Does the Strauss & Wagner Kiel Improve the Sony WH-1000XM6?

Wired listening is becoming increasingly popular, both with audiophiles and casual listeners alike. In well-known headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM6, wired listening is very possible and has the potential for upgraded quality. Strauss & Wagner is known for making upgrade cables for all types of headphones, so it is no surprise that they add Sony to their lineup. How does the Strauss & Wagner Kiel upgrade the listening experience of Sony wireless headphones? Does the Kiel improve it at all? This review will tell all the details of sound quality and convenience with this $30 easy upgrade. 

The Strauss & Wagner Kiel is a pretty simple cable when you look at it on its own. The black nylon with touches of silver on both terminations makes it look sleek and professional. The nylon is soft and perfectly matches the black in-line controller, so it blends right and looks seamless. The Kiel doesn't tangle easily, making portability and everyday use cleaner and simpler. It's a nice alternative to some other cables, feeling more durable in your hand and plugging in securely on both ends. 

The Kiel cable is an upgrade to the stock cable because of its easier connectivity. With new phones mainly featuring USB-C connections, you'll find that this cable eliminates the need for an adapter. Apple phones, Samsung, and Google are all compatible with the cable and allow you to take calls easily with the in-line microphone. Since the Sony headphones are passive in wired mode, you won't need to power them on to use them. This extends the life of the headphone and makes the wired listening mode all the more convenient when you're on the go. 

If you use the Strauss & Wagner Kiel over the standard stock Sony cable, is there a noticeable sound difference? You may not realize it at first, but the Kiel does have some slight sonic advantage over the stock cable. Without the need for an adapter, the Kiel gives you a smoother, more direct sound that plays well with any genre. You can hear how this cable allows for higher volumes, pushing power through the headphone with ease and limited resistance. The sound itself isn't much different than the Bluetooth version, where you get a strong bass reproduction and wide soundstage. You get a sound profile that is equivalent to it's standard listening mode as opposed to the Cinema or Background Music modes. 

The Kiel is perfect for users of Apple iPhones (version 15 and above), Samsung, and Google Pixel. These USB-C devices will be immediately compatible with the Kiel, providing direct integration with your device with ease. The phone will power the headphones through the Kiel quite well, giving you high volumes, increased detail, and distinct clarity. The cable is a good upgrade and a convenient solution if you want to travel light but still have listening options. 

• Length (Cable): 1.5m
• Termination: USB-C (Device End)
• Connection (Headphone End): 3.5mm
• Compatible With: Sony WH-1000XM3 / XM4 / XM5 / XM6
• Microphone: Yes (Inline)
• Controls: Volume Up / Volume Down / Play–Pause
• Material: Premium Nylon-Braided
• Color: Black

What makes the Kiel a great step up above the rest? There are a lot of Strauss & Wagner cables that are compatible with the Sony WH-1000XM series, so it's hard to tell which one is the right fit. The Kiel impresses because of its easy integration with the headphone and direct phone plug-in, but what stands out as a Kiel competitor? 

• SW Flen: 3.5mm to L-shaped 3.5mm straight cable, with in-line microphone.
• SW Lagos: Simple 3.5mm to 3.5mm straight cable. No in-line microphone. 
• SW Dakar: Coiled 3.5mm to L-shaped 3.5mm cable. Includes an in-line microphone. 
• SW Reus: Simple 3.5mm to USB-C straight cable, with no in-line microphone. 

All of these Strauss & Wagner cables are compatible with the Sony wireless headphones. Choosing the Kiel over these options is a smart choice for people who want easy phone integration without the hassle. However, if your phone is older or you want a bit more length to the cable, you may find yourself choosing one of these other options because you have a different need. Sonically, you'll likely find that the Kiel and these other cables have the same advantage of offering smooth sound, punchy bass, and consistent clarity to any of the Sony headphones. 

Should you upgrade to the Kiel? In a short answer: yes. The Kiel is an easy upgrade for the latest phones and allows you versatility on any device. The USB-C connection is stable and fits with any portable device, and the 3.5mm connection fits into your Sony headphones with ease. Even if you have other headphones with a single 3.5mm port, you may find compatibility with those as well. The sound won't change to be something unrecognizable with the Kiel, and you'll be able to listen on the go or at home with no issue. The in-line microphone is a nice touch to get all the features Sony has to offer, even when using their famous wireless headphones with a cable. 

If you don't own Sony headphones and are curious if the Kiel fits onto your headphones, stop by Audio46 and test it for yourself. We are happy to help find the right wired solution for you. 

Check out the SW Kiel and more at Audio46.