Sony MDR 1ADAC Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£320
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wired
  • Battery life: N/A hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR 1ADAC review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

5.3

Technical Score

20.0%

6.7

User score

Good
5.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

6.2

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

6.6

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

2.7

Battery

4.0%

4.2

Calls & Controls

Good
6.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

7.9

User reviews

30.0%

4.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
(39)
amazon
4.2
(25)
amazon
3.9
(22)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(39)
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(25)
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
(22)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Good
  • 2.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    0.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    0.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

  • 0.9
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    18.0%

    3.2

    Weight

    16.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    0.0

    Ambient sound mode

  • 2.7
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    14.0%

    0.0

    Companion app

  • 3.1
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    3.2

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

  • sony-mdr-1adac
sony-mdr-1adac

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony MDR-1ADAC is a closed-back, high-resolution headphone featuring a built-in S-Master HX digital amplifier and DAC capable of decoding PCM up to 192kHz/24-bit and DSD128. It is equipped with 40mm aluminum-coated Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) drivers that provide an expansive frequency response of 4Hz to 40kHz digitally and up to 100kHz via analog connection. Main characteristics include multiple digital inputs for direct connection to iOS, Android, and PC devices, alongside a rotary volume dial and approximately 7.5 to 8 hours of battery life. Pros include a warm, bass-rich sound signature, exceptional long-term wearing comfort with pressure-relieving earpads, and the convenience of high-fidelity audio without an external stack. However, cons include a relatively short battery life for a wired device, mediocre noise isolation in loud environments, and reported warmth issues during extended summer use.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR 1ADAC

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

6.2

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

6.6

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

2.7

Battery

4.0%

4.2

Calls & Controls

5.3
Sony MDR 1ADAC has a technical score of 5.26 points, which is higher than that of 61.3% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

7.9

User reviews

30.0%

4.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
(39)
amazon
4.2
(25)
amazon
3.9
(22)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
3.8
(39)
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(25)
Amazon_logo.png
3.9
(22)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

6.7
Sony MDR 1ADAC has a user score of 6.75 points, which is lower than that of 83.3% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
4.1
Sony MDR 1ADAC has a popularity of 4.1 points, which is lower than 52.8% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.6

Overall score

40.0%

8.8

Price

6.5
Sony MDR 1ADAC has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.5 points, which is lower than 60.6% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support active noise cancellation. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

40 mm
Sony MDR 1ADAC uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.2% of headphones and equal to 53.6% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
Sony MDR 1ADAC uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

4 Hz
Sony MDR 1ADAC reaches a lowest frequency of 4 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 97.2% of headphones and equal to 2.1% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony MDR 1ADAC is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

0
Sony MDR 1ADAC has 0 microphones, fewer microphones than 74.1% of headphones and equal to 25.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony MDR 1ADAC does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A
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Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wired
Sony MDR 1ADAC supports wired connectivity, equal to 52.6% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A
Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Show more
Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support EQ customization. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

4 hours
Sony MDR 1ADAC needs 4 hours to charge, higher charging time than 90.5% of headphones and equal to 4.7% of headphones.
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support quick charging. 69.1% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

1,050 mAh
Sony MDR 1ADAC has a battery capacity of 1050 mAh, higher battery capacity than 91.5% of headphones and equal to 1.2% of headphones.
Show more
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Sony
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

300 g
Sony MDR 1ADAC weighs 300 g, heavier than 80.9% of headphones and equal to 1.3% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

3.6
Sony MDR 1ADAC has a clamp force of 3.6, lower clamp force than 60.6% of headphones and equal to 7.9% of headphones.
Show more

Sony MDR 1ADAC vs the average headphone

  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
    What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
    When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • 14 Hz lower bass extension
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.4 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 80,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (100,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=24000 Hz

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (100,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.100000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • On-device controls
    Sony MDR 1ADAC includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
    What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
    When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony MDR 1ADAC includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 24 mm more spacious earcup height
    Sony MDR 1ADAC offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (84 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
    What it is: Internal height of the earcup cavity
    When it matters: When larger ears need enough space inside the earcups.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony MDR 1ADAC offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (84 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.84 mm vs 60 mm
  • 75% higher battery capacity
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,050 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
    What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
    When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=720 mAh

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,050 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.1050 mAh vs 600 mAh
  • Foldable design
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
    What it is: Earcups or headband can fold for compact storage
    When it matters: When you travel often and want easier storage in a bag.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • 15x higher input power handling
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,500 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
    What it is: Maximum input power the drivers can safely handle
    When it matters: When you pair the headphones with stronger sources or dedicated gear.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=300 mW

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,500 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.1500 mW vs 100 mW
  • 24 mm more spacious earcup height
    Sony MDR 1ADAC offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (84 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
  • Foldable design
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • 14 Hz lower bass extension
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (4 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 80,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (100,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
  • 15x higher input power handling
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,500 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
  • 75% higher battery capacity
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (1,050 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • On-device controls
    Sony MDR 1ADAC includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 37.6% higher weight
    Sony MDR 1ADAC is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • Tangle-prone cable
    Sony MDR 1ADAC uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 3 mm tighter earcup width
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (40 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
  • 2 hours longer charging time
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • No voice assistant support
    Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 2 hours longer charging time
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
    What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
    When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=2 hours

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a higher charging time than the average headphone (4 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.4 hours vs 2 hours
  • No voice assistant support
    Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
    What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
    When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony MDR 1ADAC does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 37.6% higher weight
    Sony MDR 1ADAC is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    Sony MDR 1ADAC is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.300 g vs 218 g
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
    What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
    When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=2

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
  • 3.56x more expensive
    Sony MDR 1ADAC is more expensive than the average headphone (£320 vs £90).
    Sony MDR 1ADAC is more expensive than the average headphone (£320 vs £90).£320 vs £90
  • Tangle-prone cable
    Sony MDR 1ADAC uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
    What it is: Cable designed to resist tangling
    When it matters: When you often carry wired headphones in a bag or pocket.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony MDR 1ADAC uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 18.5% lower user score
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.75 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
    When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.75 vs 8.000).6.75 vs 8
  • 3 mm tighter earcup width
    Sony MDR 1ADAC has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (40 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
    What it is: Internal width of the earcup cavity
    When it matters: When earcup fit affects comfort and pressure around your ears.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony MDR 1ADAC has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (40 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.40 mm vs 43 mm

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR 1ADAC and

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony MDR 1ADAC?

  • Excellent sound quality, clarity, and detail when using the built-in DAC
  • Exceptionally soft earpads and lightweight frame make them stupidly comfortable
  • Integrated DAC eliminates the need for bulky external portable amplifiers
  • Comes with an extensive assortment of digital cables for Lightning, Walkman, and PC connections
  • Very deep, powerful sub-bass extension and warm, full-bodied signature
  • Premium aesthetics and highly durable mechanical build quality

What customers dislike about Sony MDR 1ADAC?

  • Passive isolation is subpar due to the ported closed-back design
  • Requires frequent USB charging to use the internal DAC functionality
  • Mid-bass can suffer from bloat and bleed heavily into the lower midrange
  • Separate dedicated ports for digital audio playback and charging are inconvenient
  • Vocals can sound slightly distant and lose detail when the DAC is actively running
  • The 7 to 8-hour battery life on internal amplification is relatively short

Expert reviews

H
head-fi.org
14/01/2015

The Sony MDR-1ADACGo to product viewer dialog for this item., featured on Head-Fi, is praised for its integrated DAC and amplifier, delivering a high-quality, powerful sound with robust, well-balanced bass and clear highs. Its key strengths include an extremely comfortable build, a plug-and-play design, and versatile digital compatibility with various devices, making it a highly...Read more

G
gadgetsmagazine.com.ph
10/01/2017

The Sony MDR-1ADAC is a handsome, specialized pair of closed-back headphones featuring a built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed to significantly elevate audio detail from lossless tracks. Structurally, it blends premium aesthetics with high functionality, featuring a black chassis with metallic red trim, plush faux leather headbands, and earcups that rotate 90 degrees...Read more

Q
qobuz.com
10/10/2014

The Qobuz review of the €299 Sony MDR-1ADAC highlights a hybrid headphone featuring an integrated 24-bit/192kHz/DSD DAC, designed to improve smartphone audio quality through a clean, warm sound profile with good midrange definition. Key advantages include its extensive digital connectivity, lightweight comfort, and the ability to operate in active digital or passive analog modes,...Read more

H
head-fi.org
14/01/2015

The Sony MDR-1ADAC, as detailed in the Head-Fi showcase, offers a versatile, all-in-one solution for high-resolution audio, featuring a built-in DAC and amplifier that supports up to 192kHz/24-bit PCM and native DSD. Users praise the balanced, punchy sound signature, which provides tight bass, clear mids, and detailed treble while eliminating the need for external, portable DAC/amp...Read more

C
computerbild.de
28/06/2015

The Sony MDR-1aDAC is a premium over-the-ear headphone weighing 301 grams that features a built-in Digital Analog Converter (DAC) and amplifier designed to enhance audio performance. In testing, the device delivered its best, most detailed sound signature with strong bass and clear vocals when connected digitally to an iPhone via the Lightning cable. Performance remains similarly...Read more

A
areadvd.de
22/07/2015

The AREA DVD review celebrates the Sony MDR-1ADACGo to product viewer dialog for this item. as an outstanding, budget-friendly headphone priced around €350 that delivers premier-tier acoustics. The reviewer praises its integrated USB-DAC and S-Master HX digital amplifier for creating a spacious, harmonious, and highly detailed soundstage, specifically when playing High-Resolution...Read more

C
connect.de
30/11/2016

The Sony MDR-1ADAC over-ear headphones offer a unique hybrid construct by integrating an internal, full-fledged High-Res digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) that supports DSD128. This configuration allows listeners to bypass their player’s native audio processing by digitally connecting directly to Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Sony Walkman devices via four included specialized...Read more

C
cerealkillerz.org
16/12/2014

The Cerealkillerz review of the Sony MDR-1ADAC highlights these over-ear headphones as an excellent solution for high-resolution portable audio. The reviewer notes that the built-in DAC amplifier significantly transforms the mobile listening experience by upscaling input signals into pristine High-Resolution audio, adding depth and exceptional separation between individual musical...Read more

N
netzwelt.de
11/04/2016

The Sony MDR-1ADAC is an over-ear, closed-back headphone priced in the premium tier (around €300) that stands out due to its integrated digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and S-Master HX digital amplifier. When using its internal DAC through a digital connection—supported by included proprietary cables for Lightning, microUSB, and Walkman devices—the headphone delivers an...Read more

I
igen.fr
19/02/2015

The iGen.fr review of the Sony MDR-1ADAC highlights the headset as a pioneering, yet ultimately disappointing, device in the Lightning-compatible market. While offering the convenience of integrated digital connectivity, high comfort, and a reasonable 6-7 hour battery life for its internal amplifier, it fails to deliver superior audio performance. Key criticisms focus on the...Read more

O
on-mag.fr
08/11/2014

The Sony MDR-1ADAC is an innovative hybrid over-ear headphone that functions as a standard passive analog model or as an active digital headset, thanks to its built-in amplifier and 24-bit/192 kHz (or 5.6 MHz DSD) digital-to-analog converter (DAC). Designed to save audiophiles money on external equipment, it connects directly to digital sources using an array of included cables for...Read more

L
leclaireur.fnac.com
15/10/2014

The Sony MDR-1ADAC is a closed-back, circum-aural headphone featuring a built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed to significantly upgrade mobile audio quality. It showcases a sleek, premium build featuring plush headband padding, soft ear cushions, and distinctive red accents on the earcups. Engineered for universal compatibility, it comes bundled with five distinct...Read more

Q
qobuz.com
30/09/2014

The Qobuz review highlights the Sony MDR-1aDAC as a pioneering €299 hybrid headphone featuring a built-in DAC for 24-bit HD audio and DSD playback, aiming to eliminate the need for external equipment. Key strengths include extensive connectivity, such as Lightning and USB cables, and immediate high-resolution, out-of-the-box compatibility. QobuzConversely, the review notes...Read more

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