Music Lovers Sony has got you covered!
Recently I found myself dusting off my old classic iPod, and there are a couple of reasons besides the nostalgia for this. To start I had to do some longer flights and I like to carry lots of music so that I’ve got some options or so I can shuffle through my library. This got me thinking about modern devices like the Sony Xperia VI for music enthusiasts. Secondly, I like wired- headphones, or semi-professional in-ears.
It is no secret that I like to listen to music through a wire and I’ve often complained that more and more phone vendors are removing the headphone jack from their flagship phones.
Why? Is wired better?
Listening to music through wired headphones offers several advantages over wireless options, particularly in terms of sound quality, reliability, and ease of use. Wired headphones generally provide superior audio fidelity, as they transmit sound signals directly from the device without compression or latency, resulting in clearer, more detailed audio. Audiophiles (not claiming that I am one) often prefer wired headphones for their ability to deliver high-resolution sound.
Additionally, wired headphones don’t rely on wireless connections, which can sometimes suffer from interference, connectivity issues, or battery limitations. With wired headphones, users can enjoy continuous listening without worrying about recharging or dealing with signal dropouts. There’s also no risk of audio lag, which is particularly noticeable when watching videos or gaming.
Furthermore, wired headphones tend to be more durable. Overall, wired headphones provide a more consistent and reliable listening experience, making them a better choice for those who prioritize sound quality and uninterrupted playback over the convenience of wireless technology. Granted you do have to untangle your audio wire multiple times a day.
Introduction Xperia 1 VI
There’s so much I absolutely love about the Xperia 1 VI! Sure, I could list all the specs and make comparisons, but I’d rather share why it genuinely stands out to me. For starters, the materials Sony used and the overall look and feel are simply amazing. The back and sides have this stylish textured design, so it’s great to use even without a cover. I’m thrilled that Sony is sticking with the CinemaWide display. The quality is fantastic, and the size and aspect ratio make it perfect for watching videos. The screen feels even bigger because of its unique 21:9 ratio! Plus, even though it’s a large-screen phone, you can still easily reach the corners when using it with one hand.
Adressing the elephant in the room; Screen Downgrade
Yes, Sony decided to reduce the display resolution of the Xperia 1 VI from 4K to FHD+. However, there are several good reasons for this change. One of the main factors is that the 4K display on previous models was often seen as unnecessary for most users, particularly on a smartphone screen, where the difference between 4K and lower resolutions is less noticeable. Additionally, 4K displays increased production costs and drained more battery power. By switching to FHD+, Sony aimed to enhance battery life, improve brightness, and make the device more affordable, all while maintaining high-end features like the 120Hz refresh rate and LTPO technology.
Alpha Picture Powerhouse
The screen may have been downgraded for good reasons, but Sony has made significant strides with the camera setup on the Xperia 1 VI by outfitting it with a triple camera system and an improved sensor. It feels like carrying a professional camera in my pocket! The camera’s capabilities are especially evident with the new sensor, which excels in low-light environments — something that typically challenges other smartphones. With the Xperia 1 VI, however, photos remain vibrant and detailed, even at dusk or indoors.
One of my favorite features is the real-time eye autofocus, which effortlessly locks onto a person’s or animal’s eyes. This makes capturing portrait shots easy and natural, even when the subjects are in motion. The manual controls give me the freedom to adjust settings like a professional, and being able to shoot in RAW format is a huge bonus. It truly feels like I have a mini Alpha camera in my hands.
What really impressed me, though, was the 4K video recording. The level of detail and smoothness, combined with a cinematic feel, adds a whole new dimension to my videos. It feels like I’m not just capturing moments to remember but creating something worth showcasing, with a touch of professional flair.
The Pinnacle of Audio Experience for Music Lovers
Sony deserves applause for keeping the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack on the Xperia 1 VI, a rare and cherished feature for music lovers around the world. In an era where many smartphone brands have sacrificed this connection for wireless-only audio, Sony has stayed true to its roots, recognizing the unmatched audio quality and reliability that wired headphones provide.
The Xperia 1 VI is not just about keeping the headphone jack; it’s about delivering an exceptional audio experience. With support for Hi-Res Audio and LDAC, the phone ensures that listeners can enjoy lossless, high-quality sound, whether they’re using wired or wireless headphones. The presence of DSEE Ultimate technology also upscales compressed audio files, bringing out details that would otherwise be lost, which enhances the overall listening experience.
Additionally, the Xperia 1 VI includes 360 Reality Audio, which provides an immersive, three-dimensional sound stage, making music feel as though it’s surrounding you. Paired with the wired audio option, it offers the kind of depth and precision that true audiophiles crave. By maintaining the headphone jack and integrating cutting-edge audio technologies, Sony has solidified the Xperia 1 VI as the go-to phone for music enthusiasts who value both tradition and innovation.
Dear Sony, I Have a historic Feature Request
While reviewing the Xperia, I couldn’t help but imagine how great it would be if there were dedicated hardware buttons for “previous” and “next” tracks on the Xperia 1 VI. As I brainstormed for this article, I was reminded of the classic iPod with its iconic click wheel, which took me back to my very first phone, the Sony J6. Believe it or not, back in 2001, Sony also included a click wheel on its phones!
So, here’s my feature request: Sony, please bring back the click wheel! Imagine using it to scroll through playlists, but also integrating it into the camera app for smoother navigation. The click wheel could offer a unique, tactile experience for media lovers and photographers alike, giving users precise control over their content. Combining this nostalgic hardware feature with the cutting-edge technology of modern smartphones would be a game-changer, blending the best of Sony’s past innovations with their current high-performance devices.
The Sony wx1000xm5 over-ear AC Headphones
I have been testing the Xperia in combination with the Sony WH-1000XM5, and while I’m not sure why they’ve named it after a fax machine, the XM5s deliver an outstanding audio experience. In wired mode, the difference in sound quality is immediately apparent: the XM5 feels more accurate and balanced, with a noticeably wider soundstage and richer, more nuanced details than in wireless mode. This is especially evident when playing high-resolution audio files, where the clarity and separation of instruments are nothing short of exceptional.
Wired mode also eliminates any Bluetooth compression, allowing the audio to come through in its purest form, with greater transparency and fidelity to the original recording. For audiophiles or anyone seeking the ultimate listening experience, the wired connection is the clear winner. Additionally, the absence of latency makes the XM5 perfect for gaming, video editing, or any activity where sound synchronization is crucial. On top of that, you’ll benefit from an impressive 35 hours of active noise cancelling in wired mode—ideal for long listening sessions.
While the active noise cancelling remains fully functional in wired mode, it’s worth noting that touch controls for song skipping or returning are not available. However, the handy Quick Attention Mode, which allows you to instantly lower the volume by covering the right touch sensor, still works perfectly in wired mode. This makes the XM5 a versatile choice for anyone looking for both high-quality sound and practicality.
Better together
Like a sandwatch with peanut butter and jelly some things just work very well together. And that’s my take on the wireless performance. Yes I do prefer the most natural balanced and non-compressed sound that you get with wired headphones, there are however some truly unique features making the XM5 interesting to use wirelessly.
Sony has some tricks up it’s sleeve to outperform almost all other competitors in this space. It uses a multitude of 4 different playback modes for optimal wireless experiences
1. High-Resolution Audio Mode: This mode delivers superior sound quality, especially when playing high-quality audio files like FLAC. With support for LDAC, users can enjoy rich, detailed audio, whether through wired or Bluetooth headphones, especially when paired with high-resolution audio devices like the WH-1000XM5.
2. DSEE Ultimate: This feature upscales compressed audio files, such as MP3s or streaming music, to near high-resolution quality by restoring high-range sound. It’s ideal for improving sound quality when listening to low-bitrate music.
3. 360 Reality Audio: This immersive audio format creates a spatial sound experience. When using compatible headphones like the WH-1000XM5, it positions sound around you in 360 degrees, making you feel like you’re in a live performance or surrounded by instruments.
4. Dolby Atmos: Optimized for movies and gaming, this mode provides an enhanced surround-sound effect, creating a cinematic experience.
In summary, the Sony WH-1000XM5 offers an impressive wireless performance with unique features like LDAC, DSEE Ultimate, 360 Reality Audio, and Dolby Atmos, delivering an immersive and high-quality listening experience. While wired headphones may provide a more natural sound, Sony’s advanced playback modes ensure the XM5 stands out in the wireless audio space.
Conclusion
Music lovers, Sony has you covered! The Xperia VI stands out as an exceptional device for anyone passionate about sound, blending cutting-edge audio technology with a user-friendly design. With its inclusion of Hi-Res Audio and LDAC, it ensures top-tier audio quality, whether you’re using wired or wireless headphones. The rare presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack offers the best of both worlds seamlessly supporting traditional wired headphones for those who crave uncompressed, pure sound.
For those on the go, Sony’s DSEE Ultimate and 360 Reality Audio technologies further elevate the listening experience, enhancing compressed files and creating immersive, live-performance-style audio. Whether you’re streaming your favorite tracks or diving into high-resolution files, every detail feels richer and more vibrant. The Xperia VI also delivers impressive sound through its front-facing stereo speakers, eliminating the need for external accessories.
Paired with long-lasting battery life, this phone is perfect for those who spend hours listening to music without wanting to worry about recharging. From casual listeners to serious audiophiles, the Xperia VI proves to be a powerful companion, making it one of the best choices for anyone who values a high-quality audio experience in a modern smartphone. Sony continues to lead the way in ensuring music lovers can enjoy their tunes with uncompromised clarity and depth, whether through wired or wireless modes.
