Open-back headphones are gaining popularity, and now Sony has entered the market.
Sony has expanded its Inzone gaming lineup with the new H6 Air headset, an OLED gaming monitor, and other products. The H6 Air headset is the standout release.
While most new headphones focus on wireless connectivity and active noise-cancellation, Sony offers an alternative with their open-back design that could appeal to gamers. Open-back headphones provide a natural soundscape because the drivers don’t directly target soundwaves at your ear, allowing for a wider audio experience. Gamers who enjoy 360-degree sounds or need to pinpoint specific audio cues will find benefits in open-back headsets.
The H6 Air combines an open-back design with a wired connection, offering audio fidelity not found in most noise-cancelling earbuds or headphones. Although headphone technology advancements are slow, brands like Sony are creating niche products to cater to different audiences. The Inzone H6 Air draws inspiration from Sony studio monitors and uses drivers from their $419.99 MDR-MV1 monitors.
This lightweight headset resembles how $400 headphones sound, though without active noise cancellation. Despite its lower price tag, the H6 Air provides a design that doesn’t compromise audio quality. Initial impressions of the H6 Air headset were positive, with its 199-gram weight offering noticeable comfort. Its open-back construction gives an airy feel, enhanced by its visible drivers. Although the headband system may appear flimsy, it’s a worthy tradeoff for lightness, fitting comfortably even with accessories like glasses.
Audio-wise, the H6 Air, equipped with the same drivers found in studio monitors, exceeded expectations in gaming soundtracks, offering a larger audio stage. Some audio distortions were noted, particularly during phone calls in games, but the microphone quality stood out despite the lack of noise cancellation.
The Sony Inzone H6 Air gaming headset is available from the Sony online store and Amazon for $199.99. It features an open-back wired style, weighs 199 grams without the microphone, and includes drivers based on Sony’s MDR-MV1 studio monitors. It has software access to the PC Inzone Hub, 7.1 channel surround sound, a detachable microphone, and connectivity options like a 3.5mm jack and USB-C adapter.
For gamers seeking a distinct audio experience, the Sony Inzone H6 Air headset brings studio-quality sound to the gaming scene.