Nearly half a century after the Walkman changed how people listened to music, Sony is selling its iconic Walkman headphones again. The MDR-3R is a new USB-C version of the MDR-3, which debuted alongside the Walkman TPS-L2 cassette player in 1979.
If the original Walkman’s pull is what draws you in, the Classipod brings that retro listening feel to a modern phone. Classipod Recreates the iPod Classic on Galaxy shows another way to relive old-school portable music.
Sony Electronics Inc. announced the headphones as a modern take on the first Walkman headphones. The company says wired headphones are being rediscovered for their simplicity. There is no charging, no pairing, and no software update required.
What carries over from the original model
The MDR-3R uses the same 23 mm driver units as the MDR-3. Sony says it refined the tuning slightly for modern listening while keeping the original sound signature. That signature, according to Sony, centers on natural vocals and emotional richness.
The design follows the original closely. The headphones are lightweight and open-ear, and they come with blue and orange ear pads so buyers can change the look. Sony says the packaging and instruction manual also reproduce the original model’s design.
Sony says the headphones weigh just 38 grams and keep the lightweight, open-ear design of the MDR-3. Sony says the headphones provide lasting comfort even during extended listening.
Modern updates and connectivity
The USB-C connector replaces the 3.5mm plug. Sony says the headphones work with compatible devices such as smartphones. No charging, pairing, or updates are required.
Each set includes a built-in microphone and an in-line remote for calls and playback. With USB-C support, the headphones connect smoothly to compatible devices such as smartphones.
Sony says recycled plastic is used in the headphone body. Sony also says its packaging is plastic-free.
Sound and performance
Sony describes the sound of these headphones as close to the original, with subtle refinements. Sony says subtle refinements have been made to suit modern listening preferences. The reviewer found the sound clean, well-balanced, and natural.
Bass is the weak point. The reviewer wrote that the headphones do not deliver plump, full-bodied bass, so they are not ideal for electronic dance music or hip hop.
The open design lets in outside sound and leaks some audio. The reviewer judged the headphones best for quiet rooms.
If quiet rooms are where you plan to use these, you might also compare other headphones built around sound quality. Neurable Headphones Blend Brainwave Tracking and Audio offers a very different take on personal listening.
Voice calls were clear for the people on the other end, though they picked up more background noise than wireless earbuds with noise-filtering algorithms.
Stranger Things Edition and pricing
Sony also sells a Stranger Things Edition. It has an engraved Stranger Things logo, red and black earpads, and custom packaging. Sony says the design draws on Max’s headphone style and the Upside Down. Netflix’s series is used with permission.
The standard MDR-3R costs $59.99 USD, $99.99 CAD, 59 euros, or 49 pounds, and Sony lists it as available now. The Stranger Things Edition costs $79.99 USD, $129.99 CAD, 69 euros, or 59 pounds, and is available for pre-order. Sony’s announcement says the standard model is sold through Sony, Amazon, Best Buy, and other authorized dealers.
Is the nostalgia worth the price?
The CNET reviewer said the headphones are not ideal for bass-heavy music but still sound richer than cheap buds.
The MDR-3R is a 1979 design with a USB-C plug. Buyers who want the original look of these headphones and a simple wired connection get exactly that. Buyers who need strong bass or noise cancellation will find better options elsewhere.
Source: yankodesign.com
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Sony MDR-3R headphone cost?
The standard MDR-3R costs $59.99 USD, $99.99 CAD, 59 euros, or 49 pounds, and is available now. The Stranger Things Edition costs $79.99 USD, $129.99 CAD, 69 euros, or 59 pounds, and is available for pre-order.
Do the Sony MDR-3R headphones need charging or pairing?
No. The MDR-3R requires no charging, no pairing, and no software update.
What connector does the Sony MDR-3R use instead of 3.5mm?
The MDR-3R uses a USB-C connector in place of the 3.5mm plug. Sony says it works with compatible devices such as smartphones.
Are the Sony MDR-3R good for bass-heavy music like hip hop?
Not really. The reviewer found bass to be the headphones’ weak point, noting they do not deliver plump, full-bodied bass, so they are not ideal for electronic dance music or hip hop.
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