Sony revives the original Walkman headphones, adds USB-C

Color us nostalgic.

Sony has brought back the MDR-3-series headphones that debuted in 1979 alongside the Walkman TPS-L2 cassette player.

In this marketing image Sony shared, you can see the Walkman TPS-L2.

Credit: Sony

Originally called the “MDR-3L2,” the first Walkman headphones were known for their sleek, adjustable gray plastic headband, which extended via metal sliders and ended in signature orange, circular ear cushions. The lightweight, on-ear headphones are a contrast to the bulky headsets that are popular these days, which use wide, cushioned headbands for long-term comfort and large earcups that can support big drivers and are often heavily padded for noise isolation.

The new MDR-3R (note the slightly different name) headphones look just like the originals and come with orange and blue ear cushions.

Closer look at the MDR-3R.

Credit: Sony

New headphones are often wireless these days, but the MDR-3R continues the wired tradition of the MDR-3, with an essential twist: a USB-C connector.

“The MDR-3R has been redesigned for modern use while preserving the experience value of freely taking music out into the world, which the original MDR-3 helped popularize,” Sony’s announcement says.