Sony Unveils 1000X The Collexion: Will It Replace WH-1000XM4, XM5, and XM6?

Sony's new 1000X The Collexion trademark hints at a fresh lineup possibly replacing the iconic WH-1000XM series.

Sony's Bold New Trademark Registration

Sony has just registered a new trademark called 1000X The Collexion in Japan and Canada as of late June. This new branding has stirred excitement and curiosity among audio enthusiasts worldwide. The trademark not only covers headphones but intriguingly includes portable audio players, radios, speakers, amplifiers, televisions, and telecommunications devices.

The naming is, however, a bit unusual. After years of deciphering Sony's naming conventions for its flagship 1000X series — with full-sized headphones starting with ‘WH-‘ and ending on ‘M4’, ‘M5’, or ‘M6’; and wireless earbuds starting with ‘WF-‘ — many fans have got accustomed to the alphanumeric style. The new “Collexion” term might be a curveball.

Why "Collexion"? A Name That Raises Eyebrows

There’s a certain charm, or perhaps awkwardness, to the word “Collexion.” It brings to mind a French accent from classic 1980s British comedy, and for some, it even echoes the now-defunct British youth centers called Connexions. Sony’s choice is unconventional and may take some time for fans to warm up to.

Despite initial skepticism, the trademark registration is official, confirming Sony's intent to introduce this new branding. The news was first highlighted by tech blogs, sparking a wave of speculation about what this means for the future of Sony’s headphones.

A Confusing World of Headphone Names

Sony isn't alone in the sea of complicated headphone model names. Brands like Technics, Denon, Panasonic, and Audio-Technica also release products with cryptic alphanumeric titles that can feel like memorizing Wi-Fi passwords every time you shop. For example:

• Technics EAH-AZ100
• Denon AH-C840NCW
• Panasonic RP-TCM225
• Audio-Technica ATH-SQ1TW

Trying to navigate these can give anyone a headache. The new 1000X The Collexion could either simplify or add to this naming frenzy.

What Could 1000X The Collexion Include?

Sony's official description for the 1000X The Collexion lineup hints at more than just headphones. The listed products include:

• Headphones
• Portable audio players
• Radios
• Acoustic systems
• Amplifiers
• Television receivers
• Telecommunications equipment and devices

The inclusion of portable audio players is particularly exciting. Remember the original Sony Walkman? It holds a special place in many hearts, and the idea of a modern Walkman-style product in the 1000X lineup could be a delightful nod to nostalgia.

Is Sony Planning an Entire Audio Ecosystem?

Sony's recent moves suggest they may be aiming for a broader product family under the 1000X umbrella. Take the ULT series launched in April 2024, for example – a bass-boosted line covering headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and even tower speakers. These were trademarked long before release, indicating strategic planning.

Could 1000X The Collexion follow a similar path? A diverse collection of audio devices, unified under a sleek, premium brand, would definitely shake up the market.

Will The Collexion Replace the WH-1000XM4, XM5, and XM6?

A big question remains: will this new lineup finally retire the beloved WH-1000XM4 series? The XM4, in particular, remains a favorite for many despite Sony releasing newer XM5 and XM6 models.

It's possible Sony plans a special collector's edition or a complete refresh, but nothing is confirmed yet. The WF-1000XM4 earbuds have already been succeeded by newer models, so it wouldn't be surprising for the flagship headphones to follow suit.

“Maybe Sony just wants to cut through the confusion of the XM4, XM5, and XM6 models with one clear, cohesive collection.”

Final Thoughts

Sony's registration of the “1000X The Collexion” trademark has opened a Pandora’s box of possibilities. Will we see a revolutionary new series that combines headphones, portable players, and more? Or is it simply a branding shift for existing products? Only time will tell.

Are you excited about Sony's new 1000X The Collexion line? What would you want to see in this new collection?

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is 1000X The Collexion?
  It’s Sony’s newly trademarked name, possibly representing a new series of audio products including headphones, portable players, and more.
• Will 1000X The Collexion replace the WH-1000XM4, XM5, and XM6?
  It’s not confirmed yet, but speculation suggests it might be a fresh lineup that could replace or complement these models.
• Are portable audio players included in the new collection?
  Yes, the trademark description mentions portable audio players, hinting at a broader range of audio devices.
• What is unique about the name “Collexion”?
  It’s an unusual and stylized word that evokes a vintage or French flair, and might signal a fresh branding strategy.
• Does Sony plan to release more products under 1000X The Collexion?
  Given Sony’s history with broad product lines, it’s likely this could expand beyond just headphones.

Ready to elevate your audio experience? Shop your favorite album cover posters and celebrate music at Architeg Prints.