TechTrending
Sony revives MDR-3 Walkman headphones with USB-C
Sony has released the MDR-3R wired headphones, a modern version of the 1979 MDR-3 Walkman headphones, with a USB-C connector and a $60 price.
In brief
- Sony released the MDR-3R wired headphones for $60.
- The headphones revive the 1979 MDR-3 Walkman design with a USB-C connector.
- They use the same 23 mm driver units as the original and include an in-line remote and microphone.
- A Stranger Things edition costs $79.99 and features red and black ear cushions.
Product details
Sony has brought back the MDR-3-series headphones that debuted in 1979 alongside the Walkman TPS-L2 cassette player. The new MDR-3R headphones look like the originals and come with orange and blue ear cushions. They continue the wired tradition of the MDR-3 with a USB-C connector. The headphones are available for $60.
Design and features
The MDR-3R uses the same 23 mm driver units as the MDR-3 to reproduce sound quality close to the original. Unlike the original, the MDR-3R has an in-line remote control and an integrated microphone. It does not have noise canceling, so the microphone is not ideal for calls in noisy environments. The headphones do not fold and do not come with a carrying case.
Why it matters
The release may capitalize on renewed interest in wired headphones and physical media. Today’s Walkmans are Android-powered, touchscreen media players rather than cassette players.
Sources
- arstechnica.com: Sony revives the original Walkman headphones, adds USB-C - Ars Technica
- mashable.com: Hands-on: Sony MDR-3R headphones modernize an '80s classic | Mashable
This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.
Questions readers ask
- What is the new model name of the revived Sony headphones?
- The new model is called the MDR-3R.
- When did the original MDR-3 series debut?
- The original MDR-3 series debuted in 1979.
- What is the price of the new MDR-3R headphones?
- The headphones are available for $60.
- What type of connector do the new MDR-3R headphones use?
- The MDR-3R headphones feature a USB-C connector.
- Does the new MDR-3R have noise canceling capabilities?
- No, the headphones do not have noise canceling.
The day's checked news, by email
One short email a day with the top stories. Free, and you can unsubscribe in one click.
Or follow for the latest news:
Advertisement
How do you feel about this story?
Comments 0
No comments yet. Start the discussion.
More Tech stories
UK government considers restricting smart glasses over secret filming concerns
The UK government is weighing limits on where smart glasses can be used and who can buy them after concerns about covert filming of women. Safeguarding minister Satvir Kaur said options are already being examined.
Checked against 4 sourcesThe Guardianmezha.netua.news+1 more
US Lawmakers Ask Nvidia CEO to Brief Congress on China Ties
Three House Republican committee chairs have requested a closed-door briefing with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang on November 18, 2026, over reported contacts with an executive suspected of links to Chinese intelligence.
Checked against 3 sourcestechtimes.co.ukbignewsnetwork.comjang.com.pk