Sony has revived the first walkman headphones, the set that shipped with its original Walkman. The new MDR-3R follows the 1979 MDR-3 closely, with one major functional change: a USB-C connector.
These headphones launched alongside the Walkman TPS-L2 cassette player in 1979. Sony’s release identifies the model that came with that player as the MDR-3L2.
For more on how Sony’s original portable player keeps resurfacing, see a luxurious gold-plated Walkman revival, which pairs vintage styling with premium finishes.
Design of the first walkman headphones
The MDR-3R retains the original design of the headset, which reflects the heritage of portable audio culture. Sony says the earcups carry the same iconic blue and orange ear pads. Sony says users can customise the look with the ear pads to suit their mood or preferences.
The MDR-3R maintains the MDR-3’s lightweight, open-ear design, providing lasting comfort even during extended listening. Sony says the design also keeps the open-ear build of the MDR-3, which lets listeners hear their surroundings indoors and outdoors.
Sound and connectivity
Sony kept the 23 mm driver size from the original headphones. The company says it retuned the sound slightly for modern listening while staying close to the MDR-3’s natural, balanced character.
The USB-C connector works with smartphones and other devices that support USB Audio Class 1.0. Sony warns that some devices, operating systems or apps may need settings adjusted. The company also says the headphones are not recommended for use with a Walkman.
These wired usb-c headphones remove charging, Bluetooth pairing and firmware updates from the equation. A built-in microphone and an in-line remote handle calls and playback. Plug in the cable, and the headphones start working.
Stranger Things Edition
Sony is also launching a limited MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition. The model draws on the 1980s look of Netflix‘s series and the headphone style of its character Max.
The edition adds an engraved Stranger Things logo, red and black ear pads and custom packaging. Sony’s release says it is available for pre-order at Sony, Netflix and Amazon US.
Pricing and sustainability
The standard MDR-3R costs $59.99 USD and $99.99 CAD, according to Sony’s release. The Stranger Things Edition costs $79.99 USD and $129.99 CAD.
Sony says recycled plastic is used in a portion of the headphone body, and specifications may change. Its plastic-free packaging applies only to the product box and may vary by region. Coating and adhesive materials are excluded.
The MDR-3R shows that a 46-year-old design can still compete on simplicity. For listeners tired of charging cases and pairing menus, a plain cable and a 1979 silhouette may be exactly the point.
Fans of the cassette era might also enjoy a vintage Walkman turned into a tape cabinet, a playful way to give classic Sony hardware a second life.
Via dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Sony MDR-3R cost?
The standard Sony MDR-3R costs $59.99 USD and $99.99 CAD, according to Sony’s release. The limited Stranger Things Edition costs $79.99 USD and $129.99 CAD.
Does the MDR-3R connect over Bluetooth or a cable?
The MDR-3R is wired and plugs in through a USB-C connector. Because it has no Bluetooth, it needs no charging, pairing, or firmware updates, and it starts working once the cable is plugged in.
Which devices work with the MDR-3R USB-C connector?
The USB-C connector works with smartphones and other devices that support USB Audio Class 1.0. Sony warns that some devices, operating systems, or apps may need settings adjusted, and it says the headphones are not recommended for use with a Walkman.
What makes the Stranger Things Edition of the MDR-3R different?
The Stranger Things Edition is a limited model that adds an engraved Stranger Things logo, red and black ear pads, and custom packaging. It draws on the 1980s look of the Netflix series and the headphone style of its character Max.
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