Sony Revives Iconic ’80S Walkman Headphones With Modern Touches
WHO:
Engadget - Sony is the company behind the refreshed MDR-3R headphones.
Mashable - Mashable’s headphone expert tried the Sony MDR-3R headphones.
TechRadar - TechRadar’s writer described being a fan of regular wired headphones.
WHAT:
9to5Google - The Sony MDR-3R headphones cost $59.99.
9to5Google - A red-and-black variant styled after headphones worn by Max in *Stranger Things* costs $79.99.
Engadget - Sony refreshed its MDR-3R headphone design.
Mashable - Sony re-released the original Walkman headphones with modern technology; Mashable’s headphone expert reviewed the MDR-3R.
TechRadar - Sony introduced updated MDR-3 wired headphones, including a limited-edition Stranger Things version.
TechRadar - The writer quoted the Stranger Things line, “I dump your ass!” after seeing the limited-edition headphones.
WHEN:
Engadget - The headphone design dates back to 1979.
HOW:
9to5Google - The MDR-3R uses a USB-C connection, a microphone, and an in-line remote.
9to5Google - The headphones have a re-engineered 23mm driver, tuned for sound “close to the original.”
9to5Google - Sony describes the design as a “faithful recreation”; the ear pads come in blue or orange, and the packaging and included manual echo the original model.
9to5Google - Sony incorporated recycled plastic into the headphones.
Engadget - The MDR-3R refresh retains retro aesthetics.
Mashable - The re-released headphones combine the original Walkman headphone design with modern technology.
TechRadar - Sony described the updated MDR-3 headphones as “newtro.”
(UPDATED November 5, 2026 19:08 UTC)
Sony revived its iconic 1979 Walkman headphones, combining retro design with modern technology. The refreshed MDR-3R adds USB-C, a microphone, and inline controls. A Stranger Things edition joins the lineup.
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(UPDATED November 5, 2026 18:04 UTC)
Sony has revived its iconic MDR-3 headphones, bringing a classic Walkman design back with modern technology. The refreshed wired headphones retain their retro look, inspired by a design dating to 1979. A limited-edition Stranger Things version joins the updated lineup, which Sony describes as “newtro.”