Sony has brought back the retro design of its iconic Walkman-era headphones with the launch of the new MDR-3R, a wired USB-C model inspired by the original MDR-3 series introduced in 1979.

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The new headphones retain the lightweight, open-ear design and distinctive styling of their predecessor while adding features suited to modern devices, including a USB Type-C connector, a built-in microphone and an in-line remote control.

The original MDR-3 headphones were introduced alongside Sony's first Walkman, helping shape the experience of portable music listening. With the MDR-3R, Sony is revisiting that design nearly five decades later, banking on renewed interest in wired audio devices that do not require Bluetooth pairing or battery charging.

The MDR-3R features 23mm driver units and comes with interchangeable ear pads in blue and orange. Sony says the updated model retains the original's balanced sound profile, with natural vocals and a sound character designed to stay close to the 1979 headphones.

The USB-C cable includes an in-line remote for playback and call controls, along with a built-in microphone for hands-free calls. The headphones can connect to compatible devices supporting USB Audio Class 1.0. Sony has cautioned that compatibility and certain functions may vary depending on the connected device, operating system and application.

Sony MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition

Alongside the standard model, Sony has introduced a special Stranger Things Edition in collaboration with Netflix. Inspired by the 1980s setting of the series and the character Max Mayfield, the special edition features an engraved Stranger Things logo, red-and-black ear pads and customised packaging.

The collaboration brings together the Walkman-era design and the visual themes of the popular Netflix series.

Sony MDR-3R price and availability in India

The standard Sony MDR-3R is priced at $59.99 in the US, while the Stranger Things Edition costs $79.99. Sony's European recommended prices are €59 (£49) for the standard model and €69 (£59) for the special edition. Both versions are scheduled to be available from November 2026 in the announced markets.

Sony has not announced the India price or launch timeline for either the MDR-3R or the Stranger Things Edition. The company is yet to confirm when the retro-inspired headphones will be available in the Indian market.