Sennheiser PXC 550-II Still Worth Buying? | vs Sony WH-1000XM3

TL;DR

An in-depth comparison of Sennheiser PXE 550 and Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones.

Transcript

what's up guys it's me again and today we're gonna look at whether this advisor PXE 550 version 2 is still worth buying even after more than six months since it was first launched it retails for three hundred and fifty dollars which is the same regular price as the Sony WH da section 3 which I consider to be the best ENC headphones right now but if... Read More

Key Insights

• 🖕 The Sennheiser PXE 550 Version 2 is noteworthy for its clarity and balance in sound quality, especially for mid to upper frequencies.
• 😩 With a user-friendly touch control system and lightweight design, the PXE 550 enhances comfort for extended wear.
• 💄 Comparatively, the Sony WH-1000XM3 excels in bass response and noise cancellation, making it preferable for bass enthusiasts.
• 😥 Multi-point pairing is an advantage of the PXE 550, allowing connection to multiple devices seamlessly, unlike its primary competitor.
• 😥 Customization limitations through the Sennheiser app hinder the potential for personal audio tuning, which may disappoint some users.
• 😶‍🌫️ Noise-canceling performance of the PXE 550 is effective but falls short of the better performance offered by the Sony earbuds in louder environments.
• 🏪 The switch to a USB-C charging port in future models is an anticipated upgrade that could improve user convenience and device compatibility.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the sound quality of the Sennheiser PXE 550 compare to the Sony WH-1000XM3?

The Sennheiser PXE 550 offers a more detailed and clearer sound signature in the mid and upper frequencies, making it ideal for listeners who appreciate audio clarity. In contrast, the Sony WH-1000XM3 provides deeper bass response and a fuller sound, appealing to those who prefer a more impactful listening experience. Both headphones excel in their respective areas, making them suitable for different preferences.

Q: What are the standout features of the Sennheiser PXE 550?

The PXE 550 features include touch controls, Bluetooth 5.0, a battery life of up to 30 hours, and noise cancellation modes. It also supports voice assistants and various audio codecs. These features contribute to a user-friendly experience, enhancing usability in different situations, from casual listening to phone calls.

Q: How well does the PXE 550 perform in noisy environments during phone calls?

The PXE 550 performs admirably in quieter settings, providing clear voice quality. However, in noisy environments, its noise cancellation is less effective than that of the Sony WH-1000XM3, which excels at minimizing background noise. This means for users frequently taking calls in bustling areas, the Sony model may be the better choice.

Q: Are there any drawbacks to using the Sennheiser PXE 550 version 2?

One significant drawback is the lack of customization options in the companion app, especially when compared to Sony's offerings that include a graphic equalizer. Additionally, the use of a micro USB charging port instead of the more modern USB-C may be seen as outdated. These limitations could impact user experience for those seeking more control over their audio settings.

Q: What improvements could be made in the next generation of the PXE 550?

Future models could benefit from upgrading the charging port to USB-C for faster charging and better durability. Additionally, a longer headband would enhance comfort when wearing the headphones for extended periods. Improved customization options in the app, particularly a more detailed equalizer and noise-canceling settings, would also be valuable upgrades.

Q: How does the battery life of the PXE 550 compare to that of its competitors?

The PXE 550 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours per charge, comparable to top competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM3. This feature ensures that users can enjoy hours of music or calls without frequent recharging, making them a reliable option for daily use.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Sennheiser PXE 550 Version 2 offers impressive sound quality and comfort, featuring touch controls and Bluetooth 5.0, making it a solid contender against Sony’s WH-1000XM3.

• While the PXE 550s excel in detail and clarity, particularly in mid and upper frequencies, the Sony headphones provide better bass performance and superior noise cancellation in noisy environments.

• The PXE 550's simplicity in controls and multi-point pairing feature may appeal to users, although the lack of customization options and the older micro USB charging port are points of concern.