Sony WH-1000XM5 Review! Hear them vs AirPods Max, Bose QC 45 & Sony XM4!

[@chrisordway7950]

Is Brian a vampire? I swear he hasn't aged a day in 10 years.

[@briantong]

🧛‍♀️🤷🏻‍♂️😂😂😂

[@thooomass]

@@briantong, can you do Edifier Stax Spirit S3 review?

[@LeesReviews69]

I’ve seen him since he started CNET, maybe 17 years ago? Still looks the same. He’s dyed his skunk stripe all this time I bet he’s altered his genes and his kids will be born with a stripe 😂

[@911S]

That's why I like Asian chick's Asians don't age! Lol

[@producdevity]

He's just Asian

[@ramirocastro4828]

This is the format of review that answers many questions when looking to buy headphones. The audio demos are creative, obviously is not the same like when you test the headphones in real life but gets you closer to how they really sound between them because not everybody can actually compare them before buying (I'm from centralamerica and can't test them in the stores nearby). Awesome review man, you got a new subscriber!

[@chroniccivil8563]

Exactly!

[@IroAppe]

And what's important with these is that you are trying to listen to the DIFFERENCES, not the sound you are hearing. Because the sound you are hearing is very much determined and changed by the headphones you have on right now, and it will sound very much different in real life. These reviews can't show you how the headphones sound, what you hear is not how they sound. The only clear information you can get out of these are the differences and for that you have to turn your analytical mode on and analyze the differences you are hearing. Don't go simply for the best sounding one right now, because naturally those that are closest to your current headset will sound better, and those that are more distanced from your current headphones will sound a bit more weird. However what I could absolutely analyze is, that the XM5's have more detailled mid to high ends, and I also could hear the slight rumble in the XM4's. Ultimately I will have to try out the XM5's for myself.

[@jairtzinio]

Answers many questions but not all questions

[@ChowDownDetroit]

Since Jim’s Review doesn’t do headphone reviews anymore, Brian might be the king of these type of headphone reviews where we actually hear how it sounds.

[@techbasics6142]

what happened to him

[@ChowDownDetroit]

@@techbasics6142 he quit the headphone reviews after getting one million subscribers few years ago to become a gamer on twitch

[@NetvoTV]

iPhonedo do it too

[@capricornus993]

@@ChowDownDetroit he didn’t quit after getting a mil subs, he got them after he had already left KZbin

[@pandassudsnshine4125]

Jim quit to do other things and headphones reviews was taking a troll on his life. He explain that in his last video. His production is still better than today’s reviewers.

[@fizziefizzer]

damn, really tempted to save up for the XM5's instead of getting the XM4's now. I don't really mind that it doesn't fold up, I love the fact that the new ones look so much cleaner

[@ricochet243]

What did you end up getting and are you happy with your choice?

[@maggiebest08]

To my ears these 3rd Gen Air pods are more comfortable compared to the newer Pro version with the soft gel tips. kzbin.infoUgkxgl8SzyQoymMu-S3V55Dskg5QJ8xr1yCR That said, compared to the 3rd Gen, I notice these do not stay planted in the ear as well. One design issue I think, is you squeeze the stem and click it twice to advance your songs. On 3rd gen you tap the large speaker. The difference is by grabbing the stem each time, you tend to loosen the bud fit in your ear. Not always, but the bud falls out a few times while running. The old tap to change never had that problem for me. I would not have changed that tap function. That said, the newer Pro version sticks in the ear, almost airtight if you want that. I do not like that Airtight fit. So that's why I'd stay with this version as the best trade off of comfort, use, and overall feel.

[@mrcrusha829]

No one does headphone battles better! I was surprised how close the XM5's were to the AirPods Max. Still love my XM4's and don't see a reason to upgrade anytime soon... especially since you are able to get the XM4's at a great price right now.

[@earthling_parth]

I love my XM4's 😍

[@ROBINSON-R66]

i bought xm4

[@Komsan473]

really? the apple max sounds like a tin can compared to both the XM4 / 5. Gonna return my bose and get the XM5s

[@OvOxZaddy]

Love my Xm4 use them with my Samsung note 20 and “power amp” equalizer to tune them However I switched to iPhone 14 max recently n have iPad Pro , Mac Studio computer so I’m getting Air Max demo @ bestbuy amazed how they sound out box no adjustment needed

[@OvOxZaddy]

@@Komsan473 That was my thought always however tried them @ bestbuy sound amazing (using iPhone 14 max Apple Music) getting them from Costco. Use XM4 with my Samsung note 20 with power amp equalizer because need a lot of tweaking

[@MF_OXF]

damn....the xm5s sound noticeably cleaner than the xm4s...I was hoping not to upgrade but now I'm so tempted....

[@edwinfndz]

If you already have the xm4 I would keep it. The main reason I wanted to upgrade was for upgraded voice calls but it is still trash with 8 mics.

[@MF_OXF]

@@edwinfndz I’m not 100% happy with the xm4 as they should a bit muffled when compared with my AirPod Max and other headphones that I have. This video and others have shown that the xm5 doesn’t have this issue. So yeah, for me it’s an easy upgrade

[@edwinfndz]

@@MF_OXF why do you have AirPod Max and XM4? can the AirPod Max not be used with other devices as well?

[@markusknight]

Your audio comparisons in headphone reviews are always great. Keep it up!

[@alenq21]

After watching hours of different reviews and comparisons - and learning little of how they really sound and compare - thank goodness I've watched this video that gave me a definitive answer to my questions. Thanks Brian, this was exactly what I needed.

[@12omy88]

Do we need to upgrade to XM5?

[@alenq21]

@@dyeace I was considering between XM4/XM5/Bose... and as I'm not a fan of overwhelming bass "drowning" the mids and highs, I did not like the sound of XM4's (and previous models). But I do like the sound of XM5's. This cleaner sound is to my taste. And having the XM5's compared to some interesting Bose models... I am now more sure about the decision to go with XM5.

[@AmroG.]

What an epic review! Loved making the judgement by myself and having sufficient time to digest the differences. It then gets better when Brian gives an honest - no BS review. Legend 👍🏽

[@briantong]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@CPX723]

Based on these tests, I’ll go for XM4. They’re already discounted to 280 euros in France and they sound just as good to me, even though a little different. I’m replacing my old QC35 ll. They’re still awesome, just battery is weaker and I hate that micro usb.

[@trulyblockchain]

You can get battery replaced with any local repair shops, bose is bose.. no doubt.. beat comfy best sound..

[@porschepal7932]

@@trulyblockchain Bose don't beat the Sony XM4's though. Definitely not the XM5's. Bose easily beat the Beats though.

[@leroyrs]

@@porschepal7932 Even as a Sony fan I don't like the sound of the XM3/XM4 - IMO very muddy and boomy without the use of an equalizer. The QC35/45 sound more natural - especially in the mids. The XM5 sound better as well as the Airpods Max.

[@radu_serban]

After viewing several videos regarding XM4 vs XM5 comparison, this is hands down, the best! Thank you, Brian!

[@briantong]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@TechOutAdam]

Best design Sony has done so far. Futuristic, professional and CLEAN.

[@raviatm]

except they DONT FOLD

[@gardriel8208]

But less functional than ever before

[@Kids11111]

@@raviatm The folding mechanism cost them a lot of warranty replacements.

[@raviatm]

@@Kids11111 mechanism? you mean hinge? LOL

[@Kids11111]

@@raviatm yes, a hinge is a folding mechanism. A mechanism that is an extra point of failure for Sony.

[@alexanderstevenson3898]

The binaural A-B comparison is actually super useful. Really well done.

[@Djjolly037]

I got to give it to Sony. I’m listening using my AirPods max wirelessly. The AirPods are a good headphone for comparing the Sonys due to the sound signature. When I got my AirPods max compared to the xm4 I had at the time, the xm4 sounded muddy. Not as wide of a sound stage and bass seemed to over take the track at every turn. On the xm5 it’s easy to hear they brightened up the sound a tad, pulled back on the bass slightly but it’s still a crisp solid thump. I’m thoroughly impressed Sony improved the sound quality this much

[@Radhaugo108]

Fun Fact: Sony XM series headphones still work when the battery runs out, just plug the headphone jack included in the box.

[@Djjolly037]

There’s still a pretty distinct difference between the AirPods, that wider sound stage is what really separates the AirPods from every other WIRELESS headphones. I wear mine several hours a day and still absolutely in love with them. But well done Sony. Competition is always a good thing.

[@r3drift]

Apple fans are so cringe lol 😆

[@Djjolly037]

@@r3drift please explain in detail how my post is fanboyish. I used to work for Best Buy. I have owned every major wireless headphone from Sony Bose and the like. For several years I used the original Sony 1000x. Anyone using a set of over the ear headphones can clearly hear the difference that wider sound stage makes. I also capitalized wireless for a reason. Instead of calling me cringe, how about you actually contribute to the discussion

[@liam2246]

@@r3drift you're just jealous that u cant afford apple stuff lmaooo

[@CleddaSrh]

@@liam2246 they aren’t even unaffordable in comparison either. I just got a new pair of Maxes from Costco for $479 and got a free $100 Costco gift card with them so they were basically $379. Less than the XM5’s are going to retail for!

[@stevel9627]

@@liam2246 anyone can afford Apple products. We're talking about electronic devices not 6 figure supercars lmao

[@mygreatamericannovel]

Lowkey the best technical review I've seen for these so far

[@tommytorres]

Great job! This is the first time I see a reviewer actually record the headphones with a binaural mic setup. Having studied audio engineering this is the only way to go! Thanks!

[@1pt21jigawatt]

I own the XM5's and a pair of Bose. No comparison. I took a 4 hour flight and the noise cancellation with the XM5 was almost complete. Got my moneys worth with one flight. My wife had the Bose. I didn't let her try mine because I wouldn't have gotten them back.

[@tippy35075]

I didn't realise just how good the airpods max's were in comparison to the other flagships, looks like I'll be scooping up a pair on sale to use alongside my Bose qc35ii and the airpods pro

[@AJ-wg7fj]

I have to be honest, I’m an admitted Apple fanboy, so I’ll put it out there. But I figured there was a good chance the XM5s would be as good or frankly better than AirPods Max given that they’re newer (love my AirPods Max). However…I’m shocked at how much more clarity there is in the vocals, and the cleanness of the bass, the openness” of the sound in the AirPods Max compared to the XM5s. Listening to the two one after another, the Sony’s sounded like a recording (or even a recording of a recording) while often the AirPods sounded more like the music (vocals in particular) was being performed in the room. The XM5s seem like really nice quality, I think a purchaser will be very happy with them. I do think the AirPods Max sound better, though.

[@viceasimo3532]

As much as I hate to admit it, Apple definitely has the best sound quality out of all its competitors

[@Salty_Biscuitz88]

AirPods max sounds better honestly

[@alexsmith1207]

I have these along the H95. I gotta say the Sony is my taste of headphones, the mids and the voices on the Airpods Max are the highlight, can be unnaturally bright. It's good headphone for classical music, or indoor, even editing videos. The Sony though really improved the instruments separation including respecting the instruments sounds, great to travel with and comparing it to my wire Sennheiser Hd 650 wow the imaging low frequencies are so good.

[@sheisadolly]

That was a really great review! I was leaning towards the Sony XM5, but hearing the AirPods Max got me questioning my decision.

[@emilioincerto]

Which ones are made in China?

[@HJ-jn6bb]

Gosh same

[@dontedupree]

The Sony Xm5s are better bro. Period!!!

[@hadibabazadeh]

dude the design the microphones this is a masterpiece

[@captainchau]

Thank you for the side by side audio comparison. I pre-ordered these base off of trust in Sony, but after this review I feel much more certain about that decision.

[@digz6666]

Your reviews are so detailed, appreciate your enormous effort on binaural comparison!

[@lyndonmacaraig6108]

JESUS! The sound difference from the sony m4s vs m5s is absolutely insane. I have the skullcandy crusher evo

[@mikeree8543]

Crusher seems to have very good details for sure. You hear all the details. Somehow Sony m4 and M5 gets distortion with the Bass. Mid ranges were missing. My opinion. JBL Clubs are way better with mid ranges. You can pull it without high bass.

[@faroukkamil2911]

Awesome video! Possibly the best headphone review channel on youtube! I do have a suggestion that could further improve people's judgement of the headphones: When you do the "brinaural experience" it would be REALLY helpful if you have the original track in the video so everyone can hear how the song is supposed to sound originally when switching back and forth with the headphones! Love your channel bro you've got my sub!

[@Evan_Rodgers]

Gotta say I think the XM5 is better overall sounding than the AirPods Max. Didn’t expect that. Listened on XM3s.

[@Gian8118]

Thanks for the sound comparison, unbelievably helpful. It seems to me that the XM5 is the clear winner vs Bose and XM4 across all songs and I would agree with you that the AirPods have better clarity than XM5 but man, classical on the AirPods sounds atrocious! My $20 hearbuds make a similar rendition, and for sure I am not vaunting them. XM5 all the way for me. Small suggestion: use at least an heavy rock/metal song for comparison to show how the headphones handle lots of loud instruments playing together.

[@flipwarrior]

My $200 car is more luxurious than a 2022 G63.

[@jonathanoxlade4252]

Apple sounds like shit then again going wired would give you better clarity because the signal is better on wired vs wireless ile be buying the xm5 and going wired with them for overall better sound quality and clarity and a sony phone with headphone jack

[@cedgardner]

Best review I have seen Jim’s Review Room. Great job, had fun listening to the sound differences.

[@Truthdefender101]

The bass in Airpods Max is more deeper and the soundstage is quite wide. Gonna look forward to purchase them someday

[@KarthikKumarguru]

I love the fact that you put so much effort to make sure we can actually HEAR the difference!

[@elvisahmed]

Hopefully they perform well in extreme cold. I had to go with Bose 700 just because of that.

[@BillyTankz]

Good Job Brian!! Your review is very accurate and you can hear the sound quality/ differences between mx4 & mx5. Keep it up.

[@rustymackemingrancanaria6360]

I hope the ear comfort issue has truly been resolved because previous xm3/4 were so uncomfortable on my ears after 30 minutes .. but the ANC is worth it . Great review...

[@tipoomaster]

Sounded to me like the Max had better separation and vibrance in the high end. I wonder if they fixed that treble dip in software?

[@delamain1559]

Yes the airpods max are the best for non audiophile ANC headphones they are the the limit between audiophile and consumer headphones

[@tucoerquilenne6765]

For me I would probably chose the XM5's over the AirPods Max 2 based on signature sound. XM 5's seem to have a really good balanced sound before you start tweaking your preferences with the Equalizer which Apple does not let you do. That being said will have to wait and see when the new AirPods Max 2 come out either this year or next. These headphones will only be used for my IPhone or IPad at home.

[@lkanety]

Thanks for the review. I’m gonna stick with my xm4 :)

[@Torg7520]

Did you test the active noise cancellation? I'm sure it's excellent like before, but I'd love to hear the "Brinaural" comparison to the XM4 and Air Pods.

[@derrickpangilinan]

If I don't have a headphone at the moment, I'd definitely buy the XM5s but having the QC 45s, no reason to upgrade. Thanks very much Brian

[@wbdunleavy512]

Love the cleaner sound of the XM5s totally!!❤

[@kudzu01]

The difference in sound quality between the two Sony headphones is remarkable.

[@lifewithjohnny9724]

Really great comparison Brian. I’ve never experienced anything quite like it! I used my Sony xm3, that was really cool! Was so cool hearing the differences! Great job! I’m tempted to go for AirPods max now I’ve changed back to apple

[@truthseeker6804]

sound is subjective and can be eq, i'm waiting for noise cancellation comparisons. good video.

[@CafeMich]

I think choosing what headphones to wear depends on the genre of music you're listing to. For me, if I'm listening to alternative indie/rock or even pop music, I'll go with the cleaner sound as I wanna hear the vocals more clearly. For rap and edm, I'd chose the higher bass to have a great time. I've pre-ordered the XM5's since I'm due for an upgrade anyway

[@h.inusitatus]

I think that the main appeal of the XM5 is their top of the class noise cancelling. The sound quality is secondary. I was expecting the binaural test to compare the noise cancelling. I'm specially interested in comparing the Airpods Max and the XM5 when it comes to noise cancelling. But can't find any video doing that.

[@joemalfoy7780]

im looking for that as well, ive seen it with xm4 i believe, hope to see it for xm5 soon

[@micahalan]

The brinaural experience is back PogChamp. The Airpods really made Sony step up their design haha but it looks a lot nicer than the XM4, shame Sony don't have replaceable earcups, like why do companies copy bad things from Apple and not their good stuff xD and the "can I borrow your homework" with Bose's case design.

[@stephenroach4402]

First time I’ve had the pleasure of the Brinaural experience, great name, format and songs types to really show the difference. I’ve just ordered some XM5s as a result. Now really excited to get them. Great work Brian. 👍

[@young6imba307]

I purchased the XM4’s and AirPod Maxes a little while back to test them and the AirPox Max sound completely blew the XM4’s out of the water me. This was after I tried a bunch of different EQ settings on the XM4’s to try and make them sound more balanced but they never quite got there. I wanted to stick with the AirPod Max because I loved the sound soo much but I just couldn’t bare having them on for long periods of time because they were uncomfortable. Also since I wear glasses the clamping force from the AirPod Max was so strong it would press the arms of my glasses against the bone behind my ear and it would make my entire head hurt. So it was sound quality vs comfort for me but I couldn’t commit to either. The XM4’s were super comfortable but just didn’t sound good enough and the AirPox Max sounded amazing but were uncomfortable. So now i’m here with a preorder for the XM5’s hoping they will be the perfect in between! Hearing your sound comparisons did help a lot. I agree with you that the AirPox Max sound edges out the XM5 but not by as much as they did the XM4’s.

[@buckbuckgoose92]

You dont place your glasses on top the earcup while wearing?

[@young6imba307]

@@buckbuckgoose92 No, I do not adjust my glasses arms when putting on any headphones. It has never been an issue except with the AirPod Max because of their immense clamping force. Also if I was to put my glasses arms at the top of the ear cup then they wouldn’t be on straight and I would be looking through them at a downward angle

[@shantysmith7279]

It’s not that harsh that means you need to shorten the lengths on of the airpod arms itself so it sits on top of your head, the adaptive EQ will allow you to get the exact same sound intended to give no matter where it is on your ears

[@young6imba307]

@@shantysmith7279 To me, it is that harsh. Remember everyone has difference head sizes so you can’t speak for what someone else is feeling or how harsh or non harsh it is. I appreciate you offering this tip, but I have tried adjusting the arms as well and then instead of the pressure being above my ear it moves to below my ear. It’s not an issue with how I wear the AirPod Max. The issue is they are heavy and have an intense clamping force. Now if I don’t wear my glasses with them that reduces some of the pain but I’m not gonna be blind out here just to listen to music and shouldn’t have too lol. I wear headphones for long durations and the AirPod Max are just not comfortable as other headphones like the QC45, XM4 and when I pick up my XM5’s on Friday I’m sure they will be comfortable as well. I just hope Sony has improved the sound enough.

[@shantysmith7279]

@@young6imba307 haha understandable that’s all true points, I guess at the end of the day it always comes down to what’s best for you and what you prefer!

[@videobiker9131]

The first point about the drivers with the M4 is having the 40 mm drivers and the M5 having 30 mm drivers and you were a little concerned about the sound. I was surprised that they didn’t give you more sound mainly because there’s going to be less impedance in the drivers but I guess they corrected for the lower impedance. Your second point with regards to the difference in the microphones. Maybe it’s just me but as I listened to the M4 in the M5 I noticed that your voice sounded a little flatter on the M5 headphones. I like the sound on the M5s better than the M4, there’s less bass coming through and that’s why I like them. I’ve never been a big fan of heavy bass and I always appreciate the headphones to give me a more balanced sound with better highs and mediums with the bass complimenting the overall sound and NOT overpowering the upper ranges.

[@RicochetForce]

Yeah, as someone with a full blow home theater setup fighting excessive bass and getting a more balance setup is always worth it. Bass is in service of the music instead of dominating the higher frequencies.

[@sparks8740]

Was a previous user of the QC35 II's and ended up switching out to the Sony XM3's after replacing the former on warranty. I've been thinking of upgrading, and am interested in how much better the cancelation of ambient sound is while speaking on phone/Zoom calls for the XM5's.

[@cheapbruh9778]

call quality is basically the only true upgrade from the xm3 so if that is what is important for you, then go for it 100%

[@djkase1]

During that last segment of the APM vs XM5, the Sony had better low end but APM sounded wider and more defined from the mids to the highs. Interesting finding I had when playing around with EQ in the Music app: Acoustic and Hip Hop presets seem to bring the APM’s sound closer to the XM4 and XM5 where the mids and highs become subdued whereas the overall bass sounds much deeper and more defined. I could be wrong, but based on your review, it’s as though the APM can do a very solid job of mimicking the sound of the XM4 and XM5…like three headphones in one lol.

[@alanacevedo4928]

I want to add that I own the APM, after previously owning the Studio 3s, and I can wear the APM for HOURS at a time. They do not feel heavy on the head and my ear don’t hurt at all after extended use, which has always been an issue for me. So I highly recommend them

[@MisterRhul]

Much less mudier. Airier. Brighter. But still punchier and sub bass are full. Mids are... the same. Easier to hear because bass are much less invasive. But overall, much better. Good. Very good. Airpods max still better, but not for the price.

[@MisterRhul]

Still not as good as wired headphones, but very good for it's kind.

[@mattd9330]

Fantastic review! Super disappointed these aren’t double hinged and they have thinner head band. Otherwise they look like a great update to my beloved XM4s.

[@samuelyoon5701]

Wow I loved the Brinaural Experience! It really shows how balanced and pleasing the XM5s sound. The classical orchestral music sounds sooo good in the XM5s

[@Linda2016_]

I want a quick shortcut which one is the best xm5 or AirPods Max?

[@likejia4008]

I got a pre-order for XM5 after watch your video, probably will deliver in the next two week. Can’t wait to try it!!!

[@michaelreilly569]

Yes, the Airpods Max were the best. I'm very surprised. I'm wondering how much better the new Airpods Max (later this year?), with expanded new (bluetooth???) system will sound. Question: Do the XM5's sound a lot better when plugged in. I don't think the Airpods Max can plug in. To me, the XM4's sounded better than the XM5's in your test, but I don't really know, for sure. I'd be using earphones mostly for classical. They'd need to be comfortable also, so that probably rules out the Airpods Max. I'll waiit to hear how the Airpods 2 sound in comparison.

[@tipoomaster]

They can plug in via their not included 3.5mm to lightning cable, and they do sound better wired like all products that rely on bluetooth

[@kannamustafa6043]

if you listen to classical,save yourself money and just get a pair of HD560s ,they obliterate any other wireless headphones ,heck for the 550$ of airpod max you can buy a pair of HD560s for classical music, a pair of Fidelio X2HR for any other genre and movies, and even a DAC or wireless pair like the Anker Q30

[@KingYongHong]

Are you going to be able to change out the earcups when they wear out (become oily, dirty and dingy) after repeated use and replace with new earcups?

[@Humiliated1234]

I wanna know this too

[@duppa]

No, not on the XM5.

[@KingYongHong]

@@duppa that’s really sad. I mean I really hate it after a couple of years, the headphone is in perfect working conditions but the earcups becomes so broken & dingy & smelly and I can’t change them & I ended using the headphones less & less or I had to go buy another new one. That’s why I think Apple AirPod Max’s changeable magnetic earcups are really brilliant. But I don’t have that kind of budget for the AirPod Max. 😭

[@duppa]

@@KingYongHong the AirPods Max aren’t that much more than the XM5 here in the UK. £409 on Amazon currently vs. £380 for the XM5. I was waiting for the launch of XM5 but I’m slightly disappointed with them, probably gonna pick up the Max for myself.

[@techinrl9869]

@@duppa Here in the states, Amazon has the APM for $449, $100 off regular price.

[@pandaman7999]

The difference between the XM5 and QC 45 is huge

[@BrunoSantos-mt1gn]

Thats why I don’t believe. The qc 45 had a firmware update they now very good.. Sony can’t make sound like bose! Sony have fake frequencies

[@elck3]

Your binaural headphones comparison was brilliant! I could totally hear a difference

[@delamain1559]

Yes with very good headphones we can really hear the headphones

[@AnthonyJohnston1]

Fantastic review with being able to hear the difference MAAAAN the airpods max sound so much more 3D where the XM5's start to sound 2D

[@Xanadu56]

If I am going to use them to listen to music with a lot of bass and guitars, such as heavy and metal music, which one would you recommend?

[@migo4316]

Comfort is my personal priority since I get used to a sound signature as long as I am not comparing headphones side by side.. bose QC are unbeatable in that area. But I can’t get used to the heat and discomfort of the sony and the crocodile clamping force of the AirPods Max

[@paulb9453]

I disagree, XM5 is by far the best most open sounding of the whole bunch, Airpods are surprisingly constrained in delivery. There's no contest, XM5 rules this test, unexpectedly. You're absolutely correct about Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio, great review.

[@karpetcm]

at first when you compared the xm4's to the 5's i liked the 4's better. Seemed like your in a room and the artist is singing to you were the 5's felt like you were outdoors. Then you compared it to the bose and it really for me just killed the bose. APM's i thought did really well and they were very clear and clean.

[@jamesfhIII]

Very balanced and comprehensive review, Brian. The lack of support for Dolby Atmos/Spatial Audio is a huge omission.

[@robertlouisebaker-hyde1267]

I have XM4 very happy and satisfied. Should I get the XM5?

[@existenciarte]

Hi Brian! I live in Brazil and here no one does headphones reviews like you do. Thanks! I’m considering getting the AirPods Max, but in Brazil it’s very, very expensive. After watching your videos, I’m much more confident about that possibility. Thank you again! 🇧🇷🎧

[@fiddlix]

I am getting a pair of XM5s Friday 5/20. they are replacing my muddy sounding XM4s.

[@ANNUNEKAH]

You did great with this!

[@user-sp7bn8vp7k]

i dont know all the audiophile jargon, but i picked the XM5s over everything else i was considering because after hearing a bunch of comparisons it felt like all my other prospects made me feel like i was under water while the sound on these feel like theres nothing on my ears. I think ill really appreciate these as a multigenre listener, thanks for the battles!

[@notsure7554]

Amazing Brian. Thank you. Nobody has done what you've done here. Wow.

[@kellypark9290]

I absolutely love the audio quality comparison, but I use my headphones for video conferencing A LOT. I need a microphone comparison to the same depth as the listening tests.

[@htenthusiast2897]

Great thorough review and comparison. I have mixed feelings about the design, the sound quality is great, yet as you said not at Apple’s level. I’m still using my old Beats and waiting for a perfect headphone, couldn’t wear Apple’s for 10 minutes. May try those MX5s. My favorites for wearing a long time are still the Powerbeats Pro.

[@SuryaAs-mj9gq]

Hello sir.. after using a week my right side is tight but my left side ear joint becomes very loose..it doesn't cause me any comfort issue or something.. but it's very loose but my right side is still.. is it normal? Should I opt for replacement?

[@cooperarmstrong4493]

How is the fit for the Xm5 cause I got goofy big ears and the xm4 made my ears hurt hence what made me go with bose qc45 but I miss Sony's soundstage and audio and app but if they don't have the comfort I want I'll have to stick with bose

[@jorgeluisfernandez2560]

I actually have airpods max and b&w px7 but i want a bose pair, so between QC45 and 700 which is better in terms of sound quality? Thanks a lot

[@anarkan191]

Thank you for yet another awesome comprehensive and detailed review in particular the actual binaural experience test. Although originally I saw no reason having to upgrade from my XM4 with its perfect folding portability to ginormous carry case of the XM5 for them not folding was not a exactly a winning factor for me to compel me to actually consider them, until I actually listened to them thanks to your binaural experience and very happy to hear that finally after so long Sony got the sound right at least for my taste, it was so nice and refreshing to hear a much better sound stage with clear and crisp instruments rather than keep harping about the it’s improved ANC where as at least in my XM3 and XM4 always some how sounded a bit flat like it is going thru a filter that is just butchering the mids and highs at least for me it did irrespective of having so many options to supposedly be a able to personally customising the sound to your liking the clean and crisp sound quality even with all the supposed customised controls in their app they Always sounded a bit muddy and muffled to me lacking that nice crisp highs no irrespective of what settings I chose but listening to your binaural test XM5 changed my mind as I was honestly pleasantly surprised to see how much more clear and crisper the sound was in XM5 compared to XM4 so I finally did see a competing reason to upgrade to XM5 as the Clarity of the mids and crisp highs was spot on for the music genre of my liking which is primarily is instrumental, jazz chill out - Lo-Fi - new age or vocals with a big sound stage. Having said that I also do own the Apple air-pod max abs Sony XM4s Thanks again for a Bang up job Brian your reviews are entertaining fully comprehensive detailed and educational with out missing a single point about the product with real time sound samples that I find extremely helpful to choose and make the final decision. No silly gimmicks no unnecessary theatrics just facts. Keep up the great work Brian Respect ✊

[@theaj1nkya]

That right there is the longest sentence I have ever read. The full stop was just out of sight.

[@biggbbear6300]

Great review I bought the Bose 700 weeks ago I’ve been a Bose fan for quite a while many years but I’m gonna return them and shoot for the Sony XM five I have the Sony XM three which to me the mids and highs weren’t that good and the base is muddy but the Sony XM five seems to hit the sweet spot

[@MrExBearPoker]

We're the Bose that bad? I ask because I had been thinking of getting a pair but never did. I did have the previous ones, I forgot the name of them it's been so long now lol

[@stephenknight6562]

@@MrExBearPoker the bose are awesome for listening to music with detail and phone calls. From the comparison the xm5 still are not as good for calls. Bose the voice sounds more realistic and less distorted.

[@MrExBearPoker]

@@stephenknight6562 Yeah they've always been good in the noise-cancelation arena. I have the in-ear in my pocket as I type this and they are awesome sounding but not looking 😂😂

[@michaelb9940]

Stop being wasteful

[@mahim6245]

hey man , this is the WYSIWG review ! good job. even audiophiles agree!

[@richardclark6113]

THANK YOU FOR DOING THE CLASSICAL MUSIC!!!!

[@catov6281]

But would it be worth upgrading from XM3? Proberbly not right?

[@taidee]

Oh man, the difference is clear between the XM4 vs XM5. I think the XM5 has seriously improved the sound but might not be for those who liked the XM4s of course. They sound better than the QC45s too. It just sounds like Sony's XM over-ear series might be good enough for a closed back with ANC. The Airpods are really good but for the price they are not that good, the price with them is the big issue, they sell at a level with some serious competition on the sound alone at least.

[@houman2009]

AirPods are a disaster with their design, choice of material and weight complete backward step on Apple🎉

[@zak9472]

I found a deal, someone bought the airpod max in my town and after a month he decided to sell them for approximately the same price as the m4 now, he has the receipt and box (everything from a well known store were he bought it from). So do you recommend the second hand AirPods max or new mx4?

[@DirectorWD40]

Bryan...When switching to compare sound clips from one to the next you could prepare loops with the different types of music, but they should be loops to make an easier distinction.

[@Wiseman1121]

I own the Sony XM4 do you think it’s worth upgrading to the XM5?

[@VenomMTG]

I love the sound comparison you do! I am debating between the Airpods Max and the SM5's. This video was informative, creative, and enjoyable. Thank for making this! #subscribed.

[@julietruong6525]

Did you ever figured out which one to get?

[@VenomMTG]

@@julietruong6525 Yes!!! I went with Sony. I love them!!

[@julietruong6525]

@@VenomMTG don’t?

[@VenomMTG]

@@julietruong6525 sorry edited that reply. Sony was supposed to go there.

[@julietruong6525]

@@VenomMTG okayy lol it’s fine! Thank youuu for replying

[@TheEtbetween]

Excellent review! Smart you covered different music

[@itzzDizZY]

Finally someone who knows how to review mainstream headphones. Keep it up!!

[@harshparihar933]

Which one to buy xm5 or xm4 for EDMs bass heavy music first time sony buyer

[@keepscent]

It would be a perfect review I think, if you had added NC comparison between XM4, XM5, and QC45 using binaural mic system. However even only the sound quality test really helps me a lot. Thanks.

[@midisong]

I have a home recording studio and have the Sennheiser HD 600s. But I’m getting tired of them. Can I ask you, can these also be hardwired with a 3.5 mm jack?

[@briantong]

Yes they can, all my re or songs are done with a hardwire connection

[@midisong]

@@briantong sweet !!!!! So for me it’s a toss up - putting the cost aside. As far as sound quality goes. More of a flat headphone. Would you choose the Apple or Sony?

[@halforma1]

Totally agree with Brian’s comments (as usual). Have both XM5’s and AirPods Max. Very rarely do I pickup the Max’s these days. Just too big and heavy. The headband support has stopped providing support (common problem) and the band itself is now resting on my head, which is uncomfortable after a short period of time. Hopefully Max 2 will come out and be a worthy replacement.

[@vanessacheung7781]

I would upgrade my headphone to Sony XM5... bcoz of the new design it is lighter and more comfortable to wear for prolong time.. and the sound clarity has improved from Sony XM4... and I prefer it to be non-foldable actually. Plus when i hear music with heavier bass, my ears will be less tiring with XM5.....Bravo Sony with the new XM5 innovation!

[@Boxer1250RT]

Xm5 is clearly better by far. Airpods is almost as good.

[@tomasradvansky8813]

Its interesting that everyone is now reviewing like 500$ wireless headphones, but not a word about battery replacement service.

[@Tremor244]

is it just me or the xm5s sound like the right side is louder? while the xm4 sounds comletely center? did you maybe get a faulty unit?