Compare Sony WH-XB900N

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Sony WH-XB900N

Brand:

Sony

Launch Year:

2019

Price:

$249 USD / £229 GBP at launch (now available at reduced pricing)

Connectivity & Codecs:

Bluetooth 4.2 with SBC and AAC codec support, NFC pairing for compatible Android devices

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):

Yes, active ANC with ambient sound mode and quick attention functionality for temporary awareness

Battery Life:

30 hours per charge with ANC enabled, quick charge provides 1 hour from 10-minute charge

IP Rating:

Not specified, designed for indoor and casual outdoor use without water resistance certification

Driver Type & Impedance:

40mm dynamic drivers with Extra Bass technology, impedance not specified

Pros:

Extra Bass technology delivers powerful deep bass response with substantial physical impact ideal for electronic dance music and hip-hop genres
Active noise cancellation effectively blocks ambient noise creating immersive listening environment during commuting, air travel, and busy office spaces
Extended battery life of 30 hours with ANC enabled provides multiple days of typical usage without requiring frequent charging interruptions
Comfortable over-ear design with soft cushioned ear cups enables extended wearing sessions without significant pressure or fatigue
Touch-sensitive controls on ear cups provide intuitive gesture-based operation for playback, volume, and call management without reaching for devices
Customizable settings through Sony Headphones Connect app allow EQ adjustment and ANC optimization matching individual preferences and environments
Quick attention mode enables temporary ambient sound activation by covering right ear cup facilitating brief conversations without removing headphones

Cons:

Bass-emphasized sound signature can overwhelm midrange detail and vocal clarity potentially unsuitable for classical music or balanced acoustic recordings
Build quality relies primarily on plastic construction throughout feeling less premium compared to flagship alternatives with metal reinforcement elements
ANC performance, while effective, cannot match the sophisticated noise reduction capabilities of contemporary flagship models with advanced processing
Limited codec support with AAC maximum restricts high-resolution wireless audio quality compared to models supporting LDAC or aptX HD transmission
Older Bluetooth 4.2 standard lacks multipoint connectivity and range improvements found in newer Bluetooth 5.0 and later implementations
Ear cushions may cause heat buildup and perspiration during extended wearing in warm climates due to synthetic materials and sealed design
Folding mechanism exhibits more play and less refined construction compared to premium travel-oriented alternatives designed for frequent folding

Description:

The Sony WH-XB900N represents the previous generation of Sony’s bass-focused wireless headphone lineup combining Extra Bass sound signature with active noise cancellation technology. Designed for listeners who prioritize powerful low-frequency impact over neutral balanced presentation, these over-ear headphones deliver energetic engaging sound ideal for modern bass-heavy music genres. The combination of effective ANC, extended battery life, and comfortable design addresses essential needs for daily commuting, travel, and recreational listening. While newer models have superseded the WH-XB900N with incremental improvements, this generation still offers compelling value for bass enthusiasts seeking proven Sony quality and features at potentially reduced pricing reflecting its position within the evolving product lineup.

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Author: Rosy Mabansag

- Senior Sound Specialist

Rosy Mabansag is the dedicated Head of Audio Testing and a senior writer at GlobalMusicVibe.com. With 10 years of experience as a live sound technician and music instructor, Rosy possesses an unparalleled ear for audio quality. She leads the site's rigorous evaluations of earbuds, high-fidelity headphones, and passive/active speakers, providing data-driven insights for audiophiles. As an accomplished guitarist and songwriter, Rosy also crafts in-depth music guides and technique tutorials, drawing on her extensive performance background. Her mission is to bridge the gap between technical specs and musical feel, ensuring readers get the best sonic experience, whether listening or performing.