Sony MDR-1A Portable Headphone Review

[@XSilvenX]

I purchased these from B&H and I've been using these for over a year now and while they're great sounding headhphones, I won't waste time getting into this, as many other reviewers already have. The reason for this post is the unforgivably cheap wires Sony is pushing out with these. These will 100% DEFINITELY go bad on you if you use these often -- it's just a matter of time. The headphones come with two male-to-male wires; one with a button for smartphone use, and a plain one. The buttoned wire started to short after a few weeks, which forced me to use the plain wire. It was inconvenient as I couldn't control my music without opening my phone, but hey, at least it worked. The plain wire, due to its simplicity lasted a little longer, for a few months, and then eventually went bad as well. I called Sony the first time after both wires went bad and got it resolved. I used my warranty to get a replacement (they replaced the full unit instead of JUST the wires for some reason. Largely unnecessary and a huge waste of resources, but sure, why not..). But a few months later, and unsurprisingly, the exact same thing happened again with the second unit in the same exact order. I've read reviews from others about this exact issue, and stupidly ignored them, to my demise. If you're thinking "oh, this guy is just careless and doesn't know how to take care of things"..NOPE. I take EXCELLENT care of all my products and used these (1) while commuting and (2) at the gym. I never twisted the wires in any odd way, or anything like that, these were simply misleadingly cheap wires. The stinger is this: the second time this happened, I was out of warranty and couldn't have it replaced, so I'm forced to buy their overpriced propriety male-to-male wire just to have music that isn't constantly interrupted by shorts. Thanks Sony =) I imagine if your intention is to keep your head perfectly still (no chance of torsion or twisting of the wires whatsoever, and less wear/tear overall), perhaps in a home studio environment, these will last for you, but if you plan to be walking around AT ALL with these, the natural swinging of the wire will inevitably cause wear, which will damage the wires. Sony does a good job in marketing, making it seem like their wires are excellent quality and durability, but it's entirely misleading. The wires are cheap and extremely susceptible to damage, more than I've seen for any other headphone at this price point. Truly tragic.

[@Leetransform25]

I've had sort of a similar experience. Mine didn't break as quickly, but it was around 6 months when the cable with the remote built in stopped working out of nowhere. Hopefully this isn't how it's like for all of the 1A cables

[@_Takeshi_Kovacs]

all cables die, with every headphone, it's a matter of time

[@user-ik8wd9vm7r]

I tried them today and the mdr-1a are amazing, they are so comfortable and have impeccable sound.

[@darrenjennedy3160]

I'll have to disagree on the bass :\ imo, while the bass has a hump, and it sounds bad with certain kinds of music (I actually enjoy EDM with these), it's farrrr from a deal-breaker. I think the bass isn't that punchy, but more diffused, so it goes well with instruments. I've tried the MSR7, and imo, they lack bass for the music I listen with (mostly edm, pop, and rock), even though the MSR7 has more slam in the bass, it lacks quantity (TO ME. I know a lot of ppl like the MSR7 but this is just my 2 cents). Imo , the Mdr 1A is a headphone that depends on the song you play. Go with pop, and you got yourself a headphone with good bass and vocals, just what pop needs. Go with EDM, sure the bass isn't flat, but sometimes you wanna forget about technicalities and just go with big bass and a heap of fun. Listen to orchestral music, and you got a perfect headphone with big soundstage and liquid mids. In my honest opinion, this is what the 1A was made for. Not for technicalities, but for fun and relaxation of the user. That's why I love these headphones. Only my 2 cents though 😂 PS: These sound way better than bose --" idk how you said bose has more details. Great review though, cheers 🍻

[@stefandebokx7936]

+Darren Jennedy so... skip these and get the Urbanite XL? i listen to EDM but also some vocal stuff so i'm really quite hesitant.

[@AlokSomani]

+Stefan De Bokx I just bought the 1A and owned the Urbanite XL for a little bit before. The Urbanite XL overall sounds better, as you might expect from Sennheiser. Unfortunately, the Urbanite XL wasn't nearly as comfortable because it isn't a true over-ear headphone. For me, it sat half on my ears and half off, which was awkward and ended up putting pressure on certain parts of my ear. That's not to say I'm a big fan of the 1A yet. As Lachlan rightly points out, the 1A is really quite sloppy with the bass. Perhaps sloppy isn't the best word, but it is boomy and unbalanced enough that I catch myself focusing on how distracting the bass is sometimes instead of listening to the music. Everything else about it's sound is pretty good. Detail is good across the frequency range. I've also tried the Bowers & Wilkins P7. I LOVE the sound from those headphones and the build quality is really top-tier, but I couldn't keep it because it simply clamped too hard for me. If you're okay with a fair bit of clamping force, these are the best of the three in my opinion. Detail is a little bit better, music is lively without being too V-shaped, and sound stage is best of the three. $100-150 more, but worth it for the difference in sound and build quality. Unless you care about the shape of your head. These might be tight enough to change the shape a bit.

[@harleysq]

thank you for your insight i was looking for "fun and relaxation"-type headphones while going to work, basically less serious than my setup at home

[@FrankyboyLegend]

Starting with the MDR-100AAP Sony went for slightly brighter sound than before and less bloated bass. As a longtime MSR7 user, 1AM2 seems like a nice middle ground, it is brighter than the originals with a tighter bass that seems to not go quite as low. Then again, Lachlan and some other users still prefer the originals.

[@artofdylan2356]

where did you buy those cute moving thingies behind you?

[@nagasako7]

"I hope senpai notices me" -Sony MDR-1A

[@ricya1982]

+nagasako7 :D

[@DEADLY_HUMAN]

does this have 3.5 mm jack

[@afrog2666]

google

[@SymphonicAngel]

Yah it does have a 3.5mm jack! And you hope senpai notices you? Haha is he Japanese/Australian?

[@SymphonicAngel]

From someone who studies Japanese, I don't think he is!! haha

[@mashikt]

I have had the QC25's and now I own the MDR-1A and the Philips Fidelio X2's. From a comfort perspective I rank the MDR-1A highest. From a sound perspective the X2's are unmatchable, however between the QC25's and the 1A's I find the 1A's to be much much better sounding than the QC25's. With an amp (running Hegel Super) the 1A's just sound really really good, the sounds lifts really to another level.

[@hyborianage2893]

It is one of the few with real leather, extremely soft. It is EQ'd bass heavy and a bit of low pass. It is for hours of listening enjoyment, not for mixing. I personally love them.

[@iMysteryTube]

I love it. I literally took a 24hour total flight (including transfers) from Birmingham to New Zealand. I bought them at the airport and I love it till this day. Out of the 24 hours I would say it was on my head for 20 hours, rarely felt irritated! Best comfortable portable headphone out there! Recommend for long journeys! Noise isolation is bad but it can always be encountered by pumping up the volume :)

[@paragon84]

Does the sound leak much?. I dont want to disturb people on flights while listening

[@brandongoh1797]

i found the older mdr 1r to have a better bass response with a more tight and fast bass although still not perfect. thats why i picked that one up.

[@muneerlyati]

?where did you buy those thingies behind you

[@SolidGold1221]

Thus-far, the most informative review for this product 👍🏾

[@DarkPa1adin]

love your reviews. hope you can make one more section. Application where you talk about where should it be used best... like studio monitoring, travel, home... etc...

[@exsosus5002]

This was hands down the best headphone review I've seen in several years as lachlanlikesathing tested several pairs and commented honestly on his main focus of the Sony heaphones and then quick-comments of side headphones that he also liked. This gave me a much more in-depth review. You have a lot of knowledge about studio headphones. Thank you.

[@exsosus5002]

I know what I'm going to buy after a bit more research... the Bose QC 25's, even though I'm a hardcore Sony-fan.

[@LightOfVoid]

Just subscribed to your channel, been watching a lot of your vids. Keep it up, great reviews!

[@bioshock6935]

Sony mdr 1A is the best headphones i ever owned nice base with no distortion and lightweight and very comfortable and sound great on a cheap small fiio amp. I still use the headphone for over 6 years well made and never had any problems with the sound. Sounds to me your used to tinny sound headphones but i like the low end headphones like the old days back in the 70's when speakers was made for low end for radio and valve tv sets today's headphones are on the high end frequencies lacking in base with to much treble

[@Peter_Cetera]

Except for the much too heavy (if it gets loud, it hurts the ear) bass, these are excellent headphones

[@gummydorky]

Thanks for the lovely review. Appreciate the comparison at the end. I've been trying to push myself into buying the MDR-1R because that comfort is amazingggg. But I couldn't get past the bass issues either. When I heard the 1A was coming out, I figured it'd be better. Shame that isn't the case. Oh well, back to the books :P Cheers for sharing your thoughts :)

[@lachlanlikesathing]

If you want a better version of the 1A sound I think the Beyerdynamic T51P is a good candidate :)

[@HayzerX]

Really nice review of these headphones and a nice review video in general! I happened to get here so many year later because I'm looking for an upgrade from these (preferably still Sony, because its obvious they can do better, but they just HAVE to keep 1 arm behind their back while doing it). I've had the MDR-1A now a little over 3 years, used almost every day (many many hours), structurally tip-top condition (glad there is some metal in there), only had to swap the pads. In general I really struck a good place with these, since I listen to mellow melodic bass-heavy DNB a lot. But even so, from the start, I felt the bass was a bit off. It just felt like its not all there. Personally I don't mind that it has comparatively weaker mid and high, I actually prefer this type of hugging of sounds around my head and if I really cared for them, I can always adjust them higher externally. Anyway, coming back to Sony doing things worse on purpose, do you have any thoughts about the MDR-1AM2? Their full plastic build, lower impedance, ~different pads, perhaps reduced bass :( as I've read). I keep looking at MDR-Z7M2 but it has a price I can't think is worthy (maybe I'll convince myself otherwise). It definitely would need to have a build quality that would last (will check your review on them a bit later). Don't yet know if Sony is planning on any new MDR-1AM3 for example :D but I'm getting more and more eager to seek for a replacement. ~~~~another topic, an example what Sony does~~~~ Sony phones have this Music app that used to have a very good equalizer which oddly enough matched really well with the MDR-1A headphones. The app has received several updates, ALL of which are downgrades of the app (removing features, including the equalizer). Even though I bought the Xperia 5 II, it still isn't enough of a premium for them to give me a proper sound tools. I can only think they are doing it to keep their Walkman product line meaningful. It is sad to watch.

[@dynamic-audio]

Hi Excuse me. Could you tell me what is the exactly diffference or improvement against the mdr 1r?

[@brianstallings4252]

I will definitely be ordering the MDR 1A, especially since I already own the Sony MDR 1AM 2. I Definitely want to try these, and I also want to try the MDR 1A DAC as well.

[@ahmedalshaiba9185]

Great review as usual, I was thinking about getting this headphones but then sony released the MDR-1ADAC, it would be great if you could make a review of the MDR-1ADAC Thanks.

[@larsgrissellchristensen2669]

Cool review. I bought these a few months back, and I actually prefer them over my B&O H6 headphones - the sound is much richer and fuller.

[@KTZ_86]

This is so strange. I like your videos, appreciate the effort and everything, however when it comes to reviews, or more exactly personal opinion, we couldn't be more far apart :)) Most of the headphones you liked were (although technically good and precise) uncomfortable to listen to by me after more than 30 mins (tiring sound). After trying a bunch of headphones I ended up getting these. I listen to music a lot at the office (3-4 hours a day). This was the only headphone that had a lean enough sound, and, ironically, especially a lean bass (vs msr7 and momentum 2.0, my other 2 options) to not feel the need to pause the music after a few tens of minutes. The momentum 2.0 were not as bearable but ok, however the msr7's sibilance and way too tight and punchy (right in the ear drums) bass was horrible for me. And I mostly listen to electronic music. Of course a big factor was the fact that they are way more comfortable, but the others were quite ok, especially the momentum 2.0, which feel more premium and I wanted to love, but couldn't get my ears to love them more than the mdr 1a. I guess for each his own taste, but the bass was precisely one of the most comfortable aspects for my ears (while listening to e-music) about these.

[@avishekghatak2176]

these are considered very strong and heavy bass not lean at all. but yeah I love them.

[@adilsokolovic12]

Your reviews are the most accurate! Sub!

[@harpreetkanwar]

M50x sounds too v shaped and lacks the sound stage of the MSR 7. Got the MSR7 and sent the M50x back ! In love with my new purchase !

[@AnimalzyNL]

How would you compare this to the ath m50x? I can get both for about the same price, so that isnt an issue. I wanna use them for casual music listening and i like bass.

[@Hermanbey]

I bought these for 149 dollars. wow its just amazin for the price. I tested these against the more expensive momentum 2.0 and i think the sony was more comfortable and had a deeper bass...

[@sushantgore3806]

Excellent review ! I love how you are fair to the Bose QC25's and don't bash them out of prejudice.

[@ultracelestial]

Did you use changeable cables from Kimber Kable? Sony MUC-S12SM1 or MUC-S30UM1? They make sound more clear in mid freq and high freq, and reduce bass.

[@Turbopummel]

I can currently pick up the MDR-1A for US-$110 on Amazon Germany. No-brainer for the price? Even though it has the problems with the base? Intended use is everyday PC-usage: Gaming, Movies, Music.

[@andrewedwards2869]

+TurboPummel I own a pair and love them. really comfy and the sound is really good. at 110 its a fucking steal

[@mojiaxuan]

Actual I am looking forward to see your review of Sony MDR-1ABT, since it's more portable than Sony MDR-1A with LDAC bt technique. I'm thinking about buying one of these but not enough review of MDR-1ABT videos can be found online...

[@shonen84]

Interestingly, the 2012 Momentum V1 is the same price as this 2014 MDR-1A.

[@tahmiduddin1162]

Ive always wanted to know whether to get these or the m50x as i do want to use either headphones for games and music. What would be the better headphone if i listen to :rap, grime, edm?(trap nation etc) and pop?

[@haustreviance]

M50x are pretty bad for gaming.

[@bemorewantless]

I'm wondering what you would think of the MDR-1ADAC and MDR-1ABT. I've been listening to the MDR-1ABT over the last week and I'm wondering if they've tuned up the bass at all, since I find them a bit different than your description of the 1A. What I found really bizarre about the MDR-1ABT is that I can hear electrical noise from the Bluetooth unit within the headphones. Even with no music playing or device connected, it's as if a dog whistle is being blown into my ears every few seconds. It's atrocious to me, however I'd like to hear what you think of them.

[@AdrianIII]

Thanks, Lachlan. Where's the in-depth review of the ATH-R70X?

[@ajk227]

i tried these along with a load of others at a retail store in the uk and i got to say these sounded the best. the Sennheissers and Beats along with the Bose i tried all sounded basey ,and didn't have anything diffrent .when i was listening to different types of music i could clearly tell the diffrence between the instruments sound voices etc with the others it was generic and they all sounded the same.

[@systembooms69]

Nice review ! Could you tell me, please, if the earpads are replaceable ?Thnx !

[@omCi]

Great videos. I just learned more about headphones that I ever wanted too :). I do have unrelated question though. Can you tell me where did you get those blue and red bubbleheads in the background. I really want a pair for my office :). Thanks.

[@RAMtrails]

Excellent review!!!!!

[@hippolee2010]

will you do a review of the new mdr-100aap? I am trying to decide which ones I should buy: mdr-100aap or the ath-msr7. I will use them mostly at home. any suggestions?

[@carlosdarwin9324]

Can you please help me? I'm looking for a pair of closed back headphones to use with mobile devices that feature a wide and clear sounstage in which I can locate the sounds, a detailed punchy bass, good for movies and also including a relaxing sound for certain ocassions. Comfort and sound isolation is something I'd like to have. Under $200, I am between the Takstar Pro 80, JVC HA-RX700, Creative Aurvana Live!2 or the Logitech UE 6000. Are the Beyerdynamic Custom One Pros worth the $200?. If you have any other suggestions please answer below.

[@gabrielmiranda1470]

Carlos Darwin not to be rude, but I'd most likely cross out ALL of those headphones out of your list. I've also been searching for headphones for some time now, but here are the ones that might fit your bill along with some pros and cons. MDR-1A: pros- comfort, smoothness, design. cons - mid bass hump, flabby bass. MSR7: pros - very neutral, female vocals standout, LOTS OF DETAIL, design cons - clamping force, treble can get fatiguing, instruments lack warmth and may sound a little synthetic. NAD Viso HP50 (This shouldn't really be here since it's too expensive lol.): pros - lots of accessories, bang for buck, exceptional midrange. cons - couldn't really think of any except for the design. Panasonic RP HD10: pros - cheaper than the ones I mentioned above, ??? cons - ??? Ok, this item is a little bit obscure, and there are few english reviews out there but from what I've heard it's better than both the mdr-1a and msr7 at least on the german site I found it on. Yes the MDR-1A is a bit over your budget, well all of them are, but if you click the new tab/button? in amazon they usually sell it at $195-225.

[@BreadShuttIe]

im trying to buy a new headphone. between the mdr1a and qc15 which would you recommend? I already have a senn hd558 and am looking for a different spectrum headphone

[@AdrianIII]

I'm not interested in flabby bass. Will we be seeing your in-depth review of the ATH R70X soon? Thanks!

[@Tolga819]

Thanks for great reviews! Are you planning to review Denon AH-MM400? I'm really into buying one but first i wan't your opinion on those compared to mdr-1a, mdr-z7, philips a5pro...it's just very hard to decide you know? :)

[@hunterross9615]

I am in a predicament, I want the highest quality headphone for portable use on Spotify and SoundCloud along with Pandora; but not have it be a high resolution headset. I fear the quality of the recordings will make me not pleased with the end result of the headphone. I was looking at the m100 and the Sennheiser momentum 2.0. What are your thoughts on this? And if you think the recordings will be high enough quality, what high resolution headphones would you suggest for around the $250 range? Thanks, another great video, liked and subbed

[@Z3Chosen1]

What did you choose

[@jayZjamesvi]

There are people who would get a headache or feel nauseous (people like me) if the lowest region of the bass is too prominent. Brown noise much? I think this headphone would be for them. I bought the first gen Sennheiser Momentums and I was feeling sick everyday! I kept on using it for about a month but I always feel like I'm about to vomit after 1 hr of listening. lol

[@jovanconnery3333]

Lachlan, i recently got the MDR-1ABT and i would love to see ur opinion on it because i really want a professional opinion about it because i couldnt find a review yet online. so could u pls consider making a review or at least checking it out if u get the chance? thanks alot

[@trikolpona]

Any chance you would review Shure SE535? I tested SE535 with fiio E12A from minidisc showroom. It sounded really good, nice all around range, specially the lower base sounded really good because of fiio E12A. I really want to buy it, but i want to know your opinion about it. Thanks.

[@Chris-ie2yd]

Does your pair also make a lot of "plasticky" noises, when turning the earcups and just handling them in general?

[@neosasuke7]

Hi lachlan, what are the most comfortable lightweight headphones with low clamping pressure you would recommend under £150? (I have jaw pains with my hyperx cloud 2) Generally for music (kpop, anime, edm, piano), gaming, films etc at home. Maybe the Bose ae2, Audio Technica ath-m30x/40x/50x or the Sony mdr 10rc?

[@nashpantheron]

I got an offer for well-condition used MDR-1A for roughly $75, and also pinky red h.ear on MDR-100AAP (wired version) for about $62. Which one will you prefer me to get ya mate? Thanks for any input. I am really torn between the two models, I will be using them with my Ipod Touch 5th as my main source only for everyday casual music listening at home. More tracks like metal, rock, dance, hip-hop across my playlist.

[@hotwaffles5897]

So I got the Vmoda M-100 Crossfade, Bose QC25, and the Audio Technica m50x. The M-100 is (for me) my favorite cuz it's fun sounding xD clear while still having great bass. So should I ALSO get this Sony Mdr-1a headphone? Or will it be a waste of money considering I got other headphones around the same price range? I want something cleaner than my M-100s while still having that punch I want from the bass and I was thinking Mdr-1a. Is that a good choice? :/ I don't wanna spend like $300 and be fuqin disappointed if u know what I mean .-.

[@felixcayetuna2744]

Hi Lachlan. I'm curious if at this point, would you choose Sony's MDR1R over the 1A, given that the 1R can be had for about $175 (if you can still find it, of course) ? Thanks again for the wonderful review!

[@lachlanlikesathing]

Eh they both don't isolate well, I really wouldn't go for either.

[@felixcayetuna2744]

Right. Well, MSR7 it is!! Thank you again!

[@gummydorky]

Meant to be studying for exams Notification: lachlanlikesathing has a new video ...GODDAMIT! Y u make me choose?!

[@riccardoscalzi18]

According to sound quality, which do you think is better between these and the Bose QC25? I can get them for about the same price.

[@trillianhimu]

Ián how are you, i want to ask if you still own the surface pro 3, after this months do you still recommend to buy it? Thank you very much

[@RedPanda555]

Great review, you articulate your points well! I'm interested in the wireless 1ABT version, have you tried these before? Any thoughts? cheers mate.

[@christiaanboes2177]

Can you help me with this. I'm quite the musicfan and I listen to music all the time. I cant decide between the Sony MDR 1A and the Audio Technica M50x. I'm an alround music listener.. dubstep hardstyle (so I like bass) but also rock and relaxing music (bon jovi, green day) (kygo, milky chance). I need a headphone which is good for all musictypes. I dont know which one of these is better for me.

[@xXRoyTennisAcerXx]

Thanks for such a great review! I got the MDR-1R a few months ago and I would say I do like these headphones. But to me, the MDR-1R doesn't have enough bass for the music I like to listen to such as Rock, EDM, Rap, and Pop. I do like all the mid and high frequencies but I find the bass to be lacking that I want more boom to exist on the lower end. So my question for you is, if I don't think the bass is enough in the MDR-1R, are the Sony MDR-1A headphones well worth considering? Thanks.

[@lachlanlikesathing]

RoyalHawke No, I think you would be better off with the V-Moda M100 or the Audio Technica ATH-M50x :)

[@xXRoyTennisAcerXx]

***** Out of the two, which one has the ability to be sharp all round from the lower end to the treble? Which one is better in that regard?

[@lachlanlikesathing]

RoyalHawke The M50x is the sharper listen in the treble. Sometimes too sharp for some people.

[@xXRoyTennisAcerXx]

Awesome! And even better news for you. I just demoed the Audio Technica M50x at my local Guitar Center since they had them available in store and they let me open the box to listen to them. After listening to some electronic, rock, pop, and rap music, these are amazing. I'm considering that I sell my Sony MDR-1R and put that towards the M50x because the Audio-Technica M50x blows the Sony's out of water. Everything is tack sharp in the mids and treble, and the bass is just enough where it does enough bang that doesn't ruin the entire sound spectrum. I listened to the V-Moda Crossfade M-100 at GC as well and it was a bit much bass for me and the associates at GC told me that they're more for DJs that have the preference for the boomy baseline and super high frequencies in the treble region. So after careful review for myself, thanks to your great reviews and the opportunity to listen to highly-articulated headphones in the M50x, I will buy them without hesitation! You're very helpful, keep up the good work :D

[@lachlanlikesathing]

RoyalHawke No worries, I'm so glad you found what you were looking for :D enjoy them!

[@lekhang8696]

Thank you for your review. I've watched reviews from your channel a lot, great reviews with lots of details. By the way, can you make a review for the Sony MDR ZX770. I think this pairs of headphone are quite new and seem to have the same price with the MDR 10R. Again, thank you very much

[@lachlanlikesathing]

Le Khang I don't think it's in Australia yet but I'll check em out!

[@paulmon4077]

What about replaceable parts, cable, ear cushions, etc?

[@xxflavioxx]

I bought the ADH-MSR7 recently, and i think it's pretty tight on my head and that the audio is too high. I am thinking in changing to this Sony MDR-1A. Can someone help me, is it worth it, is it better?

[@xxflavioxx]

Actually, it's between the MSR7 and the Sony MDR-1A/SQ(E).

[@MrBurdUsername]

Flavio Rodrigues Innerfidelity has some info on it in his msr7 youtube review or his website. Forgot which one. He definitely mentions the Sony. the mdr 1r but potato potahto

[@2smakosz]

@lachlanlikesathing Nice video! But can't wait for a r70x review. When approximately are you gonna upload this one?

[@lachlanlikesathing]

BadApplePL I feel like it would be maybe 3-4 weeks before I get to the R70x...

[@chadtamayo1714]

So you'll give the 1a 6 months until you review it but you'll only give 2 months to the r70x

[@AdrianIII]

***** Eagerly waiting!!! Thanks, Lachlan. Since you've already done a preview, I hope the in-depth review of the R70X will be ALL ABOUT SOUND QUALITY!!! Thanks again!

[@kimorsa]

Nice detailed review! Really in-dept info right there I'm trying to find a pair of headphones/earphones to replace my Shure SE215 that : sub-300 usd (preferably sub-250) superbly comfortable; (I owned ATH Pro700MkII, which is a pain in the ass after half an hour) portable enough to carry them on transits; (I want to use both on trains/buses and work) fairly balanced, warm, little bit boosted in bass that are suitable for both Sinatra-ish as well as Daft Punk-ish My candidates now : These MDR-1A, ATH MSR7, Shure SE425 I know the MDR-1A's bass is quite a mess, but its warmth and thick sound keeps making me visit it again and again Any suggestions? I am really considering the MDR-1A right now.

[@louisphutirat4450]

Is this worth the $100 over Status Audio CB-1s or Audio Technica ATH-M40X(with good pads) to be used for all purposes-monitoring and music listening?

[@odotec]

thx for the review. If I understand correctly, there is no reason to upgrade my MDR-1R's. Got some Teufel Real Z now for more dynamic and bassy listening experience :-)

[@lioneldeliz7053]

Which one is better when it come to Music sound and Movie sound? Thank you Audio Technica ATH-MSR7 vs Sony MDR-1ABT

[@MaciejF]

from my experiance they sound better with Galaxy S7 than with dac/amp Fiio E17K connected to PC, because of bass that is way too extended, and unpleasent. So it looks like they are intentionally tunned for mobile. But when you equalize a bit, bass -2 for Rock Music, or -4 for Electronic, then 1A become excellent sounding headphones on Fiio, cloud of bass dissapears. Did you test them with your phone, or only with O2?

[@zeta7643]

the review i was looking for, i had the M100 and want to change, but i will buy another ones again... after 5 years

[@chinocracy]

Which of them sounds closer to the Superlux 669 that I'm using?

[@vaamorais]

Hi Thank you for your informative review. A quick question, is it possible and also is it worth getting a balanced cable for these headphones to use on a portable hd audio player? Thank you

[@biribobili]

Hi, I'm looking for some comfortable headphones, ideally without too much leakage. I really like the MDR 1A, but I read some comments that they leak sound a lot. What would you recommend? I like the QC25, but they're about 75% more expensive than the Sonys for me. Also considering the Beyer DT770.

[@ghoastar]

I heard there is barely any leakage on the DT770s, but the Sony's don't leak either. Choose between those.

[@realaudioreviews]

If you ever get a chance try out the shure se846, it out performs my hd600s! But its very expensive obviosly... i will post a review up soon

[@wawaweewarice5302]

He tried them before

[@lachlanlikesathing]

AudioReviews ***** It was okay. I wouldn't pay a kilobuck for them. Haven't tried them extensively so I can't really elaborate more extensively than that.

[@realaudioreviews]

It takes 3-5 hours to get used to the sound of the balanced armatures. However these are really coherent. If you get a good deal on them they are well worth it. I don't even use my open back headphones anymore. The sound signature is perfect and it's perfect for me, glad I found my end game in iems.

[@EllieDeeLight]

what are those slots at the top at 3:35?

[@SymphonicAngel]

I remember watching one of your reviews before I purchased the MDR 1R a few years ago and I didn't agree with the review at all to the point of being a little fanboyish... Though I still support all Sony products and all of my electronics are Sony, I think this review was very accurate!! Nothing is ever perfect and the amount of noise that you can hear when listening to these really does bother me, but at the same time they sound great and look great, also very comfortable... So I guess that is the payoff for the outside noise interference. And Sony should sue Audio Technica for that design!! Hahaha

[@Z3Chosen1]

Beside the leaking noise how good is the sound quality? Does it bring out new parts of your music?

[@seankalimi]

I like the way you review headphones, Can you do a review of the MDR 7506, I would really appreciate your opinion on that headphone.

[@KurtKloetentreter]

i would really like to get these, they look amazing and i tried them on and they sounded great. but i do listen to a lot of electronic/ bass heavy music and u made me not so sure abut it :D i mean they only cost 170 but i am a bass lover, but also wanna use my headphones for gaming on pc.

[@Maximius38]

hope that it's not too late... try this sony: Sony MDR XB950BT EXTRA BASS.... no headphones can give u satisfaction better than this sony (the best headphone that beat by dre ever made included) for bass, and gaming (especially FPS) if u don't have enough money, try this 1: Sony MDR-XB950AP/H (difference is that this 1 are not wireless, only 1 color -gray-) thank me later XD

[@KurtKloetentreter]

Dem Haitam i know the 950bts lol im deciding whether i want these or the 950s

[@Maximius38]

xSixtyyy if only for bass heavy music, u'll regret ur choice if u buy the MDR 1A vs the 950's

[@Bram25]

I had the 1R. Got it as a preorder bonus with a Sony Xperia Z. Had it for 4 years until it died 3 weeks ago.... :(

[@87Aequitas]

i agree with the Bass is kind of lil flubby, i compared it with my beyerdynamic DT 1770 PRO but they cost also the double ...!

[@catha86]

I have been waiting for you to do a review of these for like 1 month+, glad it finally came and that only one day after my purchase of these. I haven´t got them yet but they will be mine next week. Looking forward to it. They have got great great reviews but you are one of them I trust the most and this makes me very disappointed. Hopefully I like them anyway. I got them for 50% of the original price so I won´t complain too much unless I hate them. I still can return them so looking forward to test them out.

[@lachlanlikesathing]

Leon For 50%, you probably got a good deal! Just be prepared not to be totally keen on the noise isolation.

[@DarEmper0r]

***** Hi lachlan. Do u know how well these geadphones would work for electro/trance/dubstep compared to other pairs? Some people say they like the sound quality of these much better than other headphones, but clearly u beg to differ. What is ur opinion? (I dont care about price as long as the headphones are below 300 us dollars)

[@DarEmper0r]

***** the noise isolation also seems to work really well for me, and the soundstage is INCREDIBLE

[@TomasHolik]

Hi thank you for great review I had a Panasonic RP-HD10E for better price than this Sony and also with 50mm drivers! I think the music reproduction is on very high level. What you think about these ones? Thanks.

[@GodrixXx]

what about Focal Listen vs MDR-1A vs MSR7 ? time to review the Listen lachlan

[@AdrianIII]

Lachlan - Do you do any burn-in time on the headphones you review? I used to think that burn-in was BS. However, my recent experience with the Philips Fidelio X2 changed my mind. After 100 hours, they sound amazingly better than they did right out of the box. Try it, you might like it!

[@lachlanlikesathing]

I don't generally believe that burn in makes a significant audible difference in sound, but I do review my headphones after a long period of time using them. I think people take time to get used to a new pair of headphones just like a new pair of glasses.

[@AdrianIII]

Yeah. I know about "brain burn-in." My Fidelio X2 experience was so striking, it's hard for me to believe that it's all in my brain. Haha! I am glad that you are able to use the headphones a long time, before posting a review. I'm sure that's why we are still waiting on your in-depth review of the ATH-R70X. That's the right way to do it! Thanks for responding to my question. Looking forward to the next review!!

[@rosscorascal3039]

Hey great videos ! Have you ever encountered the Sony MDR-XB500 ? If so what's your thoughts on them? Thanks

[@v1deo.hunter.d317]

They are awesome !

[@punkmanmatthew]

You should review the Yamaha MT220. I think it's kind of similar to the ATH MSR7 and this one you review in sound. I think it's a headphone that should be more popular that it is.

[@edenfrawley9247]

Yay. An Australian reviewer. I'm Australian. I'm on the Gold Coast/QLD

[@leninreddy]

whats the difference bw MDR1R , MDR1R MK2. MDR1A ?is it true that the MDR1RBT sound quality is lesser than MDR1R ?

[@stepanflorus7951]

Hi, i would like to ask you, if you think IT IS worth to upgrade frome mdr-1a to Shure SHR-1540. Im listening mainly to classic music, dubstep and hiphop. I would like to use my shure on the go (especially on the train, Im travelling alot). Or is there better option to upgrade then Shure? My budget is 800$

[@gturismo]

Oppo PM3 or Meze 99 Classics. Both warm and neutral headphones. Check out the Audeze Sine or Beyerdynamic T5i for on ear headphones.

[@danieljohnford9939]

What do you mean by "lowest registration of bass". Dude, be specific of what frequency you're talking about. I owned many headphones from different brands. I would say the balance of bass, mids, and treble in this headphone is superior than the MSR7 and M50x.

[@Minwol]

Daniel JohnFord These are more bassy and not balanced. M50x are less sub bassy with more detail and the low midrange is also recessed like the 1A.

[@markomaximuss]

can you please tell me what to chose between MDR-100AAP , MDR-1AB or MDR-XB950BT

[@indratjen5385]

Hi laclan,if i have decent soundcard and amplifier for my computer(it is said that 115dB SNR and amplifier which is able to drive 600Ω), then which one is more recomended, Sony MDR-1A or Audio Technica ATH-MSR7? Im newbie in audio, i just want good sound for games,movies,and music sorry for my bad english

[@kapilbusawah7169]

Well that's easy. ATH all the way for that. Note though they won't be fantastic for well other stuff the MDR does rather fantastically. Such as living with it. I use mine for gym, for walks, for jogs (yes they even stay on my head while jogging) and general moving from A to B. I love living with mine though I do clean it a lot with a microfibre clothe because the gauze collects grains of debris from the environment (it's supposed to do that for speaker protection ). Also keep in mind I have the older out dates ones, the MDR-1RBT and these ones are better than the ones I've lived with for 2 years. Then again I've been living with mine not being passive such as the conditions you mention. For your conditions I definitely also recommend open back headphones granted in a quiet environment.

[@cristiansandica1410]

I have the AudioTechnica m50x right now, but I'm trying to upgrade somehow.. what do you recommend for under 300 us dollars?

[@sagar4080]

+Cristian Sandica Buy Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 if your ears are of average build as it won't fit everybody.

[@gdmanen]

hey um, a gamer here :D how is the microphone, like is it allright or do you have to like hold it aginst your mouth for it for people to hear ya ? would like to know bcs my headset just broke ;-; haha

[@caoYB]

what do you think about the 1adac?

[@borisahsmann7190]

Which headphones would you recommend if you like the MDR-1A a lot, but want an open pair of headphones?

[@kapilbusawah7169]

Any openback headphones. If you can go for the Sennhiser

[@gturismo]

Fidelio X2 fun and bassy

[@zeppelin1qaz]

Great review.

[@ATechie]

Any chance you will review the Xiaomi Piston 3.0?

[@dominok_]

Could you please do a review on the Sony MDR-100AAP.

[@duy418]

So would you rather have the 1R or 1A in the end?

[@lachlanlikesathing]

I think I'd still prefer to have the 1A, it's just a little disappointing.

[@shinyskuntank1749]

Best headphones KZbin so much details ❤️❤️❤️❤️