Wireless noise cancellation has become much more common over the last year, but that doesn't mean the category has improved dramatically. Other than the best-in-class Bose QuietControl 30, there aren't too many good choices—most are either too expensive (relative to the Bose model) or offer subpar noise cancellation, or sometimes both. Enter the Sony WI-1000X. In terms of audio performance, the $299.99 WI-1000X earphones deliver arguably better sound than the QC30. As for noise cancellation, they surprisingly offer an experience that's nearly as effective as Bose. It's been a while since Bose released the QuietControl 30, and while its noise cancellation still sets the standard for the category, some competitors are clearly starting to catch up. Design Available in gold or black, the WI-1000X is one of the bulkier neckband designs we've seen, yet it's also one of the classier-looking models. The inside of the neckband has a padded portion covered in a leather-like material, and a ...

The wireless Sony WI-1000X earphones deliver solid noise cancellation and some of the best audio quality we've heard in this category, with a sound signature that can be tuned to your liking.

High-quality audio performance with sculpted, but balanced sound signature; EQ allows for sculpting audio to your taste; Excellent noise cancellation; Comfortable fit; Easy-to-operate design; Generous array of accessories

Sound signature not for purists seeking accurate; flat response

I had heard such great stories about this model and bought it. Really bad decision. I just cant use it for calls. The person on the other end can hardly hear me. It has all fancy features but doesnt serve the basic purpose of making a normal call.

Good sound, music from phone with aptxHD support sounds amazing! Finally we can forget the wires. Battery time also as promised. 1 disapointment - those earbuds can not be used while charging. Otherwise very satisfied.

Finding a decent wireless noise cancelling headphone that has a good battery life and great sound can be tough. But finding one that's in-ear and lasts more than 8-hours is even harder. The Sony WI-1000X wireless noise-canceling headphone may just be the answer.

One of the best portable headphone devices we've seen in a while, truly hitting all the right notes when it comes to noise cancelling and travel-centric features.

Comfortable; Feature packed; Sound quality

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Sony's WI-1000x headphones are the constant travelers perfect headphones. It's a statement that lacks humility but I speak from the perspective of the constant traveler. I live in NYC and you don't have to be a native to know that its fast moving, crowded and noisy…noisy as hell.

Sony's new around-the-neck style wireless headphone, the WI-1000X, costs a whopping $300 (£300, AU$449). Why so much? Well, it's one of the few in-ear wireless headphones with active noise cancelling and also packs in several other features, including Atmospheric Pressure Optimizing that's supposed to help optimize noise-cancelling performance on planes.

The pricey around-the-neck WI-1000X wireless noise-cancelling headphone is set to take on Bose's QuietComfort 30.