Sony MDR-1A

The Sony MDR-1A are great headphones for neutral listening. They have a well-balanced frequency response that packs enough bass without drowning the instruments and vocals on any track. They're also lightweight and super comfortable so you can have them on for hours and not feel the fatigue that some other headphones induce after a long listening session. However, they have a closed-back design, so they won't have the same ambiance as open headphones, which some neutral listeners are looking for.

-- As reviewed by Rtings
Sony MDR-1A 1

Product details

  • Connectivity Technology: Wired

PROS

+ Fantastic audio performance with deep lows and clear, well-defined highs.
+ Sleek design with luxurious material.
+ Extremely comfortable fit.
+ Ships with two detachable cables, one with an inline remote and microphone for mobile devices.

CONS

- Quite expensive.
- Not for purists seeking a flat response sound signature.

Expert reviews and ratings

By Rtings on April 25, 2017
The Sony MDR-1A are great headphones for neutral listening. They have a well-balanced frequency response that packs enough bass without drowning the instruments and vocals on any track. They're also lightweight and super comfortable so you can have them on for hours and not feel the fatigue that some other headphones induce after a long listening session. However, they have a closed-back design, so they won't have the same ambiance as open headphones, which some neutral listeners are looking for.
75
By PCMag on March 09, 2015
Sony's MDR-1A over-ear headphones are luxurious-feeling, exceptionally comfortable, and deliver top-notch audio performance.
90
By TrustedReviews on January 20, 2015
The Sony MDR-1A are the updated version of the MDR-1R we reviewed a couple of years ago. They’re over-ear, full-size headphones with more than a hint of sophisticated Sony design.
80