These sub $300 Nosie Cancelling headphones from Sony looks good …
When Sony announced the XB900N in May, all the promotional images seemed to show a very similar design to the 1000XM3. While that is true in some regards, you won’t be mistaking the two in a lineup. The outside of the earcups is where they’re most alike, with the XB900N having very similar touch-enabled pads. This area is one solid piece on the XB900N though, where the 1000XM3 has a few nooks and crannies that separate its sections. Still, it’s a departure from the previous Extra Bass headphones that had mostly flat circles for the earcups. The headband also has far more prominent Sony branding emblazoned on it.
Touch controls on the XB900N work a lot like the ones on the 1000XM3. Those controls will allow you to adjust volume (swipe up or down vertically), skip tracks (swipe front to back horizontally) and pause music (tap in the center). Tapping the center of the touchpad will also answer or end a phone call. The XB900N is the third pair of Sony headphones I’ve used these gestures on, and they’re still frustrating. Often I’ll pause the music when I touch the earpad to adjust the volume or change tracks.
Pros
- Great sound quality for the price
- Clear voice audio for calls
- Option for dedicated Google Assistant/Alexa button
- No quick-charge features
Cons
- Touch controls are still frustrating
- Extra Bass can be exhausting
- Noise cancellation isn’t as powerful as the 1000XM3
- Takes seven excruciating hours to fully charge
Summary
Bass lovers will have plenty to like about the XB900N’s emphasis on low-end tone. However, what you can get for $100 more on the 1000XM3 is worth the extra cost, especially in regards to noise cancellation. Plus, the bass-heavy tuning isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking to save some money though, there’s a lot to like about the XB900N.
Source: Engadget
