Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (9)
$418.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$419.99
Amazon
4.5 (154)
$338.00 New
$307.58 Used (Like New)
Reverb
$382.25 New
$241.20 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (2)
$419.99
B&H
4.7 (10)
$418.00
Thomann
4.8 (36)
$385.00 $379.00 $6.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£429.00

Average Price: $382

High-end/Boutique

$100

$301+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Sony MDR-MV1". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Sony MDR-MV1, a top-tier choice for musicians and audio professionals. Tailored for mixing and mastering, these open-back reference monitor headphones deliver high-resolution audio with a frequency response ranging from 5Hz to 80kHz. They are designed to emulate a speaker-based production environment, providing an incredibly accurate and balanced sound.

The Sony MDR-MV1 shines with its specially tuned open-back acoustic structure, ensuring that no inherent reflected sound is generated within the housing. This feature enhances the reproduction of spatial and stereo sound signals, providing an authentic and immersive listening experience. Coupled with newly developed HD driver units, these headphones offer a rich low-frequency range, even in an open housing design.

Comfort is not compromised for sound quality. These headphones are lightweight and come with soft suede ear pads. The secure fitting ensures superior comfort and breathability, making them perfect for extended hours of use. Whether you're in the middle of a long studio session or simply enjoying your favorite tracks, the Sony MDR-MV1 keeps you comfortable.

Key Features:

  • High-resolution audio capability with a frequency response from 5Hz to 80kHz
  • Open-back acoustic structure designed for accurate reproduction of spatial and stereo sound signals
  • Newly developed HD driver units optimized for an open-back structure
  • Lightweight design with soft suede ear pads for comfortable extended use
  • Neutral and high-resolution acoustic characteristics for uncolored sound reproduction
  • Detachable cables with a 6.3mm stereo standard plug, compatible with 3.5 mm stereo mini jacks using a bundled adaptor

Owner's manual

Sony MDR-MV1 User Manual

Product specs

Available since April 2023
Design Over-Ear
System Open
Impedance 24 Ohms
Frequency range 5 Hz – 80000 Hz
Adaptor Yes
Replaceable Cable Yes
Colour Black
Max. SPL 100 dB
Sensitivity 100 dB
Type Of Connector Jack(stereo)
Adapter 1
Weight 223 g
Replacable Cable 1
Marrone/Argento Black

FAQs

Are the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones suitable for studio monitoring?

Yes, the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones are designed for studio monitoring with their open-back design, providing a natural and wide soundstage ideal for critical listening and mixing.

What type of music genres are best suited for the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones?

The Sony MDR-MV1 headphones have a wide frequency range of 5 Hz to 80000 Hz, making them versatile for various music genres, including classical, jazz, and electronic, where detailed sound reproduction is important.

Do the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones come with a replaceable cable?

Yes, the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones feature a replaceable cable, allowing for easy maintenance and extended product lifespan.

How comfortable are the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones for long listening sessions?

The Sony MDR-MV1 headphones are designed with comfort in mind, featuring over-ear pads and a lightweight construction, making them suitable for extended use without discomfort.

What is the impedance of the Sony MDR-MV1 headphones, and how does it affect compatibility?

The Sony MDR-MV1 headphones have an impedance of 24 Ohms, making them compatible with a wide range of audio devices, including smartphones, laptops, and professional audio equipment.

The Headphone Show

The Headphone Show

Did SONY just make a better DT-990?

Video thumbnail for Did SONY just make a better DT-990? by The Headphone Show

Did SONY just make a better DT-990?

The Headphone Show

The Headphone Show

Video thumbnail for Sony MDR-MV1 REVIEW! Future legend? by Super* Review

Sony MDR-MV1 REVIEW! Future legend?

Super* Review

Super* Review

Video thumbnail for ヘッドホン:これはヘッドホンじゃない、スタジオだ。:MDR-MV1【ソニー公式】 by Sony (Japan)

ヘッドホン:これはヘッドホンじゃない、スタジオだ。:MDR-MV1【ソニー公式】

Sony (Japan)

Sony (Japan)

Video thumbnail for Open Back Studio Monitor Headphones「MDR-MV1」 | Sony Official by Sony

Open Back Studio Monitor Headphones「MDR-MV1」 | Sony Official

Sony

Sony

Video thumbnail for Discover Why Sony MDR-MV1 Stands Out! by Sanjay C

Discover Why Sony MDR-MV1 Stands Out!

Sanjay C

Sanjay C

Video thumbnail for Sony MDR-MV1 | Великолепны во всём by Netbox

Sony MDR-MV1 | Великолепны во всём

Netbox

Netbox

Video thumbnail for Sony MDR-MV1 Headphones X Battery Studios by Sony Electronics

Sony MDR-MV1 Headphones X Battery Studios

Sony Electronics

Sony Electronics

Video thumbnail for Sony MDR-MV1 Review - Best Headphone for Mixing Under $500? by MajorHiFi

Sony MDR-MV1 Review - Best Headphone for Mixing Under $500?

MajorHiFi

MajorHiFi

Video thumbnail for Sony MDR-MV1: Studio-Monitor Sound for Mixing & Mastering! by B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Sony MDR-MV1: Studio-Monitor Sound for Mixing & Mastering!

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for AES 2023 — Sony MDR-MV1 Headphones for Immersive Audio by Sweetwater

AES 2023 — Sony MDR-MV1 Headphones for Immersive Audio

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent sound quality, crisp and clear

  • Open back design, unique spatial sound experience

  • Flat response for accurate music representation

  • Warm bass without being overpowering

  • Lightweight with comfortable fit, even for glasses wearers

  • Neutral sound with punchy bass

  • High-quality build despite plastic components

  • Ultra-detailed sound with realistic basses and soft highs

  • Good for long listening sessions without causing fatigue

  • Performs well in mixing and mastering applications

CONS

  • Packaging is simple with no accessories included

  • Some users may need time to adjust to the spatial sound

  • Cable is stiff, not coiled, limiting movement flexibility

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sony MDR-MV1.

User experience

  • Some users find the earpads flatten over time, causing ears to touch the drivers; switching to firmer pads is recommended for better comfort.

    Source
  • Weighing approximately 226 grams, the MDR-MV1 is comfortable for extended use, effectively disappearing on the head, and exerting minimal pressure on the neck.

    Source
  • Users report the MDR-MV1 is lightweight and comfortable, suitable for longer listening sessions.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MDR-MV1 excels in FPS games due to its precise directional sound accuracy, enhancing situational awareness and realism.

    Source
  • The headphones deliver explosive bass impact in games and movies, enhancing the realism of actions like grenade explosions and missile strikes.

    Source
  • They are highly recommended for gaming, offering enhanced soundstage and spatial awareness, with one user mentioning the immersive experience during monster roars in games.

    Source
  • The wide soundstage and smooth, non-fatiguing vocals make the MDR-MV1 suitable for gaming, enhancing spatial awareness.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users recommend a TRRS balanced cable for improved bass performance, particularly in EDM and hip-hop genres.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MDR-MV1 is considered significantly more comfortable than the EPOS HD6Pro, particularly during long listening sessions.

    Source
  • Compared to the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, the MDR-MV1 has noticeably more bass, making it suitable for those who enjoy a bass-heavy sound.

    Source
  • The MDR-MV1 offers a smoother vocal presentation compared to traditional studio headphones like the Sony 7506 or Beyerdynamic DT770.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MDR-MV1 can handle a +10dB sub-bass EQ adjustment without distortion, creating a thumpy, immersive listening experience.

    Source
  • The MDR-MV1 is noted for having pronounced and well-controlled bass, unusual for open-back headphones, providing deep bass without midrange bleed.

    Source
  • The MDR-MV1 is designed with a 24-ohm impedance, making it easy to drive with various devices without requiring an amplifier.

    Source
  • Despite being open-back, covering the MDR-MV1 cups minimally affects the sound's tonality, unlike the Sennheiser HD800.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners have used "dry grease" with a pencil to eliminate creaking in the headband, improving long-term durability and comfort.

    Source

Build quality

  • The MDR-MV1 uses a combination of lightweight plastic and very thin metal, leading some owners to feel they are slightly flimsy despite their comfort.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sony MDR-MV1 Review - RTINGS.com

rtings.com

The Sony MDR-MV1 headphones deliver impressive neutral sound quality, making them an excellent choice for mixing and mastering. Their comfortable design and decent passive soundstage are notable highlights. However, be wary of their significant shortcomings: the open-back structure fails to block external noise and leaks sound, which detracts from their portability and usability in public settings. Additionally, wearing glasses can impact bass delivery, and the piercing treble may lead to listener fatigue over extended use. Overall, while they shine in specific audio applications, their limitations may deter casual listeners seeking versatility.

positive

Sony MDR-MV1 Headphones Review

audiodiscourse.com

The Sony MDR-MV1 headphones charm with their lightweight design and impressive bass response, making them a surprising contender in the open-back category. While some may find the recessed mid-range and treble peaks slightly off-putting, the overall sound is engaging, particularly for rock music. Their comfort is a standout feature, allowing for extended listening without fatigue. However, the tuning might not appeal to all, especially those who prefer a more mid-focused sound. Ultimately, these headphones are a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and comfortable option, despite a few tonal quirks.

positive

Sony MDR-MV1 review - SoundGuys

soundguys.com

The Sony MDR-MV1 offers a solid experience for content creators, boasting comfort and useful features like a replaceable cable and flat-fold design. However, the headphones are heavily bass-oriented, which may not suit everyone, especially for casual listening. Users will likely need to adjust EQ settings significantly to avoid ear fatigue from pronounced high frequencies. At $399.99, the price point may also deter potential buyers. While the MDR-MV1 shines in spatial audio contexts, its specific tuning may leave audiophiles wanting more versatility. Overall, it's a niche choice—great for professionals, but casual listeners might want to explore other options.

Sony MDR-MV1 Review - Major HiFi

majorhifi.com

The Sony MDR-MV1 offers remarkable comfort and an impressive soundstage tailored for mixing and mastering. While its lightweight design is a plus, some may find the build quality underwhelming for a $400 headphone. The sound is crisp and detailed, but treble-sensitive listeners might want to steer clear due to its pronounced highs. Overall, the MDR-MV1 stands out as an excellent mid-range reference headphone, balancing professional needs with casual listening enjoyment.

positive

Sony MDR-MV1

soundonsound.com

Sony's MDR-MV1 headphones present an intriguing option for immersive mixing but fall short in certain areas. Their lightweight design and comfortable fit make them appealing, while the unique frequency response caters to spatial audio needs. However, the sound profile leans towards a boosted low-end and treble, creating a ‘scooped’ effect that may not suit all mixing styles. Durability concerns arise due to the lightweight materials, and the lack of a case feels cheap for the price point. Ultimately, while the MDR-MV1s offer potential for specific applications, they may not replace traditional monitoring solutions for everyone.

Sony’s MDR-MV1: An Open Back Headphone Reference for Audio Professionals

audioholics.com

Sony's MDR-MV1 headphones deliver impressive sound quality with a remarkably wide frequency range and a comfortable fit, making them a solid choice for audio professionals. Their open-back design allows for a spacious soundstage, enhancing detail and imaging. However, this very design compromises isolation, which may not suit all recording scenarios. While praised for their craftsmanship and comfort, they come with a hefty price tag of $400, which might deter casual listeners. Overall, the MDR-MV1 stands out as a versatile tool for serious sound engineers but may not be the best option for those needing sound isolation.

positive

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