Sony has a long history of producing high-quality headphones, and the recently released ULT Wear aims to shake things up in the mid-range noise-cancelling market. But unlike its flagship WH-1000XM series known for balanced sound, the ULT Wear takes a different approach, prioritizing deep bass for a more immersive listening experience. Let’s delve into what the ULT Wear offers and see if it’s the right fit for your audio desires.
Sony ULT Wear Headphone designed for bass enthusiasts
The ULT Wear proudly belongs to Sony’s ULT (Ultimate) Power Sound series. This focus is evident from the moment you press the dedicated “ULT” button. It activates a bass-boosting mode that Sony claims will transport you “to the center of your music.” This feature caters to listeners who crave that powerful, heart-pounding bass often found in genres like electronic dance music (EDM) and hip-hop.
Sony ULT Wear Headphone improved noise cancellation and comfort
Sony equips the ULT Wear with its V1 chip, the same processor found in their high-end XM5 headphones. This chip promises improved noise cancellation compared to previous mid-range models. While it might not completely silence low-frequency sounds like airplane rumble, it should effectively block out ambient noise for a more focused listening experience.
Comfort is another crucial aspect, and the ULT Wear boasts wider ear cups than its predecessor, the WH-XB910N. This design choice should accommodate larger ears and provide a more comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
Sony ULT Wear Headphone Familiar Features with a Modern Touch
The Sony ULT Wear retains some of the familiar features found in other Sony headphones. The controls are located on the back of the ear cups, allowing you to adjust volume, skip tracks, and manage playback with ease. Additionally, the headphones come with handy ear-detection sensors that automatically pause the music when you take them off and resume playback when you put them back on.
A welcome upgrade is the inclusion of multipoint Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to connect the ULT Wear to two devices simultaneously, seamlessly switching between them for added convenience. For example, you can be listening to music on your laptop and take a call on your phone without needing to manually re-pair the headphones.
Sony ULT Wear Battery Life and Design
Sony claims the Sony ULT Wear offers a respectable battery life of 30 hours with noise cancelling turned on and a whopping 50 hours with it off. This makes them a good option for long journeys or extended listening sessions without worrying about running out of juice.
The design of the ULT Wear is sleek and modern, with a primarily black color scheme and a touch of silver on the hinges. While not as visually striking as some competitors, the headphones prioritize functionality and comfort with a minimalistic aesthetic.
The Trade-Off: Sound Quality for Bass Enthusiasts
While the ULT Wear excels in delivering powerful bass, some reviewers have noted a slight trade-off in overall sound quality. The emphasis on low frequencies might come at the expense of crisp highs and a well-balanced soundscape. This might not be ideal for audiophiles who value a neutral and accurate listening experience. However, for bass lovers who prioritize impactful audio for genres like EDM and hip-hop, the ULT Wear delivers.
Is the Sony ULT Wear Right for You?
The Sony ULT Wear caters to a specific audience: bass enthusiasts who prioritize powerful sound for genres like EDM and hip-hop. The dedicated bass boost mode, combined with comfortable design and improved noise cancellation, makes it a compelling option in the mid-range market. However, if you seek a balanced sound profile for a wider variety of musical styles, you might want to consider other Sony models or explore options from different brands.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your listening preferences. If you crave that deep, immersive bass experience, the Sony ULT Wear is definitely worth a try.
