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An introduction to Sony MDR-MV1, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
What is MDR-MV1?
The MDR-MV1 is an open-back monitor headphone for creators, aimed at work such as spatial audio production. Sony presents it as built to reproduce the accurate spatial information added to a sound source.
Its rear is not acoustically sealed, which reduces reflections inside the housing and aims at reproducing the sound field the creator intended. A large acoustic resistor on the opening between the front and back of the driver controls airflow.
The purpose-developed 40 mm driver is listed with a 5 Hz – 80,000 Hz range (JEITA). A duct structure at the back is said to keep midrange and low range separated while providing bass volume.
The ear pads are suede-style artificial leather and the cable is detachable. A cable with a 6.3 mm stereo plug and a 6.3 mm to 3.5 mm adaptor are included, and it is a certified 360 Reality Audio model.
Open-back acoustic structure
Opening the back of the housing reduces internal reflections and aims at accurate reproduction of spatial information, which may help when checking spatial audio mixes.
5 Hz – 80,000 Hz range
The purpose-developed 40 mm driver is listed at 5 Hz – 80,000 Hz (JEITA). Sony says the diaphragm shape and corrugation were derived for low distortion and high compliance.
Duct structure
A duct at the back is intended to keep mid and low ranges separated while still providing bass volume, which may be a reference for mixes where the low end matters.
Suede-style ear pads
The material is described as pleasant on the skin and suited to long sessions. Weight was reduced in detail to improve stability and comfort.
Detachable cable, replaceable pads
The cable locks with a screw ring and is detachable. Users can replace the ear pads themselves; spares are handled as service parts.
360 Reality Audio
It is a certified 360 Reality Audio model, and personalisation for spatial expression is mentioned. People creating or checking spatial audio are the stated target.
Standard plug with adaptor
In addition to the 6.3 mm stereo plug cable, a 3.5 mm adaptor is included, so it can also connect to PCs and smartphones, Sony says.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Open-back dynamic |
| Driver unit | 40 mm |
| Max input | 1500 mW (IEC) |
| Impedance | 24 ohm (at 1 kHz) |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB/mW |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz – 80,000 Hz (JEITA) |
| Weight | approx. 223 g (without cable) |
What is included and system requirements
- Headphone cable (6.3 mm stereo plug)
- 6.3 mm to 3.5 mm stereo mini plug adaptor
How to use it
- Plug the cable into the headphone jack and turn the lock ring to secure it.
- Connect the other end, the standard plug, to the headphone output of your audio interface.
- Use the included adaptor when connecting to a 3.5 mm jack.
- Start with the volume low and raise it gradually during playback.
- For spatial audio work, set the DAW or renderer output to this headphone.
- Play familiar tracks to get used to how they sound on it.
- If the pads wear out, they can be replaced with spare pads sold as service parts.
Spatial audio production
As a certified 360 Reality Audio model, it may be used for checking spatial audio mixes.
Mixing and mastering
Being open-back, it may suit work where you want to judge the sound field.
Home-recording checks
It may suit monitoring where leakage is not an issue; closed-back models suit cueing during recording.
Narration and post-production checks
Its wide specified range may help when checking recorded voice and effects in detail.
Who it may suit
- People looking for headphones for spatial audio or 360 Reality Audio work
- People who want an open-back monitor headphone
- People who want to replace pads and cables to keep using them
- People who want to connect to both standard-plug gear and smartphones
Good to know before you buy
- As an open-back model it leaks sound, which may be audible to others in a quiet room.
- Replacement ear pads are handled as service parts.
- The official price is listed as open price, with a separate Sony Store price shown.
- Spatial audio work may need separate software or a renderer.
How it differs from similar products
We do not pick a winner; the official figures are placed side by side.
Sennheiser HD 490 PRO
The MDR-MV1 lists 24 ohm, about 223 g without cable and 5 – 80,000 Hz (JEITA); the HD 490 PRO lists 130 ohm, 260 g and 5 – 36,000 Hz (-10 dB). Both are open-back.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
See MDR-MV1 on the product page
Sources: sony.jp (checked 2026-10-27)
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