OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Sony MH1cblk Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£9
Form factor: in-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sony MH1cblk review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

5.4

Good

5.1

Good

6.4

Good

2.8
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%
7.0
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
4.4
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
7.0
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
7.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
9.0
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

Best rankings

Verdict

The Sony MH1cblk is a high-performance wired in-ear headset featuring 5.8mm dynamic micro-drivers that deliver a warm, balanced sound profile with deep, punchy bass and smooth, non-fatiguing mids. Key technical specifications include a wide frequency response of 1Hz to 20kHz, 115dB/mW sensitivity, and a low impedance of 15 ohms, making them highly efficient for mobile use. Its main characteristics include a 1.2-meter tangle-free flat cable, an integrated 4-button remote with SmartKey functionality for Android devices, and high-quality neodymium magnets for enhanced audio clarity. Pros include exceptional sound quality for its price range, comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes, and strong passive noise isolation. However, notable cons include a heavy, rubberised J-style cable that can cause microphonics (cable noise) and limited remote control compatibility with non-Android devices, particularly Apple products.

Technical Specifications of Sony MH1cblk

Overall score

5.4

Show more

Hide

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

4.6

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Calls & Controls

7.2

Show more

Hide

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

?

Show more

Connectivity

6.2

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Features

4.1

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Battery

4.9

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Design

8.3

Show more

Hide

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

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

N/A

Show more

Sony MH1cblk vs the average headphone

Why is Sony MH1cblk better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

93.1% lower weight
Sony MH1cblk is lighter than the average headphone (15 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 MH1cblk is lighter than the average headphone (15 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.15 g vs 218 g
17 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MH1cblk has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (1 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 MH1cblk has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (1 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.1 Hz vs 18 Hz
13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MH1cblk has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 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 MH1cblk has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MH1cblk 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 MH1cblk includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Sony MH1cblk 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 MH1cblk includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Sony MH1cblk reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.
Importance: LOW
Sony MH1cblk reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Sidetone support
Sony MH1cblk supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
What it is: Lets users hear their own voice during calls
When it matters: When long calls matter and you do not want to sound unnaturally loud in your own ears while speaking.
Importance: LOW
Sony MH1cblk supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
Quick mic mute
Sony MH1cblk includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
What it is: Ability to mute microphone during calls
When it matters: When you need to silence the mic quickly during meetings or multiplayer games.
Importance: LOW
Sony MH1cblk includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.
93.1% lower weight
Sony MH1cblk is lighter than the average headphone (15 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
17 Hz lower bass extension
Sony MH1cblk has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (1 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
13 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Sony MH1cblk has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (115 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
12 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
Sony MH1cblk has a higher sound pressure level than the average headphone (115 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Sony MH1cblk includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Sony MH1cblk includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Sony MH1cblk reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
Sidetone support
Sony MH1cblk supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
Quick mic mute
Sony MH1cblk includes a quick mic mute, the average headphone does not. 33.5% of headphones support a mute function.

Calls & Controls

Why is Sony MH1cblk worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Fixed cable
Sony MH1cblk has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Sony MH1cblk does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
34 mm smaller driver size
Sony MH1cblk has smaller driver size than the average headphone (6 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
0.2 % higher distortion
Sony MH1cblk has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
5 years older release date
Sony MH1cblk was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
October 2012
34 mm smaller driver size
Sony MH1cblk has smaller driver size than the average headphone (6 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 MH1cblk has smaller driver size than the average headphone (6 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.6 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
Sony MH1cblk 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 MH1cblk has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
0.2 % higher distortion
Sony MH1cblk has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Sony MH1cblk has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.5 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.5 % vs 0.3 %
No travel bag
Sony MH1cblk 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 MH1cblk does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
24.7% lower user score
Sony MH1cblk has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.41 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 MH1cblk has a lower user score than the average headphone (6.41 vs 8.000).6.41 vs 8
5 years older release date
Sony MH1cblk was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
October 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 MH1cblk was released earlier than the average headphone (2,012 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.2012 vs 2017

Graphic comparison of Sony MH1cblk and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sony MH1cblk?

Exceptional sound quality for the price, often compared to high-end studio monitors
Smooth, warm, and rich audio signature with a focus on well-tuned midranges
Punchy and deep bass response that maintains good control
Excellent passive noise isolation, especially when a proper seal is achieved
Large selection of included ear tips (often 8-10 pairs) in different sizes and colors
Small and lightweight housing that provides a comfortable fit for most users

What customers dislike about Sony MH1cblk?

Widely criticized cable design (asymmetric J-cord) that is cumbersome and causes a 'tugging' sensation
Rubbery, flat cable material is prone to microphonics (noise from cable movement)
Inline remote and microphone are placed awkwardly high, near the left ear
Limited remote functionality with non-Sony or iOS devices
Build quality feels somewhat cheap, with plastic housings and chrome finishes
Reported quality control issues, including volume imbalance or variations in bass levels between units

Expert reviews

theheadphonelist.com

09/06/2013

Sony MH1C Review - The Headphone List

Review Summary The Sony MH1C is a budget-friendly headset originally designed for the Xperia smartphone line, offering exceptional sound quality that punches far above its price point. It features a dynamic driver that delivers a warm, smooth, and natural sound signature characterized by deep sub-bass emphasis rather than mid-bass bloat. While the midrange is slightly recessed and...Read more

head-fi.org

22/10/2012

[REVIEW] Sony MH1 – The Best Kept Secret - Head-Fi

Discussion on page 252 of the Head-Fi thread "[REVIEW] Sony MH1 – The Best Kept Secret" reveals the existence of two distinct factory versions with significant sound signature variance, likely caused by internal tuning filter differences. One variant features strong bass and mellow highs, while the second delivers tamed bass and prominent highs, resulting in a colder timbre. Pros...Read more

head-fi.org

26/09/2014

Sound comparison: Xiaomi Pistons 2.1 and Sony MH1C - Head-Fi.org

The Head-Fi community review compares the Xiaomi Pistons 2.1 and Sony MH1C, noting the Pistons' superior build quality, larger soundstage, and sharper detail, offset by a fragile cable design. Conversely, the Sony MH1C is highlighted for its fatigue-free, smooth sound signature, though it lacks the micro-detail and soundstage width of the Xiaomi model. Ultimately, the Pistons are...Read more

head-fi.org

27/10/2012

Sony MH1 Livesound Hi-Fi Stereo In-Ear Headphones - Head-Fi

The Sony MH1 LiveSound IEMs are widely lauded on Head-Fi for delivering exceptionally big, balanced sound with deep, punchy bass, detailed mids, and smooth treble from tiny 5.8mm drivers, often described as offering "giant-killing" value. Additionally, users appreciate the clear microphone and functional, though sometimes finicky, volume controls that provide unexpected smartphone...Read more

medium.com

04/04/2019

Sony MH1C Livesound IEM Review. Budget Delight - Medium

The 10hztech review highlights the Sony MH1C Livesound IEM as a budget-friendly option, emphasizing its warm, natural midrange and excellent instrument separation. The earphones feature a non-fatiguing, smooth treble and, despite a slightly slow mid-bass hump that lacks speed for fast tracks, offer outstanding musicality for acoustic and mainstream genres. Medium·KaziWhile the...Read more

thephonograph.net

26/08/2017

Sony MH1 LiveSound - Review - ThePhonograph.net

The Sony MH1 LiveSound, featuring 5.8 mm MicroDrivers in compact metal housings, is praised for delivering a smooth, warm, and highly capable sound with excellent, non-fatiguing mid-frequencies. Comfort is a major advantage, making them suitable for long listening sessions, and the sound profile responds well to EQ adjustments. Conversely, the earphones are heavily criticized for a...Read more

medium.com

01/05/2020

Sony MH1C — My Impressions - Medium

The Sony MH1C in-ear monitors, as reviewed on Medium, are highlighted as a budget-friendly option offering a warm sound signature and a 3D-like soundstage that closely follows the Harman listening curve. Key positives include a comfortable, isolating fit with included silicone tips, a natural midrange, and a smooth, non-fatiguing treble ideal for extended listening. Medium·Meghadri...Read more

head-fi.org

22/10/2012

[REVIEW] Sony MH1 – The Best Kept Secret - Head-Fi

The Head-Fi review identifies the Sony MH1 as a budget in-ear monitor delivering exceptional, highly balanced sound that competes with high-end, featuring a warm, detailed sound signature with deep bass extension and a 3D soundstage. Key advantages include its superb sonic performance and effective passive noise isolation after the necessary 50-100 hour burn-in period. Conversely,...Read more

tellementnomade.org

02/02/2014

Evolving review: Sony MH1C", "Long-term review: Sony MH1C", "Living review: Sony MH1C

This forum review introduces the "Label SC," a dynamic list curated by an audiophile reviewer based in Japan to highlight the best value-for-money in-ear monitors (IEMs) across various budget tiers. In the budget categories, the Philips SHE9700 offers an astonishingly neutral, detailed sound that punches far above its price tag, while the Sony XBA C-10 provides a warmer, fun...Read more

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Sony WH 1000XM4

Headphones

JBL Tour One M3

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM6

Headphones

Headphones

Headphones

Sony WH ULT900N

Headphones

Nothing Headphone 1

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM5

Headphones

Headphones

Huawei Freebuds Studio

Headphones

Sennheiser Momentum

Headphones

JBL Tour One M2

Headphones

Compare Sony MH1cblk with

Compare