Sony WF-1000XM5 vs AirPods Pro 2: Japanese Earbuds vs Apple

The AirPods Pro 2 support only AAC. For Apple Music listeners streaming at “High Quality” or “Lossless,” this is a notable limitation — the AirPods Pro 2 cannot transmit the full resolution of lossless audio files. For Spotify listeners (which uses AAC or OGG), the practical difference is smaller. But for anyone using Sony’s own Walkman apps, Tidal, or Apple Music in lossless mode, the WF-1000XM5 + LDAC combination is the superior choice.

How Japan’s Audiophile Community Sees This Debate

In Japan’s audiophile community — centered around neighborhoods like Akihabara in Tokyo and Nipponbashi in Osaka — the WF-1000XM5 is considered the obvious choice for serious listeners. Sony’s history in high-resolution audio (the Walkman line, the MDR studio monitor headphones) gives the brand credibility in these circles that Apple simply does not have. When I have discussed this comparison with Japanese audio enthusiasts, the consensus is consistent: Sony for audio, Apple for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LDAC worth it for everyday listening?

In 2025, the Sony WF-1000XM5 retails for approximately ¥39,600 in Japan (~$280 USD at current exchange rates), which is competitive with or slightly cheaper than US Amazon pricing depending on exchange rate fluctuations. If you are traveling to Japan, electronics stores like Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera offer tax-free purchasing for foreign visitors, which saves 10% on the Japanese retail price — making Japan a genuine value destination for Sony electronics.