Sony is recognized for producing some of the best high-end headphones, but the company also offers a wide range of options at various price points. The WH-1000XM5 model is highly recommended, usually priced at $400. For those seeking a more budget-friendly choice, Sony’s mid-range ULT Wear headphones are available and currently on sale. These headphones have recently been reduced to $148, a $52 discount from their standard price of $200, marking a record low price for this model.
The ULT Wear headphones are the first to feature ULT Power Sound, a new addition to Sony’s Extra Bass series, offering enhanced low-end sound. Reviews have praised Sony for effectively implementing its bass boost technology in this release, giving the ULT Wear headphones a score of 78. The headphones are noted for their comfortable design, strong audio quality, and improved noise cancellation.
However, the ULT boost feature can sometimes be overpowering. The ULT 2 setting, which is designed to deliver deeper bass and more powerful audio, may not always sound optimal, particularly in genres like metal and synth-heavy electronica, where the sound can become somewhat muddy.
Although the ULT Wear lacks some features available in Sony’s premium models, it includes several useful functions. Users can activate Quick Attention mode, which lowers the volume, by placing an open hand over the right ear cup. Additionally, Sony’s Adaptive Sound Control can automatically adjust settings based on activity or location, and the headphones offer 360 Reality Audio with head tracking and 30 hours of battery life.