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Sony MDR 7550 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£270
Avg. price in US: ~$300
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR 7550 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.7

Poor

4.1

Poor

7.2

Very 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
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
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
5.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
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

Best prices in UK

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Verdict

The Sony MDR-7550 is a professional-grade in-ear monitor designed for live stage performance and critical studio mixing, featuring a large 16mm dynamic driver with a unique multi-layer polymer diaphragm and a powerful neodymium magnet. Its technical specifications include a wide frequency response of 3 Hz to 28 kHz, a low 16-ohm impedance for easy drivability, 108 dB/mW sensitivity, and a high power handling capacity of 500mW. Main characteristics include a flexible TEKNOROTE ear hanger for a secure over-ear fit and a neutral, warm-leaning sound signature with an integrated high-frequency acoustic filter to reduce ear fatigue during long sessions. Its primary pros are its exceptionally natural midrange, expansive soundstage, and lightweight 7g design that remains comfortable for hours. However, notable cons include its large, protruding housing that some find aesthetically awkward, poor noise isolation due to its vented/ported design, and a stock cable that is often criticized for its thin, prone-to-tangling quality.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR 7550

Overall score

4.7

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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

4.1

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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

3.9

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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

N/A

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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

2.7

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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

1.0

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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

10

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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

in-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

semi-open

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

N/A

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Sony MDR 7550 vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR 7550 better than the average headphone?

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96.7% lower weight
Sony MDR 7550 is lighter than the average headphone (7.1 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 7550 is lighter than the average headphone (7.1 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.7.1 g vs 218 g
15 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR 7550 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 7550 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
6 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR 7550 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (108 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 7550 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (108 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.108 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
In-line controls
Sony MDR 7550 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 7550 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
8,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR 7550 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 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 7550 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.28000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
0.4 m more useful cable length
Sony MDR 7550 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.6 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
What it is: Length of the supplied audio cable
When it matters: When your desk, TV, or audio setup needs more or less movement range.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR 7550 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.6 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.1.6 m vs 1.2 m
96.7% lower weight
Sony MDR 7550 is lighter than the average headphone (7.1 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
0.4 m more useful cable length
Sony MDR 7550 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.6 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
15 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR 7550 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (3 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
6 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR 7550 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (108 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
8,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR 7550 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
In-line controls
Sony MDR 7550 includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MDR 7550 worse than the average headphone?

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Tangle-prone cable
Sony MDR 7550 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
24 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR 7550 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (16 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
1 fewer microphones
Sony MDR 7550 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR 7550 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
6 years older release date
Sony MDR 7550 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
February 2011
24 mm smaller driver size
Sony MDR 7550 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (16 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
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
Sony MDR 7550 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (16 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.16 mm vs 40 mm
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR 7550 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 7550 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
1 fewer microphones
Sony MDR 7550 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 7550 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
3x more expensive
Sony MDR 7550 is more expensive than the average headphone (£270 vs £90).
Sony MDR 7550 is more expensive than the average headphone (£270 vs £90).£270 vs £90
Tangle-prone cable
Sony MDR 7550 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 7550 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
11.6% worse value for money
Sony MDR 7550 has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.04 vs 6.736).
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.
Sony MDR 7550 has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.04 vs 6.736).6.04 vs 6.74
6 years older release date
Sony MDR 7550 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
February 2011
What it is: Official release or launch date of the model
When it matters: When you want a newer model for fresher features, longer support life, or simply to avoid buying into an older generation.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2020
Sony MDR 7550 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2011 vs 2017
11.8% lower user score
Sony MDR 7550 has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.16 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 7550 has a lower user score than the average headphone (7.16 vs 8.000).7.16 vs 8

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR 7550 and

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony MDR 7550?

Neutral and balanced sound signature suitable for studio monitoring
Exceptionally wide soundstage for an in-ear monitor due to vented design
Highly detailed midrange and excellent resolution for busy tracks
Natural and accurate bass response that is deep but not overpowering
Lightweight and comfortable for long listening sessions despite its large size
Responds very well to equalization (EQ) and modifications (e.g., tape mod)
Secure fit with ear hooks that prevent them from falling out during use

What customers dislike about Sony MDR 7550?

Poor noise isolation due to the large ventilation ports
Significant sound leakage, making them less ideal for quiet public environments
The stock cable is often described as thin, prone to tangling, and low quality
Bulky, awkward physical design that protrudes significantly from the ears
The memory wire in the ear guides can be stiff and difficult to mold
Can be sibilant or harsh in the treble if not fitted with a deep seal
Limited selection of ear tip sizes included in the box

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

24/01/2012

Sony MDR-7550 In-Ear Monitors (IEM) - Reviews - Head-Fi

The Sony MDR-7550, as reviewed on Head-Fi, is a specialized, dynamic-driver earphone noted for a warm, well-balanced sound signature with deep, accurate bass and a comfortable, lightweight fit. These monitors offer an intimate, fatigue-free listening experience with a tamed treble and sturdy construction, making them ideal for home or studio applications. Conversely, the vented,...Read more

head-fi.org

27/08/2013

Review: Sony MDR-7550 - Head-Fi

The Sony MDR-7550, reviewed on Head-Fi, is praised for its lightweight, secure fit and a sound signature characterized by deep, warm sub-bass and a punchy mid-bass. Its large vent design provides an exceptionally wide soundstage for an IEM, with the upper-midrange delivering a smooth, rich presentation ideal for vocals. the review notes potential cons, including a "hot,"...Read more

thephonograph.net

14/10/2017

Sony MDR-7550 / EX800ST - Review - ThePhonograph.net

The Sony MDR-7550/EX800ST review on ThePhonograph.net highlights these studio-oriented in-ear monitors for their massive 16mm dynamic driver and neodymium magnets, which deliver a clean, warm sound signature with deep, punchy sub-bass. These earphones are highly responsive to equalization and offer impressive sound quality with minimal distortion for critical listening. However, the...Read more

head-fi.org

21/06/2011

Quick Impression: Sony MDR-7550

The Sony MDR-7550 in-ear monitors are characterized in a Head-Fi review as an exceptionally balanced and musical choice for studio-accurate, neutral audio, offering impressive midrange, comfort, and value. Key advantages include a non-fatiguing, spacious soundstage and accurate, tight bass, though users note that the flat, monitor-like presentation may not appeal to all listeners...Read more

soundonsound.com

15/09/2011

Sony MDR7550 - Sound On Sound

The Sony MDR7550 is a high-end pair of in-ear monitors made for stage use and studio mixing on the move. Unlike many competitors that use multiple balanced armature drivers, this model uses one large dynamic driver to create all sounds. This design choice gives the earphones a very natural balance, a warm tone, and a wonderful, revealing mid-range. The main pros of these monitors...Read more

thephonograph.net

N/A

Sony MDR-7550 / EX800ST Review

The Sony MDR-7550/EX800ST features a 16mm dynamic driver that delivers clean, punchy bass, impressive sub-bass depth, and excellent equalization responsiveness, making them a standout for both monitoring and heavy-bass listening. Their vented, open-back design produces an exceptionally wide, open soundstage, ensuring the mid-range remains clear and unaffected by the powerful bass...Read more

head-fi.org

27/08/2013

Sony MDR-7550 Review: In-depth Pro Analysis

The Sony MDR-7550 in-ear monitors are praised for their lightweight, stable, and comfortable fit, featuring a wide soundstage, punchy mid-bass, and a warm sub-bass with long decay, along with smooth, forward upper-mids ideal for pop and vocals. Conversely, the review notes a hot, slightly sibilant lower treble, lacking upper-treble extension, and a requirement for significant power...Read more

head-fi.org

27/08/2013

Review: Sony MDR-7550 (Dutch contribution in the comments)

The Sony MDR-7550 review on Head-Fi highlights a lightweight, securely fitting IEM with a remarkably wide soundstage due to large venting, delivering wonderful sub-bass depth, punchy mid-bass, and rich, smooth upper-midrange ideal for female vocals. Conversely, the lower-midrange is described as slightly grainy, while the lower-treble can be sibilant and the upper-treble lacks...Read more

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