Compare SONY WH-1000XM6 Headphones vs Marshall Monitor III A.N.C. Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones

The 3.5mm input was generally appreciated as a practical wired option, especially because it enables analog listening despite missing USB-C audio.

The lack of a built-in 3.5mm analog jack was a repeated drawback, even though USB-C-to-3.5mm wired listening is possible.

ANC was the strongest consensus point: reviewers repeatedly called it class-leading, best-in-class, or among the best they had tested.

ANC was usually judged good, solid, or decent for daily use, but several reviewers said it still trails Bose, Sony, or the top tier.

Advanced software features were plentiful and often impressive, but reviewers sometimes found them excessive, confusing, or underused.

Advanced software features were considered solid and modern, but reviewers did not see them as uniquely class-leading.

Aesthetic discretion was mixed: one reviewer liked the low-profile street look, while another thought the headphones looked dorkier than competitors.

Aesthetics were distinctive and often praised, but some reviewers noted the retro Marshall look will not suit everyone.

ANC background noise performance was decent: one review measured strong overall noise reduction, and another said white noise was not bad.

ANC-off listening measured slightly better in one review, suggesting ANC can subtly affect the sound signature.

ANC slightly affects audio performance, with one review noting higher sound-quality scores when ANC is disabled.

Android compatibility was a strength thanks to LDAC, Android-friendly hi-res support, and cross-device pairing advantages.

Android compatibility was positive in one review that found the headphones sounded good on Android.

The app drew mixed-to-negative reactions because it is powerful but crowded, aged, or not especially intuitive.

The app was viewed positively for customization, controls, battery options, and a generally intuitive experience.

aptX was criticized because reviewers specifically noted the lack of aptX HD support.

aptX support was criticized as absent, especially for Android or lossless-codec users.

Latency evidence was limited but positive for wired analog use, where reviewers noted no latency through the headphone cable.

Audio-video sync was a concern for gaming because one reviewer tied the lack of low-latency codecs to more noticeable latency.

Auracast support was mixed: one reviewer saw it as future-proofing, while another could not get it working in testing.

Auracast support was treated as a positive future-facing feature, especially for Android and LE Audio readiness.

Auto-play and wear detection performed very well in the available evidence, pausing and resuming immediately.

Auto-play and wear detection worked but was slow to react in one test.

Editorial recognition was strong, with reviewers naming the XM6 a best overall or best new headphone pick.

Bass was usually described as punchy, controlled, and customizable, though one reviewer found Sony's low end could overpower mids and highs.

Bass was usually described as punchy or well-balanced, though several reviewers said it could use more impact, cleaner control, or stronger low-end weight.

Battery life was viewed as solid and travel-ready at roughly 30 hours with ANC, though not class-leading against longer-lasting competitors.

Battery life had the strongest agreement: reviewers repeatedly described it as class-leading, incredible, extraordinary, or far ahead of competitors.

Bluetooth performance was discussed positively where reviewed, with connectivity described as a standout area for Sony.

Bluetooth performance was praised in one review as stable and high-performance.

Bluetooth version support was viewed positively in one comparison because the XM6 uses newer Bluetooth with LE benefits.

Bluetooth version support was tied to a stable, high-performance wireless connection in one review.

Build quality was mixed: one review found it very good, while another said the plastic construction felt underwhelming for the price.

Build quality was generally strong and rugged, with praise for durability and materials, offset by one report of creaking.

Built-in DAC and hi-res wired playback were criticized because reviewers wanted a true digital lossless USB-C option.

Hi-res playback support was a weakness because reviewers repeatedly noted no hi-res Bluetooth audio support.

Physical button usability improved meaningfully, with reviewers liking the distinct power and ANC buttons and easier blind operation.

Button controls were a standout strength, with reviewers preferring the tactile joystick and physical buttons over touch controls.

Cable quality was criticized by one reviewer, who expected better cables for a premium headphone.

Cable quality received praise in one review for the black cable with brass tips and premium-feeling presentation.

The carrying case was a standout strength thanks to its compact size, protection, magnetic clasp, and faster access.

The carry case was usually praised as sturdy, compact, premium, or travel-friendly, though a few reviewers found it bulky or unnecessary.

Charging was praised for quick-charge performance and the ability to listen while charging.

Charging was praised for fast top-ups, with reviewers citing up to 12 hours of playback from a short charge.

Clamping force was generally comfortable and secure, with tighter fit improving isolation without widespread discomfort.

Clamping comfort was rated very highly, with reviewers reporting little to virtually zero pressure.

Codec support was mostly good thanks to LDAC, SBC, LC3, and AAC, but reviewers noted limits such as missing aptX and some LDAC stability concerns.

Codec support was a clear weakness because reviewers noted no hi-res, lossless, or low-latency codec support.

Long-use comfort was mostly strong, especially for travel, but several reviewers reported heat, pressure, or fit issues for some heads and ears.

Comfort was one of the strongest consensus wins, with reviewers repeatedly praising all-day wear, soft fit, and low fatigue.

Connectivity options were praised for convenient device switching and multipoint behavior.

Connectivity options were mixed: wired and wireless playback were useful, but the lack of a built-in 3.5mm jack and coiled cable hurt convenience.

Design and aesthetics were mostly praised for a clean, modern, lightweight look, though some reviewers still found the design safe or understated.

Design and aesthetics were mostly praised for the distinctive Marshall look, premium detailing, and rugged styling, though taste varied.

Detachable analog cable use was useful for low-latency wired listening, though broader cable quality drew criticism elsewhere.

Durability over time had limited evidence, with one reviewer specifically worrying about the folding joint's long-term durability.

Durability over time was viewed positively because reviewers described more durable, repairable construction and long-term toughness.

Ear cup padding was usually praised as soft and well cushioned, though one long-use review found the earpads warm and sweaty.

Ear cup padding was widely praised as extremely soft, plush, pillow-like, and important to comfort and sealing.

Ear cup swivel and rotation were praised for neck comfort, easier storage, and restoring convenience missing from the XM5.

Ear cup rotation and swivel helped portability, though one reviewer found the twisting mechanism odd on the head.

Earpad/body-borne noise was a notable negative for one reviewer, who heard footsteps and heartbeat-like sounds.

Ecosystem integration was criticized where discussed because Sony's own ecosystem and PlayStation support felt incomplete.

EQ customization was one of Sony's strongest feature advantages, with repeated praise for the 10-band EQ, guided EQ, and deep tuning control.

EQ customization was broadly useful and responsive, though one reviewer wanted more precision than the five-band setup provides.

Features at launch were viewed as very complete in the available evidence, with one reviewer saying the XM6 offers essentially everything expected from premium Bluetooth ANC headphones.

Features at launch were adequate but not standout, with one reviewer saying the standard feature set lacked a truly distinctive tool.

Frequency response and tuning were generally praised as balanced and well measured, especially compared with earlier Sony tuning.

The default frequency response was judged broadly listener-friendly, especially for casual listeners.

Headband adjustability had limited but positive evidence from a reviewer who found the fully extended fit comfortable.

Headband adjustability earned a small positive note for visible adjustment numbering.

Headband padding and shape were mixed: some reviewers found it comfortable, while others criticized thin padding or long-term pressure.

Headband comfort was praised for reducing top-of-head pressure through light weight and support-strap design.

Head gestures had limited but positive evidence, with a reviewer calling nod/shake call control a nice touch.

Hinge durability was mixed: one review praised the more durable hinge, while another flagged fragile-feeling articulating hinges.

Hinge durability was praised for being able to twist without showing signs of breaking.

Immersive audio quality was mixed: cinema/background modes impressed some reviewers, while others called music upmixing gimmicky or poor.

Immersive audio quality was mixed, with some reviewers enjoying the added atmosphere and others finding the effect limited or not truly immersive.

Included accessories were criticized where evaluated because a reviewer expected better and more modern cables for the price.

Included accessories received praise for the attractive red-velvet case and included cables.

Instrument separation earned positive but limited evidence, with reviewers hearing better placement and clearer separation in the XM6.

Instrument separation was a consistent strength when mentioned, with reviewers noting solid layering, instrument placement, and separation across bass, mids, and highs.

The integrated microphone setup was viewed positively in the available evidence as part of the XM6's strong mic technology.

Integrated microphone feedback was mixed, with clear/crisp quiet-room results but criticism of vocal clarity or noisy-environment performance.

LDAC was a clear plus for Android and hi-res Bluetooth playback, though one reviewer warned the highest transfer rate may be unstable on some phones.

LDAC was only discussed as an absent higher-quality codec, making it a codec-support weakness.

LE Audio readiness was treated as a future-proofing benefit, tied to Auracast and newer Bluetooth features.

LE Audio readiness was treated as a positive future-proofing feature by multiple reviewers.

Maximum-volume clarity was strong in the reviews that addressed it, with no audible or max-volume distortion reported.

Microphone noise reduction was excellent in the evidence, especially against streets, wind, and ambient noise during calls.

Microphone noise reduction was praised for handling simulated or real wind well, despite some vocal-clarity caveats elsewhere.

Call quality was strongly praised, with reviewers highlighting clearer voice pickup, better mics, and strong performance in noisy settings.

Call microphone quality received strong praise from one reviewer, especially for windy phone calls.

Midrange and vocal clarity were a consistent strength, with reviewers calling voices clear, textured, natural, and fuller than prior models.

Midrange impressions were mixed: some praised vocals and instruments, while others heard under-emphasized mids, prominent high mids, or occasional clutter.

Multi-platform compatibility was mixed: Apple and Android playback worked, but PlayStation wireless compatibility drew criticism.

Multi-platform compatibility was positive where tested on both iOS and Android.

Multipoint was viewed positively, with reviewers appreciating dual-device pairing across phones, laptops, and mixed Apple/non-Apple setups.

Multipoint reliability was strong where tested, with seamless switching or extremely reliable two-device use.

Passive isolation was a major strength in lab and hands-on impressions, helping the headphones block substantial noise even before ANC.

Passive isolation was praised for the soft cushions and seal, which helped block noise even before ANC was considered.

Overall recommendations were strongly positive, with reviewers frequently calling the XM6 elite, best-in-class, or worth buying despite caveats.

Overall recommendations were positive but caveated: reviewers liked the package, especially for travel and rock-focused listening, while noting ANC, codecs, and wired tradeoffs.

Portability and foldability were major upgrades, with reviewers repeatedly praising the return of folding hinges and a smaller travel footprint.

Portability and foldability were major strengths thanks to the compact folding design and small travel footprint.

Premium feel was one of the weaker areas because several reviewers felt the plastic build did not match the high price.

Premium feel was praised through richer materials, superior build impressions, and a luxurious presentation.

Preset or guided EQ profiles were received positively where discussed, helping users reach a preferred sound without complex manual tuning.

The preset EQ experience was praised in one review, especially the bass boost setting for adding dynamic sound without excess bass.

Replaceable earpads were mixed: one source praised easier pad removal, another called replacement difficult, and another simply noted replaceable pads.

Replaceable earpads were praised as easy to remove or replace and useful for longevity.

Replaceable pads or headband evidence was limited but positive for earpads, with easier pad removal described as a change for the better.

Replaceable pads and headband parts were a repairability plus where described.

Sensors were praised in the available evidence because the wear sensors performed reliably.

Sensor performance was a concern because one reviewer reported random wear-sensor triggers.

Sidetone adjustment was a weakness for one reviewer because voice amplification sounded unnatural and could not be toned down enough.

Smart listening features such as Speak-to-Chat, Quick Attention, and adaptive modes were generally useful, though not universally essential.

Smart listening features were mixed: adaptive volume, Spotify Tap, and battery preservation drew praise, while missing convenience features held the score down.

Smart Pause worked very well in the available evidence, immediately pausing and resuming playback.

Smart Pause performance was criticized for random triggering in one longer test.

Smudge resistance was weak, with reviewers complaining that the darker finishes show finger grease and smudge badly.

Setup and software simplicity were mixed-to-negative because spatial setup, app navigation, and feature layout could feel involved or unintuitive.

Setup simplicity received praise from one reviewer who called pairing/setup easy.

Sound leakage was viewed positively in one review because the plush ear cups helped minimize leak.

Reviewers broadly praised the XM6 for rich, clear, dynamic sound, with only a few noting rivals can sound wider or more refined.

Reviewers generally liked the sound, describing it as pleasing, energetic, balanced, or excellent, with the strongest praise for rock and instrument-driven listening.

Soundstage was mixed: some reviewers heard nice width, while others found it restricted or weak for competitive gaming.

Soundstage width drew mixed reactions, from solid or opened-up presentation to narrow, cluttered, or not true-spatial enough.

Spatial audio was one of the most mixed areas: cinema use sometimes impressed reviewers, but music support, setup, and service availability drew criticism.

Spatial audio was divisive: some liked the extra space, but others found it unnatural, underwhelming, or below true Atmos-style experiences.

Fit stability was positive where evaluated, with reviewers noting snug, secure fit and consistent seal behavior.

Connection stability was praised as stable and high-performance in one review.

Streaming service integration for spatial audio was weak, with reviewers noting limited or lost service support despite 360 Reality Audio capability.

Streaming service integration was praised strongly for Spotify Tap, especially for starting playback without pulling out a phone.

Repairability was criticized, especially around maintenance options and difficulty replacing parts compared with expectations for a premium product.

Sustainability and repairability were praised for replaceable parts and repair-minded design, with a caveat that batteries are not user-replaceable.

Sustainability materials received a modest positive note for recycled plastic use.

Touch controls divided reviewers: some found them accurate or intuitive, while others called them finicky, easy to nudge, or terrible.

Transparency mode improved substantially and often sounded natural, though some reviewers still found AirPods Max more realistic or Sony slightly unnatural.

Transparency mode was considered usable and sometimes natural, but reviewers also noted hiss, limited realism, or weaker performance than the best rivals.

Travel friendliness was a major strength, supported by strong ANC, comfort, battery life, folding design, and the improved case.

Travel friendliness was a major strength due to battery life, compact folding, wired flexibility, and protective case design.

Treble drew mostly positive comments for detail and sparkle, but lab-focused criticism noted some peaks that could need EQ.

Treble feedback was split between clear, impressive highs and complaints about sibilance, fatigue, or sharpness on some tracks.

USB-C was the most repeated technical complaint because reviewers wanted USB-C audio or lossless digital playback, not charging-only behavior.

USB-C was useful for charging and wired listening, but reviewers criticized the one-port limitation and need for power in wired use.

Value was mixed: reviewers often said performance justified the price, but the $450 tier, discounts, and missing features were recurring caveats.

Value was generally fair to good, especially on sale, but reviewers noted strong cheaper or better-performing rivals.

Voice assistant and voice-command features were mixed, with one reviewer saying they worked well and another finding them inconsistent.

Voice prompts and feedback added personality through Marshall-style guitar sounds during power and pairing.

One reviewer found the headphones plenty loud, with comfortable listening volume well below maximum.

Water and sweat resistance were a weakness because reviewers cautioned there is no IP rating.

Water and sweat resistance was a weakness because reviewers noted the headphones are not waterproof and should avoid rain or gym use.

Wear detection auto-pause was excellent in the available review, immediately pausing and resuming playback.

Wear detection auto-pause was only moderately successful, working but reacting slowly.

Wear detection performance was excellent in the available review, with sensors described as as good as ever.

Wear detection performance was a weakness in one longer test because the sensor randomly triggered.

Weight comfort was praised where mentioned, with reviewers highlighting the XM6 as very light for premium over-ear ANC headphones.

Weight comfort was a major strength, with reviewers repeatedly calling the headphones light for the class and easy to wear.

Wind handling was praised in microphone testing, where the XM6 rejected unwanted wind noise very well.

Wind handling was mixed: one reviewer found wind susceptibility in ANC/transparency, while another found moderate wind manageable.