Sony Japan Announces New MDR-EX500SL & MDR-EX300SL Headphones

Sony Japan yesterday announced two new additions to its N.U.D.E EX range of portable headphones. Using the same distinctive design as last years top-end EX700 model, the EX500 (shown above) and the EX300 both use the Neodymium 13.5mm drivers for enhanced response and audio reproduction. Both models also feature the ML (Multi-Layer) diaphragm technology to help prevent distortion.

The MDR-EX500SL comes with a frequency response of 5Hz-25,000Hz, a sound pressure level of 106dB/mW, and an impedance of 16Ω, whilst the EX300 comes with a frequency response of 5Hz-24,000Hz, a sound pressure level of 105dB/mW, and an impedance of 16Ω.

Recommended pricing for Japan is as follows:

MDR-EX300SL – 6195 Yen
MDR-EX500SL – 12390 Yen

Here are some more photos of both models:

EX500SL

EX300SL

Sony Updates Earbud Line With MDR-EX33LP, MDR-EX33SP, MDR-EX35LP, MDR-EX35SP, MDR-EX36VF

Sony Japan has updated its MXR-EX (NUDE EX) series of earbuds with the introduction of the MDR-EX33LP, MDR-EX33SP, MDR-EX35LP, MDR-EX35SP, and MDR-EX36VF. Consumers will be able to purchase the MDR-EX33LP/SP earphones in six cute colors: Pink, Blue, White, Silver, Gold, and Green. The MDR-EX35LP/SP offers a relatively simplistic design with a choice ofPink, Blue, White, Red, Black and Gold. The MDR-EX36VF is available in Black or White and features a volume control, and an adapter for Sony Ericsson cell phones. Each model features different sized rubber earbuds to ensure a proper fit.

The usual 9mm neodymium sound driver is included, and offers 6-23,000Hz frequency response, 100dB/mW pressure sensitivity, and a maximum output of 100mW.

Sony Japan Announces New EX & NC Series ‘Phones

In the second headphone announcement this week from Sony Japan, two more models have come to light;
First up are the MDR-EX76LP. These are an addition to the N.U.D.E EX range of earbuds that slot into the series between the EX55′s and the EX85′s. Interestingly for Sony Japan the default configuration is the long cord LP variant (as opposed to the usual short cord models). Perhaps this is a reflection of the increasing use of Sony’s Network Walkman’s that favor the longer cord against previous Walkman models that used a remote.

The EX76 is available in either Black, White or Silver variants and is on sale July 10th in Japan (Worldwide release date TBC).

Specifications:

Frequency Response: 6hz-24khz
Sensitivity: 103db/mW
Impedance: 16Ω
Cord Length: 1.2m

Second up are the MDR-NC40 noise cancelling phones. As a frequent traveller I am always interested in new additions to this series. This particular model appears to be a mid-range set of closed headphones fitting into the lineup underneath the MDR-NC60′s and the top of the range MDR-NC500D’s. Sony claims these phones reduce surrounding ambient noise to a tenth of its original level. These headphones are also due out in Japan on July 10th.

Specifications:

Frequency Response: 14hz-22khz
Sensitivity: 102db/mW (NC On) / 100db/mW (NC Off)
Impedance: 68Ω (NC On) / 30Ω (NC Off)
Weight: 110g (Including battery)

Links:
Sony Page for MDR-EX76LP
Sony Page for MDR-NC40
(Pages in Japanese)

Additional Photos:

Two New Bluetooth Headphone Models for July

Sony Japan has announced the addition of two new bluetooth enabled models to its headphone lineup, available on 21st July in Japan (a possible release date for other markets has yet to be confirmed). The DR-BT140QP (shown above) is available in four colors (Black, White, Gray and Pink) and in addition to regular audio can also receive 1Seg audio. The DR-BT140Q (below) on the other hand comes in just two colors (Black or White).

 

The common specification for both models is as follows:

• Frequency Response – 16hz-24khz (20hz-20khz over Bluetooth)
• Bluetooth Version – 2.0+EDR
• Profile Support – A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP
• Weight – 53g

Both models have a built-in Li-Ion battery, good for 12 hours of continuous listening. They also feature an “anti-tangle device” to prevent the neck cord from becoming twisted.

SRP is expected to be ¥10,000 (~ 92 USD)

Links:
Sony Page for DR-BT140Q
Sony Page for DR-BT140QP
(Pages in Japanese)

AV Watch Reviews the new MDR-EX700SL

AV Watch has released a pictorial review of the newly announced MDR-EX700SL canal-type earphones. For those interested, please visit AV Watch for the review piece.

More pictures after the jump …

World’s largest canal-type earphones; 16mm drivers

Magnesium chassis; weight: approx. 7g

Bundled accessories

MDR-EX90SL vs MDR-EX700SL

(Pictures courtesy of AV Watch)