Sony ULT Wear Headphones Review

The Sony ULT Wear headphones, part of Sony’s mid-range line-up, aim to provide a balance between affordability and premium features. Positioned between the budget WH-CH720N and the high-end WH-1000XM5, these headphones are designed for users seeking robust sound quality and effective noise cancellation without breaking the bank​.

Design and Build

They feature a minimalist and functional design, available in black, white, and forest grey. They are lightweight at 225 grams and incorporate an adjustable, cushioned headband along with comfortable earcups, ensuring ease of use over extended periods. The foldable hinge design adds to their portability, allowing for easy storage in the provided fabric carry case.

Technical Specifications

• Drivers: 40mm
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, multi-device pairing
• Battery Life: 30 hours with ANC, 50 hours without ANC
• Charging: 1.5 hours for full charge, quick charge options (5 hours playback with 10 minutes charge)
• Audio Features: ANC, 360 Reality Audio, ULT button for enhanced bass
• Additional Features: Ear detection sensors, Quick Attention mode, Sony Headphones app support

Performance

Sound Quality: The ULT Wear headphones deliver a bass-heavy sound profile, which can be further amplified using the ULT button. This makes them ideal for genres like EDM and hip-hop. However, the bass can sometimes overshadow mids and highs, leading to a muddied sound in certain settings. The Sony Headphones app allows for some customisation with EQ presets and adjustments.

Noise Cancellation: The ANC on the ULT Wear is effective, significantly reducing ambient noise across various environments. While not on par with the flagship WH-1000XM5, the ANC performance is commendable for the price range. The Quick Attention mode and adjustable ambient sound settings enhance usability in different scenarios.

User Experience

The headphones are equipped with intuitive touch controls and are compatible with the Sony Headphones app, which offers various customisation options, including EQ settings, ANC adjustments, and more. The app is user-friendly and responsive. Multi-device pairing and quick connectivity features like Google Fast Pair enhance the overall user experience.

Compatibility and Ecosystem

The ULT Wear headphones work seamlessly with both Android and iOS devices. The inclusion of multi-device pairing allows users to switch between devices effortlessly, making them ideal for those who frequently alternate between a phone and a laptop.

Value for Money

Priced around £130, the Sony ULT Wear offers a compelling mix of features, performance, and build quality. They are an excellent option for those looking for good ANC, long battery life, and a bass-heavy sound profile without the premium price tag​.

Comparison with Other Products

1. Sony WH-1000XM5: Higher price, superior ANC and sound quality, more premium build.
2. Anker Soundcore Space Q45: Similar price, comparable ANC, and sound quality, slightly less comfortable.
3. Sony WH-CH720N: Lower price, less effective ANC, and sound quality, lighter build.

Conclusion

They offer solid performance with strong bass, effective ANC, and exceptional battery life. They are particularly well-suited for users who prioritize bass-heavy music and need reliable noise cancellation for commuting or office environments. While not perfect, their feature set and performance make them a great value option in the mid-range headphone market.

Key Features:

• ULT Power Sound Technology: Dedicated ULT button that enhances the bass, delivering a powerful and immersive audio experience. This makes them perfect for genres that thrive on strong low frequencies, such as EDM and hip-hop.
• Advanced Noise Cancellation: Equipped with dual noise sensor technology and the Integrated Processor V1, these headphones offer exceptional noise cancellation. This technology helps isolate you from ambient noise, allowing you to enjoy your music without interruptions.
• Long Battery Life: Up to 44 hours of battery life with ANC enabled, ensuring your headphones last through extended listening sessions. A quick 10-minute charge provides up to 5 hours of playback, making them ideal for on-the-go use.
• Comfortable Design: The ULT Wear headphones feature a lightweight and comfortable design, with cushioned ear cups and an adjustable headband. The foldable hinge design allows for easy storage and portability, making them perfect for commuting and travel.
• Enhanced Connectivity: These headphones support Bluetooth 5.2 and can pair with multiple devices simultaneously, allowing seamless switching between your phone and laptop. They are also compatible with Sony’s Headphones Connect app, which offers customisable EQ settings and sound enhancements​.
• High-Quality Audio: The 40mm drivers deliver crisp, clear sound with a balanced audio profile. The Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) restores high-frequency sounds lost in compression, ensuring a high-quality listening experience.
• Additional Features: The ULT Wear headphones include a smart sensor that pauses playback when you remove the headphones and resumes when you put them back on. They also support ambient sound mode, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings when needed.

What’s in the Box:

• Sony ULT Wear Wireless Noise-cancelling Headphones
• USB-C charging cable
• Carrying case
• User guide and warranty information

Pros:

• Strong bass performance
• Effective ANC
• Long battery life
• Comfortable fit

Cons:

• Bass can overshadow mids and highs
• Inconsistent treble response

Overall Rating: 4/5

With their robust features and competitive pricing, the Sony ULT Wear headphones are a great choice for those seeking high-quality audio and noise cancellation without the premium price.

For more perspectives on these headphones, why not try TechRadar, RTINGS.com or NDTV Business?