to. We all have a unique hearing as human being some will hear some quality that others will not hear and that is down to the unique quality of the human ear. I have impeccable hearing and when I first saw these the quality of the bad was an issue strain off the bat I agree with you.
But you change the quality of the sound by using the app to improve the sound I have mine set to extra bass for watching a movie and there are some fundamental issues which I agree Sony hasn't addressed from XM4 but overall I love them I am impressed with them I think the £379 price tag is worth it.
I love your comment and thank you for it! You make good points about how everyone’s hearing is unique and it’s interesting to me that you actually turned up the bass for watching movies! And your profile picture is a very cute cat. So thank you :)
@@PayetteForward Thanks.
i can't tell if you are recommending the xm4s or the xm5s
Perfect. :) Jk. XM4s for sound quality. XM5s for noise cancellation. Style is personal preference.
Some people say the xm5 sounds better than xm4 but I think they don’t use the eq or have problems with hearing.
The xm4 has the way more better sound.
I have a pair of Airpods Max. The weight doesn't bother me in the slightest and yes, the case is pretty pathetic and I do wish there was a proper power-off button but I can live with that. For me the fatal mistake which you allude to is that the Apple arrogance is strong in this product - we know best so the only way you can experience this product is the way we think is the best - i.e. Apple only offers one unalterable (in theory) audio tuning. The problem I have with the Apple tuning is the relatively recessed upper bass and lower mids right where the rhythm section sits (primarily drums and bass in a rock/indie/etc bands). With the Apple default tuning the Airpod Max simply sucks the life out of most of the music I listen to. The twist in the talf for me though is that I listen to my music via streaming software that allows me to EQ the headphones and boost the frequencies that for my tastes are too recessed and that has shifted the Airpod Max from "I'm sending this back for a refund" to being my go-to headphones when I'm sitting out on my balcony. If I was stuck listening to them without being able to tweak the EQ then they would not have lasted beyond the refund window for me.
Great feedback. We both agree on the "Apple-optimized sound". When you listen to lossless audio through an external DAC (or even through the 24-bit/48kHz dongle), you realize how much you're missing with compressed audio.
The biggest problem with xm4s is the hinge holding the cups it often breaks just with normal use. These clasps look to have been redesigned to fix this issue though
I've had the xm4's for about 2 years now and use them every day even at work. They've fallen plenty of times, I fall asleep with them sometimes and have had no issues with them. Can't for others but I've had no issues with them. I'll be holding on to these and maybe wait for the xm6s LOL
Not true at all. Had my xm4 since launch. Used it almost everyday and had 0 problems with the band or hinges. Xm4 uses stronger material compared to the xm2 and 3
@@marsbase3729same, had mine since launch and stepped on them so many times. Had them fall on concrete, put them over my ears at night and have had absolutely no problems. Still rock them today
I think that this shows that the XM5 are the best all-rounders with an edge on NC, which is why you would get ANC headphones
I was completely satisfied by xm5. but just in a year swivel broke and with regular gentle use
i tried both. same with you guys. i like the XM4 more than XM5. XM4 sounds better imo as well
I went from the QC35s to the XM4, the QC35 wins hands-down. But now my wife won't swap them back.
Realy sick of the dumb controls on the XM4s.
LOL no.
The Q35s do not "win hands-down".
LMFAO there is plenty of empirical data available that objectively refutes your claim.
Yep.
Should I buy the xm5 or the xm4 model? They both cost almost the same here (xm5 is just a little more expensive) and I want an overall good headphone for music/studying/gaming/general use.
I also want something that is more durable, something that lasts longer. I also don't really travel much. But I do really like ANC/Transparency.
On the XM-5's - When the ANC is on, and the ear cups are sealed - it’s great. Definitely better than the XM4’s. My BIGGEST problem with these things is that every time it THINKS i’m breaking the seal (chewing, hoodie rubs external cup…) it reduces ANC as if on its way to allow talk-through / ambient sound ! This is my first flight with these - and maybe there’s a setting i’m missing. But i turned OFF voice assistant, pause when headphones are off, speak to chat …etc. This is REALLY bugging me and it didn’t happen on my M4’s. Is this on / off issue what others are talking about when complaining about ANC ?? Is there another setting someone can point me to ?
I also own a pair of XM5s and I agree with you. When the ANC works its fantastic. But with the automatic ANC optimiser, its very inconsistent. Hopefully Sony launches a software update later down the road.
same here! coz I always study myself, and I speak to myself, when I pause the music or the lesson, and speak to myself, the noise cancellation adjust its strength itself! How to solve it?
Yes I Agree You Should Shower More , XM5 Great ANC Wonderful sound , calls OK No Issues best headphones ever XM% , Huge Sound Stage , XM5 Awesome with my Sony Walkman NW-WM1Z M2
Well I have a pair of Bose 700. I have absolutely zero experience of other models and brands. But recently I have been looking around for a cheaper pair for my adult daughter. I chose the 700's because they sounded clear and comfortable. I am old, so my hearing will of course not be perfect. The more I have investigated headphones for my daughter, really is about phone calls. Phone call sound quality at her end has been terrible. I am hoping headphones will help solve echoes, and interruptions, which I blame on so many WiFi's in her appartment block. My 700's don't have that problem. But I find, some headphones do calls better and others do music better, and many have assistants like Alexa. How can I make sense of all this? Well she has no more ideas about this than I do. I have been checking out M5's and M4's in the hope of finding the latter discounted. But I have no gripes about my 700's. The case is robust. When I am in noisy places, I can make clear phone calls and the othter party does not hear my background clamour. Maybe I am a bit awkward, but often I have difficulty adjusting volume or skipping tracks, which means I need to swipe the correct section of the Right side cup to do. Altzheimers . . . !!! :-)
Bought the XM4 and after 1 hour listening session I couldnt bare the pain on my ears anymore, so I immediatiely returned it. They feel way too heavy. I have a Corsair Headset that cost like 1/4 the price and it doesn't hurt me at all, even after a 5 hours playing session. Im thinking about givint it a try to the XM5, since the reviews say it is lighter and more comfortable, but I am still undecided.
What headphones should I buy?
I have a deal on xm4's for €240
Bose NC 700 for €250
Or go with xm5's for €400
just got my xm5s and they are real comfy, huge advantage over xm4 (I had xm3 before) if you wear them for hours on.
XM-3's
I have both the Bose QC45 (for when I'm on Windows PC) and the Airpods Max (for Macbook). I enjoy your channel a lot, but you need to stop hating on Airpods Max. I think they have awesome sound and love the way they connect to all my devices automatically. The spatial audio is also great. Yes, the case is a joke but I bought a $12 case on Amazon and it's working out perfectly.
For 200$ price difference the airpods max shouldn't even be comparable, the fact they are behind the others in some aspects is ridiculous
@@tanujdeepsingh2572 Do you own them? Have you tried them? Because if not, your opinion is kind of irrelevant to the conversation.
It’s really easy to get the Max for for less that’s days. I got mine for $400 brand new. This review is the first I have seen from this channel and it will be my last.
I agree with your comments. people moaning about the max set aren't thinking about the bigger picture, the integration with other Apple products. I have the Airpods max, the Bose 700 and the XM5s. I like the XM5S for the battery life, the max for the ability to switch from iPad to iPhone and I'm a bit sick of the 700s because the creaky design of the cups.
I think you all have to stop fan boying for products, to audiophiles maybe most of these ANC devices don't even make top 5, you just have a bias on a brand name. If truly, people test them with regards to audio quality and not just how heavy the bass is, then we will find out the real drawbacks to people who enjoy real quality and not just bass heavy shiny headphones. Personally I like bass, so I will always go for any bass heavy headphones or earphones starting from those $45 earphones to as expensive as I can afford headphones. If someone gives you a user acceptance test scenario and that fails, then it is not hating, it is a clear observation. I also hate how apple really cripples integration between it's products and other devices. I am an ICT guy, apple devices are so limited for what I do, they are basically for the plug and play layman, but for those of us who enjoy real tweaking and configuration, our tv's, laptops, phones, cars, surround systems etc etc are on different platforms running different software, the likes of apple do not work well in the real world for most people. If I have to use your brand to get full audio quality then you are the problem.
Hi guys, I listen to mainly Reggae music and hope you can help recommending the dopest pair for deep, clean, low bass Bluetooth headphones. Been left a little confused to say the least after watching your review on the Sony XM4's, the 5's the Bose 700's and the Quiet 45's. I've got my eye on all but most reviews I see put the Sony XM5's top of the chart? Wonder if you guys are agents, haters or just being 'cold spoilers'? I guess the best thing is to go to store and check em all out for myself.
The dynamic duo of gadget reviews! Like your video, your '2-up' appearance, but there's stiff competition from the 1-up stand alone's. ✌️Bless Peace.
I felt the lightness vs xm4 on the xm5 :)
To be fair, the XM5s have gotten A LOT better since they came out. The review would be much different today. Firmware updates are everything on quality wireless headphones. Thank you so much for being a member. :)
I have both 4 and 5 and 5 is way way more better than 4, so much better that I brought 2 pairs of xm5's
Thanks for that. I'll stick to my nearly 30 year old wired cans that are still going strong and highly prized among studio engineers.
😂😂amen to that
Awesome! But what are they?
@@PayetteForward Sony MDR-7506, belonged to me da.
@@HelloNotMe9999 Yeah! I’ve worn those in studios tracking piano! You know they’re good if they still sell them new after all these years. And very comfortable.
@@PayetteForward If it's not broken... Right? Kinda like how Jeep hasn't really changed the design (much) for the Wrangler in what... 50 years?
bought them using them for 3 days now worth every penny, using for gym too
I'm sorry I don't consider Sony XM5's premium, upper mid-range at best. They don't even use premium materials. Cheap-feeling recycled plastics. They don't feel premium like Focal, Bang and Olufsen, Bowers and Wilkins.
I tested some headphones out wore them in the market for a few minutes, i have a big head and can say that the xm5s were the most comfy at least first impression. I tried a bunch out the bose 700, qcs, xm4s, Technics, yamaha ones. The xm5s just felt so light and nice but i have to say it took me some time to get used to the headband.
they felt the most comfortable in the shop but after having them on your head for 30 minutes they feel hot sweaty and tight :( i had to swap them for the 45iis.
In Turkey the MX5 cost about 600$ compares to the MX4 which it still about 350$ after your review I will go for MX4 thank you so much!
Exact opposite of what I thought with the ultraquietcomfort bose vs wh1000mx4 sonys had the best audio and bose had the best noise blocking. Bose audio quality was colder and less full sounding than the sonys
it all depends on how you use it... if u sit at home, surely it's the bose 700. If you go out and listen to music and watch movies in noisy environment and have to make calls to do business, it's the sony xm5.
Definitely they were biased in favor of Bose in the comparison between Bose 700 and Sony mx5 , I disagree with them , the MX5 is definitely a winner.
Don’t mean to sound like an apple fan boy here, but how could you guys think the sound quality in the airpods max does not stack up to other premium headphones? My wife just got a pair and they sound amazing. Cannot comment on the xm5s as I have not heard them but I 100% disagree with you on the airpods max.
Appreciate that! The AirPods Max do sound great - but they don't sound amazing, and they aren't sonically flat. I like MKBHD's review - I think it was called something to the effect of "Luxury Listening". They have the bells and whistles like spatial audio, but given their lack of ability to play even CD-quality music, I don't think the price point is justified.
Specs wise the XM5 is amazing no questions. But why for the love of God are the XM5 so UNCOMFORTABLE. The earcups are SO shallow compared to Airpods Max, Bose QC45 or Bowers and Wilkins. I was really hoping since they made the earcushions rectangular then it will be like the airpods max but nope, they made them even shallower than the XM4
It allows people with bigger ears to use them as well
Yep I just tried the xm5s at Best Buy yesterday and although I thought they sounded good, my ears were rubbing inside and I found them really uncomfortable compared to my XM3s.
It's impossible to give a definitive review for headphones. Different people like different sounds. Some people like a lot of bass, some people like the vocals to be more pronounced, some people like a lot of treble. Most of the flat sound response headphones are both expensive and a little lacking in bass but the sound stage is excellent. The target audience for them is older people who mostly prefer that sound. The target audience for makers like Sony and (now apple) beats etc is the younger audience who prefer a lot of bass.
Interesting, as several other very credible top reviewers put Sony on overall as #1, with XM5 over the XM4. I have the Bose and XM5, and for me Bose can’t come close to the XM5. Apple is below this class. I really like the Sony XM5, but then I don’t figure cost into any equation on purchasing as to me it’s not logical to pay less for something not as good. You soon forget about the cost, but you have to live with the defects of less every time you use whatever you bought.
Right now the xm5 and xm4 are the exact same price the only thing I’m worried about is the weak hinge on the xm5. Which one should I get
I triedd the XM5s in a Best Buy today and they sounded awful compared to the AirPods Max I have. Not the first time I have had that experience from a store demo model so I don't know if that makes the difference, but I am just not getting the same results as the reviewers. I actually think the XM4s sound better than the 5s.
Looking forward for your review upon B&W PX7 S2
I have tested the XM4 and XM5 and the XM5 noise cancelling is worse than the XM4
Why would you test tech without using the tech the app is a must on anything earbud and headphones
Sorry, but I feel like you guys went into this review a little biased. Yes, 400 Euros are too much, but if the price is falling to ~ 320 - 360 than they are worth it.
Sorry (MY OPINION) You are both wrong I think you two are to repetitive for your reviews to be taken seriously you need to disagree sometimes.
Deciding between beats studio and these. Even though the sound was more full/rich from the Sony's, the way the beats hugged my ear, made the sound..sound better. Idk how to explain it.
The lower frequency response came from Sony. But it didn't sound as good as the beats that cup and hug my ears perfectly.
...and here I am listening to a review for a $400 Sony headphone on my $35 Sony headphone....life...
I consider your tech reviews to among the best on the WEB. However, in your review of the SONY XM5 headphones you disliked the sound quality without saying the user can adjust the sound using the built -in equalizer. Qualified reviews have agreed they were satisfied with the XM 5 headphones after making EQ adjustments. Dan
I don't know how you measured sound quality but pretty much every single objective (FR) and subjective reviews tell us that Max is better in sound quality part. Sony's sound is muffled and bass leaks into other frequencies. You can listen to the samples all over the internet. EQ can't fix this.
This is just a terrible review. There is no way to objectively say that the Bose 700 sounds better and if that is your opinion- no one should watch your videos as you're giving incredibly biased suggestions, disguised as actual reviews.
700s do have good ANC, probably in the ballpark of the XM5, but that's it. That is the closest they get to XM5.
I HAVE BOSE 30ll,great DOR sound and Well worth The price
actually "the first thing you'll notice is" (0:23) that he took the 1-2-3 instruction booklet out of the box and PUT IT ASIDE in a way that suggests he discarded it. I opened the box on my new Sony XM5 and there was no such booklet in the box. I wish he would mail it to me. There are many, many, many setup steps skipped over. This is not a video for newbies. But then it doesn't claim to be that either. My bad.
You tested XM5 on iPhone... that's not fair. Try Sony on Android phone like a Samsung S22 to be able use LDAC Sony codec, it sounds better.
use the custom eq in the app. They literally make them sound twice better
So glad you hear I’m getting mine today as a birthday gift
What’s your eq seeing settings ?
Also some people say when they talk the music cuts off do you know how I can turn that off?? In the app?
You mentioned that you test headphones and earbuds in their stock EQ settings:
Do you, with your own Bose NC 700 keep it in its stock EQ setting when you are using them in your personal life?? 🤔
I understand why you test the headphones and earbuds in their stock factory settings...
BUT, if their companion app offers an adjustable EQ, I think you should adjust them to your ideal EQ settings and give your viewers your opinions based on this optimal setting, just to be fair...
Therefore an opinion on stock setting and a second opinion on the adjusted EQ setting and tell us if that made any improvements on the sound quality... 🤔
I'm Using the MDR-1000X and bought the WH-1000XM4, but I'll sell them, because the WH-1000XM5 sound much better. The difference is bigger than from the 1000X to the 1000XM4. At least with a correction for the EQ, because they have the same drivers
Look for the XM3s.....you can probably still find new ones under $200... great fit and sound....great ANC....however, you must manually switch between BT sources, a very minor inconvenience
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