Sony revives 1979 MDR-3 headphones as MDR-3R with USB-C

Key facts

• Sony announced the MDR-3R, a revival of its 1979 MDR-3-series headphones, with orange and blue ear cushions.
• The MDR-3R keeps a wired connection but adds a USB-C connector, per the report.
• Sony said the MDR-3R was redesigned for modern use while preserving the original MDR-3 experience.

Sony has brought back the MDR-3-series headphones that debuted in 1979 alongside the Walkman TPS-L2 cassette player, according to a report published November 5, 2026. The new model, the MDR-3R, keeps the look of the originals and comes with orange and blue ear cushions.

The original headphones, first called the MDR-3L2, were known for a gray plastic headband that extended via metal sliders and ended in orange circular ear cushions. The lightweight on-ear design contrasts with the wide, cushioned headbands and large padded earcups common on current headsets.

The MDR-3R stays wired but adds a USB-C connector. Sony's announcement said: "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 report did not state a price or release date.