Sony Electronics Introduces MDR-3R USB-C®*¹ Wired Headphones, a Modern Take on the First Walkman® Headphones MDR-3

Also Launching a Limited-Edition Stranger Things Collaboration Model Based on the Popular Netflix Series, with a 1980's Inspired Design

• Reimagines the original MDR-3 with a faithful modern design, carrying forward the product that created the experience of enjoying music freely on the go
  
  
• Effortless plug-and-play connection with USB-C, a built-in microphone, and in-line remote control for calls and easy operation
  
  
• True to the original sound, with tuning that closely matches the original MDR-3 and delivers Sony's signature balanced sound with natural vocals and emotional richness
  
  
• A special Stranger Things^*2 Edition celebrating the spirit of the 1980s, featuring exclusive details inspired by Netflix's series

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the MDR-3R, new USB-C-compatible wired headphones with a design inspired by the original MDR-3 model that debuted alongside the original Walkman TPS-L2*³ player.

Introduced in 1979, the Walkman and MDR-3 helped create a new way of enjoying music freely on the go. Nearly half a century later, as listening styles have become more diverse, the value of wired headphones is being rediscovered for their simplicity, ease of use, and freedom from charging or pairing.

The MDR-3R inherits the MDR-3 concept of headphones designed to let people enjoy music freely both indoors and outdoors. It retains the original design, which reflects the heritage of portable audio culture, while adding modern usability features such as seamless USB-C connectivity, a built-in microphone for calls, and an in-line remote control.

Reflecting the shared 1980s inspiration of the Walkman era and Netflix's Stranger Things, Sony will also launch a Stranger Things Edition at the same time.

Faithful recreation of the MDR-3 design

The MDR-3R has been redesigned for modern use while preserving the experience value of freely taking music out into the world, which the original MDR-3 helped popularize.

The MDR-3R carries forward the original MDR-3 aesthetic design and comes with iconic blue and orange ear pads, allowing users to customize the look to suit their mood or preferences. The packaging and instruction manual also inherit the design of the original model.

The new headphones also maintain the MDR-3's lightweight, open-ear design, providing lasting comfort even during extended listening.

Updated functionality and connectivity for modern lifestyles

With USB-C support, the headphones connect smoothly to compatible devices such as smartphones^*4. No charging, pairing, or updates are required—just plug them in and enjoy music or videos instantly^*5.

They also feature a microphone for calls and an in-line remote for convenient operation.

Rich sound that brings out the appeal of music

Drawing on the original design specifications, the MDR-3R has been re-engineered with the same 23 mm driver units as the MDR-3 to reproduce sound quality close to the original. While staying true to the original sound signature, subtle refinements have been made to suit modern listening preferences. Its natural, well-balanced sound—a signature carried forward through generations of Sony headphones—brings out the full appeal of every track.

MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition

Bringing together the portable music culture of the Walkman era and the world of Netflix's Stranger Things, the MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition celebrates the spirit of the 1980s. Inspired by Max's signature headphone style and the mysterious Upside Down, this special edition features exclusive design details, including an engraved Stranger Things logo, red and black earpads, and custom packaging that extends the experience beyond the headphones themselves.

Environment in Mind

Our products also take the environment into consideration. Recycled plastic is used in a portion of the product^*6, while plastic-free packaging^*7 further reflects how Sony strives to reduce the environmental impact of our products.

Pricing and availability

• MDR-3R is available from now with a suggested retailed price of $59.99 USD/ $99.99 CAD at Sony, Amazon, Best Buy, and other authorized dealers.
  
  
• MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition is available for pre-order now with a suggested retailed price of $79.99 USD/ $129.99 CAD at Sony, Netflix, and Amazon US.

For more information, visit: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/headphones/headband/p/mdr3r-s

*1 USB Type-C^® and USB-C^® are registered trademarks of USB Implementers Forum

*2 STRANGER THINGS ™ © Netflix. Used with permission.

*3 MDR-3 is used as a collective term for the MDR-3, MDR-3L1 and MDR-3L2. The headphones launched alongside the Walkman TPS-L2 in 1979 were the MDR-3L2.

*4 Compatible with USB Audio Class 1.0 devices.

*5 Depending on the connected device, OS, or application software, settings may be required, or some functions may not work properly. Use with a Walkman is not recommended.

*6 Recycled plastic is used in the headphone body; specifications are subject to change.

*7 Plastic free packaging applies to the product packaging only and may vary depending on geographical region. Coating and adhesive materials are excluded.

SOURCE Sony Electronics, Inc.