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Sony MDR1A Premium Hi-Res Stereo Headphones (Black)
Brand | Sony |
Model Name | MDR1A |
Color | Black |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Connectivity Technology | Wired |
About this item
- Sound Reproduction up to 100 kHz, 40 mm driver units with ALCP for articulate audio reproduction, 4-conductor cable for better signal separation and resulting sound quality, Ergonomic ear pads for powerful response and long-term comfort.Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Compatible with 3 optional cables engineered with Kimber Kable, Silver coated OFC cable minimizes signal transmission loss, Beat Response Control for improved bass and transient response, Enfolding structure for wrap-around feel and improved acoustic seal
- Inward axis structure delivers optimum fit, Silent joints won't disturb your audio experience, In-line remote and microphone for hands-free phone calling, Carrying pouch and cord length is 3.94 feet
- Sensitivities (dB/mW): 105 dB/mW
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Price | — | -33% $399.95$399.95 List: $599.95 | -35% $149.95$149.95 List: $229.25 | $269.00$269.00 | -17% $249.99$249.99 List: $299.99 | $1,798.00$1,798.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Apr 2 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sound quality | 5.0 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.8 |
Comfort | 5.0 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.8 |
Quality of material | 4.7 | — | 3.8 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.9 |
Noise cancellation | 4.2 | 2.7 | 2.6 | 4.1 | 3.8 | — |
Value for money | — | 3.6 | 4.5 | 4.2 | — | 4.1 |
Sold By | — | Amazon.com | ARF Tech | GearNuts | GRAMOPHONE | Amazon.com |
connectivity tech | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired |
headphones form factor | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear |
connector type | 3.5mm Jack | 3.5mm Jack | 1/4-inch, 3.5mm Jack | 3.5mm Jack, 6.35mm Jack | 3.5mm Jack | 3.5mm Jack |
headphones jack | 3.5 mm Jack | — | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
cable feature | Retractable | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable |
control type | control | Media Control | control | — | control | Media Control |
From the manufacturer
Premium Hi-Res Stereo headphones
Drawing inspiration from a legacy of personal audio reproduction, Sony engineers have developed the perfect balance of premium style and hi-resolution audio performance. Introducing the MDR-1A Stereo Headphone featuring thoughtful design, lush long-term comfort, and ultra-responsive Hi-Res audio response for a sound experience bar-none.
Technology
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Pure sound-every note!Drawing inspiration from a legacy of personal audio reproduction, Sony engineers have developed the perfect balance of Premium style and hi-resolution audio performance. Introducing the MDR-1A Stereo Headphone featuring thoughtful design, lush long-term comfort, and ultra-responsive Hi-Res audio response for a sound experience bar-none. |
Prepare for exceptional soundLightweight and responsive, aluminum-coated Liquid Crystal Polymer driver units possess the necessary rigidity and internal loss to deliver linear, wideband frequency response ranging from sub-harmonic lows (3 Hz) to ultra-sonic highs (up to 100 kHz) for balanced and natural sound reproduction. |
High-conductivitySilver-coated oxygen-free copper (OFC) cable ensures minimal signal transmission degradation for pure audio response at the driver. A unique 4-wire architecture further enhances the audio experience, with a separate ground and signal connection to each driver for enhanced separation, expanded sound and tight bass. |
Comfortable fit, powerful soundPressure-relieving urethane cushions wrap entirely around your ears for a comfortable acoustic seal and powerful bass response, while precise component machining, with the added placement of silicon rings around every moving axis, realizes smooth and silent earcup movement. In the end, you can expect an immersive listening experience. |
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Upgrade your cansElevate an already outstanding listening experience to new levels via high-grade cables. High-performance wire paired with precision hardware facilitates the high-resolution, noise-free delivery of your favorite good-vibrations to your ears. Three models are available to suit: on-the-go (MUC-B12SM1), at-home (MUC-B30UM1), or balanced audio listening styles (MUC-B20BL1). Consult your retailer for further information. |
Supplied AccessoriesTwo, supplied cables accommodate listening flexibility. A conventional connecting audio cable (1.2 meters), in addition to an in-line microphone and remote cable for smartphone (1.2 meters). A convenient carrying pouch is also supplied to keep your headphones and accessories secure. |
Smartphone compatibleSpecifically designed for Android smartphones, a configurable in-line remote with microphone delivers personalized music and call functionality.(1) Using the free SmartKey APP (available at Google Play and the App Store) you can customize the in-line remote, control settings via your smartphone.(2) |
Additional Specifications
(1) The button function may vary depending on the smartphone.
(2) Subject to app terms and conditions
2014 Sony Electronics, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Sony, S-MASTER, and the Sony make. Believe logo are trademarks of Sony. iPad, iPod, and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Bluetooth and the Bluetooth logo are trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
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Product information
Product Dimensions | 11.1 x 9.5 x 4.5 inches |
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Item Weight | 1 pounds |
Manufacturer | Sony |
ASIN | B00NBMHY58 |
Item model number | MDR1A/B |
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | September 3, 2014 |
Item Weight | 1 Pounds |
Number Of Items | 1 |
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Product Description
Sony MDR-1A headphones deliver ultra-responsive, Hi-Res audio performance with thoughtful design and lush, enfolding comfort, for a sound experience bar-none.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the sound quality, fit, quality and clarity of the headphones. For example, they mention that the bass is solid, the sound is rich, warm and rounded, and that they do a good job of reproducing very specific sounds. They also appreciate the clear highs and the upper-end sparkle. That said, they say the headphones are great looking and do the job of producing very specific sound.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the sound quality of the headphones. They say the soundstage is very nice, the bass is solid, and the sound is rich, warm, and rounded. They also say the phones do a great job of reproducing very specific sounds, and are excellent for all types of music listening.
"...a lot lighter than expected, well built, feels comfortable, sound quality is good, looks good without looking gimmicky/flashy. -Sound does..." Read more
"...Sound is wonderful and full. The bass is solid and hits really low but doesn't sound excessive or bloated. Mids and vocals are smooth and present...." Read more
"...The bass is actually quite good, just a tad bloated, very recording dependent, mids are not bad, a little recessed for my liking, highs are ok,..." Read more
"...Sound is crisp at highest volumes, and I use a phone with built in amp that is louder than Iphone's for example...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the fit of the headphones. For example, they mention that they are super comfortable, soft, and not too tight. Some say that the headphones fit nicely around the ears and block out a lot of outside noise.
"...quickly: -Light- a lot lighter than expected, well built, feels comfortable, sound quality is good, looks good without looking gimmicky/..." Read more
"...Comfort is very, very good! The foam isn't super thick but it's very soft and is comfortable for hours on end...." Read more
"...I travel as they have fairly good isolation and are comfortable to wear for a few hours at a time...." Read more
"...Leather is very soft material and very comfortable. This is most comfortable headphones I've ever worn...." Read more
Customers generally like the quality of the headphones. They mention that they are excellent, superb, and phenomenal. They also say that the sound quality is awesome, and the headphones feel premium. Some customers also say the mids are not bad, and that they hold up well at high volume.
"...stuff i learned quickly: -Light- a lot lighter than expected, well built, feels comfortable, sound quality is good, looks good without looking..." Read more
"...Fit, finish and quality are above average. The "leather" is likely all synthetic or hybrid and time will tell how well it holds up...." Read more
"...quite good, just a tad bloated, very recording dependent, mids are not bad, a little recessed for my liking, highs are ok, slightly rolled off, does..." Read more
"...The presentation is very elegant. Nice small high quality box with headphones and cables, some few papers and imprint where headsets are located...." Read more
Customers like the clarity of the headphones. They mention that it has very clear highs, and with no mid-muddy or distorted sound. The highs are detailed and without any harshness. The mids are warm, and the treble sparkles with amazing clarity. The sound isn't fatiguing, and has decent imaging.
"...Mids and vocals are smooth and present. Highs are detailed and without any harshness (at least at the moderate volumes I use)...." Read more
"...dependent, mids are not bad, a little recessed for my liking, highs are ok, slightly rolled off, doesn't have the sparkle of say a Grado...." Read more
"...Regarding sound, the bass is impressive. It is punchy and clear. Bass doesn't have a fade or too warm feeling...." Read more
"...At first, you will find them very plain, that's because they never been used...." Read more
Customers like the appearance of the headphones. They mention that they are great looking, with a nice soundstage and air. They also appreciate the upper-end sparkle and air, with gorgeous tone. Customers also say that the design is great black with r red around giving good vibes.
"...well built, feels comfortable, sound quality is good, looks good without looking gimmicky/flashy. -Sound does leak out but not too bad...." Read more
"...I liked the wood back and overall look. They just weren't comfortable enough and when compared A-B with these Sony's it wasn't even a contest...." Read more
"...The presentation is very elegant. Nice small high quality box with headphones and cables, some few papers and imprint where headsets are located...." Read more
"These Headphones are comfortable and look great and have a nice detachable cord and excellent Bass, HOWEVER, the sound is muddy and colored compared..." Read more
Customers like the value of the headphones. They mention that it's very much worth the price, has the best sound for the value, and has good, smooth, nice bass.
"...I almost kept them. They are better than their price suggests. I liked the wood back and overall look...." Read more
"...All in all, these are worth the money. But it depends on your preference. If you are nuetral seeking person then possibly look into other headphones...." Read more
"...sound quality is superb; definitely studio quality, but they are pretty expensive for what you get.1 year edit:..." Read more
"...very much worth the price. i got these to use with an i-basso 90 portable media player. my home headphones are sennheiser HD 800's...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the weight of the headphones. They mention that it's not too light, and the weight distribution is great.
"...Impressions and stuff i learned quickly: -Light- a lot lighter than expected, well built, feels comfortable, sound quality is good, looks good..." Read more
"...And the headphones are very high quality. They are light as well but not too light. It does not feel cheap, it is solid, firm build all across...." Read more
"...The clamping force is perfect, the headband feels light as a feather over my head. . .everything is great." Read more
"...They're light so they don't weigh down or compress your head. Passive noise canceling is pretty good too, they are quite big and puffy...." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the cord length of the headphones. They say that the stock cable is way too short for their home setup and that both cables are the same length. They also mention that the cord sucks and limits their mobility.
"...also the stock cable is way too short for my home setup (need 2.5M or longer)...." Read more
"...My only gripe is that the included cable is only 4' long...." Read more
"...cables (one has a special button for mobile devices), but both cables are the same length, about 1m. It would be better if one cable was longer...." Read more
"...The only downside is that the headphones cord is pretty short (these headphones came with TWO cords. Both short)...." Read more
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Impressions and stuff i learned quickly:
-Light- a lot lighter than expected, well built, feels comfortable, sound quality is good, looks good without looking gimmicky/flashy.
-Sound does leak out but not too bad. Will depend on how loud you play and how tight this fits on your head.
-The mid-low to low frequencies sound good without being overpowered and muddying the mids to high frequencies.
-Some might consider the sound from this as "warm".
-In-line mic sound good on Skype and phone test. Susceptible to recording/picking up noise easily when moving around (brushing against shirt, etc.).
-Even though the in-line one-button remote works with Android phones, the music/media control is limited by default. - play, pause, answer/end call works, no volume or skip/reverse functionality.
-The Smartkey app that is suggested for the in-line remote to have more functionality does not properly work with an HTC One (M8). I read on the fine print that this app usually only works fine on Sony's Xperia Android phones.
-This one seems like it has a few changes compared to previous iterations such as the MDR1R but i haven't tried those so i can't comment on them.
I'm not a professional audiophile of any sort. This is just my opinion as a consumer with limited experience. I'm just a consumer who likes to find a good sounding, comfortable headphones that plays sound as accurate as possible. That being said, I think this pair is not the "flattest" sounding that i've used. I still have my old Sony MDR-V6 which i consider as "flat" sounding, meaning it doesn't have overpowered base and/or eardrum screeching treble. Though some might find it weak in the bass.
I would consider the MDR1A close (but not the same) to the ATH-M50X in overall sound and comfort. Both are comfortable in part of their big, soft swiveling ear cups. This helps it in adapting to any angles on the sides of your head. This, however, partly weakens the clamping grip if you're using it while lying on your back (the M50X especially since it's heavier).
The difference is that the MDR1A's mid-low to low frequency sounds 'better'. I'm not sure if its wider Frequency response spectrum (3Hz-100kHz compared to the M50X's 15-28kHz) plays a part in it. The difference between three to fifteen Hertz for the bass might not be a big deal though. (Also, I don't think 100kHz can be heard by humans anyway.) This smaller spectrum range might also be why the M50X sounds comfortable as it puts out frequencies only within usual ranges, but can sometimes sound "too comfortable". This IS a plus but can sometimes make certain bass heavy parts of some songs sound minutely less punchy. (NOTE: VERY minutely that you might not even notice overall.) But like i said I'm not much an audiophile so... eh.
The MDR1A earcup materials is soft, comfortable, and does not muddle the mids and lows (like a lot of "gaming headphones" (Razer Kraken "PRO".... lol)). The main thing/s i can compare between this and the V-Moda M-100 is difference in comfort. I can say that their bass punchiness is comparable to a point. But sometimes the M-100 has the tendency to make audio sound like i'm listening through a box (or boxlike room) meant to make the bass sound better. Half the time it's awesome, but sometimes feeling like listening through a box is not. The build quality on both MDR1A and M-100 are superb regardless of different materials used. The M-100 has good metalic parts that gives it a premium feel and heft and therefore a little bit heavier. The clamping force might be hard because the ear cups don't swivel. The ear cup shape is unique but smaller compared to the MDR1A.
The MDR1A has softer ear cups pads and headband. The ear cup pads are angled to be thicker in the bottom to help seal in the sound. As mentioned above, the swiveling helps in making this comfortable. And did i mention the MDR1A is a lot lighter? Because IT IS a lot lighter. Not being able to fold it to be more compact might be a big deal for others.
Would i recommend these? Yes. For this price tag? More likely if it was closer to the M50X's price.
I'm extremely picky but also not independently wealthy so I try to find the 90% mark with my audio choices. After a certain point the sound/quality improvement is minimal for the additional cost. These headphones fit that bill for me!
Sound is wonderful and full. The bass is solid and hits really low but doesn't sound excessive or bloated. Mids and vocals are smooth and present. Highs are detailed and without any harshness (at least at the moderate volumes I use). As others have noted, these may not be studio or reference cans. These are for enjoyment! I want accuracy but I'm fine with a little tweak here and there and Sony got this very right with these. I listen to a wide range of music at 320 bitrate and everything just works with these.
Fit, finish and quality are above average. The "leather" is likely all synthetic or hybrid and time will tell how well it holds up. Comfort is very, very good! The foam isn't super thick but it's very soft and is comfortable for hours on end.
I didn't like the right angle cord they came with. Amazon has a compatible 9ft straight cord that works great. I also added a small USB DAC (NextDrive Spectra Portable USB DAC) and that improved the sound drastically!
I tried Audio Technica ATH-M50x before these and they weren't comfortable and the sound quality wasn't even close! I also tried Edifier P841's. They are significantly less money so not a fair comparison in that way. Sound quality was just not remotely good enough.
SIVGA SV006 were also tried. I almost kept them. They are better than their price suggests. I liked the wood back and overall look. They just weren't comfortable enough and when compared A-B with these Sony's it wasn't even a contest. If your budget is under $100 then you will likely be very happy with them, though.