Wired headphones may now seem out of place on a modern pair of headphones, but Sony is bringing back the very iconic MDR-3R<\/b> \u2013 in its original design that accompanied the original Walkman in 1979<\/b>, right down to the blue and orange ear pads. But with a modern twist: It now now connects through USB-C.<\/p>\n
In short, it\u2019s just like the original headphone where you just plug it into the headphone jack of a device. Everybody loves retro devices in 2026 and I can see why the resurrected MDR-3R will be appealing for both old and young audiophiles. But there is also other quality of life changes, including a built-in microphone for calls and an in-line remote, so the retro look doesn\u2019t mean giving up the conveniences we expect from contemporary wired headphones today.<\/p>\n
Retrolicious design<\/h2>\n\n
Image: Sony<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
The MDR-3R keeps the original\u2019s lightweight, open-ear design and uses the same 23mm driver units<\/b> as the original MDR-3. But Sony has also made some subtle refinements to cater to the modern listening ears, while keeping to the original sound. You also get both blue and orange ear pads<\/b> in the box. Even the packaging and instruction manual borrow from the original.<\/p>\n
Sony is also leaning into the headphones\u2019 1980s roots with a Stranger Things Edition<\/b>. Inspired by Max\u2019s headphones and the TV show\u2019s Upside Down, it features an engraved Stranger Things logo and custom packaging. If you\u2019ve watched the Netflix hit series, you\u2019ll get the synergy here.<\/p>\n
Availability and pricing<\/h2>\n\n
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Sony MDR-3R Stranger Things edition<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Image: Sony<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
The standard MDR-3R will be available for S$89<\/b>, while the Stranger Things Edition goes for S$129<\/b>. Pre-orders are open through Sony Store and Sony Store Online, with both models launching in Singapore from December 2026.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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