Sony has introduced 1000X THE COLLEXION, a premium variant within its established 1000X wireless noise-cancelling headphones lineup, timed to mark ten years since the series first appeared with the MDR-1000X back in 2016. The new model emphasises refined materials and comfort alongside the audio performance that has become familiar in this range, while a fresh Sandstone colour option joins the existing WH-1000XM6.
The 1000X series earned its reputation by steadily improving noise cancellation, battery life, and sound clarity in everyday use. Over the past decade, these headphones have evolved into reliable companions for commuters, travellers, and office workers who value isolation without sacrificing too much on portability. The Collexion version builds on that foundation with visible attention to finish rather than radical technical leaps. Its headband combines matte sandblasted metal with polished accents, each piece hand-finished, while the earcups use a soft faux leather developed over two years for better tactile feel and durability. Available in Platinum or Black, the design aims for understated appeal rather than flashy statement pieces.
Comfort receives clear priority here. Larger earcups and a wider, cushioned headband distribute weight more evenly, which should suit longer listening sessions better than some earlier models that could fatigue after a few hours. This focus feels practical in a market where many premium headphones still prioritise spec sheets over all-day wearability. Sound-wise, a new driver with a high-rigidity carbon composite dome promises improved separation and a wider soundstage. Sony worked with Grammy-nominated mastering engineers to tune the balance, aiming for smoother vocals and more natural dynamics. The inclusion of DSEE Ultimate processing helps restore detail in compressed files, a useful touch for streaming listeners, though results inevitably vary by source quality.
Noise cancellation draws directly from the WH-1000XM6, employing the same multi-sensor system and adaptive optimisation. In real-world terms, this remains among the stronger performers in busy environments, though competitors have narrowed the gap in recent years. Battery life holds at up to 24 hours with noise cancellation and Bluetooth active, consistent with the series’ track record. Additional features like 360 Reality Audio upmix now extend to music, cinema, and game modes, offering spatial enhancement that can add immersion depending on the content. Call quality and connectivity stay in line with previous generations.
Priced at AED 2,499, the 1000X THE COLLEXION sits at the higher end of Sony’s headphone range, raising questions about whether the cosmetic upgrades justify the premium over the solid-performing WH-1000XM6, now available in Sandstone for AED 1,699. For those who appreciate refined build quality alongside capable audio, it offers an elevated take on a proven formula. Yet in a crowded wireless headphone market, the real test will be whether these details deliver noticeable everyday advantages beyond the initial impression.
