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Image © AmazonSony Mdr-Mv1
At a glance
- Brand
- Sony
- Type
- Over-Ear
- Fit
- open
- Connection
- Wireless
- Noise cancelling
- No
- Released
- 2023
Score breakdowngood overall
Sound7.7
Value6.9
The HearWiki takeAI-condensed
The Sony MDR-MV1 is an open-back, wired studio headphone designed for critical listening and monitoring, featuring a 40mm dynamic driver and a lightweight 223g build. It delivers a neutral, highly detailed sound with spacious imaging and impressive comfort for long sessions, though its presentation is more analytical than fun. Its 6.35mm connector and balanced support make it a solid choice for studio use, while the lack of wireless or ANC features keeps it focused on pure performance.
What works
- Neutral and accurate sound reproduction
- Extremely comfortable for extended wear
- Spacious open-back soundstage
- Good bass extension for an open design
- Lightweight at 223 grams
What doesn't
- Wired only with 6.35mm connector
- No noise cancellation or wireless features
- Sound may lack punch and drive
- Requires a proper amp for best results
Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.
Specifications
| Driver | 2× 40 mm dynamic |
|---|---|
| Driver type | dynamic |
| Drivers per side | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz - 80 kHz |
| Sound signature | neutral |
| Impedance | 24 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB/mW |
Audio
| Driver | 2× 40 mm dynamic |
|---|---|
| Driver type | dynamic |
| Drivers per side | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz - 80 kHz |
| Sound signature | neutral |
| Impedance | 24 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB/mW |
Wireless
| Multipoint pairing | No |
|---|
Battery
| Wireless charging | No |
|---|
Features
| Active noise cancelling | No |
|---|---|
| Controls | buttons |
Design
| Weight | 223 g |
|---|---|
| Water resistance | none |
| Detachable cable | Yes |
| USB-C | No |
| Connector | 6.35 mm |
| Balanced connection | Yes |
Where to buy
Retailers we matched to this exact model. Prices are periodic snapshots - the link always opens the retailer's current listing.
What the reviews said
5 source(s) feeding this product's score.
What YouTube reviewers say
Video reviews we found, each condensed to its verdict. They do feed the HearWiki score, at a measured weight below what a published written review carries.
The consensus
Positiveacross 6 videosReviewers agree the Sony MDR-MV1 is an exceptionally lightweight and comfortable open-back headphone with a clear, well-separated sound that works well for both professional mixing and casual listening.
Reviewers liked
- Extremely lightweight and comfortable
- Clear, well-separated sound with strong bass
- Precise imaging and fast performance
- Easy to drive without an amp
Reviewers flagged
- Plasticky build for the price
- No carrying case or Bluetooth included
- Treble can be uneven or bright
- Unforgiving with poorly mixed tracks
27:54Sony MDR-MV1 REVIEW! Future legend?
The reviewer finds the Sony MDR-MV1 to be a highly comfortable and lightweight open-back headphone with a surprisingly bassy V-shaped sound signature that remains clear and well-separated. While the build feels plasticky for the price and the included cable is too long for portable use, the overall sound quality and comfort make it a strong contender in its price range, though not without some compromises.
PositiveWatch on YouTube
9:59Revealing my NEW pro headphones! Sony MDR MV1 review
The reviewer praises the Sony MDR-MV1 as an excellent pair of professional open-back headphones, highlighting their flat yet engaging sound, extreme comfort, and lightweight design. He argues they are a strong alternative to consumer noise-cancelling models for those who don't need wireless features, though he notes the lack of a case and Bluetooth as minor drawbacks.
PositiveWatch on YouTube
9:59Sony MDR-MV1 Review - Best Headphone for Mixing Under $500?
The reviewer finds the Sony MDR-MV1 to be an excellent, affordable mixing headphone with an articulate and energetic sound signature, though not truly neutral. It offers exceptional comfort, precise imaging, and a fast performance, making it a strong alternative to classics like the DT 1990 for both professional and casual use.
PositiveWatch on YouTube
5:41Sony MDR-MV1 Review! Are these the best Headphones Money can buy? | The Gadget Show
The reviewer finds the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones to be very enjoyable for listening, especially for those interested in 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos. They praise the wide soundstage and precise separation, though note a brighter treble emphasis and some practical limitations like lack of Bluetooth and a carrying case. Overall, they believe these could become classic headphones.
PositiveWatch on YouTube
6:22Why Can’t XM6 Sound Like This? | Sony MDR-MV1 Review
The reviewer, who typically dislikes Sony headphones and V-shaped sound, was pleasantly surprised by the MDR-MV1. They praise its lightweight, comfortable build and its energetic yet controlled V-shaped tuning, which they find exciting for music, movies, and games, though they note it may not suit those preferring a neutral or warmer sound. They highly recommend it as a fun, affordable open-back option.
PositiveWatch on YouTube
3:33The Game Changer | Sony MDR-MV1 Review
The reviewer finds the Sony MDR-MV1 to be an excellent, revealing reference headphone for professional mixing and mastering, praising its honesty and precision. However, he notes that it is unforgiving with poorly mixed tracks and not ideal for casual listening enjoyment.
PositiveWatch on YouTube
Summaries are AI condensations of each video's own conclusion, not transcripts. Titles, thumbnails and view counts belong to their channels.
What owners say
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