Sony Brings Back Original Walkman Headphones With USB-C

Sony reintroduces the classic MDR-3 headphones as the MDR-3R, featuring the original lightweight open-ear design and iconic blue and orange ear pads that can be swapped to match your mood. The headphones faithfully recreate the original design, including the packaging and instruction manual inspired by the 1979 MDR-3. Under the hood, the MDR-3R uses the same 23mm driver units as the original, and Sony states the tuning stays close to the MDR-3’s sound signature with subtle refinements for modern listening preferences. The MDR-3R includes a built-in microphone for calls and an in-line remote, requiring no charging, pairing, or updates—users simply plug the headphones into a compatible device. Alongside the regular model, Sony launches the MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition, inspired by Max’s headphones from the Netflix series, featuring an engraved Stranger Things logo, red and black ear pads, and custom packaging. The regular MDR-3R is available for $59.99 from various US retailers, while the Stranger Things Edition costs $79.99.

The MDR-3R model includes a built-in microphone for calls and an in-line remote control, requiring no charging, pairing, or software updates—users simply plug the headphones into a compatible device to use them. Sony also offers a Stranger Things Edition of the headphones, inspired by Max’s headphones from the Netflix series, featuring an engraved logo, red and black ear pads, and custom packaging. The regular model retails for $59.99, while the special edition costs $79.99.