Sony Unveils Three Budget Headphones Starting at 219 NIS
Sony has launched three affordable headphone models, including the WH-1000XM4C, a budget reissue of its 2020 flagship, alongside the mid-range WH-CH730N and entry-level WH-CH530.
Sony has refreshed its audio lineup with three new budget-friendly headphone models designed for consumers seeking affordable alternatives to its premium devices. The Japanese tech giant unveiled the new models, including a highly recognizable reissue of one of its most popular flagship headphones.
The Return of a Classic: WH-1000XM4C
Sony is bringing back its highly acclaimed 2020 flagship headphones in a new, cost-effective version named the WH-1000XM4C. This model retains the core features of the original, including the proprietary QN1 active noise cancellation (ANC) chip and the dynamic 40mm drivers.
However, to lower the price point, Sony made several hardware compromises:
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Connectivity Upgrade: Upgraded to Bluetooth 6 (compared to version 5.3 in the original).
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NFC Removal: The NFC chip for quick pairing has been removed.
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Battery Life: Reduced by 10% to 27 hours of playback.
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Accessories: The premium hard carrying case has been replaced with a simpler soft pouch.
The WH-1000XM4C will be available in black, platinum silver, and a new lavender shade. In Israel, the model is priced at 799 NIS, which is approximately half of the original model's launch price six years ago, and lower than the European retail price of €250.
Mid-Range Upgrades: WH-CH730N
For users seeking a more affordable over-ear option, Sony introduced the WH-CH730N. Weighing just 192 grams, these headphones feature a newly designed foldable body for improved comfort during extended use.
Key technical specifications include:
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Audio Technology: Equipped with Sony's DSEE upscaling technology to restore high-frequency elements lost in audio compression, alongside 30mm drivers calibrated for enhanced mid-range and vocal clarity.
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Call Quality: Features beamforming microphones coupled with a noise-reduction algorithm to isolate the user's voice.
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Battery Performance: Delivers up to 50 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled. A quick 3-minute charge provides up to 1 hour of listening time.
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Controls & Connectivity: Utilizes physical buttons on the right ear cup instead of touch panels. Supports multipoint connection to two devices simultaneously and the latest LE Audio standard.
The WH-CH730N is priced at 429 NIS and ships without a hard carrying case.
Entry-Level Option: WH-CH530
Sony's most affordable new offering is the WH-CH530, a pair of wireless on-ear headphones designed for daily use.
This entry-level model boasts an impressive battery life of up to 55 hours, with a 3-minute quick charge providing 1.5 hours of playback. It includes noise-reduction technology for voice calls, physical control buttons, dual-device multipoint connectivity, and a built-in equalizer. The WH-CH530 is priced at 219 NIS and will be available in six different colors.
