Sony has launched the MDR 3R, a modern reissue of the 1979 headphones originally sold with the first TPS L2 Walkman cassette player. The updated set retains the original lightweight aesthetic with swappable orange and blue foam pads while replacing the analog connector with a wired USB C interface. The standard model retails for $59 in the United States, alongside a special television edition priced at $79.
Weighing 38 grams without the cable, the MDR 3R ranks as the lightest on ear model in the current Sony lineup. Sound reproduction relies on 23 mm dynamic drivers that mirror the dimensions of the original 1979 components, modified slightly to align with modern playback standards. The physical build uses a thin metal slider headband, circular earcups, and retro themed documentation and packaging modeled after the original release.
Physical connectivity moves from the traditional 3.5 mm headphone plug to a USB C connector wired into a 1.2 meter cord. The cable includes an inline remote control and microphone for handling phone calls and audio playback without needing batteries or wireless pairing. Sony explicitly notes that the MDR 3R is not recommended for modern Walkman digital audio players due to hardware dependencies on USB Audio Class 1.0, which can limit feature support across different models.
Sony also introduced a collaborative Stranger Things variant featuring a red and black finish, engraved logos, and custom packaging tied to the series. The standard MDR 3R costs $59 in the United States and €59 in Europe. The Stranger Things model costs $79 in the United States and €69 in Europe. Both models are available immediately through official retail channels.
