Sony Electronics has announced the introduction of new MDR-MV1 reference monitor headphones that offer an open back design to help enable accurate reproduction of a wide sound field, making them a suitable option for mixing and mastering immersive spatial sound such as 360 Reality Audio as well as stereo sound with high-resolution capability. They will be on display at the 2023 NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center at booth #15721 in the Pro Audio Hall.
“With the rise in spatial sound and high quality streaming music services, we are seeing a professional demand for headphones that can adaptably address and enrich all of these immersive production needs,” states Andy Munitz, senior product manager, Sony Electronics. “Sony’s deep heritage in audio is on display with the introduction of the MDR-MV1, a flexible and stylish new option for studio or home use. The headphones prioritize comfort, showcase Sony’s craftsmanship and provide long-term durability while offering sound engineers the ability to accurately reproduce sounds, as the artist intended them to be heard.”
The headphones are outfitted with uniquely developed driver units that provide stated wideband playback of 5 Hz to 80 kHz. The open back structure of the headphones is designed to reduce internally reflected sounds and eliminate acoustic resonances while accurately reproducing natural, rich spatial information and sounds.
Breathable earpads are intentionally light in weight, soft and fitted to provide a pleasant wearing experience, even after hours of use. Also onboard is a replaceable, detachable cable with machined aluminum connectors and a stereo mini-jack adapter.
“To create great listening experiences for streaming and immersive audio, it’s important for artists and studio professionals to have sound equipment tuned for these technologies,” says Mike Piacentini, mastering engineer, Battery Studio, Sony Music Entertainment. “The MDR-MV1, developed by Sony’s Headphone Engineering team in collaboration with Sony’s Music engineers, provides creators mixing both in studios and at home with a new reliable reference point for modern sound design needs.”
The MDR-MV1 will also work alongside Sony’s just-announced 360 Virtual Mixing Environment (360VME) service, and are planned to be available in April 2023.
