Sony ULT Wear Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Sony ULT Wear headphones offer a balanced mix of style, comfort, and sound quality, appealing to both casual listeners and audiophiles. Their sleek, modern design and sturdy build make them suitable for everyday use, while the sound performance delivers clear highs and punchy bass. However, the soundstage might not satisfy hardcore audiophiles, and the noise cancellation, though decent, isn't top-tier.

Comfort-wise, the headphones feature plush memory foam ear cups and an adjustable headband, though some users might find them snug for extended wear. With up to 30 hours of battery life and fast-charging capabilities, they are convenient for long commutes, though the lack of wireless charging might disappoint tech enthusiasts.

Connectivity is robust with Bluetooth 5.3 and multi-point connectivity, supporting seamless device switching and voice assistant integration. Despite a clunky companion app, the features are solid. Compared to competitors like Bose QuietComfort 45 and Apple AirPods Max, the Sony ULT Wear holds its ground, offering a good value proposition without breaking the bank.

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Introduction

Hey there, audio enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into a brand new pair of headphones that might just shake up your listening experience. Meet the Sony ULT Wear. If you've been hunting for a pair of headphones that promises both quality and innovation, you're in the right place. Whether you're a casual listener or a hardcore audiophile, these headphones are packed with features that aim to satisfy a wide range of audio needs.

With a focus on delivering exceptional sound and a sleek look, these headphones are designed to make your music and podcasts sound just as the creators intended. Of course, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. While the Sony ULT Wear is certainly promising on paper, there's always a need to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase.

In this review, we're gonna break down everything you need to know about these headphones. From their design to their sound quality, we'll help you decide if they're the right fit for your lifestyle. Let's see if these headphones can truly deliver the experience they've advertised!

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Design and Build Quality

When you pick up these headphones, the first thing you'll likely notice is their sleek and modern design. The Sony ULT Wear feels like it was designed with style in mind. The clean lines and minimalistic look give off a premium vibe, even if you're just lounging around at home. The color options are pretty versatile too, catering to those who prefer something subtle or bold.

Materials and Durability

Sony didn’t skimp on materials. The headband is made from a flexible yet sturdy material that can handle a bit of rough handling. The ear cups are crafted from high-quality plastic with a smooth finish, which manages to blend durability with elegance. But be careful, the glossy finish might show fingerprints more than you'd like.

Portability

These headphones are lightweight, making them a great companion for travel. They fold neatly, so they won't hog all the space in your bag. However, I noticed the folding joints feel a bit fragile. It might not be the best idea to test their limits too often.

Aesthetic Appeal

Whether you're commuting or working out, these headphones are sure to turn heads. The subtle branding adds a classy touch without being too obnoxious. It's like wearing a well-tailored suit, but for your ears.

Buttons and Controls

The controls are conveniently placed on the ear cups, making them easy to find without taking the headphones off. The buttons have a satisfying click, but they’re not the easiest to press if you’re wearing gloves. At times, it feels like you're trying to press a tiny button in the middle of a wall. In summary, the design and build quality of the Sony ULT Wear are impressive, balancing looks with everyday practicality. Just keep in mind the glossy finish and delicate joints if you're a little rough around the edges.

Sound Performance

Let's get right into it—sound performance is where the magic happens. These headphones aren't just about looking good; they are all about delivering an audio experience worth every penny. The sound profile is impressively balanced, with a rich, full-bodied bass that doesn't overpower the other frequencies. Whether you're into thumping basslines or subtle acoustic tracks, these headphones have you covered.

High frequencies come through crisp and clear, making them great for genres that rely on intricate details, like classical music or jazz. The mids are smooth and well-represented, ensuring vocals are upfront and personal without getting lost in the mix. But hey, not everything's perfect. If you're a hardcore audiophile, you might notice that the soundstage isn't as wide as some of the premium models out there. It's adequate for most users, but if you're looking for that "live concert" feel, these might not be the top choice in that regard.

Now, let’s talk about noise cancellation. It’s like stepping into your own world—most background noise fades into oblivion. They’re not the absolute best for noise-cancellation, but they do a pretty solid job. Perfect for bustling cafes or noisy commutes. Ever wondered what it’s like to have an audio friend in your ear? Well, with these headphones, you’ll be immersed in your favorite tunes, podcasts, or whatever floats your audio boat. So, whether you're working out, commuting, or just chilling at home, the sound performance here is pretty impressive, with just a couple of minor setbacks. Overall, they bring a lot to the table, especially for their price point.

Comfort and Fit

You know how some headphones feel like they're squeezing your head like a vice grip? Well, that's not the case here. The comfort and fit of these headphones are pretty top-notch. The ear cups are made from a plush, memory foam material that gently molds to your ears. It's like having tiny pillows resting on your head. They don’t apply too much pressure, which is a big plus for prolonged listening sessions.

The headband is adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your noggin. Whether your head leans more towards the melon-size or the pea-size, these headphones have got you covered. However, if you're sporting a particularly large hairstyle, you might find the fit a bit snug.

For those who wear glasses, rejoice! These headphones are quite accommodating and don’t press the frames into your temples. No more choosing between seeing clearly and enjoying your tunes. But hey, remember that wearing them for extended periods might still cause a bit of warmth around your ears. It's like wearing a cozy hat; after a while, you might need to give your ears a breather.

They're also pretty lightweight, so you won’t feel like you’re carrying an extra load on your head, which is something that can't be said for all competitors. It’s a nice balancing act between the materials used and the overall design.

Overall, the Sony ULT Wear is designed with comfort in mind. Sure, they might not be as feather-like as some ultra-light models on the market, but their combination of memory foam and adjustable headband makes them a comfortable companion for both short commutes and long listening marathons. Just remember to pop them off every now and then to let those ears breathe!

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a biggie when picking out new headphones, and the Sony ULT Wear doesn't disappoint in this department. These headphones offer up to 30 hours of playback time on a single charge, making them a solid choice for those long commutes or travel days. Let's face it, no one wants to be tethered to a charger all the time, right?

Charging is also pretty straightforward and efficient with the Sony ULT Wear. Thanks to the fast-charging feature, you can get an additional 5 hours of playtime with just a quick 10-minute charge. This is super handy when you're in a pinch and forgot to charge them overnight. It's like getting a caffeine shot for your headphones!

However, it's worth mentioning that the charging port is a USB-C, which is becoming the norm but might be a minor inconvenience if you're still using devices with older connectors. Keep a spare USB-C cable handy to avoid any hiccups.

On the downside, there is no wireless charging option, which some of its competitors are starting to offer. If you're someone who loves the cutting-edge tech of plopping your gadgets onto a charging pad, this might be a slight letdown. But for most users, the fast-charging USB-C more than makes up for it.

What's in the Box

So, you've just got your hands on the Sony ULT Wear, and you're probably itching to open it up. Let's take a peek at what you get when you crack that box open.

• Sony ULT Wear Headphones: The star of the show, of course. They come neatly folded, ready to be your new best audio buddy.
• Charging Cable: You’ll find a USB-C charging cable included. It's a pretty standard length, nothing too crazy, but it gets the job done.
• Audio Cable: For those moments when you want to go old-school or when your battery’s running low, there's a cable to plug in directly.
• Carrying Pouch: A soft, fabric pouch to protect your headphones during travel. It isn’t a hard case, so don’t go tossing it around like a football.
• Quick Start Guide: A small booklet that guides you through the initial setup. It’s not exactly bedtime reading, but it’s handy if you get stuck.
• Warranty Card: Keep this safe! It’s your ticket to any repairs or replacements if things go south.

Now, you might notice there isn’t a hard case in the mix. Some might find this a minor letdown, especially if you’re rough on your gear or travel a lot. But hey, the pouch does a decent job if you're careful. For the most part, what's included is pretty standard fare, but it covers all the essentials you'd expect to kickstart your headphone journey. Any surprises? Not really, but everything you need is right there, waiting for you to dive into your music world.

Connectivity and Features

The Sony ULT Wear headphones pack a punch with their Bluetooth 5.3 technology, ensuring a stable and fast connection. You won't have to worry about those annoying dropouts when you're jamming to your favorite tunes or on an important call. No one enjoys a dropped connection midway through a podcast, right? These headphones also support multi-point connectivity. This means you can hook them up to two devices at the same time. Imagine you're listening to music on your laptop and a call comes through on your phone — no need to frantically switch devices. It's like having two roads leading to the same destination.

Voice Assistant integration is another nifty addition. Whether you're team Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa, you can access them hands-free. Just say the magic words and they're at your service, ready to set reminders or play your favorite playlist. A cool feature is the Touch Control system. Instead of fiddling with buttons, a simple tap on the earcup lets you play, pause, skip tracks, or answer calls. It's intuitive, but there’s a slight learning curve initially. You might find yourself accidentally skipping a song until you get the hang of it.

The Sony ULT Wear also doesn't forget the old-school folks, sporting a trusty 3.5mm audio jack for wired listening. This is great for when the battery's low, or if you just prefer the uncompressed sound quality of a wired connection. As for the downsides, the companion app could use some love. It's functional, but a bit clunky and could benefit from a more user-friendly design. Still, it does the job, allowing you to tweak equalizer settings and update firmware. Overall, these headphones offer a well-rounded suite of connectivity options and features, making them quite versatile. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just someone who appreciates solid functionality, there’s a lot to like here. ```

Competitor Comparison

When you're in the market for headphones, it's natural to weigh your options, right? Let's break down how the Sony ULT Wear stacks up against some of its closest competitors.

Bose QuietComfort 45

Bose is like the seasoned pro in the headphones game, and their QuietComfort 45 is a strong contender. They are known for their exceptional noise-canceling abilities. If you're someone who values absolute silence on a plane or busy street, Bose might have the edge. However, the sound profile is less bass-heavy compared to the Sony ULT Wear, which might not be everyone's cup of tea.

Apple AirPods Max

Apple's AirPods Max comes into play with flashy design and seamless connectivity within the Apple ecosystem. They offer an immersive sound experience, but boy, do they come with a hefty price tag! While the Sony ULT Wear may not have Apple's ecosystem magic, it does come at a more wallet-friendly price, making it a bit more accessible to the average Joe.

Jabra Elite 85h

The Jabra Elite 85h offers a solid performance with a longer battery life. But let's be real, the touch controls on Jabra can be a bit finicky and might test your patience. The Sony ULT Wear has more intuitive controls which can be a win if you prefer simplicity and ease of use.

Sennheiser Momentum 3

Sennheiser's Momentum 3 is another solid option, well-known for top-notch sound quality with a rich, detailed audio experience. However, they are a bit bulkier and not as travel-friendly. The Sony ULT Wear, being sleeker and lighter, might save you some neck strain during long listening sessions.

Summary Table

Feature	Sony ULT Wear	Bose QuietComfort 45	Apple AirPods Max	Jabra Elite 85h	Sennheiser Momentum 3
Noise Cancellation	Strong	Exceptional	Very Good	Good	Very Good
Battery Life	Decent	Decent	Average	Excellent	Good
Price	Moderate	Moderate	High	Moderate	Moderate

Ultimately, the Sony ULT Wear offers a balanced mix of features and performance at a competitive price. It might not blow the competition out of the water in every category, but it certainly holds its ground with style and grace.

Video by: Expert Nederland

Conclusion

Bringing everything together, the Sony ULT Wear headphones offer a pretty solid mix of style, comfort, and sound quality. Their sleek design and sturdy build make them a great choice for everyday use, whether you're commuting, working, or just chilling at home. The sound performance is impressive, delivering clear highs and punchy bass that will make your favorite tracks pop.

However, the comfort might not be a perfect match for everyone. If you're someone who wears headphones for long stretches, you might find them a bit snug. And while the battery life is decent, it doesn't quite hit the marathon levels some other models offer. But hey, nobody's perfect!

The connectivity features are a strong point, with smooth Bluetooth pairing that keeps you in tune with your devices. While they're not the cheapest option out there, they definitely give you a good bang for your buck.

In comparison to other headphones in its class, Sony ULT Wear holds its own, making it a worthwhile contender for anyone looking for a quality listening experience. So, are they the right fit for you? That’s for you to decide, but they certainly deserve a spot on your shortlist.

FAQ

Can I use these headphones for gaming?

Yes, the Sony ULT Wear headphones can be used for gaming. However, they may not have the low latency or specific sound profiles dedicated gaming headsets offer. They're still a solid option for casual gaming.

Are these headphones waterproof?

The Sony ULT Wear headphones are not completely waterproof, but they do boast a decent level of water resistance. You can wear them during light rain or in sweaty gym sessions, but you wouldn't want to take them swimming.

Do they support Bluetooth 5.0?

Absolutely, they support Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring a stable connection and efficient power usage. This means reduced lag and better range compared to older Bluetooth versions.

How's the noise cancellation?

The noise cancellation is decent but not the best in class. It blocks out everyday ambient noise like a pro, but it's not going to magically erase the loud construction next door.

What devices are compatible?

Any device with Bluetooth capabilities can connect to these headphones. Be it your phone, tablet, or even some smart TVs, these headphones are pretty versatile that way.

Is there a warranty?

Yes, they come with a standard one-year warranty, which covers any manufacturing defects. It's always good to check the fine print for specifics, though.

Can I use them while charging?

Unfortunately, you can't use the headphones while they're charging. Think of it like trying to drive a car that's being refueled—just a no-go.

Do these headphones have a mic?

Yes, they do come with an in-built mic. It's great for calls and voice commands, but if you're in an especially noisy environment, it might struggle a bit.

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Technical specifications