Choosing the right pair of in-ear headphones can be overwhelming. With models ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end audiophile-grade earphones, it’s essential to know what suits your needs best. In this guide, we’ll cover:
- The evolution of Sony’s in-ear headphones (wired & wireless)
- Comparison of the best models
- Most frequently asked questions
- Trending alternatives from other brands
- SEO insights to help you choose the best headphones in 2024
Evolution of Sony In-Ear Headphones (Wired & Wireless)
Sony has been a pioneer in the headphone industry for decades. Below is a chronological timeline of their most iconic in-ear wired and wireless headphones from 1998 to 2024.
Evolution of headphones.
History.
Wired Sony In-Ear Headphones (1998 – 2024)
Early Models (1998 – 2010)
- Sony MDR-EX70LP (1999) – One of Sony’s earliest in-ear models with enhanced bass.
- Sony MDR-EX71SL (2003) – Featured multiple ear tip sizes for better fit and comfort.
- Sony MDR-EX90LP (2006) – A hybrid between earbuds and in-ear monitors.
- Sony MDR-EX500LP (2009) – Introduced a multi-layer diaphragm for clearer sound.
- Sony MDR-EX1000 (2010) – Premium model with 16mm dynamic drivers and detachable cables.
Balanced Armature Series (2011 – 2020)
- Sony XBA Series (2011) – Introduced Balanced Armature (BA) drivers for enhanced detail.
- Sony MDR-XB50AP (2013) – One of the best-selling budget bass-heavy models.
- Sony MDR-EX650AP (2014) – Introduced brass housing to reduce resonance.
- Sony MDR-XB55AP (2017) – Successor to XB50AP, with clearer mids and highs.
- Sony IER-M9 (2018) – High-end, 5-driver Balanced Armature model for professionals.
- Sony IER-M7 (2018) – Affordable alternative to IER-M9 with quad Balanced Armature drivers.
- Sony XBA-N3AP (2018) – Hybrid driver system combining BA + dynamic drivers for high-fidelity sound.
Wireless Sony In-Ear Headphones (2015 – 2024)
- Sony MDR-EX750BT (2015) – Bluetooth version of the MDR-EX series.
- Sony MDR-XB80BS (2016) – Wireless sports earphones with Extra Bass.
- Sony WF-1000X (2017) – Sony’s first true wireless earbuds with ANC.
- Sony WF-SP700N (2018) – Sports edition with water resistance & ANC.
- Sony WF-1000XM3 (2019) – Industry-leading noise cancellation.
- Sony WF-SP800N (2020) – Designed for fitness enthusiasts.
- Sony WF-1000XM4 (2021) – LDAC codec support & improved ANC.
- Sony LinkBuds (2022) – Open-ear design for ambient sound awareness.
- Sony WF-1000XM5 (2023) – Best wireless ANC earbuds in Sony’s lineup.
- Sony WF-C510 (2024) – Budget-friendly wireless earbuds.
Sony Wired In-Ear Headphone Comparison (2024)
| Model | Sound Signature | Bass Impact | Housing Material | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony MDR-EX650AP | Warm, clear mids | Deep but controlled | Brass | €60-90 |
| Sony MDR-XB50AP | Deep bass-heavy | Very strong, punchy | Plastic | €30-50 |
| Sony MDR-XB55AP | Improved clarity | Strong but refined | Plastic | €40-60 |
| Sony XBA-N3AP | High-resolution | Deep but detailed | Hybrid | €300+ |
| Sony IER-M7 | Audiophile-grade | Balanced & natural | Magnesium | €800 |
| Sony IER-M9 | Studio-grade | Ultra-detailed | Magnesium | €1,200+ |
Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which Sony in-ear headphone has the best bass?
- The Sony MDR-XB55AP or XB50AP are the best for bass lovers.
2. What is the best Sony wired in-ear headphone for audiophiles?
- The Sony IER-M9 or IER-M7 offer the best audiophile sound quality.
3. Which Sony in-ear headphones are best for casual listeners?
- The Sony MDR-EX650AP offers a great balance of bass and clarity.
4. What’s the best Sony wireless alternative to wired models?
- The Sony WF-1000XM5 offers a wireless experience close to wired high-end models.
5. How does Sony MDR-EX650AP compare to MDR-XB50AP?
| Feature | Sony MDR-EX650AP | Sony MDR-XB50AP |
| Sound Signature | Warm, balanced | Extra Bass, deep lows |
| Bass | Deep but controlled | Overpowering bass |
| Housing | Brass (less distortion) | Plastic |
| Best For | All genres, clarity | EDM, Hip-Hop, Bass Lovers |
| Price | €60-90 | €30-50 |
Trending In-Ear Headphones from Other Brands.
If you’re open to other brands, here are some top-selling non-Sony in-ear headphones:
- Apple AirPods Pro 2 (€249) – Best ANC in the Apple ecosystem.
- Sennheiser IE 200 (€149) – Great budget audiophile option.
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II (€299) – Best ANC after Sony XM5.
- Moondrop Blessing 3 (€329) – Best wired audiophile in-ear monitors.
- Jabra Elite 7 Pro (€199) – Best for calls and multipoint Bluetooth.
Conclusion
Sony’s in-ear headphone lineup caters to every type of listener, from bass lovers to audiophiles. If you want deep bass on a budget, go for MDR-XB50AP/XB55AP. If you want a balanced, premium wired experience, the MDR-EX650AP or XBA-N3AP are great. For wireless convenience, the WF-1000XM5 is the best choice in 2024.
No matter what you choose, Sony remains a top brand in personal audio.