Apple AirPods Max 2 vs Sony WH-1000XM6: Which premium headphone is worth buying?

On March 16, Apple unveiled its latest high-end headphones, the AirPods Max 2, priced at Rs 67,900 in India. This new model introduces a range of appealing features and enhancements, but it also raises the question of whether the premium price is justified, especially when rivals like the Sony WH-1000XM6 deliver impressive performance at a lower cost. Both headphones fall within the premium category, but the comparison hinges on their performance and features. Here's a closer look at how the AirPods Max 2 stacks up against the Sony WH-1000XM6. **Design and Build Quality** The AirPods Max 2 retains a design similar to its predecessor, featuring aluminum ear cups and a stainless steel headband with a knit mesh canopy. In contrast, the Sony WH-1000XM6 opts for a plastic construction combined with metal hinges and a vegan leather headband. Weighing in at 386 grams, the AirPods Max 2 is noticeably heavier than the 254-gram WH-1000XM6, which could impact comfort during prolonged use. Additionally, the Sony model has a foldable design for easy portability, while the non-foldable AirPods Max 2 may take up more space in a bag and could become cumbersome when worn around the neck. The Sony WH-1000XM6 features a touch sensor control panel on the right ear cup for easy management of playback and volume. The AirPods Max 2, on the other hand, utilizes a Digital Crown and a control button for volume adjustments. **Audio Quality and Noise Cancellation** In terms of sound quality, the AirPods Max 2 is equipped with 40mm dynamic drivers and an upgraded H2 chip that promises an enhanced audio experience. It supports 24-bit, 48kHz lossless audio via a USB-C connection, but audio streamed over Bluetooth is limited to AAC format, which compresses the audio quality. The AirPods Max 2 also boasts an Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature that Apple claims is 1.5 times more effective than its predecessor, alongside an “Adaptive Audio” option that automatically adjusts between ANC and transparency modes. Conversely, the Sony WH-1000XM6 features 30mm dynamic drivers and supports the LDAC codec for high-resolution wireless audio. It also includes a 3.5mm cable option and an app with equalizer settings for a customized listening experience. Sony’s headphones utilize a dedicated HD noise-canceling processor, QN3, for superior isolation and have an “Auto Ambient Sound Mode” that seamlessly switches between ANC and transparency. **Battery Performance** When it comes to battery life, the AirPods Max 2 offers up to 20 hours with ANC activated. In contrast, the Sony WH-1000XM6 can provide up to 30 hours of playback time with ANC on and up to 40 hours with it off. **Pricing Overview** The AirPods Max 2 is available for Rs 67,900 in India, while the Sony WH-1000XM6 originally retails at Rs 49,990, often found at discounted rates on various e-commerce sites. This pricing disparity may influence buyers' decisions as they weigh the features and benefits of each model.