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Sony launches $60 MDR-3R wired headphones reviving 1979 Walkman design

Sony has introduced the MDR-3R, a $60 wired headphone refresh of its classic 1979 Walkman audio design updated with USB-C connectivity and call controls.

Sony MDR-3R wired headphones with blue foam ear cushions plugged into a smartphone alongside a classic Sony Walkman cassette player.
Image: @analyticsinme

Sony has unveiled the MDR-3R, an inexpensive pair of wired headphones that updates an iconic design dating back to 1979. Priced at $60, or $59.99, the release taps into modern interest in vintage audio gear. According to Bloomberg, Sony described the headphones as "a nod to both the '80s Walkman era and today's retro tech revival."[1][2][3][5]

The revamped MDR-3R pairs retro styling with modern everyday features, including a USB-C connection, plug-and-play audio, an integrated microphone, and inline playback controls for voice calls and music. Analytics Insight reported that the headphones keep their familiar orange and blue ear cushions, while Sony is also offering a Stranger Things Edition inspired by the popular Netflix series.[4][5]

Key facts

  • Sony introduced the MDR-3R wired headphones, refreshing a design that originally debuted in 1979.
  • The headphones are priced at $60 (USD 59.99).
  • Sony characterized the headphones as "a nod to both the '80s Walkman era and today's retro tech revival."
  • The MDR-3R adds USB-C connectivity, inline playback controls, and a microphone for calls alongside plug-and-play audio.
  • The headphones retain their familiar blue and orange ear cushions.
  • Sony also introduced a Stranger Things Edition of the headphones themed after the Netflix series.

Sources · 3 sources

  1. BL

    Bloomberg@businessPost on X ·

    Sony introduced a $60 pair of wired headphones in what it called “a nod to both the ’80s Walkman era and today’s retro tech revival.” https://t.co/P3OkoS3Q1X

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  2. EN

    Engadget@engadgetPost on X ·

    Sony has refreshed a headphone design that dates back to 1979. https://t.co/LsGDnh2YZh

    Open source
  3. BL

    Bloomberg@businessPost on X ·

    Sony introduced an inexpensive pair of wired headphones, joining a growing trend in what it called “a nod to both the ’80s Walkman era and today’s retro tech revival.” Read more here: https://t.co/Ew45fBfXXE 📷: Sony https://t.co/iLvR0PixYe

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  4. AI

    Analytics Insight@analyticsinmePost on X ·

    𝗦𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗜𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗨𝗦𝗕-𝗖 𝗨𝗽𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 Sony Walkman headphones are making a comeback with the new MDR-3R, combining the iconic 1979 design with USB-C connectivity. The headphones retain their familiar orange and blue ear cushions while adding a microphone and playback controls. Sony has also introduced a Stranger Things Edition for fans of the Netflix series, bringing a retro audio design to modern listeners. #Sony #Walkman #SonyMDR3R #USBCH headphones #StrangerThings #TechNews #AudioTechnology #AnalyticsInsight #AnalyticsInsightMagazine Read More 👇 https://t.co/4NGMLbQQc6

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  5. AI

    Analytics Insight@analyticsinmePost on X ·

    𝗦𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝟭𝟵𝟳𝟵 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗨𝗦𝗕-𝗖 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 Sony brings back its iconic 1979 Walkman headphones with a modern USB-C twist. The new MDR-3R costs USD 59.99 and blends retro design with calls, controls, and plug-and-play audio. #Sony #MDR3R #Walkman #USBC #RetroTech #Headphones #AnalyticsInsightUAE Read More 👇 https://t.co/aIf2iwwUxd

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