Sony debuts updated ‘fan favorite 1000XM4’ headphones with more affordable new XM4C

1000XM4C/Debut

Today Sony is officially launching its new WH-1000XM4C Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones as well as a pair of mid-range and entry-level CH series releases. The new XM4C feature a design based heavily on the “fan favorite WH-1000XM4” and introduce a more affordable point of entry into the popular 1000X series.

Sony intros next-gen WH-1000XM4C Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Following the launch of is higher-end XM6 model and some new color additions to that lineup thereafter, today Sony is injecting its 1000X lineup with a more affordable offering based on 2020’s popular 1000XM4 release. 

Sony says the new WH-1000XM4C are built upcoming “the fan favorite WH-1000XM4, combining its “renowned 1000X Series noise cancellation, trusted premium sound, and the timeless design loved by many with updated sound tuning designed for today’s listening preferences” as well as “a new 10-band equalizer for greater sound personalization and refreshed color options. 

Essentially, Sony realizes how popular and beloved the XM4 set was, has been, and remains to be for some folks, and is looking to capitalize on that success with an updated set that delivers much of the advancements it has made in sound reproduction. At $299.99, the new XM4C can get you into the 1000X for well under the $459 list price on the XM6. 

The second gen set features the same 4-mic combo with QN1 ANC as the first-gen, as well as being Hi-Res Audio Certified with support for SBC/AAC/LDAC, but this time around they also have access to a more thorough 10-band EQ/Gaming EQ. They dropped the battery life down a touch from 30 hours on the XM4 to 27 hours on the new set. And as far as quick charging action goes, Sony says the new XM4C deliver an additional hour in 3 minutes, compared to the additional 5 hours in 10 minutes on the original XM4. 

Here are some highlights on the new set from Sony:

• Legendary 1000X Series noise cancelling delivering rich immersive sound, dulling everyday noise such s crowds, travel noise, and city chatter
• Trusted 1000X Series premium sound quality now with latest sound tuning and 10-band equalizer to meet modern listening tastes
• Comfortable over-ear design with a polished Rmeless style.
• Available in Lavender, Black and Platinum Silver, three color choices to match individual preferences
• Lightweight foldable headphones make the WH-1000XM4C a great choice for travel and commuting

The new WH-1000XM4C will launch at a much lower $299.99 in Lavender, Black, and Platinum Silver. They will be available at Amazon and other major retailers, but only the official Sony site will carry the Lavender colorway. Sony does not appear to have given an actual release/pre-order date yet, but it has informed 9to5Toys the new 1000XM4C “will be available from September 2026.”