Verdict Winner: Sony XM6

All five pairs of premium cans deserve a place on your shortlist But if we had to choose - and we did - the XM6 are our pick

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The takeaway from the group test you have just read is that there are no losers here. Each of our contenders is hugely capable in their own right and deserves serious consideration. But, they aren't identikit choices either; each pair of headphones has specific strengths that will appeal more to some than others.

Let's start with Apple's AirPods Max, the product that can rightly claim to have been a major driver in establishing the premium Bluetooth headphone category as we know it. Now in its lightly tweaked 2nd generation form, these stylish headphones remain a highly tempting proposition.

If you are an iPhone user, it's almost a no-brainer to opt for them, thanks to the seamless way the two products work together. Apple has done a great job in making the experience properly integrated, fuss-free and enjoyable.

Look beyond that, and these headphones still have a combination of comfort, ease of use and build quality to rival any premium alternative you care to mention. And, most importantly, they still sound great.