Sony released the third generation of its premium
noise-canceling headphones – the Sony WH-1000XM3. They are more comfortable
thanks to the redesigned earpads and they are lighter than the 2nd generation
so you can wear them all day (however, this was done by dropping the metal
elements in favor of plastic).
The biggest improvement comes from the dedicated QN1
noise-canceling processor. Most NC headphones block out droning noises (e.g.
from an engine), but the QN1 can also cancel out voices. If you do need to hear what
people are saying, ‘Quick Attention’ mode reduces the volume when you hold your
hand over the earcup. You can also adjust how much ambient noise goes through,
so you can walk around and be aware of your surroundings.
Sony finally switched to a USB-C port for the
1000XM3. The headphones also support fast charging – a short 10 minute charge
is enough for five hours of listening. Also, the battery charges from 0-100% in
three hours (down from four) and can last a total of 30 hours on a charge.
Features returning from the XM2 generation include
the assistant trigger – summon either the Google Assistant or Siri (depending
on what phone you use). Also, the Atmospheric Pressure Optimizer adjusts the
frequency response of the headphone drivers and the microphone to work better
at high altitude (or rather at the lower cabin pressure in a plane).
