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HiFiMAN Ananda Stealth V3 vs Sony WH-1000XM6: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sony WH-1000XM6 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 89. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sony WH-1000XM6 - Outstanding overall at around $398.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Sony WH-1000XM6 leads on 5 of 7 measures.

  • HiFiMAN Ananda Stealth V3
  • Sony WH-1000XM6
HearWiki score
81
89
Sound
8.5
9.0
Noise cancelling
-
9.6
Battery
-
8.1
Calls
-
9.6
Value
9.4
8.2
Price (USD)
$250
$400

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Half a step newer

Sony WH-1000XM6 (2025) against HiFiMAN Ananda Stealth V3 (2023). The Sony WH-1000XM6 edges ahead on platform, but only just: ANC type Adaptive against None.

  • Ananda Stealth V32023
  • WH-1000XM620252 yr newer
What differsAnanda Stealth V3WH-1000XM6

Platform

ANC type
None
Adaptive

Specifications

Ananda Stealth V3WH-1000XM6
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$250
$400
HearWiki score
81
89
Released
2023
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
planar magnetic
30 mm dynamic
Driver type
planar
dynamic
Driver size
-
30 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
8 Hz - 55 kHz
4 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
16 Ω
48 Ω
Sensitivity
93 dB/mW
103 dB/mW
Bluetooth
-
5.3
Codecs
-
SBC, AAC, LC3, LDAC
Multipoint pairing
-
Yes
Wireless range
-
10 m
Battery life
-
40 h
Battery life (ANC on)
-
30 h
Full charge time
-
210 min
Quick charge
-
3 min → 3 h
Wireless charging
-
No
Active noise cancelling
No
Yes
ANC type
-
adaptive
Transparency mode
-
Yes
Companion app
-
Yes
Custom EQ
-
Yes
Wear detection
-
Yes
Controls
-
buttons
Voice assistant
-
Yes
Weight
398 g
254 g
Water resistance
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
-
Yes
Connector
-
3.5 mm
Balanced connection
Yes
-
Model code
ANANDA Stealth Magnet
-
Microphones
-
12
Microphone type
-
MEMS

What reviewers said

HiFiMAN Ananda Stealth V3

The HiFiMAN Ananda Stealth V3 is an open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers a detailed, expansive soundstage and strong performance for its price point. Its lightweight design and detachable cable add convenience, though the lack of noise isolation and somewhat firm inner padding may not suit everyone. Overall, it’s a compelling option for listeners seeking high-fidelity audio without breaking the bank.

  • Pro:Excellent value for planar magnetic performance
  • Pro:Open-back design provides a wide, airy soundstage
  • Pro:Detachable cable allows for easy upgrades or replacements
  • Con:Inner foam padding can feel firm and less comfortable for some
  • Con:Open-back design offers no noise isolation, leaking sound in and out
  • Con:Requires a quiet environment to fully appreciate its audio quality

Sony WH-1000XM6

The Sony WH-1000XM6 is a premium over-ear wireless headphone that combines adaptive active noise cancellation with a long-lasting battery and support for high-quality audio codecs. It features multipoint Bluetooth connectivity and a transparent mode, making it a versatile choice for both focused listening and everyday commutes. With a lightweight build and tactile controls, it balances comfort and functionality for extended use.

  • Pro:Adaptive active noise cancellation for personalized silencing
  • Pro:Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless device switching
  • Pro:Transparency mode for ambient awareness when needed
  • Con:No water resistance rating for wet conditions
  • Con:No wireless charging option
  • Con:Relies on physical buttons rather than touch controls

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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