Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Comfortable design, with a lightweight build and plush ear pads
  • The inclusion of a USB adapter provides customization options through the INZONE Hub app (PC)
  • Microphone is clear and works well for chatting with teammates

Product Considerations

  • Sound quality is generally considered average, with some reviewers describing the out-of-the-box sound as bland, and the treble as weird and cheap sounding
  • Build quality is perceived as cheap due to the plastic materials
  • The wired cable is permanently attached, which reduces portability and can be a snagging hazard
  • Inconsistencies in audio delivery based on fit and seal
  • The USB dongle may have a persistent EQ applied, and have power saving issues

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sony PULSE 3D headset: The H3 sounds and feels better
  • Vs Razer BlackShark V2: The Razer is more comfortable, better built, and has a more neutral sound profile
  • Vs HyperX Cloud Alpha: The HyperX is more comfortable, better built, and has a more neutral sound profile
  • Vs Sony INZONE H7 Wireless: The H7 is more comfortable and better built, the H3 boom mic has better recording quality
  • Vs Sony INZONE H9 Wireless: The H9 is a wireless headphone with ANC to block out background noise, the H3 boom mic has a better recording quality
  • Vs Audio-Technica ATH-GL3 and HyperX Cloud Alpha: The Audio-Technica ATH-GL3 and HyperX Cloud Alpha exceed the quality of the Sony INZONE H3 while costing roughly the same amount

Takeaway: The INZONE H3 is a comfortable, budget-friendly option for gamers who prioritize voice chat and customization options on PC. Although it has some flaws in sound quality and build, it could be worth buying if comfort is very important.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

INZONE H3

reviews

[{"title":"SORRY SONY! Sony Inzone H3 Headset Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5Ac8byMiXA","source":"The Techne","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Sony INZONE H3 Review - Good but definitely more room to improve","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OaE373YaeI","source":"Tech Hunter","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Sony INZONE H3, H7, H9 Headsets Review - With Measurements!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEoRZYxQqQ4","source":"Headset Heroes","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Sony Inzone H9 and H3 hands-on review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSmOO1_olaM","source":"Thomas Muehler","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Sony INZONE H3 Headphones Review","link":"https://www.rtings.com/headphones/reviews/sony/inzone-h3","source":"rtings.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Sony INZONE H3 review","link":"https://www.soundguys.com/sony-inzone-h3-review-77118","source":"soundguys.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Sony Inzone H3 headset review - Strong sound, flawed ...","link":"https://www.techradar.com/reviews/sony-inzone-h3-headset-review-strong-sound-flawed-design","source":"techradar.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Sony Inzone H3 Wired Gaming Headset Review","link":"https://www.worldbolding.com/home/2022/8/11/sony-inzone-h3-wired-gaming-headset-review","source":"worldbolding.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Driver Type: Dynamic
  • Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Sensitivity: 92 dB/mW
  • Magnet: Neodymium
  • Connection: Wired (3.5 mm)
  • Volume Control: Yes
Wired over-ear gaming headset with 360 Spatial Sound for Gaming, soft headband and smooth ear pads for comfort, and a flip-up boom microphone with mute; designed for precise opponent detection and clear team communications on PC and PlayStation.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

WH-CH720N

  • Positioning: A budget-friendly noise-cancelling option built for everyday portability.
  • Description: Offers active noise cancellation and wireless operation with a design that emphasizes ease of use and portability. The simpler technology and affordable build cater to users with modest budgets and daily commuting needs.

WH-1000XM6

  • Positioning: A mid-tier wireless headphone combining advanced noise control with a streamlined design.
  • Description: Features smart sensor integration and enhanced digital noise cancellation that adapts to ambient conditions, ensuring a balanced sound profile in varied settings. Compared to the CH720N and XM5 models, it strikes a middle ground by offering improved connectivity and performance.

WH-1000XM5

  • Positioning: A premium flagship wireless headphone known for top-notch noise cancellation and sound accuracy.
  • Description: Delivers advanced noise cancellation paired with refined acoustic tuning and robust digital processing for an immersive listening experience. When compared with the XM6, it offers a broader soundstage and a more established build quality.

MDR-MV1

  • Positioning: A professional-grade headphone designed for high-fidelity listening and studio applications.
  • Description: Uses a focus on precise audio reproduction and accurate frequency response, supported by technologies that emphasize clarity and neutral tuning. Relative to the consumer-focused wireless models, its design and performance are tailored for users who require technical accuracy for critical listening in controlled environments.

MDR-Z1R

  • Positioning: A high-end audiophile headphone that emphasizes superior build materials and uncompromising sound quality.
  • Description: Uses high-resolution drivers and premium construction to deliver detailed and dynamic sound reproduction, ideal for immersive listening sessions. Compared with the more casual and wireless offerings, it stands out with sonic precision and a focus on luxury performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
795
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
35
Founding Year
1946

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Edifier
Stax Spirit S5
569
569
/
11
Reviews
Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent wireless sound quality with clarity, detail, and balanced, refined sound.
  • Good technical performance, particularly soundstage width.
  • Multiple hifi audio codecs are supported, including LDAC, aptX HD, and aptX Lossless.
  • The Edifier ConneX app provides a customizable EQ.
  • Long battery life is quoted at 80 hours.

Product Considerations

  • Active noise cancellation is lacking.
  • Some reviewers find the fit awkward, with inadequate clamping force.
  • Treble can sound a little metallic or plasticky.
  • The use of animal hide might deter some buyers.
  • The volume on wireless mode isn't always loud enough.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Spirit S5 offers a more audiophile-like presentation with better soundstage and clarity.
  • The Spirit S5 destroys the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the Sennheiser Momentum 4s in terms of sound quality.
  • The S5 sounds better than the Stax Spirit S3, with improvements across the board and new features.

Takeaway: The Stax Spirit S5 is a great-sounding wireless headphone that is comfortable and offers modern convenience. It is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to enjoy music with detail and clarity.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
FIIO
FT7
699
699
/
11
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Uses premium materials like carbon fiber, metal, sheep lambskin earpads, and zebra wood faceplates for a luxurious feel, with excellent build quality
  • Has a mostly neutral sound signature, with lambskin pads bass response is very good with a tasteful emphasis placed on the sub-bass region, and a decent midrange
  • Provides good detail retrieval, resolution, and transparency of sound, the drivers can show plenty of information and micro detail
  • A pad swapping system allows changes to sound characteristics, with lambskin pads and breathable fabric pads included
  • Comes with a quarter-inch adapter and a 4-pin XLR adapter for use with portable or desktop devices

Product Considerations

  • The stock cable is 3 meters long, which is too long for desktop use
  • Headband adjustment can be a little stiff to move
  • With leather pads, the highs can get slightly sharp
  • There is a slight sharpness in the upper treble that might pose a problem for some listeners, using fabric pads can mitigate this
  • Weight distribution could be better, there's not enough padding on the headband, and the clamp force is low, this distributes all the weight across the top of the head, which can be bothersome after 40-50 minutes

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFiMan Susvara: Has a similar driver structure
  • Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: Is close in terms of technical performance like resolution, transient response, soundstage, depth, and openness
  • Vs HiFiMan Arya Stealth: Has a better build quality and bass response

Takeaway: The FiiO FT7 is a well-built, comfortable headphone that offers a neutral-leaning-warm sound that can be tailored with different earpads. The FT7 competes with other headphones that cost significantly more, making it a great pick at its price point.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Neumann
NDH 30
649
649
/
11
Reviews
Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent stereo separation for mixing and monitoring
  • Built with aluminum, it has a durable feel
  • Designed for reference listening
  • Clean, linear, and very detailed mids

Product Considerations

  • Sound can be considered somewhat restrained, lacking upper midrange and low to HF 'hype'
  • Cloth ear pads may not feel as soft or luxurious as velour pads on some other headphones
  • Lacks impact and bite
  • Headband padding is uncomfortable
  • Single-entry cable is on the right side, which is an unusual placement

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD650: Differences come down to something similar to a full-range studio monitor versus a full-range hifi speaker of equal build quality and similar design, Sennheisers are geared more towards enjoying the brain-pleasing sounds of music, while you probably want to mix with the Neumanns
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600/650: The HD600 and HD650 are more comfortable, with a better industrial design than the NDH-30

Takeaway: The Neumann NDH 30 is a tool that can be very helpful for mixing sessions, especially for identifying details in the mid-range of a mix. Its design and build quality also make it a lasting product.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Thieaudio
Wraith
549
549
/
10
Reviews
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The Wraith features an all-metal alloy body that feels sturdy and durable
  • The earcups feature a rotating mechanism, making it convenient to rest the headphones around the neck
  • The design is considered stylish, industrial, and unique
  • The suspension headband design distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long listening sessions

Product Considerations

  • The Wraith's headband adjustment system is not very practical and requires a screwdriver to adjust
  • Stock pads may not create the best seal, impacting sound isolation
  • The soundstage is intimate, and the resolution is average
  • The 2.5mm connectors on the earcups might limit replacement cable options
  • Sub-bass can roll off with stock pads

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: The Edition XS has better resolution, clarity, and sub-bass response out of the box, but the Wraith has superior build quality, materials, robustness, and comfort
  • Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: The Wraith and Aiva share a similar bass roll-off
  • Vs Moondrop Venus: The Moondrop Venus costs slightly more and provides a wider soundstage and more refined sound

Takeaway: The ThieAudio Wraith has excellent build quality and a unique design, making them durable and comfortable for many users. The sound is warm and laid-back, making them suitable for casual listening.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Sony
MDR-7506
109
/
Released
Large-diaphragm, foldable professional headphones designed for studio, live, and broadcast monitoring. Closed-ear design with 40 mm dynamic drivers delivers detailed sound and isolation, while a long coiled OFC cable with gold-plated Unimatch™ plug (3.5 mm with 6.3 mm adapter) supports flexible connectivity. Supplied with a soft carry pouch.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional quality, detail, and accuracy, beating the competition in its price range.
  • Impeccable clarity and unbiased sound signature allows the listener to hear vocals, instruments, or whatever is being listened to in the way that it was meant to be heard.
  • Many parts are user replaceable, such as the ear cups and the headband.
  • Sound profile is quite neutral, with slight emphasis on the upper mids and higher frequencies.
  • Highs are crystal clear, allowing for the smallest details in vocals to come through.

Product Considerations

  • Not meant to be used plugged into an iPhone for music during a commute, instead intended for monitoring.
  • The faux leather on the ear cups feels a bit on the thinner side.
  • The non-detachable cable connects to only one ear cup, meaning it can be a little bit heavy, pulling to one side.
  • Exposed wires run from the ear cups to the headband, and this could have been more protected had the cable been run internally.
  • The treble can sometimes become sharp, causing listener fatigue during long listening sessions.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD 280 Pro 2016: MDR-7506 are slightly better headphones, Sennheiser provides more passive isolation, and they deliver audio more inconsistently.
  • Vs beyerdynamic DT 770 pro: The MDR-7506 has better bass response and crispness, and the tightness is better than the beyerdynamic.

Takeaway: The MDR-7506 is great for sound mixing, podcasting, video editing, radio or recording studios, or any environment where accurate sound is needed. There's a reason why the 7506s have become and still are the industry standard, used and recognized all over the world.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
INZONE H9
349
/
Released
2022
A lightweight (~260 g) premium wireless gaming headset with active noise cancelling, detachable boom mic, dual wireless connectivity (2.4 GHz and Bluetooth), 3.5 mm input, designed for long gaming sessions with comfort and clear audio.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very comfortable to wear for long gaming sessions due to good padding and flexibility
  • Simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity
  • Active Noise Cancellation is effective

Product Considerations

  • Microphone quality is disappointing for the price, and can sound muffled
  • The H9 can accumulate heat on the surface of the ear cups
  • Battery life indication is lacking
  • Sound quality depends on the device being used

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Corsair HS80 has better microphone quality
  • SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless are better built
  • The H9 has leatherette padding instead of cloth like the H7, and an ANC system

Takeaway: The INZONE H9 is a comfy headset with useful features like active noise cancelling and simultaneous device connectivity, making it enjoyable for both gaming and everyday use. It could be a good match if you want it to match your PlayStation 5.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
WH-CH720N
179
/
Released
2023
Sony's lightest Wireless Noise-canceling headband ever. Take noise canceling to the next level with Sony's Integrated Processor V1, so you can fully immerse yourself in the music. Super comfortable and lightweight design.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear, making them suitable for daily commutes
  • Good battery life, up to 35 hours with ANC on, and a quick charging feature provides an hour of playback with a short charge
  • Effective active noise cancelling (ANC) significantly reduces ambient noise for the price
  • Companion app offers EQ settings, ambient mode control, and multipoint pairing for added customization and convenience
  • Improved build quality compared to the predecessor

Product Considerations

  • Build quality can feel plasticky and less premium than flagship models
  • Sound quality, while good, may sound narrow or muffled compared to higher-end headphones, with less instrument separation
  • ANC may not block out as much noise as flagship models, particularly lower-frequency sounds
  • Lacks a carrying case
  • Touch controls are absent, relying instead on physical buttons

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Sony WH-1000XM4/XM5: A noticeable step down in build quality and noise cancelling capabilities compared to the XM4/XM5, which offer better sound quality and features but at a higher price point
  • Vs. Anker Soundcore Space One Wireless: The Anker headphones have longer continuous battery life, more EQ options, and comparable noise isolation
  • Vs. JBL Tune 770NC: JBL Tune 770NC offers a more balanced sound profile out-of-the-box

Takeaway: The Sony WH-CH720N are a great value for money if you need good noise cancelling and battery life in a comfortable, lightweight design. The features offer a practical choice for everyday usage.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
MDR-MV1
379
/
Released
2024
Sony’s MDR-MV1 are open-back reference monitor headphones designed for professional creators working in immersive audio, mixing, and mastering. They provide spatial sound reproduction, a wide frequency response, and natural open-back acoustics for precise monitoring.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Super lightweight design makes them exceptionally comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Balanced tonality with impressive bass response, especially sub-bass, for an open-back headphone
  • Good clarity and separation between instruments, avoiding a muddy sound despite the bass presence
  • The soundstage is a decent size and the imaging is accurate, making it easier to localize objects
  • The design is aesthetically pleasing, with a modern take on the classic Sony studio headphone look

Product Considerations

  • Build quality may feel less premium than expected for the price due to the use of lightweight plastic components
  • The included cable is longer than ideal for portable use and terminates in a 6.3mm connector, although an adapter is included
  • Treble can be bright or piercing, and could be fatiguing for those sensitive to treble
  • Bass delivery can be inconsistent if glasses or earrings break the ear cup seal
  • Lacks accessories like a carrying case or pouch, making it less convenient for transport

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Sennheiser HD600: The HD600 is superior for midrange and timbre quality
  • Vs. Beyerdynamic DT900 Pro X: The DT900 Pro X has a better build quality
  • Vs. HIFIMAN Edition XS: The Edition XS has better technical performance—clean separation of sounds

Takeaway: The MDR-MV1 headphones are very comfortable and lightweight, and they give you surprisingly strong bass for open-back headphones, great for mixing or just enjoying your favorite music, and have a unique, good sound. They're a fun pair of headphones for people who want good sound and comfort.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sony
MDR-M1
239
/
Released
2024
The Sony MDR-M1 headphones are professional closed-back reference monitors engineered for precision monitoring, mixing, and production work. Designed for studio professionals, they provide accurate sound reproduction and reliable performance in controlled environments.
Check Amazon
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The MDR-M1 is lightweight and comfortable, designed for all-day use with soft ear cups and a supple headband
  • Delivers accurate sound, making it suitable for mixing and mastering
  • Improved isolation compared to the MDR-7506
  • Features a replaceable cable on the left side, and it comes with two different cables
  • The newly designed ear cups enhance both comfort and isolation

Product Considerations

  • Some users might find the bass response underwhelming if they are used to a more hyped frequency response
  • The MDR-M1 does not fold like the MDR-7506, which sacrifices a major portability factor
  • Feels cheap and looks older compared to other headphones in this price range
  • Leatherette pads may run warm in hot and humid environments

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs MDR-7506: The M1 offers improved comfort, better bass response, and removable cables compared to the MDR-7506, which is more affordable
  • Vs AKG K371: The MDR-M1 has better ergonomics and build quality, while the K371 adheres more closely to the Harman curve
  • Vs beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X: The DT 700 Pro X has stronger percussive hit, but everything sounds a little smoother than the M1
  • Vs Sennheiser HD620s: The M1 has more natural timbre characteristic, while the HD620s are designed to be a more open sounding experience
  • Vs FIIO FT1: The FT1 has gobs of deep bass, and is a little bit more energetic sounding than the M1

Takeaway: The MDR-M1 is a comfortable and accurate headphone suited for both professional use and casual listening. Its accurate sound and comfortable design make it a great choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable headphone.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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