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Sony MDR V55 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£55
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MDR V55 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.5

Good

4.5

Poor

9.2

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
1.2
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
5.1
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
3.7
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
5.1
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-V55 is a closed-back, on-ear DJ-style headphone featuring 40mm neodymium drivers that deliver a powerful frequency response range of 5 Hz to 25,000 Hz. Built for both professional monitoring and casual portability, it includes a 1,000 mW power handling capacity, a 40-ohm impedance, and a 105 dB/mW sensitivity, all housed in a lightweight 220g foldable frame with reversible swivel earcups. Main pros include its punchy, tight bass response that avoids muddiness, a tangle-free 1.2m flat serrated cable, and a compact design ideal for travel. However, its on-ear supra-aural fit can lead to physical discomfort and heat during extended sessions, and some users report that the plastic construction can develop audible creaks over time.

Technical Specifications of Sony MDR V55

Overall score

5.5

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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

5.3

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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

2.8

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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

6.2

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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

6.1

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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

on-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 V55 vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MDR V55 better than the average headphone?

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13 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR V55 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 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 V55 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.5 Hz vs 18 Hz
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR V55 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony MDR V55 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
Foldable design
Sony MDR V55 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 V55 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR V55 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 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 V55 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.25000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
3 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR V55 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (105 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 V55 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (105 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.105 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
14.5% higher user score
Sony MDR V55 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.16 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 V55 has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.16 vs 8.000).9.16 vs 8
10x higher input power handling
Sony MDR V55 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 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 V55 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.1000 mW vs 100 mW
15 dB higher max SPL
Sony MDR V55 has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
Sony MDR V55 has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.125 dB vs 110 dB
Foldable design
Sony MDR V55 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
13 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MDR V55 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
5,000 Hz higher treble extension
Sony MDR V55 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (25,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
3 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MDR V55 has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (105 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
10x higher input power handling
Sony MDR V55 has a higher max input power than the average headphone (1,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
15 dB higher max SPL
Sony MDR V55 has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MDR V55 includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.

Why is Sony MDR V55 worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Sony MDR V55 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Sony MDR V55 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
5 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR V55 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (38 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
1 fewer microphones
Sony MDR V55 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR V55 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
5 years older release date
Sony MDR V55 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
April 2012
No voice assistant support
Sony MDR V55 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 V55 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Sony MDR V55 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony MDR V55 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
1 fewer microphones
Sony MDR V55 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 V55 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
No travel bag
Sony MDR V55 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
Sony MDR V55 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
5 mm tighter earcup width
Sony MDR V55 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (38 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 V55 has tighter earcup width than the average headphone (38 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.38 mm vs 43 mm
5 years older release date
Sony MDR V55 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
April 2012
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 V55 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2012 vs 2017

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Sony MDR V55 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 V55?

Punchy and tight bass response suitable for DJing and bass-heavy genres
Lightweight and foldable design for easy portability and storage
Reversible and swiveling earcups allowing for flexible one-ear monitoring
Tangle-resistant flat cable design
Clean, stylish aesthetic with multiple color options
Affordable price point offering high value for budget-conscious users
Clear sound production even at high volume levels without significant distortion

What customers dislike about Sony MDR V55?

On-ear (supra-aural) design can cause ear pain and discomfort during extended use
Short, non-detachable cable limits movement and cannot be easily replaced if damaged
Poor noise isolation and significant sound leakage, making them unsuitable for quiet or very noisy environments
Headband lacks sufficient padding, contributing to overall discomfort
Lack of in-line controls or microphone for smartphone use
Plastic construction and hinges can feel cheap and are prone to squeaking or breaking over time
A noticeable dip in high frequencies can make some instruments, like cymbals, sound unnatural

Expert reviews

techradar.com

23/07/2012

Sony MDR-V55 review - TechRadar

The Sony MDR-V55 headphones feature an attractive design available in four color schemes: all white, black with a white cable, black with a blue cable, or black with a red cable. The reviewer notes several functional design pros, highlighting that the headphones look great, feature comfortable cushioned ear cans, and include a highly portable, foldable design with swiveling earcups...Read more

trustedreviews.com

01/10/2012

Sony MDR-V55 Review - Trusted Reviews

The Trusted Reviews analysis of the Sony MDR-V55 headphones highlights an affordable, DJ-style design with 40mm drivers, delivering a fun, bass-heavy audio experience. Key pros include precise, well-handled sub-bass that avoids sounding muddy, paired with surprising mid-range clarity, alongside a portable, foldable design with a tangle-free cable. Conversely, the review notes...Read more

pocket-lint.com

16/04/2013

Sony MDR-V55 headphones - Pocket-lint

The Sony MDR-V55 is an affordable, "DJ-style" set of on-ear headphones priced at £89.00 that delivers high flexibility and portability. A major pro of its physical design is the inclusion of reversible and swiveling earcups, which allow users to flip a cup away easily for one-ear listening or to comfortably rest the unit around the neck. Weighing only 220g, they feature a low...Read more

xlr8r.com

16/05/2012

Review: Sony MDR-V55 DJ Headphones - XLR8R

The XLR8R review of the Sony MDR-V55 DJ Headphones highlights them as a versatile $99.99 option blending professional DJ functionality with everyday commuter appeal. A major pro is their superb, balanced audio quality driven by 40mm neodymium magnets and a vast 5Hz to 25kHz frequency range, making them highly accurate for mixdowns without muddying the midrange. Additionally, they...Read more

reviewed.com

01/04/2015

Sony MDR-V55 Headphone Review - Reviewed

The Sony MDR-V55 is an entry-level set of on-ear headphones that balances a sleek, modern aesthetic with a highly dynamic sound profile tailored for bass lovers. Its design highlights include a matte grey finish with red accents, a robust hinge that allows the ear cups to fold tightly for easy storage, and a flat, tangle-free cable. However, it comes with physical design...Read more

head-fi.org

06/06/2012

Sony MDR-V55/BR DJ style Headphones - Reviews Would you like to see a summary of the pros and cons from these reviews to help with a purchasing decisi...

The Sony MDR-V55/BR headphones are highlighted as an affordable, ultra-portable on-ear option featuring a, punchy,, and well-defined bass response. Users appreciate the clear mid-range, sharp treble, and a surprisingly wide soundstage, along with a functional flat cable and compact folding design suitable for travel. Conversely, the headphones are noted for poor long-term comfort...Read more

casque-dj.com

17/10/2017

Our Review of the Sony MDR-V55

The Sony MDR-V55 is a budget-friendly, lightweight DJ headphone that delivers impressive audio performance for its price range. It features a modern, flexible design with flat cables and foldable earcups that make it easy to pack away. The sound profile is warm and clear, boasting powerful, dynamic bass and natural mid-tones that handle all music styles well. Even at high volumes,...Read more

01net.com

26/03/2012

Review: A Sony headphone better suited for MP3 players than turntables

The Sony MDR-V55 is a circum-aural, lightweight (224g) headphone marketed towards amateur DJs, featuring folding, swiveling earcups and a distinct colored cable design. While it boasts a comfortable, well-padded headband and durable plastic-and-metal adjustment sliders, its overall build and acoustic isolation fall short of true DJ needs. Sound quality is rich and detailed through...Read more

01net.com

20/06/2012

Sony MDR-V55 Specifications

The Sony MDR-V55 is a folding headband headset designed with a striking, original color code that targets commuters and mixing sessions alike, retailing at a recommended public price of €90.00. Reviewers praise the circum-aural, stereo headphones for their excellent frequency response and highly comfortable fit. However, despite Sony marketing this model toward DJs, the review...Read more

cuffie-auricolari.it

11/02/2013

Sony MDR-V55 - Headphones & Earphones

Review Summary The Sony MDR-V55 is a traditional, high-quality, and elegant set of closed-back circumaural headphones designed for both casual use and professional audio work, such as DJing and studio recording. The review highlights several notable pros, including its excellent acoustic isolation, crisp and well-defined high frequencies, and rich, powerful bass that stays clean...Read more

tweakers.net

16/09/2016

Sony MDR-V55 Red, Black review by Deleted account

The Sony MDR-V55 (Red/Black) review from Tweakers highlights it as a good, affordable choice for casual users after two years of continuous ownership. The reviewer heavily praises the sound quality, stating that the low, mid, and high tones are all well-balanced. While acknowledging that it does not quite reach the level of a dedicated studio headset, it provides "phenomenal sound"...Read more

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