Sony announced the successor to the MDR-1A over-ear headphone called the MDR-1AM2, each of which debuted at the same $300 price tag. Both are wired, hi-res audio enabled headphones of which Sony claims the latest model sounds even better. There’s no wireless or noise-cancellation in either model. Sony is purely focusing on delivering the best sound quality for the price.
The Sony MDR-1AM2 feature a newly developed 40mm HD driver. Aluminum-coated liquid crystal polymer diaphragms support up to 100 kHz frequencies playback. That’s about 5 times beyond the range of human hearing, so I’m not clear why that’s notable. Of course, it certainly sounds good for the marketing pitch. In addition, the 1AM2’s feature a Fibonacci-patterned grill to support ultra-high frequency ranges as well as silver-coated OFC (oxygen free copper) for less transmission signal loss.
The MDR-1AM2 incorporates learnings from Sony’s Signature Series headphones, the MDR-Z1R, and follows the same sound direction and quality. And like the MDR-Z1R, the MDR-1AM2 headphones come with a standard cable as well as a 4.4mm balanced connection for even greater sound and improved usability.
The headphones are lighter than their previous model — a great advantage whether you are wearing them at home or on the go. With this pair you can enjoy wearing your around-ear headphones for longer, with ear pads that have been specially designed for lasting comfort. The luxurious, comfortable synthetic leather ear pads are made of low-resilience polyurethane foam.
“At Sony, we are committed to bringing high quality sound to consumers,” said Dunja LaRosa, Director, and Head of Mobile Audio Business, Home Entertainment and Sound at Sony Electronics, North America. “Reviving Sony’s classic headphones, the MDR-1AM2 is testament to this commitment, playing back music as the artist intended and delivering consumers the ability to enjoy high quality music, regardless of their location.”
Price and Availability
The Sony MDR-1AM2 will be available Spring 2018 for $299.99 at Amazon.
