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Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancellation Test: Measured Performance

We put the WH-1000XM5 through our standard battery of objective tests, measuring frequency response, noise cancellation attenuation, and total harmonic distortion across the full audible spectrum. Here's what the data reveals.

Test Methodology

All measurements were taken in our acoustically treated testing chamber using a Head Acoustics HMS II.3 head and torso simulator. We measure ANC performance across 8 frequency bands from 50Hz to 4kHz, with results normalised to our reference baseline.

Noise Cancellation Performance

In our standardised ANC testing, the WH-1000XM5 achieved an average attenuation of 27dB across low-frequency bands (50-500Hz), which places it at the top of our current benchmark rankings. The mid-frequency performance (500Hz-2kHz) showed 17dB reduction, which is impressive for office environments.

Sound Quality Analysis

Frequency response measurements show a slightly warm tuning profile. Bass extension reaches down to 27Hz at -3dB, with a gentle 2dB lift in the sub-bass region. The midrange is remarkably clean, with less than 0.2% THD at normal listening levels.

Specifications

| Spec | Value | | --- | --- | | Price | £299 | | Battery | 30h | | Weight | 250g | | Codecs | LDAC, AAC |

Verdict

Based on our measurements, the WH-1000XM5 delivers class-leading performance in its price category. The data supports a recommendation for frequent travellers who prioritise battery life.