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Sony MDR 1AM2 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£190
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR 1AM2 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

6.3

Good

5.5

Good

9.3

Exceptional

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
1.3
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
5.9
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
3.9
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
5.9
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

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Verdict

The Sony MDR-1AM2 is a Hi-Res Audio certified, closed-back dynamic headphone featuring a 40mm aluminum-coated Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) driver that delivers an ultra-wide frequency response of 3Hz to 100,000Hz. Weighing only 187g, it is exceptionally lightweight and designed with pressure-relieving synthetic leather earpads and a Fibonacci-patterned grill for precise high-frequency reproduction. Main pros include its easy drivability due to a low 16-ohm impedance, excellent all-day comfort, and a balanced sound signature with punchy bass and detailed mids. Available cons include sub-par passive noise isolation for a closed-back design and a treble response that some users find slightly over-emphasized or unnatural.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR 1AM2

Overall score

6.3

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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.

Sound

6.2

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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

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

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

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

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Calls & Controls

5.0

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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

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

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

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

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

?

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Connectivity

2.9

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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

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

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Features

4.1

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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

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

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Battery

6.0

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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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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Design

7.2

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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

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

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Sony MDR 1AM2 vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR 1AM2 better than the average headphone?

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Hi-Res Audio certification
Sony MDR 1AM2 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 1AM2 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
15 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (3 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 1AM2 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (3 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.3 Hz vs 18 Hz
80,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR 1AM2 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 1AM2 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
In-line controls
Sony MDR 1AM2 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR 1AM2 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
14.2% lower weight
Sony MDR 1AM2 is lighter than the average headphone (187 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 1AM2 is lighter than the average headphone (187 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.187 g vs 218 g
15x higher input power handling
Sony MDR 1AM2 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 1AM2 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
16.3% higher user score
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.30 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 1AM2 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.30 vs 8.000).9.3 vs 8
Play while charging
Sony MDR 1AM2 can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
What it is: Can be used while charging
When it matters: When you need to keep listening during long work or gaming sessions.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR 1AM2 can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
14.2% lower weight
Sony MDR 1AM2 is lighter than the average headphone (187 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
Hi-Res Audio certification
Sony MDR 1AM2 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
15 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (3 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
80,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR 1AM2 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 1AM2 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.
Play while charging
Sony MDR 1AM2 can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
In-line controls
Sony MDR 1AM2 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR 1AM2 worse than the average headphone?

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8 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR 1AM2 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (35 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
Tangle-prone cable
Sony MDR 1AM2 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
0.53 dB looser channel balance
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a higher channel balance tolerance than the average headphone (1 dB vs 0.47 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.47 dB.
5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
8 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR 1AM2 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (35 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 1AM2 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (35 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.35 mm vs 43 mm
Tangle-prone cable
Sony MDR 1AM2 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 1AM2 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
2.11x more expensive
Sony MDR 1AM2 is more expensive than the average headphone (£190 vs £90).
Sony MDR 1AM2 is more expensive than the average headphone (£190 vs £90).£190 vs £90
0.53 dB looser channel balance
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a higher channel balance tolerance than the average headphone (1 dB vs 0.47 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.47 dB.
What it is: Tolerance between left and right channel volume balance
When it matters: When stereo precision and left-right consistency matter to you.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=0.5 dB
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a higher channel balance tolerance than the average headphone (1 dB vs 0.47 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.47 dB.1 dB vs 0.47 dB
5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
What it is: Output loudness level of the headphones, usually measured in dB. It helps compare how loud a model can play under similar conditions.
When it matters: When you need a rough idea of how loud the headphones can get before you pair them with a weaker source.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=108 dB SPL
Sony MDR 1AM2 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR 1AM2 and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony MDR 1AM2?

Extremely lightweight (187g) and comfortable for long listening sessions
Engaging V-shaped or W-shaped sound signature with impactful, tight bass
Clear, detailed highs and natural mid-range vocals
Easy to drive with standard smartphones and portable players
Includes both a 3.5mm cable and a 4.4mm balanced cable in the box
Excellent for various genres, including pop, EDM, and rock

What customers dislike about Sony MDR 1AM2?

Sub-par passive noise isolation due to pressure-relief vents
Plastic-heavy build can feel less 'premium' or prone to squeaking over time
Small ear cup openings may be uncomfortable for those with larger ears
Included cables are reported by some to be too short or microphonic (noisy against clothing)
Proprietary recessed cable jack makes finding third-party replacements difficult
Resolution and soundstage depth may not compete with some rivals in its price bracket

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

06/05/2020

Sony MDR-1AM2 - Reviews - Head-Fi

The Sony MDR-1AM2 is highly praised for being an exceptionally lightweight and comfortable closed-back headphone, featuring ultra-soft ear pads and a low impedance that makes it very easy to drive. It offers great value by including both a 3.5mm cable and a 4.4mm balanced cable. However, the headphones dB bass boost that can sound boomy, and the synthetic leather pads require...Read more

techradar.com

09/01/2018

Hands on: Sony MDR-1AM2 Over-Ear Headphones review

Review Summary The Sony MDR-1AM2 over-ear headphones serve as an affordable, entry-level option for audiophiles looking to enter the world of high-resolution audio. Priced at approximately $299, they feature 40mm drivers with liquid crystal polymer diaphragms and support an impressive frequency response up to 100,000Hz. In early testing, the headphones delivered a well-balanced...Read more

musicphotolife.com

09/06/2018

Sony MDR-1AM2 Headphones Review - Music Photo Life

The Sony MDR-1AM2, reviewed by Music Photo Life, is a lightweight, consumer-friendly headphone delivering firm, punchy bass and highly detailed, sizzling treble. A major pro is its exceptional clarity and improved spatial depth, particularly when using the included balanced cable with a high-end digital audio player. Conversely, the review notes cons including a tight soundstage...Read more

hardwarezone.com.sg

12/06/2018

Sony MDR-1AM2 review: Headphones with split personalities

The Sony MDR-1AM2 is a lightweight, stylish closed-back headphone designed for portable use, featuring a 40mm dynamic driver capable of a vast frequency response. On the positive side, it stands out for its exceptional comfort, weighing only 187g and utilizing a soft headband alongside plush ear pads that fit snugly without feeling tight. At typical listening volumes, it delivers a...Read more

majorhifi.com

17/03/2018

Sony MDR-1AM2 Review - Major HiFi

The Major HiFi review highlights the Sony MDR-1AM2 as an exceptionally lightweight, $299 closed-back headphone that delivers a top-tier, highly immersive listening experience. A major pro emphasized in the review is the outstanding structural comfort and feather-light weight, making them suitable for all-day wear without causing fatigue. Performance-wise, the headphones feature an...Read more

wombokbois.wixsite.com

06/05/2020

Sony MDR-1AM2 Review - Wix.com

The Sony MDR-1AM2 is a closed dynamic wired headphone that balances an analytical and musical house sound, making it highly versatile for any music genre. On the positive side, it features an energetic and airy timbre with realistic tonal quality, splendid detail retrieval, and clean instrument separation. The 40mm drivers deliver a tight, deeply extended bass response with...Read more

porta-fi.com

28/12/2018

Sony MDR-1AM2 Headphones Review

The Porta-Fi review finds the Sony MDR-1AM2 headphones to be an outstanding, lightweight option offering a balanced sound with exceptionally detailed mid-range and precise imaging. Weighing only 187g with a plush headband, the design ensures high comfort, though the extensive use of plastics gives the chassis a sense of fragility. Conversely, the review notes significant drawbacks,...Read more

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