Compare Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones vs Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Canceling Headphones

Across reviewers, ANC is consistently described as class-leading, especially for steady low-frequency noise, with improved handling of voices and higher frequencies versus older generations. The app enables meaningful ANC and ambient tuning (including adaptive sound profiles and multiple ambient levels), though some sources note you are not always directly setting a granular ANC strength slider.

Android support is strong, including LDAC and easy pairing features; some advanced spatial head-tracking features may require newer Android versions.

The Sony companion app is feature-rich (EQ, adaptive modes, firmware updates), but setup prompts and data permissions can feel heavy for privacy-sensitive users.

Multiple sources explicitly note there is no aptX support on the WH-1000XM5.

Bass is generally controlled and textured, with some listeners hearing a fuller, pillowy low end and others calling it restrained or dry compared with bassier alternatives. Sub-bass is present but not the main emphasis, so slam-heads may want more weight.

Bass is generally punchy and enjoyable, but the default low-end emphasis can bleed into the mids for some content; reducing Clear Bass or using EQ is a frequent recommendation.

Battery life is usually described as strong around the 30-hour class, with some measurements exceeding the rating, though a few experiences report shorter real-world runtimes versus long-life rivals.

Bluetooth stability is widely reported as reliable with minimal dropouts across phones and computers in typical real-world use.

Build quality is consistently described as excellent, with premium materials, tight assembly, and a refined feel. Several reviews highlight serviceability and long-term durability as part of the value proposition.

Build quality feedback is mixed: some find it sturdy enough for daily use, while others say it feels less premium than rivals and should be handled carefully.

Physical buttons for power and ANC or ambient toggling are simple and easy to use alongside touch controls.

Cable impressions are mixed: many find the stock cable sturdy and functional, but some report microphonics or less-than-ideal ergonomics, and several note the lack of a balanced stock option.

When discussed, the included cables are described as functional rather than premium, and some reviewers treat cable upgrades as optional rather than necessary.

The included hard/semi-hard case is widely praised as well-made and protective, with room for cables/adapters and a secure zipper. It supports storage and occasional transport effectively.

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Charging performance is frequently praised thanks to fast top-ups that can deliver hours of listening from a few minutes on a compatible charger.

Clamp force is generally described as moderate and well-distributed, supporting stability without obvious pain. A handful of impressions mention the clamp feeling a bit tight out of the box, with minor adjustment/break-in helping.

Clamp is usually mild to moderate and secure, but a subset of reviewers perceive slightly stronger clamp than older models.

Codec support centers on SBC, AAC, and LDAC; reviewers who care about newer lossless-oriented ecosystems flag this as less future-proof than Snapdragon Sound style options.

Comfort is a consistent strength: the self-adjusting suspension design and soft pads enable long listening sessions for most people. A few note fit quirks (small cups for some ears or clamp that starts slightly tight).

Long-session comfort is a major selling point thanks to light weight and soft contact materials, though fit can be polarizing for smaller heads or those sensitive to ear-cup depth.

Design is a standout, with walnut accents and Meze’s mid-century styling repeatedly called premium-looking and distinctive. Even critics of the tuning tend to praise the aesthetics and finish quality.

The redesign is widely seen as sleeker and more modern, with mixed reactions to the larger travel footprint; finishes are often described as clean and understated.

The detachable dual 3.5mm system is convenient for replacement, yet recessed/narrow connector sizing can limit third-party cable compatibility compared with more universal designs. Connection security itself is generally praised.

A detachable 3.5mm cable adds flexibility for airplanes and wired listening, and the analog jack is a welcome inclusion.

The included USB-C DAC dongle/adapter is viewed as a nice convenience for modern devices, generally adequate for casual listening. Enthusiast reviewers still expect better performance from dedicated DAC/amps.

Velour/suede pads are commonly described as plush, breathable, and comfortable, helping distribute pressure and avoid hotspots. Some users wish for a touch more ear room, but pad comfort is still rated highly.

Earpads are soft and seal well, but several reviews mention heat build-up, shallow cup depth for some ears, compression over time, and pad wear affecting seal.

Cup articulation is generally sufficient for a good seal/fit, with tilt helping the pads conform, though some describe movement as limited compared with more freely articulating designs.

The cups rotate to lie flat and adapt to head shape, helping comfort and storage, even though the frame does not collapse smaller.

EQ is a key strength: the app provides useful adjustment that can meaningfully transform the tonal balance, and many reviewers treat basic EQ as essential to getting the best sound.

Find My or device-finding support is highlighted in some reviews, especially on Android with Find My Device style features.

Tonality is often described as balanced or smooth rather than strictly neutral, with a coherent frequency integration that avoids obvious bloat. Some characterize it as tastefully colored (warm-bright/W-shaped) rather than reference-flat.

The auto/self-adjusting headband system is repeatedly singled out as one of the best parts of the design, requiring little to no fiddling while spreading pressure evenly. It also helps with consistent fit and comfort over time.

The stepless headband adjustment allows fine tuning, but the lack of notched positions and limited range can make fit less repeatable for some users.

Build discussions suggest robust hinges and a durable chassis, with spring-steel structures and solid joints expected to hold up well over years of use.

Hinge durability comes up as a worry point, with reports of failures and enough discussion to treat the joints as a potential long-term risk.

Accessories are generally seen as generous for the price: a protective case, cables, and adapters (often including USB-C). The main recurring complaint is the absence of a balanced cable in the box.

Most reviews mention a standard but useful bundle, typically including a carry case plus USB charging and 3.5mm audio cables.

Instrument separation and imaging are widely regarded as excellent for the price, helping complex mixes stay organized and making positional cues easy to track. Even reviewers who nitpick tuning tend to credit the Silva’s placement and delineation.

Instrument separation and resolution are mixed: some note better layering than prior models, while more critical listeners find micro-detail and separation behind the best-sounding competitors.

LDAC is a major upside for Android users seeking higher-bitrate Bluetooth audio, though the best results may require device-side settings and it is not an Apple ecosystem feature.

When pushed louder, reviewers who mention it report the presentation staying composed, with bass and treble control holding together without obvious strain.

At higher volumes, many reviews report the XM5 stays controlled with little obvious distortion, though perceived balance can shift with louder playback.

Noise reduction on calls is generally excellent and can suppress wind and background noise well, though a few tests mention occasional artifacts such as white-noise or slightly hollow rendering.

Call pickup is a standout strength, with multiple reviews calling it best-in-class or close, keeping voices clear in busy streets, airports, and office settings.

Midrange is a highlight for many, with clear, forward vocals/instruments and an overall transparent character. A few note that certain vocal ranges can sound a bit thin, scooped, or pushed depending on recording and pairing.

Midrange clarity is improved with EQ and can sound full and engaging, yet some sources describe the mids as partially masked by bass or slightly recessed out of the box.

Reviewers frequently describe good compatibility across sources (phones with dongles, laptops, DAPs, and desktop amps), helped by easy drivability. Some note it scales with source quality and can reveal harshness from poor gear.

Multipoint pairing is commonly praised for easy switching between two devices, but some note feature tradeoffs depending on settings and codec choices.

As open-backs, passive isolation is low and sound leakage is expected; a couple of reviewers note mild attenuation compared to very open designs, but these are still best for quiet rooms.

Passive isolation is strong for an ANC headphone and improves overall attenuation, but seal quality matters; glasses or worn pads can noticeably reduce isolation and ANC impact.

Portability is mixed: they’re easy to drive and include a protective case, but the open-back design and size make them better suited to home or quiet environments than true travel/commute use.

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Preset EQ profiles are often described as effective and noticeably different from one another, making quick tuning convenient.

Where discussed, earpads are replaceable and intended for long-term ownership, with guides or documentation supporting pad swaps and maintenance.

Wear detection and smart sensing (auto pause, quick-attention hand cup, adaptive behaviors) are widely praised for day-to-day convenience.

Smudge and fingerprint behavior is mixed: some finishes resist prints well, while other soft-touch materials can show grease and handling marks.

Pairing and onboarding are usually straightforward, especially with platform quick-pair features, though app sign-in and tutorials add friction for some.

Across reviews, the 105 Silva is described as an engaging open-back with a premium “Meze” presentation: natural timbre, strong technicalities for the price, and a tuning that favors musical enjoyment over strict neutrality. A minority find the voicing less competitive on pure sound-per-dollar versus cheaper rivals without EQ.

Overall sound quality is commonly rated very good for consumer ANC headphones, but several reviewers argue the default tuning benefits from EQ, and some listeners wanting a more analytical presentation may prefer alternatives. Wired sound can be close to wireless when the headset is powered on, but passive wired listening (powered off) is commonly described as noticeably worse.

Soundstage impressions vary: some describe it as expansive, airy, and three-dimensional, while others find it only moderately wide or a touch narrow with limited depth/layering. Imaging is commonly cited as more consistent than sheer stage size.

Soundstage impressions vary by reviewer: some hear a spacious presentation, while others call it more intimate or two-dimensional; spatial processing can change the perception.

Spatial audio features (such as 360 Reality Audio and related processing) are available via the app and compatible services, but value depends on your ecosystem and content sources.

Fit stability is usually strong thanks to moderate clamp and the suspension design, with reports of little slippage and secure positioning. One review flags potential fit issues for smaller heads due to the frame geometry.

Sustainability is repeatedly tied to Meze’s serviceable approach: parts can be replaced rather than discarding the headphone, supporting longevity and repairability over time.

Sony highlights recycled and sustainability-minded materials in the build and packaging, which some reviewers call out as a positive.

Touch gestures are generally responsive and convenient, but several reviews mention occasional misreads, accidental triggers when adjusting the headphones, or inconsistent recognition.

Ambient or transparency mode is useful but divisive: some find it natural enough for quick chats, while others describe it as muffled or underwater-like and not as convincing as top competitors.

Treble is typically praised for clarity and refinement, but several reviews note peaks/extra air that can sound a little spicy, sizzly, or less forgiving on bright or compressed tracks. Others hear it as smooth and well-balanced for long sessions.

Treble is usually described as detailed and clean, but there are mixed notes about either roll-off in the upper treble or occasional sharpness at higher volumes depending on track and tuning.

USB-C support comes via an included adapter/dongle, enabling plug-and-play use with phones and computers lacking a headphone jack. It’s positioned as convenience rather than a high-end solution.

USB-C is used for charging, but several reviews emphasize it cannot be used for wired digital audio playback.

Voice assistant features (Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa depending on device) are supported via gestures or settings, and are commonly treated as a solid bonus feature.

Multiple reviews call the 105 Silva very easy to drive (high sensitivity, modest impedance) and capable of reaching loud listening levels from phones, dongles, laptops, and DAPs. Higher-quality sources can still improve refinement and control.

The XM5 reaches satisfying loudness for most listeners.

There is no IP rating, and multiple reviews advise against using the XM5 in rain, heavy sweat, or workouts where moisture exposure is likely.

At roughly mid-300g, the Silva isn’t ultra-light, but reviewers frequently say it feels lighter on-head due to excellent weight distribution. Most report minimal fatigue from weight during extended sessions.

At roughly 250g, the XM5 is widely considered lightweight for the category and less fatiguing than heavier competitors.