Sony MDR M1 Review 2025: Specs, Sound Quality, Price & Comparison
Introduction
Sony has long been a leader in the audio world, from consumer headphones to studio-grade monitoring gear. The legendary Sony MDR 7506 has been the go-to choice for recording engineers and musicians for decades. In 2025, Sony introduced the MDR M1, a high-end professional headphone designed to deliver uncompromising studio sound quality with modern improvements.
In this review, we’ll dive into the Sony MDR M1’s design, sound performance, specifications, pros and cons, price, and how it compares to competitors like the MDR 7506, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x.
Design & Build Quality Sony MDR M1
The Sony MDR M1 7506 is built for professional environments and long studio sessions. With a lightweight yet sturdy frame, the headphones combine premium materials like aluminum, memory foam ear cushions, and breathable fabric to ensure durability and comfort.
Weight: Approx. 230g (comfortable for long use)
Earcups: Over-ear, closed-back design with plush cushioning
Headband: Adjustable with soft padding
Portability: Foldable design with detachable cable
Compared to the MDR-7506, the MDR-M1 feels more modern, with an emphasis on comfort for extended sessions without ear fatigue.
Sound Quality & Performance Sony MDR M1
Sound is where the MDR-M1 shines. Sony designed this headphone for studio mixing, mastering, and critical listening.
Bass: Tight and controlled, not overly boosted.
Mids: Exceptionally clear, perfect for vocals and instruments.
Highs: Crisp but not harsh, ideal for professional accuracy.
Soundstage: Wide and natural, making it suitable for both music production and immersive listening.
Unlike the consumer-focused headphones that emphasize bass, the MDR M1 offers a flat, neutral response, which is what professionals need.
Sony MDR-M1 Headphones – Features And Specifications
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Sony MDR-M1’s technical specs:
| Feature | Sony MDR M1 | Sony MDR 7506 | Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | Audio-Technica ATH-M50x |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driver Size | 40mm Dynamic | 40mm Dynamic | 45mm Dynamic | 45mm Dynamic |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz – 80kHz | 10Hz – 20kHz | 5Hz – 35kHz | 15Hz – 28kHz |
| Impedance | 32Ω | 63Ω | 80Ω / 250Ω | 38Ω |
| Weight | 230g | 230g | 270g | 285g |
| Design | Closed-back, Over-ear | Closed-back, Over-ear | Closed-back, Over-ear | Closed-back, Over-ear |
Sony MDR M1 vs Competitors
When compared with other industry favorites:
MDR-7506: Still a budget-friendly classic, but the MDR-M1 offers a wider frequency range and more comfort.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro: Known for its bass-heavy signature, while the MDR-M1 remains more neutral.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Popular with creators, but the MDR-M1 provides better sound accuracy for professionals.
Sennheiser HD 600: Open-back with natural sound, but MDR-M1 offers better isolation for studio use.
Sony MDR-M1 Price And Availability
The Sony MDR-M1 is priced around $399 – $499 (₹32,000 – ₹40,000 in India), depending on the region.
You can buy it from:
Sony Official Website
Amazon
Audio specialty stores
Pros & Cons
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Neutral, accurate studio sound | Premium price |
| Comfortable for long sessions | Not bass-heavy (not for bass lovers) |
| Lightweight & durable | Wired only (no wireless) |
| Wide frequency range (5Hz – 80kHz) | Requires good audio source/DAC |
| Professional-grade build | Limited color/design options |
FAQs Sony MDR-M1
Q1: Is Sony MDR-M1 good for mixing and mastering?
👉 Yes, it’s designed for professionals who need accurate, neutral sound.
Q2: How does Sony MDR-M1 compare to MDR-7506?
👉 MDR-7506 is budget-friendly and iconic, but MDR-M1 offers wider frequency response, better comfort, and more accurate sound.
Q3: Is Sony MDR-M1 worth buying in 2025?
👉 If you’re a professional or an audiophile who values accuracy, absolutely yes.
Conclusion
The Sony MDR-M1 is a worthy successor to Sony’s studio headphone legacy. With neutral sound, premium comfort, and high-end specifications, it’s an excellent choice for mixing engineers, musicians, podcasters, and audiophiles in 2025.
If you’re looking for studio-grade accuracy in a modern design, the Sony MDR-M1 is one of the best headphones you can buy this year.