Tag: Techradar Audio

Follow these steps to optimise your WH-1000XM5 setup.

Step 1: Initial Setup

Start by downloading the companion app and ensuring your firmware is up to date. Firmware updates often include significant ANC improvements.

Step 2: Finding the Right Fit

Adjust the headband so the cups sit centrally over your ears with even pressure. A good fit can improve bass response by up to 6dB.

Step 3: Optimising Sound

For a more balanced sound, reduce bass by 2-3dB and boost the upper mids slightly. aptX Adaptive dynamically adjusts quality based on your connection stability.

Step 4: ANC Customisation

Don’t just leave ANC on the default setting. Adaptive mode works well in most situations, but manual control lets you fine-tune.

Pro Tips

• Multipoint connection lets you switch between phone and laptop seamlessly
• Store in the case when not in use to protect the ear pads

Choosing between the QuietComfort Headphones and WH-1000XM4? You’re not alone — this is one of the most common dilemmas for audio buyers.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Sound Quality

The QuietComfort Headphones offers a neutral sound profile, while the WH-1000XM4 leans more balanced. Both sound excellent, though your preference will depend on what genres you listen to most.

Noise Cancellation

The QuietComfort Headphones has a slight edge in ANC performance, particularly at low frequencies.

Comfort and Design

The QuietComfort Headphones is lighter and more comfortable for extended wear.

Our Pick

It’s a close call, but the WH-1000XM4 wins for most people thanks to longer battery life.

Choosing between the ULT WEAR and WH-CH720N? You’re not alone — this is one of the most common dilemmas for audio buyers.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Sound Quality

The ULT WEAR offers a neutral sound profile, while the WH-CH720N leans more analytical. Both sound excellent, though your preference will depend on what genres you listen to most.

Noise Cancellation

The WH-CH720N slightly outperforms the ULT WEAR in our noise cancellation tests, though the difference is marginal.

Comfort and Design

The ULT WEAR is lighter and more comfortable for extended wear.

Our Pick

Both are exceptional, but the ULT WEAR edges ahead thanks to more balanced sound signature.

We’ve tested dozens of options to bring you our top headphone picks for 2026.

What to Look For

• Noise Cancellation: Look for adaptive ANC that adjusts to your environment
• Sound Quality: Consider your preferred sound signature — warm, neutral, or bass-heavy
• Battery Life: 30+ hours is standard for over-ears
• Comfort: Weight and clamp force matter for long sessions
• Codec Support: LDAC and aptX Adaptive offer higher quality than AAC alone

Our Top Picks

Sony WH-1000XM5 — £299

Rating: 9.2/10 | Battery: 30h | ANC: Excellent

Our top pick for most people. You get 90% of the flagship experience at a fraction of the cost.

Bose QuietComfort Headphones — £299

Rating: 8.5/10 | Battery: 24h | ANC: Very Good

Best for runners and gym-goers. You get 90% of the flagship experience at a fraction of the cost.

Sony WF-1000XM5 — £259

Rating: 9.1/10 | Battery: 8h (24h case) | ANC: Excellent

The budget-friendly champion. Exceptional sound quality meets industry-leading ANC.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 — £229

Rating: 8.7/10 | Battery: 6h (30h case) | ANC: Very Good

The budget-friendly champion. A brilliant all-rounder that excels in every category.

How We Test

We use every product for at least two weeks in real-world conditions before making our recommendations.

Follow these steps to optimise your AirPods Max setup.

Step 1: Initial Setup

Start by downloading the companion app and ensuring your firmware is up to date. Firmware updates often include significant ANC improvements.

Step 2: Finding the Right Fit

Take time to try all the included ear tips — the difference is remarkable. A good fit can improve bass response by up to 6dB.

Step 3: Optimising Sound

For a more balanced sound, reduce bass by 2-3dB and boost the upper mids slightly. aptX Adaptive dynamically adjusts quality based on your connection stability.

Step 4: ANC Customisation

Don’t just leave ANC on the default setting. Transparency mode with voice focus is perfect for quick conversations.

Pro Tips

• Multipoint connection lets you switch between phone and laptop seamlessly
• Clean ear tips weekly with a dry cloth for hygiene and fit

The WH-1000XM4 is a strong contender in Sony’s current lineup. We’ve spent extensive time testing it to give you our definitive verdict.

Design and Build

Sony has iterated on the design with a sleeker profile. It punches above its weight in terms of build quality. Comfort is among the best we’ve tested.

Sound Quality

Audio performance is where the WH-1000XM4 truly impresses. The sound signature is punchy and engaging without sacrificing detail. Sony’s audio processing brings spatial awareness that adds depth to your music.

Noise Cancellation

ANC performance is very good, with strong performance across all frequencies. It handles most daily noise scenarios effectively.

Key Specs

Verdict

The WH-1000XM4 is a solid choice that will satisfy most listeners, though it faces stiff competition at this price point.

Getting the most from your audio gear doesn’t have to be complicated.

Step 1: Initial Setup

Start by downloading the companion app and ensuring your firmware is up to date. The app gives you access to EQ customisation and ANC profiles.

Step 2: Finding the Right Fit

Adjust the headband so the cups sit centrally over your ears with even pressure. The app’s fit test can help verify you’ve got a good seal.

Step 3: Optimising Sound

Try the built-in EQ presets before creating your own. aptX Adaptive dynamically adjusts quality based on your connection stability.

Step 4: ANC Customisation

Don’t just leave ANC on the default setting. Adaptive mode works well in most situations, but manual control lets you fine-tune.

Pro Tips

• Multipoint connection lets you switch between phone and laptop seamlessly
• Clean ear tips weekly with a dry cloth for hygiene and fit