Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones User Manual

1. Overview

The Sony WH-1000XM4 are advanced wireless noise-cancelling headphones designed to deliver an exceptional audio experience. Featuring industry-leading noise cancellation, premium sound quality, and smart listening technologies, these headphones are ideal for travel, work, and daily listening. They offer comfortable wear, long battery life, and seamless connectivity with multiple devices.

Figure 1: Front view of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones.

2. Key Features

• Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation: Equipped with the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, these headphones effectively block out ambient noise, allowing for immersive listening.
• Premium Sound Quality: Supports High-Res Audio and utilizes DSEE Extreme and LDAC technologies to upscale compressed music, delivering rich and detailed sound.
• Speak-to-Chat Function: Automatically pauses music and activates Ambient Sound mode when you start speaking, enabling conversations without removing the headphones.
• Multipoint Connection: Seamlessly connect and switch between two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a laptop.
• Extended Battery Life & Quick Charge: Enjoy up to 30 hours of playback with Noise Cancelling activated. A quick 10-minute charge provides up to 5 hours of listening time.

Figure 2: The HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1.

3. What's in the Box

• 1 x Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones
• 1 x Carrying Case
• 1 x Airplane Adapter
• 1 x Headphone Cable (approx. 1.2 m)
• 1 x USB Type-C Cable (approx. 20 cm)

4. Setup

4.1 Initial Charging

Before first use, fully charge the headphones using the supplied USB Type-C cable. Connect the cable to the headphone's USB-C port and a powered USB charger or computer USB port. The indicator light will turn off when charging is complete.

4.2 Power On

Press and hold the power button for about 2 seconds until the indicator flashes blue.

4.3 Bluetooth Pairing

1. First Time Pairing: When powered on for the first time, the headphones automatically enter pairing mode. The indicator will flash blue rapidly.
2. Manual Pairing: If already paired, press and hold the power button for about 7 seconds until the indicator flashes blue rapidly.
3. On your device (smartphone, computer), enable Bluetooth and select "WH-1000XM4" from the list of available devices.
4. Once connected, the indicator will flash blue slowly.

4.4 NFC Pairing (One-touch connection)

1. Ensure NFC is enabled on your smartphone.
2. Touch the N-Mark on the left earcup of the headphones to the N-Mark on your smartphone.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the connection.

Figure 3: Using the headphones for work or study.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On/Off

• Power On: Press and hold the power button for approximately 2 seconds.
• Power Off: Press and hold the power button for approximately 2 seconds until the indicator light turns off.

5.2 Noise Cancelling / Ambient Sound Mode

Press the CUSTOM button (located on the left earcup) to cycle through Noise Cancelling, Ambient Sound, and Off modes.

• Noise Cancelling: Reduces ambient noise.
• Ambient Sound: Allows you to hear surrounding sounds while listening to music.

5.3 Speak-to-Chat Function

When enabled via the Sony Headphones Connect app, simply start speaking to automatically pause music and activate Ambient Sound mode. Music resumes after a set period of silence.

5.4 Call Management

• Answer/End Call: Double-tap the touch sensor control panel on the right earcup.
• Reject Call: Press and hold the touch sensor control panel for about 2 seconds.

5.5 Music Playback

• Play/Pause: Double-tap the touch sensor control panel.
• Next Track: Swipe forward on the touch sensor control panel.
• Previous Track: Swipe backward on the touch sensor control panel.
• Volume Up: Swipe up on the touch sensor control panel.
• Volume Down: Swipe down on the touch sensor control panel.

5.6 Multipoint Connection

The headphones can be connected to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. To switch audio sources, simply start playback on the desired device. For calls, the headphones will automatically switch to the device receiving the call.

Figure 4: The Speak-to-Chat function allows for easy conversations.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the headphones with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use alcohol, benzene, thinner, or other chemical cleaners.
• Storage: When not in use, store the headphones in the supplied carrying case to protect them from dust and scratches. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or humidity.
• Battery Care: To preserve battery life, charge the headphones at least once every six months if not used regularly.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

This product comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Sony website or contact Sony customer support. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For more information, visit the Sony Support Page.