The Sony ULT Wear headphones are the latest in the Sony line of headphones, which come in right below the WH-1000XM5 model. While they are not as luxurious as the XM5s, the ULT Wear headphones are also considerably less expensive and offer some cool extras. They still have the active noise cancellation (ANC) and high-quality sound you’d get from Sony but ditch the confusing naming structure. Unlike WH-1000XM5, Sony ULT Wear is easier to remember and even pronounce. In this review, we will compare these headphones to the flagship model, check out the mics and features, and determine whether the ULT Wear is for you.
Sony ULT Wear's Noise Cancellation, Transparency, and Mic Performance
Sony has always been a market leader in the noise cancellation department and the ULT Wear follows this up with the V1 chip processor from the XM4 series. It also has a wind noise reduction mic to minimize outside noises to be included in the video. We assessed the ANC and the transparency modes in a quiet environment, in a noisy café, and with a fan blowing directly at the ear cups. The ULT Wear has done very well in noise cancellation but was not as clear and natural as Apple or Bose. The very stable transparency mode has a slightly realistic sound due to a mid-range boost. The ULT Wear is quite good with the microphone for phone calls and other virtual meetings such as on Zoom. This is not as bright as the WH-1000XM5 which is quite alright for everyday usage. On the caller’s side, there is a very faint ringing that might be disruptive during long conversations.
Sound Quality and the Unique "ULT" Button
The Sony ULT Wear boasts a specially designed 40mm driver that produces a powerful bass but does not overdo it. This is where the new “ULT” button comes in. The ULT Wear includes three sound modes: Off, ULT 1, and ULT 2. ULT 1 is the same as the previous generation Sony sound which is a bit darker and bassy. ULT 2 goes further with an almost oppressive bass which may make you think of a car subwoofer shaking your very bones. It’s not for everybody, especially if you like a more neutral sound for genres like metal or jazz.
Is the Sony ULT Wear Right for You?
After the tests and the comparison, it can be stated that the Sony ULT Wear is not for all. Thus, this product is non-ideal for sound freaks who appreciate the balanced frequency reaction or sound engineers who demand accuracy. However, if you enjoy a lot of bass and prefer the older Sony products, which were bass-oriented, then the ULT Wear may be for you. As a result, Messages Recipients, Sony ULT Wear is the better, cheaper version of the WH-1000XM5. It is relatively cheap, especially looking at other market competitors who offer great ANC and a different approach to tuning, based on the bass. Thank you for reading, and do not forget to check our tier list of Headphones.
