Sony MDR-V55

Sony MDR-V55

The MDR-V55 was an over-the-ear stereo headphone set manufactured by the Sony Corporation in 2012. It was a high specification headphone with frequency response of 5 Hz to 25 kHz and coil impedance of 68 Ω at 1 kHz. It had 40 mm driver units with neodymium magnets for high-quality sound and extra bass. These headphones came with gold-plated plugs, and a durable 1.2 m lightweight flat cord. The ear pads and cable are replaceable, and in this multi-page article, I show how to fit new pads.

Review

Front View

I recently bought these headphones in the pre-used market, as I was interested in hearing how good the sound really was. These headphones boast a wide frequency range that goes as low as 5 Hz which should produce good bass, and they did. The sensitivity of the driver coil is 105 dB/mW, and the coils can handle up to 1000 mW, which is not only loud, but the sound quality and definition is excellent.

Swivel Joint

One of the nicer aspects of these headphones is the swivel joint that provides multiple degrees of freedom in the movement thereby ensuring the cup sits perfectly on your ears. How well the cups seal around your ears is extremely important, because it prevents sound leak and provides noise isolation. The bass is also much better when the cups make a better seal.

If you manage to get a good genuine pair, in good working order, then you will most definitely love the sound they produce and not want to go back to anything else. Many DJs that bought these in 2012 are still using them, as they are one of the most comfortable with the best sound they have ever experienced.

Specification

Sony MDR-V55
ModelMDR-V55
Transducer TypeDynamic, closed
Frequency Response5 Hz to 25 kHz
Driver Size40 mm, Dome type
Power Handling1000 mW (IEC)
Nominal Impedance68 Ω
Sensitivity105 dB/mW
Cord Length1.2 m, Flat type
Mass220 g
ConnectorGold-plated L-shaped

Features

  • Slim swivel folding style and reversible ear-cup for easy portability.
  • Durable and lightweight flat cord
  • 40 mm driver unit for high quality
  • Neodymium magnet delivers powerful sound
  • Resists high power input up to 1000 mW

Price/eBay

The MDR-V55 is a classic pair of headphones that is still sought after today. The high quality sound and wide frequency response makes it a very desirable headphone even in the pre-used market. The prices can vary a lot depending upon the condition. Broken ones that require a new cord, or worn out ones requiring replacement ear pads can make five to ten pounds. However, a pair in mint condition can sell for considerably more.

The flat cord on these headphones is extremely reliable, however, it is common to find headphones with a burnt voice coil. This usually occurs when the owner overloads the headphone with more power than it can handle. Replacement drivers are very expensive, and therefore a broken set would not be cost-effective for repair.

This Article Continues...

Sony MDR-V55
Ear Pads
Repair