Leaked images reveal Sony's 10th anniversary 'ColleXion' headphones

At a glance:

• Sony's 10th anniversary "ColleXion" headphones leak ahead of May 19th launch
• Premium model priced at $649 with enhanced design and audio tuning by Grammy-winning studios
• Features 24-hour battery life, V3 co-processor, and distinctive handbag-style carry case

What we know about the ColleXion headphones

Leaked renders from OnLeaks and HotEUDeals have given us a comprehensive look at Sony's upcoming 10th anniversary headphones before their expected launch tomorrow. The images show what appears to be Sony's 1000X "The ColleXion" Edition, marking a significant milestone for the company's premium headphone lineup. The ColleXion name first appeared on Sony's websites in April with the model number "WH-1000XX," though no images accompanied that initial discovery.

The leak provides not just visual confirmation of the new design but also corroborates the May 19th launch date and pricing information. The ColleXion will be available for $649 in the US market, representing a $200 premium over the original WH-1000XM6 flagships at their launch. This pricing strategy positions the ColleXion as a truly premium offering, likely targeting audiophiles and loyal Sony customers who are willing to pay extra for anniversary edition features and design elements.

Design and features compared to the XM6

The leaked images reveal significant design changes from Sony's current WH-1000XM6 series. The ColleXion features thicker leatherette padding and "generously sized" earcups, suggesting improved comfort for extended listening sessions. The headphones boast color-matched metallic yokes that connect the headband to the drivers, a departure from the more subdued aesthetic of the XM6. The buttons along the earcups are also more distinct, potentially making them easier to operate without looking.

One of the most noticeable design changes is the microphone grilles, which have been redesigned from the usual mesh cavities to larger holes that appear to punch directly through the earcup chassis. This modification likely contributes to the enhanced audio capabilities of the ColleXion. The accompanying carry case represents another significant departure from Sony's previous designs, resembling a handbag with a built-in handle and magnetic closure rather than the traditional zipper closure found in most premium headphone cases. This practical yet stylish accessory adds to the premium feel of the package.

Audio technology and studio partnerships

Marketing slides included in the leak reveal impressive technical specifications for the ColleXion. Users can expect up to 24 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled, or up to 32 hours when ANC is disabled. This represents an improvement over many competitors in the premium headphone space. The noise cancellation is powered by a V3 co-processor, working in tandem with the QN3 processor that's already featured in the XM6.

Sony has reportedly partnered with three renowned studios—Battery Studios, Sterling Sound, and Coast Mastering—that have mastered Grammy-winning records to help tune the ColleXion's bespoke audio drivers. This collaboration suggests that Sony is positioning the ColleXion not just as a premium product, but as a professional-grade audio tool capable of reproducing music with exceptional fidelity. The inclusion of these studio partnerships in the marketing materials indicates that Sony wants consumers to understand the serious audio engineering behind the ColleXion's sound signature.

Package contents and additional features

The ColleXion package includes more than just the headphones themselves. The leak confirms that Sony will provide a carry case for storage, which contains both a USB-C cable for charging and a 3.5mm cable for wired playback. This dual-cable approach ensures compatibility with both modern devices that support USB-C charging and traditional audio sources that still use 3.5mm connections.

The inclusion of both cables in the box is a practical consideration that many consumers will appreciate, especially those who may need to connect to different types of devices or who prefer wired listening in certain situations. The handbag-style case with its magnetic closure represents Sony's attention to both aesthetics and functionality, providing premium protection while maintaining a distinctive look that sets the ColleXion apart from other premium headphones on the market.