Table of Contents
Choosing the perfect pair of noise cancelling headphones can significantly enhance your listening experience, especially for audiophiles who demand high fidelity and immersive sound. Two popular contenders in this category are the Empyrean II and the Sony WH-1000XM4. In this article, we compare these two models to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Comfort
The Empyrean II features a sleek, modern design with premium materials that provide durability and style. Its lightweight construction ensures comfort during extended listening sessions. The Sony WH-1000XM4 boasts a foldable design with plush ear cups and an adjustable headband, making it highly portable and comfortable for long-term use.
Sound Quality and Performance
Both headphones deliver excellent sound quality, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Empyrean II offers a balanced sound profile with rich bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, ideal for critical listening. The Sony WH-1000XM4 provides a slightly warmer sound with customizable equalizer settings, allowing users to tailor the audio to their preferences.
Noise Cancellation
The Empyrean II employs advanced active noise cancelling technology that effectively reduces ambient noise, creating an immersive listening environment. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is renowned for its industry-leading noise cancellation capabilities, adapting to your environment and providing a quiet experience even in noisy settings.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The Empyrean II offers up to 20 hours of playback on a single charge, with quick charging capabilities. The Sony WH-1000XM4 provides an impressive 30 hours of battery life, with a quick 10-minute charge offering up to 5 hours of playback. Both models support Bluetooth 5.0 and include NFC for easy pairing.
Additional Features
The Empyrean II includes features such as customizable touch controls and a dedicated app for sound adjustments. The Sony WH-1000XM4 offers adaptive sound control, speak-to-chat functionality, and integration with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. Both headphones support multipoint connectivity, allowing simultaneous pairing with multiple devices.
Price and Value
Price points vary, with the Empyrean II generally positioned at a premium price reflecting its high-end build and sound quality. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is more affordable while still offering top-tier features, making it an excellent value for audiophiles seeking quality and versatility.
Conclusion
Both the Empyrean II and Sony WH-1000XM4 are outstanding noise cancelling headphones suitable for audiophile listening. If you prioritize a balanced sound profile and premium build, the Empyrean II is an excellent choice. For those seeking industry-leading noise cancellation, longer battery life, and advanced features at a more accessible price, the Sony WH-1000XM4 stands out as the top contender.