Sony 1000X the Collexion – WH-1000XM6 in Disguise?

I first wrote about the Sony YY2998 in June 2025, fast forward to 11 months, and the model has been revealed as Sony’s 1000X the Collexion (WH-1000XX).

Based of the specifications, one could argue the WH-1000XX is just a WH-1000XM6 repackaged in a different body with improved tuning. But is this the case?  As Sony’s 10 year anniversary model for the 1000X line, the headset should be a bespoke, premium, and high end offering from Sony, utilizing their best technology and design. But is this what Sony delivered?

1000X the Collexion Amazon US | 1000X the Collexion Amazon Canada

1000X the Collexion Amazon UK | 1000X the Collexion Amazon Germany

Design

We finally have a modern Sony headset with a metal headband and hinges. And what was the cost? Just a bit more weight, and the ability to fold. But the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 and Airpods Max 2 also lack the ability to fold, so perhaps not a disadvantage. Question is, could Sony have added folding to the 1000XX? I think so, as the WH-1000XM6 use a similar swivel hinge design which is metal. Perhaps folding was not top priority in this segment and from user feedback?

The earpads and headband feature “soft, refined faux leather, which took two years to develop”, providing long lasting comfort according to Sony. It will be interesting how well this faux leather holds up to wear and tear, and how well it will cope with elements like UV light. The new leather was designed to minimize any fingerprints.

The buttons controls, 3,5 mm and USB-C port surrounds are metal, adding a premium touch. The metal accents on the black colour are less obvious, but after trying various colours for the black metal accents in photoshop, I think the all black colour decision was the best option.

The hinge design is different to what we have seen Sony use in the past, taking some cues from the WH-1000XM6 like the swivel I mentioned earlier. Everything appears to be metal, and I do hope iFixit has a X-ray shot of the hinge, so we can see how it is put together.

AV-Watch has a photo of the headband and hinge dissembled in their article. The swivel portion does appear to be much longer than what Sony used on the WH-1000XM5 and even WH-1000XM6, so this is good news. How the swivel connects to the lower hinge, I do not know, but at least the pieces will not break like plastic, even if the hinges fails. I will have some details on the internal construction of the hinge later on in the post.

The new earpads appear to be of similar depth, but they are not interchangeable with the WH-1000XM6, as the attachment is completely different in the back. Hopefully we will get some replacement pads from Sony, but if not maybe Wicked Cushions will have a pair in the future.

Another look at the support from Sony’s own video.

Due to the metal headband and hinges, the L and R marks have moved to the inside of the earcups, onto the cover over the driver, since there is no attached mesh on the earpads anymore like with previous models. I do wonder how well the inside cover will handle dirt and grime, and if it can be easily cleaned. The cover is removable but will Sony offer replacements?

The new carrying case includes an embedded carrying handle, and a magnetic latch. The WH-1000Xm6 case is smaller, but the difference is not significant, as seen in the comparison from AV-Watch below.

Compared to the WH-1000XM6, the 1000XX looks more premium and sophisticated, thanks to the leather and metal build. The new wider headband should be more comfortable. With users reporting slightly reduced clamping force, this will be another factor improving comfort for extended listening sessions. The overall design feels more like the Sony of the past, rather than what we have been accustomed to in recent years.

The design is not really a homage to the past 1000X models, but more of its own thing. I do like it, the chunky headband and metal elements give a proper sense of quality. But I will need to see the new model in person, and test it out, before making my final judgment. Design wise, not much is carried over from the WH-1000XM6, so the new model is not a reskin of the WH-1000XM6. I am wondering if we will see any of the design changes in the 1000XX make their way into the rest of the lineup. For example, the meshless earpad design.

The one major gripe I have is a simple fix. Sony includes a 3,5mm cable with the headset. For the black model this is black which looks great. But the white model also has this black 3.5mm cable. For such a premium model, especially considering the price, Sony should have included white 3.5mm cable to match the design. I know this may be a silly issue, but for a model that is meant to represent 10 years of 1000X, adding a white cable to match the white colour would not cost Sony much extra.