Sony's MDR-3R wired headphones are steeped in retro aesthetics

This is actually a refresh of a model that dates back to 1979.

By Lawrence Bonk Nov. 5, 2026 11:00 am EST Sony Add Engadget on Google: Google Discover

Everything old is new again. Sony just announced a refresh of its iconic MDR-3 wired headphones, which go all the way back to 1979 and accompanied the very first Walkman portable tape player.

The MDR-3R headphones look extremely similar to the source material, though the earpads are available in two unique colorways. This is a retro experience through and through — the headphones are wired, with no option for wireless connectivity.