We're always suspicious of anything that advertises ‘extra deep bass', and in the case of Sony's MDR-XB500 over-ear headphones, this proves to be well-founded.
These cans boast comfortable vinyl earpieces and build quality seems good.
But plug them in and it all changes. Any kind of subtlety in the music vanishes under the thick morass of sound.
The tonal balance is swamped by a fat bass, while a strident treble and rough midrange lurks in the background. Buy some iGrados instead and save £20 in the process.
Sony MDR-XB500 review
These Sony closed back headphones are nowhere near good enough for the money – you can buy far better Tested at £60.00
Our Verdict
Nowhere near good enough, even for £60
For
- Good looking
Against
- Everything bar looks
Specifications
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General Information
| Manufacturer Website Address | http://www.sony.co.uk |
| Brand Name | Sony |
| Product Series | XB |
| Product Type | Headphone |
| Manufacturer | Sony Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | MDR-XB500 |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Name | Sony MDR-XB500 |
| Product Model | MDR-XB500 |
Technical Information
| Sound Mode | Stereo |
| Minimum Frequency Response | 4 Hz |
| Connector Plating | Gold Plated |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Impedance | 40 Ohm |
| Cable Length | 1.20 m |
| Maximum Frequency Response | 24 kHz |
Miscellaneous
| Package Contents |
|
Earpiece
| Earpiece Design | Over-the-head |
| Earpiece Type | Binaural |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
Physical Characteristics
| Form Factor | Ear-cup |
| Weight Approximate | 185 g |
| Colour | Blue |
Interfaces-Ports
| Host Interface | Mini-phone |
Warranty
| Limited Warranty | 1 Year |