In this guide, we’ll show you how to turn off all noise controls on your Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones completely.
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are packed with powerful audio features, including industry-leading noise canceling, ambient sound modes, and Adaptive Sound Control. But sometimes, you might prefer a pure, unaltered listening experience — free from any noise cancellation or ambient sound features.
Sony’s noise control features include Noise Canceling, which blocks external sounds for immersive listening. Ambient Sound Mode lets in some external sounds so you’re aware of your surroundings.
Turning off all noise controls means disabling all of the above so your headphones behave like regular over-ear headphones — with no sound processing.
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Turn OFF All Noise Controls On Sony WH-1000XM6
By default, the Ambient Sound Control is set to cycle between Noise Cancelling and Ambient Sound when you press the button on the left earcup. To include the Off option during the switch:
Connect your headphones to your smartphone via Bluetooth. Then, open the Sony | Sound Connect app. On the home screen, scroll down and locate the Device Settings. here, ensure you’re on the System tab.
In the [NC/AMB] Button Setting category, tap on the Noise Cancelling/ Ambient Sound drop-down arrow to see the full menu. By default, only Noise Cancelling and Ambient Sound are checked.
Check the Off option to select it as well. Now, wear your headphones and start playing audio.
Press the NC/AMB button on the left earcup.
This will cycle through the Noise Canceling, Ambient Sound and OFF modes.
Confirming All Noise Controls Are OFF
To ensure all noise features are off, you should not hear any external sound suppression. There should be no artificial amplification of outside noise.
In the app, Ambient Sound Control should be set to Off.
You should not hear announcements like Walking detected or Staying from the assistant.
Turning off all noise controls can slightly extend your headphone battery life — especially useful during long listening sessions or when using in quieter environments like indoors.
