Sony Brings Back Its Original Walkman Headphones – And I'm All for It

Sony has just brought back one of its most recognisable headphone designs, and I have to say, I really like what they've done.

The new Sony MDR-3R headphones take their inspiration from the original headphones launched alongside the first Walkman in 1979. They have the same slim metal headband, colourful foam ear pads and wonderfully simple design.

But what interests me most isn't just the retro appearance. It's the fact that Sony has made them wired.

I've been testing Bluetooth headphones for years, and although I enjoy the convenience of wireless listening, I almost always end up using them with a cable.

So, seeing Sony return to something this simple is rather refreshing.

A Classic Walkman Design With a Modern Connection

The new MDR-3R headphones look remarkably similar to the original model from 1979.

Sony has kept the lightweight, open design and included two sets of interchangeable foam ear pads in blue and orange. Even the packaging and instruction manual have been designed to reflect the original release.

Inside, Sony has used redesigned 23mm drivers, tuned to reproduce the character of the original headphones while providing a sound better suited to modern music.

There are a few modern additions, of course.

Instead of the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, the MDR-3R uses USB-C, allowing you to connect directly to compatible smartphones, tablets and computers. There's also a built-in microphone and an inline remote for controlling music and taking calls.

No Bluetooth pairing, no batteries to charge and no complicated setup. Just plug them in and listen.

And sometimes, that's all I really want.

Why I Still Prefer Wired Headphones

I've tested quite a few Bluetooth headphones over the years, and something happens almost every time. I start by enjoying the wireless features, but eventually I end up connecting them with a cable.

I just enjoy the simplicity of wired listening. No Bluetooth settings, no worrying about codecs or battery levels. Just put on some music and enjoy it.

That doesn't mean wired headphones always sound better. Some of the Bluetooth models I've reviewed, including the Edifier STAX Spirit S5, sound excellent.

My only disappointment with Sony's new MDR-3R is the USB-C connection. It's practical for modern smartphones, including my iPhone 17, but I would have loved a traditional 3.5mm jack too, particularly as I've recently started enjoying CDs again.

Still, I like the fact that Sony is bringing back something simple, without trying to add features we don't necessarily need.

Sony MDR-3R Price and Availability

The standard Sony MDR-3R headphones are priced at $59.99 in the US and £49 in the UK, with availability beginning in November 2026.

Sony has also introduced a special Stranger Things edition, featuring red and black ear pads, exclusive branding and themed packaging.

That version costs $79.99 in the US and £59 in the UK.

Personally, I prefer the standard silver version with those classic orange foam ear pads. It's such a recognisable design, and I think it has aged remarkably well.

Final Thoughts

I haven't tested the Sony MDR-3R yet, so I can't comment on their sound quality or comfort.

But I love the idea behind them.

At a time when headphone manufacturers are constantly adding more features, AI processing and increasingly complicated wireless technology, Sony has gone in the opposite direction.

A lightweight pair of wired headphones, a design that still looks good almost 50 years later and a relatively affordable price.

For someone like me, who regularly tests wireless headphones but keeps coming back to wired listening, that's a very appealing combination.

And if Sony manages to capture some of the charm of the original Walkman headphones, I think these could be rather special.

Jerome