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Written by Jason Owens
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Wednesday, 13 June 2007 |
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Product sample purchased.
After having to suffer the untimely death of my previous pair of headphones, a rather cheap pair of Aiwa’s, I was in the market for a new set. Needing a pair that would provide clear sound with decent low-end response, fit my head comfortably, and not break the bank, I set out on my search. I settled upon the Sony MDR-V300.
Specifications
- Sony UniMatch plug system with fixed stereo miniplug for use with portable equipment; detachable phone plug for use with studio and home audio equipment
- Type: Closed supra-aural, Dynamic
- Drive Unit: 30 mm
- Diaphragm: PET
- Magnet: Neodymium
- Impedance: 24 ohms
- Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW
- Power Handling Capacity500 mW
- Frequency Response 18 -- 22,000 Hz
- Headband: wide, adjustable single headband with folding earcups
- Earcups: reversible for single-sided monitoring
- Cord: Oxygen-free copper; Two-sided, 10 feet (3 m)
One of the lower end models in Sony’s Studio Monitor Series, the MDR-V300 packs quite a punch into its slim design. Preferring fully enclosed earcups I was not sold at first on the ear cup design. I have a rather large head, and the headphones still fit comfortably, and even after extended use do not cause any discomfort to my ears.
The reversible design makes for easy transition to single-sided listening. I am not a DJ myself, so I am not able to comment on how well they commit themselves in extended sessions of use in this manner. The earcups fold up for a smaller storage footprint. The 10 foot cable is more than adequate for general computer usage.
The UniMatch Plug system is something that I have not seen in the past. Not only does the miniplug connect to the adapter, but screws in as well for added security. Needless to say it won’t be coming loose. The gold-plated plugs offer high conductivity, and the oxygen free copper of the wiring is the best copper available for electrical conductivity.
In the past I steered clear of Sony, and even gone as far as recommending against their products when I worked as a Home Audio salesman, but recently Sony has gone a long way towards changing my mind. When it comes to sound these headphones live up to their billing, leaving me somewhat surprised.
These headphones excel in DVD playback. Recently while watching Lord of The Rings I was forced to turn down the bass on my computer because it was so overpowering. This low end response was startling, because it took place in portions of the movie that I was unaware even had an undertone that low.
High end fidelity also surprised me, and was clearly demonstrated by several tracks on a recently released CD, The Populist, featuring the music of Aaron Copeland, conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas and the San Francisco Orchestra. All of the highs were very clear, and I was able to hear parts of both Appalachian Spring and Rodeo that I had not heard on either of the stereos in my house. One drawback is that at times the punchy bass seemed to slightly wash out the middle and higher end sounds.
Pros
- Outstanding performance for the price (MSRP $50)
- 10 ft (3m) cord will reach just about anywhere you need
- Headband expands to fit even large heads
- Powerful bass is a positive when watching movies or listening to music dominated by the low end
Cons
Powerful bass can wash out mids and highs in some compositions
Long cord can get in the way if being used for mobile use
Some people may find the earcups uncomfortable
All things considered I was very impressed by these headphones. They clearly outclass my previous Aiwas and rival the sound quality of a pair of Sennheiser headphones I owned in the past. The bass response may be overdone, and could be too much for some, but it makes for a very enjoyable movie watching experience. These headphones can be found online for as low as $35, even though the MSRP is $50. Thanks for reading and enjoy the site!
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 27 June 2007 )
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