Head-to-head · Headphones
WH-1000XM5 Wireless ANC vs MDR-7506 Studio Headphones
Two picks from our home office catalog, compared side-by-side by price tier, features, and suggested uses.
Sony
WH-1000XM5 Wireless ANC
Typically under $500
The XM4's replacement. Better ANC, better call quality, new non-folding design. If you can find the XM4 for $250, buy that instead. If they're the same price, get the XM5.
Check current price on Amazon →Affiliate link · #CommissionsEarned
Sony
MDR-7506 Studio Headphones
Typically under $150
The studio standard for four decades. Not fashionable. Not wireless. Just great, honest sound and comfortable enough for long sessions. If you edit audio, buy them.
Check current price on Amazon →Affiliate link · #CommissionsEarned
At a glance
| Brand | Sony | Sony |
| Category | Headphones | Headphones |
| Price tier | splurge | budget |
| Current price | Typically under $500 | Typically under $150 |
| Best for | suit, therapist, accountant, developer | podcaster, teacher |
WH-1000XM5 Wireless ANC
Pros
- +Class-leading ANC
- +30-hour battery
- +Multipoint pairing
- +Best-in-class call mics
Cons
- −No longer folds flat
- −Notably more expensive than XM4
- −Touch controls take practice
MDR-7506 Studio Headphones
Pros
- +Reference-neutral sound
- +Foldable
- +Every part replaceable
- +Decades-proven build
Cons
- −Wired only
- −Coiled cable is long
- −Pleather earpads flake eventually