Sony has revived the headphones associated with its first Walkman, bringing the 1979 MDR-3 design into the USB-C era. The new MDR-3R adds a USB-C connection, an inline microphone and a wired remote while retaining the lightweight open-ear form of the original.
The original MDR-3 launched alongside the TPS-L2 Walkman in 1979. Sony has kept the new model close to that design, including blue and orange earpads that can be swapped between sides. Its packaging and user manual also draw on the original release.
Sony is using 23mm drivers, matching the size used in the 1979 headphones. The company says it has preserved the character of the original sound while making minor adjustments for current listening preferences.
As wired USB-C headphones, the MDR-3R do not require charging, Bluetooth pairing or software updates. The inline mic and remote add support for calls and basic cable-mounted controls on compatible devices.
Sony is also offering an MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition based on the headphones worn by Max in the Netflix series. It has red and black earpads, an engraved Stranger Things logo and custom packaging. In the US, the standard MDR-3R is priced at $59.99, while the Stranger Things Edition costs $79.99; availability in other markets was not specified.
