In context: Studio headphones should deliver accurate sound, making the work of engineers and music creators easier. Sony is now introducing a new premium studio-grade headset, providing creators with a reference-quality audio experience, even outside the typical studio setting.Sony’s new MDR-M1 headphones offer studio-quality sound at a premium
Sony has introduced a new pair of headphones specifically designed for musicians and sound engineers. The MDR-M1 Reference Closed Monitor Headphones deliver clear, accurate sound, with features aimed at recreating a studio-quality environment anywhere. Sony is positioning these as a potential replacement for the highly regarded MDR-7506, a staple in audio professionals’ studios since the early 90s. However, while the 7506s still cost less than $100 and offer excellent sound, the new monitors are priced at more than twice that amount.
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The new cans feature a closed acoustic design for high sound isolation, an exclusively developed driver, and a lightweight, comfortable build. While ideal for a wide range of music production tasks, the MDR-M1 should also appeal to audiophiles, thanks to their high-resolution audio capabilities.
Sony has developed a “carefully tuned” acoustic structure that enables ultra-wideband playback, ranging from 5Hz to 80kHz. A soft edge design enhances low-frequency response with reduced distortion, while a hard dome shape ensures accurate reproduction of ultra-high frequencies. The MDR-M1’s closed acoustic structure also helps block ambient noise and prevent sound leakage.
“Each note can be carefully tuned and monitored to support accuracy and authenticity of the creator,” Sony stated.
The company developed the headset with direct feedback from some of the top sound engineers in the industry. Mastering engineer Mike Piacentini of Battery Studios described the MDR-M1 as a “great entry point” for music creators interested in audio quality and providing an authentic listening experience for end users.
Berklee NYC recording and mixing engineer Akihiro Nishimura praised the MDR-M1’s tonal balance, stating that wearing the headphones feels like listening to audio through a control room headset. He also noted that the headphones are comfortable enough not to cause distractions during long recording sessions.
“The tonal balance of the MDR-M1 feels very close to the impression of Power Station’s Studio A control room,” Nishimura said. “The comfortable design also helps us focus on the music during long sessions. I hope the MDR-M1 becomes the standard monitoring system for recording sessions.”
The MDR-M1 headset is already available for preorder through Sony’s online store or Amazon. The MSRP is $250, which is similar to other high-quality headsets, but again, much more expensive than the old school MDR-7506. The package includes two cables and support for Sony’s 360 Virtual Mixing Environment 3D sound service.Sony’s new MDR-M1 headphones offer studio-quality sound at a premium
Users on a budget should check out our feature article featuring our best headphone picks. Personally, I’m very fond of my Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones. They are incredibly comfortable, even during long Elden Ring sessions.
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