Bluetooth: 5.4 (SBC, AAC, AptX Lossless)
Battery life: 30hrs
Finishes: 2
Weight: 312g
The Ace are ambitious and offer spatial audio and Sonos-centric features, but they can't compete with the XM5: they don't sound as good, aren't as comfortable, and their noise cancellation isn't on par. They're also more expensive. They feel like a first-gen product, whereas the XM5 have been refined over many generations.
For
- Streamlined, stylish design
- Physical controls work well
- Inoffensive, balanced sound
- Okay levels of detail
Against
- Lack of clarity and expression
- Stunted dynamics and rhythmic drive
- Slightly buggy during testing
- Average call quality
Bluetooth: 5.2 (SBC, AAC, LDAC)
Battery life: 30hrs
Finishes: 2
Weight: 250g
Sony has nothing to fear from Sonos. The XM5 still set the performance benchmark at their significantly cheaper price, two years after launching. With effective noise cancellation, a smart, comfortable design, and practical (if not innovative) features, they're still the best all-round over-ear headphones at this level.
For
- Sensational sonic clarity
- Punchy delivery
- Precise, agile bass
- Nice to use
Against
- Build seems a little less premium than before
- Don’t fold away completely
