Sony
Sony MDR-MV1 Open-Back Studio Monitor Headphones
Best open-back headphones for professional audio mixing and mastering.
Immerse yourself in studio-grade sound with the Sony MDR-MV1 Open Back Reference Monitor Headphones. Engineered for professionals, these headphones deliver accurate spatial and stereo sound reproduction, ideal for mixing and mastering. Experience an uncolored frequency response from 5Hz to 80kHz, ensuring precise audio monitoring. The open-back acoustic structure minimizes sound reflection for a clear soundstage, while the lightweight design and velour earcups provide exceptional comfort for extended studio sessions. Featuring High-Resolution Audio capability and detachable cables, these headphones are built for demanding production environments.
$418.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
760
/ 5519
#760 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
-29%
Below average
Type
Open Back Studio Monitor Headphones
/ Open Back Studio Monitor Headphones
Who it's for
- Spatial audio engineers and immersive mixing professionals
- Critical listeners and mastering engineers needing high-resolution detail
- Audio professionals working long, demanding studio sessions
Who should skip it
- Vocalists recording in studios or commuters in noisy environments
- Casual listeners or hobbyists on a strict budget
- Bass enthusiasts wanting punchy, emphasized low-end frequencies
Performance breakdown
Frequency Accuracy
Uncolored response ensures your mixes translate perfectly across all playback systems.
Spatial Imaging
Open-back architecture creates a precise, wide soundstage for complex arrangements.
Long-Session Comfort
Lightweight build and breathable velour pads prevent fatigue during marathon sessions.
Build Durability
Professional-grade materials and detachable cables withstand the rigors of daily studio use.
High-Res Clarity
Extended frequency range captures every subtle detail in your high-resolution audio files.
Isolation Performance
Open-back design allows significant sound leakage, prioritizing acoustics over external noise blocking.
Key Specs
Type
Open Back Studio Monitor Headphones
Frequency Response
5 Hz - 80,000 Hz
Driver Size
40 mm
Earcups
Velour
Connectivity
Wired, 3.5mm Jack
Noise Cancellation
Passive Noise Isolation
Spatial Audio Support
Yes
Weight
0.0 grams
Features
- Accurate spatial and stereo sound reproduction
- Uncolored frequency response for production
- High-Resolution Audio for detailed monitoring
- Open-back design for clear soundstage
- Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Detachable cables for professional use
- Virtualizes speaker-based production environment
What customers say
These headphones are highly valued for their exceptional sonic accuracy, making them a reference grade tool for audio professionals. Users consistently praise the outstanding precision and neutrality, noting the superior transient response and imaging that aids detailed mixing. This clarity boosts confidence in the final audio product. Comfort is also a significant benefit. The lightweight design and breathable earpads support extended studio sessions without causing fatigue. While the performance is universally acclaimed, some note the cost relative to the mostly plastic construction. Overall, the unparalleled sonic accuracy makes these a worthwhile investment for serious audio production.
Know before you buy
While these are designed specifically for professional mixing and mastering, they can be used for casual listening. Keep in mind that the open-back design means sound will leak out, and you will hear ambient noise from your surroundings, so they are best suited for quiet environments.
The open-back structure prevents internal sound reflections, resulting in a more natural, spacious soundstage. This design is ideal for critical listening because it provides a more accurate representation of how your mix will translate to speakers.
Yes, you can connect them via the 3.5mm jack. However, because these are professional-grade reference monitors, you may need a dedicated headphone amplifier or audio interface to get the best performance and volume levels.
Yes, the velour earcups are designed for comfort during long sessions and are replaceable. This ensures you can maintain the same level of comfort and acoustic seal over the life of the headphones.
No, these headphones do not have active noise cancellation. They rely on their open-back design, which is intended to provide a transparent, uncolored sound rather than blocking out external noise.
The headphones feature detachable cables, which is a standard requirement for professional studio environments. This allows you to easily replace the cable if it becomes damaged or to swap it for a different length or connector type.
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