Headphone makers cut prices for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days

Major headphone makers cut prices for Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days in early October, delivering steep discounts across a wide range of noise-cancelling models and giving shoppers clear choices depending on budget and priorities. Flagship over-ear models from Sony, Sennheiser and smaller brands such as Nothing and Skullcandy all saw temporary markdowns, with some offers limited to Prime members or the sale window running Oct. 7 and Oct. 8.

Among the most notable reductions, Sony’s WH1000XM5 dropped to about $249 from a typical $292, placing the model well below several competitors while retaining the company’s top-rated active noise cancellation and roughly 30 hours of playback with ANC engaged. Reviewers cite the XM5’s lightweight build at about 250 grams and a multi-microphone system driven by Sony’s V1 processor as strengths for blocking both low-frequency rumble and higher-pitched ambient noise. Sound tuning out of the box can be warm, according to testers, but many say the headphones improve substantially with equalizer adjustments through Sony’s app.

Sony’s newer WH1000XM6 also received a discount during the sale, with offers reducing the price for buyers who prioritize the...