Why You Can Trust CNET Sony's Extra Bass headphone line unveiled with new wireless noise-cancelling model at CES
Sony's expanding its XB Series headphone line with four new models, including the wireless MDR-XB950N1, which includes active noise cancellation.
- Maggie Award for Best Regularly Featured Web Column/Consumer
The MDR-XB950N1 comes in multiple color options and is due this spring.
Sony's Extra Bass line of headphones may not appeal to audio purists, but it's popular with mainstream consumers who enjoy their music with an extra helping of bass.
At CES 2017, Sony announced four new Extra Bass headphones, including the new flagship MDR-XB950N1, a Bluetooth model that features active noise-cancellation, and its step-down sibling, the MDR-XB950B1 that's wireless but leaves off the noise cancellation.
Shop for Sony MDR-XB950N1 (Black)
See all pricesThere's a wired on-ear model, too -- the MDR-XB550AP -- and a wired in-ear sports earphone, the MDR-XB510AS, that has a water-resistant design.
The headphones fold up and come with a carrying pouch.
With the wireless models, you can tweak the sound (adjust bass levels) with Sony's Connect app for iOS and Android, as well as turn the noise cancelling on and off in the MDR-XB950N1 (it has 22 hours of battery life).
All the new Extra Bass headphones are due out this spring, but sadly Sony hasn't provided any pricing yet. I suspect the MDR-XB950N1 will cost around $250 (which roughly converts to £202 or AU$434) because the current Sony MDRXB950BT costs $200 and doesn't feature active noise cancelling. The MDR-XB950B1 (18 hours of battery life) should list for around $200 (the rough conversion is £162 or AU$274).
As soon as I get more info and some hands-on time with the products I'll update this preview.
The new MDR-XB510AS wired sports headphone is also due out this spring.
