Sony Unveils WH-1000XM4C 2nd‑Gen Headphones with Bluetooth 6.0 and Updated Sound

What Sony announced on September 7, 2026

In a surprise announcement on Monday, September 7, 2026, Sony introduced three new wireless headphones aimed at different price points: the WH‑1000XM4C (marketed as the M4 2nd Gen), the mid‑range WH‑CH730N, and the entry‑level on‑ear WH‑CH530. All three models are being launched together, each carrying a fresh colour palette and a handful of feature upgrades over their respective predecessors.

WH‑1000XM4C (M4 2nd Gen) – The flagship refresh

The WH‑1000XM4C retains the iconic over‑ear silhouette of the original WH‑1000XM4, which first earned CNET’s Editors’ Choice award in 2020. The most visible changes are new colour options and a subtle cosmetic refresh; the underlying hardware remains largely unchanged.

• Bluetooth version: upgraded from Bluetooth 5.1 to Bluetooth 6.0, promising lower latency and improved power efficiency.
• Sound tuning: Sony advertises a new 10‑band equaliser (plus a dedicated gaming EQ) that replaces the older five‑band EQ, giving users finer control over the audio profile.
• Processor and microphones: the headphones continue to use Sony’s QN1 chip and four on‑board microphones, the same configuration that powered the original XM4.
• Battery life: rated for up to 27 hours of playback with active noise cancelling (ANC) engaged, a slight reduction from the original’s 30 hours.
• Price: listed at $300 USD.

According to Sony, the core sound signature – strong, dynamic bass with a warm character – remains intact, while the new tuning aims to deliver a cleaner, more refined overall sound.

WH‑CH730N – A refreshed mid‑range offering

The WH‑CH730N is positioned as a foldable, over‑ear model that improves on the earlier CH‑720N. Sony lists the new CH730N at $180, a $30 increase over the predecessor’s launch price.

• Design: foldable frame with a slightly more premium feel.
• Battery life: up to 50 hours with ANC on, according to Sony.
• Noise cancellation: equipped with Sony’s Dual Noise Sensor technology, claimed to be about 10 % more effective than the previous generation.
• Voice‑calling: beam‑forming microphones, AI‑driven noise reduction and a 10‑band EQ (including a gaming preset).
• Audio codecs: supports SBC, AAC and the newer LC3 codec; it does not support Sony’s LDAC codec.
• Accessories: like the original, the CH730N ships without a carrying pouch or case.

Sound‑wise, reviewers note that the CH730N delivers a balanced, warm sound with deep bass, though it lacks the depth and clarity of Sony’s flagship XM series.

WH‑CH530 – Entry‑level on‑ear headphones

The WH‑CH530 targets budget‑conscious consumers and younger listeners. Priced at $80, it offers a modest set of upgrades over the earlier CH‑520.

• Battery life: up to 55 hours of playback.
• Voice‑calling improvements: AI‑enhanced noise reduction for clearer calls.
• Safety feature: a volume‑limiter aimed at parents of young children.
• Connectivity: supports SBC and AAC; does not list LDAC or LC3 support.
• Wired use: the CH530 does not include a 3.5 mm audio jack, so wired listening is not possible.
• Accessories: no carrying pouch or case is included.

While the CH530 adds a few software‑level improvements, its hardware remains a straightforward on‑ear design without active noise cancellation.

How the three models compare

Model	Form factor	Price (USD)	Battery (ANC on)	Bluetooth version	EQ bands	Noise cancellation	Key new feature
WH‑1000XM4C (M4 2nd Gen)	Over‑ear	$300	27 h	6.0	10‑band (+ gaming)	Same QN1‑chip performance as original XM4	Bluetooth 6.0, expanded EQ
WH‑CH730N	Foldable over‑ear	$180	50 h	5.1 (unchanged)	10‑band (+ gaming)	Dual Noise Sensor (≈10 % better)	Improved voice‑call AI, LC3 codec
WH‑CH530	On‑ear	$80	55 h	5.1 (unchanged)	5‑band (original CH‑520)	None (no ANC)	Volume limiter, AI‑enhanced calls

Market context and pricing outlook

Even though the original WH‑1000XM4 remains a best‑seller, Sony’s decision to refresh the model rather than replace it outright reflects the brand’s strategy of extending the lifespan of popular legacy products. The $300 list price for the WH‑1000XM4C positions it just above the current limited‑time $198 price of the WH‑1000XM5 on Amazon, suggesting that Sony expects the new model to compete on feature upgrades (Bluetooth 6.0, 10‑band EQ) rather than a dramatic price cut.

Both the WH‑CH730N and WH‑CH530 sit in Sony’s “value” tier, where price elasticity is high during the upcoming holiday shopping season. Analysts note that the CH‑730N’s $180 price may see $50‑plus flash‑sale discounts, while the CH‑530 could benefit from similar promotions, especially as retailers clear inventory for newer releases.

What to expect next

Reviewer David from CNET confirmed that he received sample units of all three headphones and plans to publish full performance reviews later this month. Those reviews will likely include side‑by‑side audio tests, ANC measurements, and real‑world battery endurance checks, providing consumers with the data needed to decide whether the incremental upgrades of the WH‑1000XM4C justify its $300 price tag.

For now, Sony’s September 7 announcement adds a modest but meaningful set of improvements to an already beloved product line, while expanding its mid‑range and entry‑level portfolios with refreshed designs and longer battery lives.