Sony WH-1000XM4 long-term review (and what I want from the XM5s) | Mark Ellis Reviews

[@MarkEllisReviews]

These are my year-long thoughts about the Sony XM4s. Are you going to buy a pair in 2021?

[@michaelpham8611]

Still thinking about the XM4 and the Airpods Max. Don't know which to get. Since I have the budget to get the Airpods Max.

[@alchemistTi]

Already did and returned them. I want to be able to listen without ANC, and they sound like I’ve got my ears in tin cans w/o the ANC on and I can’t stand it.

[@paulmulks]

Just purchased a pair, I hope they are worth the punt

[@JTG303]

Mine Arrive Tomorrow I can't wait to drown out the world and vibe to some great tunes. Subscribed!

[@paulmulks]

@@JTG303 Great headphones mate you'll not be disappointed 👌🏻

[@traveltheworld886]

I need someone who looks at me like Mark looks at his XM4s

[@mallorydurrick]

Now that's funny.

[@X22GJP]

You sad person

[@izzymb]

😀😍

[@AM_Tech.]

Best comment

[@loremipsum9859]

😂😂😂😂

[@maxx5111]

Step 1. Get a good equaliser (Poweramp is good one for mobile) Step 2. Equalise your headphones to Harman neutral standard using parametric equalisers. Step 3. Set your XM4s to LDAC, prioritise sound quality. Step 4. Get a hi quality audio source (Amazon HD, Deezer, or Tidal) Step 5. Prepare to get blown away.

[@lazybuttt]

Is there something wrong with sony's inapp equalizer? Just got a pair and found out there is a default equalizer.

[@maxImprovement]

How do i do step 2?

[@GUnot33333]

I screenshot this comment Thank you I'm not interested in the XM5 so I'm gonna get the XM4 very soon

[@mirmir8849]

@@GUnot33333 same

[@ruredeyed8949]

What if I can’t use ldac

[@sinejorine]

I've had the XM4's for a few months and I freaking love them. I was lucky to get them on sale, but I would still recommend them for full price. They're really worth it. They're also really comfortable to wear.

[@thepowerofthegodhand7003]

I still have my 3s. So I probably just wait. For the 5s . But if chance to upgrade I will.

[@sinejorine]

@@thepowerofthegodhand7003 I've heard the 3s is also really good so sounds like a good choice!

[@thewindrises]

Where did you get it on sale ?

[@sinejorine]

@@thewindrises im lucky to work at a tech store that hosted an "employee only sale"

[@VikramChess]

@@sinejorine congratulations lol

[@EKOddLink]

I actually really love the look of the XM4s specifically for that more plain look, but also because they're not just completely boring looking like the Bose QC35s or way over the top like the Bose QC700s. The ear cups just look so nice with that simplistic slanted forward as it goes down Oval look with a standard circle in the middle. Just something about the design language is so appealing to me. Honestly only things I'd want out of a pair of XM5s is for them to have the audio quality of Drop Pandas while still having all the features and benefits of the XM4s. I know that's probably much easier said than done as well as with some EQ you could probably get a similar sound signature but I'd just love to see an out of the Box Sony headset back undoubtedly on top of the wireless headphone game.

[@A_A828]

Same here. They look good. I actually don't like the look of the XM5s as much, even though in a sense, almost objectively, those are way prettier. But something about their design has this form-over-function feeling to me that always makes me a little bit suspicious. Like they had to sacrifice the folding of the headphones, for example. As soon as certain practical features have to be removed for the design to look nicer and minimal, I kind of lose interest in something. Besides, the XM4s look so inconspicuous that I'm not really worried about someone in a crowd ripping them off my head (say, in a busy Paris metro in a rough area) or something. Which is something I genuinely would fear a bit with the XM5s or the Airpods Max, as they almost seem more like a gaudy status symbol or something.

[@EKOddLink]

@@A_A828 I love my XM5s, and I still think they look good in their own way, but I dunno if I can xonsider them prettier in anyway Like I get they were tryna make it look more simplistic and minimalist, but it just lost a lot of the character it had with the XM4s. I have this feeling that for the most part what they were tryna accompish with this design was trying to copy the designs of both their competitors, the Bose 700s and the Airpod Pros, by making the earcups so much more simplistic, and havung that weird stem looking bit from the Bose 700. Which speaking of that's honestly my biggest gripe with the visuals of the XM5 design is those weird lil stems. I wish they made something that looks nice and tapered off instead of just ending abruptly. It just doesn't look that good. But at least it's not like the Bose 700 going through the entire earcup. I honestly think the Bose 700 look horrendously ugly because of that. Just reminds me of some of the cheap headohones elementary schools would give us. But it really is this weird thing where I really don't hate the design if the XM5s, and I'll still like looking at em, but I dunno I guess I just expected something different. It's one of those cases where I can appreciate the look of both designs for different reasons on different days, but overall I do still like the look of the XM4s more. Though of course things like the lack of the headphones being able to swivel the right way as well as not folding in is a bummer and hate that they kind just tossed that feature to the side

[@lumilikha]

My WH-1000XM2 that I bought 3 years needed foam replacement after ~2 years. Still no regrets on my end. It's still getting me through a ton of commutes and boring chores. Don't expect it to feel "brand new" for so long. I hope they really improve the call quality on the next version. Cheers!

[@GermanRumm]

I've had WH-CH700N for 3+ years now, and the foam only gave up last month

[@BrockMak]

2:27 Nobody complained about call quality to me in the past two days, even when I have ANC on. However, I've never tested them as microphones for my desktop.

[@askylx4548]

I'm Apple user. iPhone, MacBook, iMac and iPad. But when it comes to headphones and earphones I will absolutely go for Sony WF and WH XM4. Never regret my decision 🔥🔥🔥

[@Demonomania87]

What I want from the XM5s: basically everything from the XM4s but with the microphones of the Bose 700. That's it.

[@mugiwaramatt]

I bought a pair of XM4s about a month ago thanks to your videos and I adore them, first higher end pair of headphones I've ever bought.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Love to hear stories like this!

[@m00nreal]

I like your totodile photo

[@mahmouddiab5187]

You gave me the answer I wanted at 1:21 minutes, but I still watched the whole video because you deserved that. Oh and I liked and subbed.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Love that! Thank you.

[@X22GJP]

There was no useful information at that time point

[@c.garison3770]

Very good review of a product that I have been watching to purchase for the last 8 months. Many of my co-workers have told me that I need to go with Sony when I replace my Sennheiser PXC-550 headphones, but I have worn these 550s almost everyday since I got them in August 2016 and they still have over 10 hours of battery life per charge, the ear cushions are just now starting to show some wear, and teflon coated plastic finish (I hate the feel of the coating) is just now starting to show signs of scratching, but that is due to the fact that I don't store them in the case after every use like I did prior to covid and working/exercising from home. All of that said, the Gen 2 version of these headphones that were released back in 2019 just dropped the ball and lack device compatibility, the noise cancelling is even less obvious than the Gen 1 and there are more complaints about charging/battery life. Because of all the complaints and the poor review ratings, I am looking for a new brand of headphone. (Note: the market price of the Gen 2 PXC 550 is considerably less than the Gen 1 so that should explain the lack of desirability of the new headphones.) But as long as the Gen. 1 PXC 550s continue to hold up the way they have for the last 5 years, I have no reason to shop. The exception is that I would probably replace them if I hit road for work once again because I am not confident the batteries would survive the frequent east coast - west coast flights which leads to solid 12 hour days of listening. The Sony headphones are high on my list as replacements. Although, the only holdback is that I do use these as a headset when working on the road and the Sennheiser PXC550 have a very good microphone which is why I chose these over the Bose QC35-II back in 2016. The Bose N700 headphones do not fold for travel which is a huge "dissatisfier" and the Apple headphones also fall short when using outside of the house with their lack of a case. This means as the market currently stands, I would probably settle for a Sony XM4 headphones, but if I don't hit the road for another year, a lot of these companies should be releasing newer designs that accommodate for the shortcomings in the current models. Hey Sony! Match the microphone technology from the Sennheiser PXC-550/MB-660S and you have my money, ASAP!!!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@asdf51501]

I have a set that I use for listening to audiobooks (paired to iphone for Audible), and love them. Only issue is that after a few hours my ears get hot and that area of my head starts sweating so I have to take them off. Noise canceling prevents me from hearing my g/f's snoring :P so that's a huge plus. Got them a while back when Amazon had them for $275, and for the use I've gotten from them I consider it well worth it.

[@hundvd_7]

I can confirm the pristine look after usage. I've been using mine for 13 months now, but I used them _heavily_ Literally every _single_ day, I think. Although of course on exceptional days (like Christmas with family) a lot less, but I still do. And on the average day it's not a little bit either. They're on my head at least 12 hours, often 16 hours a day. Not a single damn scratch. It's kind of impressive. Unfortunately, I just had a broken plastic piece (that would be holding the right speaker to the headband). I just picked it up one day and it exploded on me. So I tried getting it fixed, but the repair would cost 1/3 of the entire thing. Bought mine for ~400, it's now around ~300, and repairing mine would cost ~100 So, just be careful. Just because it doesn't look worn doesn't mean it's in perfect shape.

[@rusiklv1867]

What about battery life - the same 30 hours?

[@pixelbubbletea5429]

Ive just gotten these headphones, and i love them. The only problem i would have is that when you turn the volume up relatively loud, other people can hear the music really clearly.

[@anapaulinaherrera9333]

I have mines since February and still love them I used them for work calls and for listening music. Battery last for like a week. And for me they are comfortable but sometimes I feel they are a little bit big for my head.

[@anujpatel4238]

Hey Ana. Planning to buy these but just wanted to know about the call quality. Is it good? Or do you face problems on your work calls?

[@landonlasater2692]

I sought out the XM4s for the dual bluetooth connection, not having to manually change connections between your main 2 devices is wonderful, in addition the Sony headphones app has the great feature of remembering past connections, so later in the day if you want to connect to your TV while someone else needs to concentrate, you can switch one of the connections on the app easily.

[@runner1431]

Comfort and function are very good with these headphones. Sony just didn’t quite get the sound right. Since I listen to sports on the web-radio, they work well for me. After applying correction via the lightweight 5 band equalizer, they’re better. Try raising the midrange and/or lowering the bass which will open up the sound significantly. Musical instruments become defined with a closer to realistic presence.

[@TheBlueGoldenHawk]

Totally agree, the default EQ on the XM4 is def not the best way to listen with them imo. It's a lot more muddy and pretty muffled by default. I personally like the Bright preset with bass turned up to +5

[@alejandroelcid]

I only had my pair for a short while, but they have been great. I would also add, to the wish list, a better 3.5 mm cable. The cable they currently have does feel a little flimsy, although it does work. If a headset is going to cost more than 300 USD it should come with a decent 3.5 mm cable to use with the headphones when wired.

[@winglau3128]

May I ask how long the original 3.5mm cable is pls?

[@PurushNahiMahaPurush]

@@winglau3128 my guess would be 1.5-2m

[@blazer17147]

@@winglau3128 1.2 m

[@Justshredman]

Love that you put your videos in chapters!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Ah - thanks!

[@RajMahalMusic]

@@MarkEllisReviews it’s the best, sets you apart❤️

[@jeroen94704]

I just got the XM3 in part based on your reviews. Absolutely loving them! This is my first pair of NC headphones and the NC is so good I nearly had a heart attack several times because I didn't hear people approach me. My only gripe is the lack of controls when paired with a computer instead of a phone/tablet, since there's no desktop version of the Sony app.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome!

[@TheTeq1]

My XM3 controls work when paired with PC, download headphones app and you can turn them on

[@breal1577]

You can run apk files so itl work

[@andronin]

Your review, and a few others, a year ago is why I bought mine last year October. My thoughts: 1. Great battery. I use mine for 6 hours plus a day with Teams meetings. Only charge them every three days 2. So comfortable. Have to lift the cups every hour or so for a bit of breathing but that is really not a concern 3. Is mine for PC gaming. I am not a competitive gamer, but I do not feel the Bluetooth latency is bad enough that I do not get completely pwned by other players and get my fair share of shots in The one thing I would love is being able to charge and simultaneously use them

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Nice - thanks!

[@DR.DisInfect]

You can change and use them if you wire them

[@alexvswrld]

Nice, I think these will be my all around headset even for gaming...especially since I mostly play single player, fighting, and sports games.

[@im_Spade_]

@@alexvswrld I stream and play smash bros competitively and use them (well, actually the XM3s) wired. Have not had a single issue but haven't noticed a significant amount of latency when watching YT vids either 🤔

[@garyrobinson6247]

Nov 2024, just bought these new for £178 from Amazon Black Friday.. I have the AirPods Max and there isn't much of a difference. I got these to use with my Sony Walkman where I have my full music library, including a lot of my own recordings, where I can use LDAC and they sound fab and at this price, I just couldn't refuse them.

[@onionface5835]

I really like the look, sleek, sturdy and functional, exactly what I look for in daily headphones.

[@zues121510]

9:47 If you have an Android phone from the last 5 years or so, you will get a notification very similar to the Apple W1 one for Airpods whenever the headphones are turned on but not connected to anything. Extremely useful.

[@Lee_K_5555]

I stumbled across your channel while researching wireless headphones earlier this year. I consider myself a recovering audiophile but one with reasonable expectations for consumer equipment. I have found the XM4s, which I purchased upon your recommendation, to be delightful to use with a sound that is superior to any of the Beats or Bose over-the-ear headphones that I tried prior. Yeah, they are aren't perfect but my goodness they are good enough for nearly everyone. My two favorite features are the excellent noise canceling and the very impressive battery life. Keep up the great work. I adore your channel!

[@creatorbydefault]

The 1000X series have been fantastic. Both models of the series, the WF and WH M4 have their own use case scenarios depending on where I am and what I'm doing.

[@gururajchadaga]

Just got these today and I love it! I just hope they release the XM5's in 2022. I don't want to regret getting mine just a while before the xm5's release xD

[@MisterJIFF]

The usually release on autumn and they just appear, unlike phones these things are just released out of the blue

[@hyssean12]

Who cares if something new comes out. If your still work and sound good then what is the problem. Not like a new model makes your worse.

[@oOhydroOo]

@@hyssean12 well the price might dropp a bit. That is the right time to buy.

[@rorywalters1614]

The durability of ear cushions is really about luck. I have a pair of 10 years old Beats Solo HD, they were heavily used and the cushions, although got many wrinkles, are still fine. My Soundcore Q20 was lightly used for one and half a year but the one cushion got an opening on it. Further inspection found out those cushions were actually glued rather than sawed together and the glue failed. Maybe the current place I live in was too hot and those cushions were only comfortable with the climate in NI? Some of my other headphones got cushions worn out after about 2~3 years. Sometimes chose cushions could go broken really fast and sometimes they just last forever. Wiping your sweat off those cushions to keep them dry could make them last longer.

[@whatchahowsya8688]

I've been debating on getting these but I decided to go with the WFXM4 simply because my head is sensitive to over hear headphones and I primarily use earbuds. But if I don't like the earbuds, I'm gonna return them and get these. Out of the many headphones I've tried, these are pretty comfortable.

[@Marian1st.]

I just bought WF-1000 XM4. Good portability. Good sound for Bluetooth.

[@johncristrajano3666]

Im a marine engineer, sometimes I use my XM4 as earmuffs/music and its really good as noise cancelling the engine room sound 🤘

[@funnygermanguy]

If it don't trap too much heat on my head it would be flawless

[@corneliussmith5875]

I’ve been using the xm4’s for about a year as well less as of late because I got a wired pair of senhizers 599 and with the btr5 dac has made music even better. Looking back on these for only being a year old. I would definitely still buy for convenience and being very comfortable. Battery 🔋 is soo good. They are for if I watching media and even with music it’s still holds well even through Bluetooth.

[@gir1258]

Try using your XM4 wired to the DAC and use something like EqualizerAPO (Windows) or Wavelet (Android) which allow you to use an EQ that makes these produce a completely neutral response, and you'll be impressed

[@iMost067]

Yea, after buying almost instantly used equalizer to bring up highs and lows. Other than that (and quite quistionable talking mic) no problems with them. 0 regrets buying them. With auto stop i leggit charged them once in 2 weeks.

[@matthewhoey3058]

with your EQ would you say they sound good? if you were to compare them to anything what would it be? I currently have an IEM and wanted some headphones with wireless but i really like the sound of my Moondrop KATO's - could i replicate this>? or is it a mile off? xD

[@iMost067]

@@matthewhoey3058 Generaly EQ is very adjustable and they can sound completely different. Its not best sound quality there if we count all headphones, but with noise canceling ones this actualy might be the case. Also bass is quite insane

[@Fiko_Reborn]

Another two years later, these are still excellent. Just bought yesterday. I hear XM5 is better, which i dont doubt, but these are very servicable. And cheaper than XM5. I got tired of earbuds. They all hurt my ears. I still keep a pair for the gym, and something to keep in my pocket, but these are great for work, home and play. I connect them to my phone, home PC and work PC.

[@christinabunbun9272]

I also own a pair of XM4s. I love them loads as well, but i find them a little bit tight. They squeeze my head a lot more than the other pairs I've used, but other than that, love them.

[@nichtkanny]

In sony's app I personally like to choose the soft preset and than crank the bass up a bit like +3 or +4. It just sound amazing with the kind of music I hear and I really like a present and deep bass. 😊

[@baxter1910]

i can agree 100% on every point you make. Just an absolutely gorgeous piece of thech!

[@gandalfthegrey7146]

Just the video I was looking for. Hard to find long term reviews for these. However, I totally disagree with just about everything positive you said about the AirPods Max. I’m an Apple guy, but the AirPods Max are possibly the most disappointing piece of tech I’ve ever experienced.

[@notwelcome2452]

I think it's the best consumer headphone if price isn't an issue

[@syf_jojiahhh2834]

@@notwelcome2452 lol wut

[@xeyutipe]

why don't you like airpods max?

[@paleblueeyes4459]

why?

[@1kingeling123]

@@xeyutipe For me they are for starters pretty ugly, and they are super super heavy. It hurts my ears and I can get a headache from using them.

[@jaysonmanigbas4702]

its been a year and I'm still in love with my xm4

[@sungaze342]

Can I ply them loud and no one hears my music ? I don’t like ppl hearing my music play

[@popullarmmax]

I have a lower end version WH-H910N and i absolutely love them

[@williamdin3414]

I’ve been using for 3 years! For listening music and mostly watching movie and it’s so worth it with the price. It’s fully charged just in about 10 to 15 mins and they last for full day playing and there is no discomfort or pain for my ears. The only downside for me is my head is a large size so after a year I need to tape the band to give support because of my head size so the band has a small crack, need to make a stronger holder and not very good for phone call. Other than that trust me it’s worth every penny.

[@johnf.r6658]

How do you charge them ? Mine take several hours, maybe it's because I'm using the charger from a Samsung S9 plus with the cable provided by Sony

[@karolinadubnicka2258]

aren't you talking about mx3 version? since you said that you've been using them for 3 years. Thank you for feedback tho, i'm thinking about buying them so any info is helpful!

[@jimin4life797]

the crack seems to be a common thing. 😆

[@braikka]

I've just bought these. 250€ here in Finland. I work in a planing mill & the noise cancelling works brilliantly.

[@leetronix]

Good overview as a serious audiophile myself I really enjoyed this - thanks 😃👍

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome - I definitely take that as a compliment in that case!

[@CoupleDrinks]

Just ordered these. Can't wait

[@danbills]

Water resistance will be appreciate on the XM5.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

That's always nice!

[@cairbre1977]

How water resistance is in the currents. Can I walk the dog in the rain.

[@danbills]

@@cairbre1977 Doesn't have water resistance.

[@morpho2081]

I've had XM4 for 1 month now I guess?? Really great, it can be used for gaming (at least it works for me but definitely not the best use of this), NC is great, battery life is indeed nice (not until 20 hours in my case but close to it). My only concern by far is it gets a bit warm on my ear after 2-3 hours of non-stop usage despite using it in an aircon room, but definitely worth the money.

[@peanut7260]

Try getting dekoni earpads for these, that would fix ur issue regarding ur ears sweating after few hrs😀👌🏻

[@morpho2081]

@@peanut7260 They don't sweat but really gets warm overtime, but I usually only use them in my room with aircon on, so no biggie

[@peanut7260]

@@morpho2081 they're rly comfy tho, i just bought them last week but the shipping takes about 10-12days and its quite pricey.. it's like sofa on ur ears 🤣

[@morpho2081]

@@peanut7260 Maybe I'll consider it when I see a need for it

[@davidmateo3446]

What about the noise supression?

[@ramtamargo]

If anything, better call quality would make XM5 the ultimate headphone. Also if you enable the simultaneous dual Bluetooth connection, I think you lose the lossless connection for the best audio quality. That's something XM5 can improve on.

[@adamsmart1520]

Love the shirt and great review!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Thanks!

[@ThePaulg123]

I was initially just going to skim your review and get the info I needed but it won me over and I watched pretty much the whole thing and subbed too, great review and just the info I needed after being down about my thx pandas dying on me 👍🏻

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Nice! Thanks!

[@moistybrownboii]

I’m getting these now! So excited. Love that shirt btw

[@WillisZzz]

Thanks for this straight-up review, Mark. I might grab a pair, but I'm planning to use the mic for group chats, so I'm a little worried about the voice quality of the mic. If anyone can suggest some comparable over-ear, noise-cancelling headphones with a better mic, I'd love to hear about them. As for the looks, I actually think these XM4's look way nicer than most of the competition, regardless of price or intended demographic. Flashy headphones are cool for one year, in my experience, then I'm bored of whatever makes them flashy. I prefer an understated, classic, professional aesthetic over a typical try-hard gamer aesthetic, so take that for what it's worth to you. Anyway, I hope Sony keeps this look for the XM5 and just makes better quality mics. With masses of people at home talking to each other over VoIP, mics are pretty important these days. Cheers

[@nimmyfanimi1430]

Try Bose quiet comforts.

[@clydehunter9666]

Just picked these up during Amazon Prime Day for $229. Love these things. Better than my Bose 700

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Great deal.

[@vodanh7514]

As an audiophile, I want to share some points: - Audio quality via bluetooth is just OK. Of course, it's bluetooth. - Sounds great for ~$300 via cable WITH power on. - Doesn't sounds good when it's off (muddy bass, etc.) Edit: yes, power on means turn the headset on (with or without ANC)

[@tomjohnson1473]

As a non audiophile, what do you mean by 'power on'?

[@talweiss6831]

What's 'power on'?

[@GTHEBESTDUDE]

@@tomjohnson1473 I guess he means the sound quality isn't that great when he is using it through an aux cable without turning the headset on (yes this is possible. This would be the same as turning it on but switching off NC and ambient sound mode, i dont think there is a real difference in sound because the functions are passive at this point but i could be wrong). I suppose it could save some battery use, idunno.

[@DElionel1995]

Indeed! Sounds amazing with power, dull without power but a good backup.

[@kay6730]

Okay mister Audiophile... answer this riddle 1. How to enable Ldac on windows 2. Despite 4000 dolars laptop , Windows troublehoot, windows updates, and intel, REALTEC, Dolby says im using the lastest drivers i cant listen to music from PC to more then DVD quality 16/48 ... but on my phone with Ldac is 32/96 3. Dont you dare saying you have to change bitrate from Sound Options there are 2 options 16/44.1 , 16/48.... on cabel and bluetooh its all the same ... exept phone Give me workign solution, what to do... yes reinstal everything didnt fix anything, off and on aswell

[@porscheoscar]

Got these in mint condition for $110. I also bought my XM4 buds second hand. I left the buds in my jeans and they did a full cycle in my washing machine. I freaked out because I figured IPX doesnt cover 30 minutes in soapy water and a rinse cycle! After I got done cursing and swearing I ran them in the dryer for 3 minutes and left them alone for 3 days. On day four they fired up perfectly functional. That was 2 years ago. Thats why I am a Sony fan boy. The longest lived TV in our house is a Sony Bravia from 2015. I can count the number of blown pixels with one hand (along the edges). Sony dont need our money. Yeah their inexpensive low end stuff is nothing remarkable but their flagship audio, video and smartphone products are simply the best build quality. Well done 🇯🇵

[@consbulaquena9497]

Hello is the WH-1000XM4 good for larger heads?

[@BrockMak]

What I want for XM5: 1. Improved Ambient sound (it's still unnatural-sounding) and mic quality. 2. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaKTfZqFa6Z5d5Im27s Bring back VPT (Simulated Surround Sound). My sister has XM3's, but she doesn't use the feature. I want it in my XM4's, but they took them out. 3. DECREASE the lag to start and finish ambient mode during Speak-To-Chat (from 15s to 2s) 4. DECREASE the lag to auto-pause music once they've been taken off. Maybe it's just me, but the sensor isn't that sensitive. Also: Make them symmetrical, have sensors on both earcups or none at all. 5. Make touch controls easier to use. I disable them because I prefer physical buttons anyway. 6. One thing that I do commend AirPod Max is the fact that the earcups are easily detachable. Now that they've set the standard in that regard, emulate that. I'm not practically-inclined to take them off just for a clean. 7. More regular software updates. 8. Keep LDAC when pairing multiple devices. 9. For crying out loud: Get them IP rated, even if it's only for peace-of-mind.

[@aspazzz]

I just got these for Christmas. They are better than I thought they could ever be 😳

[@etbadaboum]

Thanks for the review. We're in April 2022 and no new iteration in sight. That's probably say something about the quality of this version.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Keep an eye on my channel next week.

[@etbadaboum]

@@MarkEllisReviews Ahah Just after writing this I read that Sony was going to release the new one imminently! I think I know what you are referring to... ;) My notifications are on.

[@robertdupree8308]

I wear my xm4's almost all day every day and have since Dec 2020. I love them except they started a high pitch squeal in the left ear that's almost deafening. It started doing this yesterday. I can turn the ANC off and it quits doing it. I'll wait a couple minutes and turn the ANC back on and it's fine for awhile. I noticed that it usually happens after pausing them. I haven't talked to sony about it yet, but I figured I'd mention it.

[@willjack2216]

Fantastic review just ordered some!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Enjoy!

[@rorywalters1614]

What I want for changes: mic, Sony probably could make it better on XM5; passtrough mode, Sony could make it more natural; extend the Bluetooth range, hard, Sony could give it Bluetooth 5.2 but the range probably would still be worse than the AirPods, as XM4 always cut out when I go too far from my phone but my BeatsX wouldn’t; cancel the dual connection, for someone like me who use 4 devices daily that dual connection is actually very annoying, just make the switching speed faster, but Sony is unlikely to do it; bring button controls and throw away the touch controls, Sony will never do it, and the controls will still be rubbish, so I still won’t consider about buying them (I would try if any of my friends gets a pair).

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Some great ideas for improvements there, Rory.

[@thomascrabtree]

Range can easily be extended even with the old Bluetooth 4.2, it's all down to the size of the antenna they include, which you'd think with a massive headphone band they'd be able to implement.

[@tuckertech]

I love my XM4’s. I have the midnight blue version. I don’t know if they only sell that color in the US or not.

[@jake_lacroix5417]

No they have the Blue in the US

[@GeorgeCrosley]

@@jake_lacroix5417 I think K T was acknowledging that they have it in the US; he wanted to know if it was ONLY in the US. That's how I read it.

[@jake_lacroix5417]

@@GeorgeCrosley oh yeah I read that wrong

[@GeorgeCrosley]

@@jake_lacroix5417 It's happened to me too.

[@saiprasanth8119]

I'm watching this with my new XM4 I received from Amazon this morning, I bought it after watching your reviews. Thank you!

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Pleasure! Enjoy them!

[@teatime9198]

Bloody fantastic review, you've sold me a pair and earnt yourself a sub! Keep it up mate.

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome! And enjoy your new cans!

[@cordenhuman]

I've had mine for a year as well and I unfortunately have to say that mine haven't held up great at all, touch controls don't work sometimes, some functions don't work, when it gets cold something inside them starts to make a clicking noise when I walk, and I've recently started getting a problem where they'll sometimes start peeping loudly if I leave them on without wearing them

[@nxhkkvfx_v7314]

Do you treat them right and not misuse them? Because I’m planning on getting these

[@cordenhuman]

@@nxhkkvfx_v7314 I haven't treated them physically roughly in any way (like dropping them often), but I have worn them without any protection when it's raining, and they're not supposed to be waterproof, they're also not reccomended to be used below 0 degrees Celsius but I've done that a lot since I live in Sweden where it get's pretty cold and I've used them outside a lot, but then I think a big thing is that I've also just generally used them A LOT, like on average probably 8+ hours/day, and I'm too lazy to rewatch this video but I think this guy said he used them a lot less than that, but I personally wouldn't reccomend them, the Bose QC35 seem much better quality Edit: or the new QC45 coming soon if you want something fresher, but they're obv kinda pricey in the beginning

[@Rtkstanza127]

Bought the XM4 a few days ago and had to return them. Here is why…. There is a loud, continuous beeping feedback when removing the left cup, only while noise canceling or Ambient mode is on. It is so loud that someone close by could hear it. Also, the headphones make a lot of clicky noises. I searched online to see if these issues are prominent, it seems a not so insignificant number of folks are having the same issues with the XM4. Sony clearly didn’t do a good job quality checking these. Anyway, I exchanged mine with the in-ear XM4s. Those work fine.

[@manuvb4366]

Hi! Excellent review... I purchased a pair of these ones not long ago. I got a question about battery life after all this time with all full and nice features (LDAC, DSEE Extreme e.g)... how long does battery last?... thanx for answer in advance ;)

[@jamielaughton1176]

Could you please do a review of the bose qc45 when they get released I really want a pair but I need a review from the best because your reviews are always straight to the point and truthful 👍

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Ah, thanks! They’re on pre-order 😉

[@jamielaughton1176]

@@MarkEllisReviews amazing top guy love the videos 😇

[@zirak93-2]

@@MarkEllisReviews Yes, plz do. I have tried the XM4. It didn't fit my head so well, so can't wait to try the Bose QC 45. :D

[@jamielaughton1176]

Mark when are your doing your review for the bose qc45 ?:)

[@MarkEllisReviews]

@@jamielaughton1176 Tomorrow!

[@speeddemon0882]

Thank You for making a simple and personal opinion review of the Sony headphones. Keep up the Amazing Reviews!!

[@practicepositiveprogress5396]

I work at a place that buys used headphones and tests them and refurbishes them and so we get a lot of headphones in a lot of different qualities after various amounts of use. I get to see which headphones and buds seem most likely to deteriorate over time just because I see so many different pairs. Some sony headphones aren’t great, but the XM3s and the XM4s are lovely and even the ones in poor condition are typically still in pretty good condition. Vs like, the beats in poor condition that I don’t wanna put on my head, or some of the other headphones I see that have really common snapping points or their plastic breaks down and gets sticky or falls apart.

[@heldercomp]

Excellent video. I have mine for one year too and can confirm it looks like new.

[@wickfall]

I actually love the xm4 design. Simple, minimalistic. Black pair which I have, looks great.

[@loweflyer7778]

Love my XM4s. Had them for about 8 months and I cant recommend enough. Sounds pretty great (though a little muddy if I had to complain about something. Mine are also about brand new, though I accidentally scratched the headband with a cooling soldering iron, which left a slight scratch in the fake leather. Connection is reliable and they are probably the most comfortable headphones I own.

[@theskig]

What about calls? I'm reading some complains here around.

[@loweflyer7778]

@@theskig I've never had any issues. I have no clue how they sound from the callers perspective but people seem to be able to hear me just fine, and I can hear them as well.

[@theskig]

@@loweflyer7778 Thanks!

[@ordinarypablo]

4 years with the xm3 and still kicking, just bought xm4 and im loving them. sometimes I would choose them over my dt990 premium

[@hamzahroker]

What are they like, if for example, I wanted to study without anything playing through them from a NC perspective. You said they're really good at noise cancelling but is that only when you have stuff playing through them, or just generally?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Generally, but I never sit there without them playing anything ;)

[@LoLontheBoard]

you still get some noises if you're not playing anything.

[@LoLontheBoard]

but they definitely help with what you're asking

[@hamzahroker]

@@LoLontheBoard thanks for responding

[@luck1057]

I wore them when there is a construction going on 🚧

[@Cucumber_Jones]

Removable and customizable ear cushions would be an improvement I'd argue should be added. I disagree that they don't get hot with extended wear and they're downright gross in over 75F temperatures. Bose ear cushions are 100% superior.

[@bonanzabrandon6877]

You can buy 3rd party replacement pads for this headphone.

[@Cucumber_Jones]

@@bonanzabrandon6877 for reals? Alrighty I guess I stand corrected 😄 Thanks!

[@CedricAntonyJoseph]

i wear these in an average temperature of 93 degrees approximately and these are the united states version, they have held up amazingly well. I do agree with the ear cushions as I live with a dog who sheds and her hair gets in to the earcups pretty easily. Being able to remove the cushions would be amazing

[@richardsheehan2512]

I have the XM3 and am considering the XM4 although I’m not sure the differences merit the upgrade. Might hold tight and see what they do next with the XM5. Nice video.

[@basvanderwal2350]

Hi man, i recently upgraded from 3 to 4. 4 is more comfortable for me. And the sound is a little better. And it has more functions. Only keep in mind that the “pause when taken of your head” is a little bit dodgy now and then.

[@mickrichardson4902]

Great review mark, I have been waiting for an honest opinion on the XM4, A new subscriber, thanks mate,

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome, thank you!

[@X22GJP]

You mean you were waiting for an opinion that conforms what you want?

[@davidlee1770]

I just got my pair lightly used (the previous owner essentially bought them and then immediately moved over to the airpods max) for 200 dollars, and these are amazing! The feeling you get when you slip these on your head in a cafe and having all ambient noise disappear is magical. I listen to a lot of classic, so the richness of sound definitely is appreciated as well. Overall, an excellent purchase.

[@satisfyingwalks4010]

are they comfortable to wear for long time ?

[@undostresqueso]

Great review, man! Got my pair yesterday and I am still exploring all the features. This was helpful.

[@mikeschneider7090]

I own the XM3s. The WH-1000XM3s and the WF-1000XM3s and I bought both for about 350$. I love both and would recommend them even in 2021

[@PadmaDorjee]

Great review and will go for them.

[@yousefabu-zaid2759]

I really liked them initially, until I noticed that the connection cuts off during listening time which is so annoying. What made it worse is that I wear glasses, and they immediately start to hurt my ears' upper part after like less than an hour of use which is not good at all. Now I’m thinking of selling them and getting the Airpods Max during sales season. Anyways, fantastic review, mate. Love it.

[@2face_yt]

What do you mean by connection cuts off during listening time?

[@yousefabu-zaid2759]

@@2face_yt oh, I mean that the music stops going through the headphones, and when you look at Spotify or Apple Music you will notice that it’s still going even though there is no sound coming through the headphones at all, hopefully that makes any sense 😅

[@2face_yt]

@@yousefabu-zaid2759 damn that would be so annoying I mean music is just something else and it stops in between then it would meke me more angry then ever

[@yousefabu-zaid2759]

@@2face_yt I know bro! Now the Max’s are on sale for $100 off, which is so tempting.

[@2face_yt]

@@yousefabu-zaid2759 so what are your thoughts 😁

[@sagarranpise9955]

Just bought this amazing headphone, great review Mark👍

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Enjoy!

[@01blksheep]

Thanks a lot for the durability mention. You're the best.

[@langben9000]

Try the Dali io-6. Would love to a review of those

[@DiegoAriza05]

I really like your videos and your voice, nice review. I hope I can save up enough for the XM4s

[@ProudAmerican10]

Thanks for a well made and very informative review. 👍👍👍

[@deep_spaghetti]

Important to note that there's also a dark blue model now, which I've just ordered at ~270$ USD. Great video!

[@deathbear695]

Me too! Black Friday deal on Amazon, I can’t wait for mine to get delivered!

[@robgjara]

13:33 Grados! How are the SR 80x's? A review, maybe in the (near) future?

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Well spotted! Maybe!

[@JohnP.6775]

i fine gave in & brought my XM4's still waiting on them, they come with a wireless powerbank too.

[@thndercat1]

Great shirt

[@josef1858]

I have them and the call quality is great. I haven't compared them too the Bose but everyone I've asked say they can hear me crystal clear.

[@DJ279V]

Superb review, and yes, wish Sony would give their headphones reap names vs what was in the blueprint design logs. Considering buying one kick-butt pair like this vs several other pairs. Thx and keep these reviews coming!!

[@jimbo5071]

I just bought them because of ur review. Hope it's gonna be good. Had a pair of xm3 and loved them until I started getting a deafening screech in 1 ear.

[@Moonview90]

I´m watching this video with the headphones on. I recommend them, 100%. The sound it's great. I usually use them while I go to work. Even tho the train that I use is not very noisy, I can really hear the music instead of the surrounding sounds, it's amazing. I like how I can pair two devices at the same time, and others things. The only things that I don't like, it's the chat option. It stops the music with any surrounding sound, not just your voice. :( Great idea tho, hopefully the polish the software, idk.

[@andocobo]

If you EQ these headphones the sounds is brilliant, without custom EQ they do sound hollow

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Maybe I need to EQ mine ;)

[@8520456]

@@MarkEllisReviews You do! Trust me!

[@NamTran-xc2ip]

Hmm best profile?

[@parismawby]

For older ears, a slight bump in the upper-mids works a charm! :)

[@calvinkuit4529]

Got mine a week ago lovee them so far

[@MarkEllisReviews]

Awesome!

[@Mark-hb2zy]

The parametric EQ settings on the audio science review of these are transformative for these headphones. I input them into poweramp eq