You just can’t go wrong with Sony WF-1000XM4, the wireless earbuds with the best noise cancellation technology we have seen so far. It takes competition to Apple AirPods as well as Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds and it comes with all the tech nuggets audiophiles look for. We spoke to Gyanendra Singh, head of audio business at Sony India, about the tech chops that have gone into WF-1000XM4.
What’s the idea behind the redesign on the WF-1000XM4?
A lot of research has gone into studying the data of ear shapes from around the world, and we have incorporated that learning and made changes to the ergonomics of the product. The result is a product that provides a great fit and feels comfortable even during long usage. They feel snug and secure even while working out.
What are the changes that you have made in terms of noise-cancellation?
Our new Integrated Processor V1 takes the noise cancellation performance of our acclaimed QN1e chip even further. Improved noise cancellation performance and Bluetooth ‘System on Chip’ technology delivers the industry’s highest level of noise cancellation yet uses less power. The newly-developed Noise Isolation Earbud Tips feature a unique polyurethane foam material that is soft and elastic and further maximises the surface contact area between the earbud tip and the ear canal, eliminating any gaps to insulate sound and reduce noise. It also helps provide a more stable fit, making the WF-1000XM4 earbuds easy to wear and use.
Gyanendra Singh, head of audio business at Sony India The Telegraph Picture
Sony seems to have looked at current music trends while designing the 1000XM4. How would you describe the overall sound?
The new WF-1000XM4 supports high-resolution audio wireless. Thanks to the specially designed 6mm drivers, they reproduce a dynamic sound despite their small size and the high compliance diaphragm that delivers a rich bass range. The Integrated Processor V1 also enhances sound quality, reduces distortion and enables LDAC codec processing. Using Edge-AI, DSEE Extreme (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) upscales compressed digital music files in real time. Dynamically recognising the instrumentation, musical genres and individual elements of each song, such as vocals or interludes, it restores the high-range sound lost in compression for a richer, unmatched listening experience.
How much are customers knowledgeable about codecs in 2022 compared to a couple of years ago?
Over the recent years, the audio market has witnessed a progressive shift to technologically advanced premium products and consumers are more informed than ever before. Many consumers are therefore searching more about codecs as a part of their buying decision. Consumers are mostly home bound and this has created a unique opportunity and demand for the premium audio products to thrive. With movies and music consumption playing a pivotal role in entertaining consumers while they spend more time at home, the need for having good audio systems and audio products at home shall continue to rise.
