RANKING

Rank 28 out of 52 Summarized in this category Rankings based on: • Pros-to-cons ratio • Number of reviews • Category average

Sony

MDR-CD900ST

Name: MDR-CD900ST
Brand: Sony

around $150

All prices are estimates and may vary from actual prices.

143 Pros

69%
16 reviews (2h 51m)

64 Cons

Step into the studio with the legendary Sony MDR-CD900ST, the undisputed industry standard in Japanese recording studios for over three decades. Praised by audio professionals for its uncompromisingly honest sound, the CD900ST delivers a famously flat and neutral frequency response that reveals every detail and nuance in your audio. Its exceptional...

Summary of pros and cons from human reviewers, put together by AI

68%

58 vs 27

Sound Quality

78%

21 vs 6

Comfort

70%

23 vs 10

Build Quality

69%

18 vs 8

Value for Money

73%

8 vs 3

Design

Reviewer verdict

Across 16 YouTube reviews, the Sony MDR-CD900ST earns a Summa score of 3.8/5, ranking #28 among Wired Earbuds. Reviewers most often praise its sound quality, build quality, comfort, while the most common criticisms concern sound quality, build quality.

The Sony MDR-CD900ST is repeatedly praised across reviews for its clear, neutral, and detailed sound presentation, with about 58 mentions highlighting strong midrange clarity, realistic vocals and instrument separation useful for monitoring and vocal work. Reviewers also frequently note its professional, durable build and repairability (23 mentions), lightweight comfortable fit for long sessions (21 mentions), and excellent value as a long-lived studio standard (18 mentions). Multiple reviewers specifically call out its flat frequency response, reliable translation for mixes, and suitability for studio tasks like video editing, voice-over, and monitoring. Several mentions also emphasize that simple pad swaps (ST Pad 2 or Yaxi pads) can improve comfort and subtly alter the sound.

Criticisms center mainly on sound limitations (27 mentions), with reviewers saying the CD900ST can have a narrow, close soundstage, limited sub-bass and treble extension, and some dips/peaks that make it less exciting or less suited to modern, bass-forward mixes. The fixed, non-detachable cable and older design are noted as inconvenience and potential maintenance costs (about 10 mentions), and stock pads/getting the fit right are commonly called uncomfortable or cramped (6 mentions). Several reviewers also question its fit for today’s mainstream production or casual listeners who prefer more stage or boosted bass, and warn that swapping amps or pads won’t fundamentally modernize its character.

Analysis based on 16 YouTube reviews (2h 51m of video) with 143 pros and 64 cons extracted.

Pros (143)

Sound Quality (58)

The ST Pad 2 ear pads have a dome-shaped cut that alters resonance and sound quality. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 1:02
音の分離感が非常に良く、素の音が聞ける ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 9:44
ボーカルや楽器の音がリアルで生音に近い ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 13:00
It has a more organic smoothness in tone that is forgiving of music and sounds enjoyable for listening rather than just studio use. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 5:04
It has a near-perfect tone, which is why it and the V6 are still sought after today. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 5:39
It has slightly better extension than the CD900 ST without becoming fatiguing like the 7506. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 4:50
It is extremely close in sound to the original V6, offering a neutral pleasant middle ground with rolled-off bass and treble focusing on mid-range clarity. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 4:18
The Sony MDR-CD900ST is an honest headphone with a truthful sound signature, leveling out around a diffuse field curve, making it relatively similar to how the human ear responds. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 1:24
It is a good headphone for video editing and monitoring due to its neutral sound profile. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 1:47
The headphone is the most spacious sounding of the three headphones tested with Yaxi pads. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 0:38
The frequency response shows decent bass and a balanced midrange with some dips and peaks but nothing extreme. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 5:04
It has a tolerable treble response with a dip around 6kHz which makes it easier to listen to treble-heavy content. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 5:28
The headphone maintains a consistent frequency response regardless of output impedance. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 5:46
It balances sound well without making major sacrifices in any frequency range. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 8:41
The reviewer enjoys using the MDR-CD900ST for gaming and listening to records, indicating versatility. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 8:07
It is suitable for limited uses such as noise checking and monitoring during recording sessions. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 4:15
The sound stage is open and natural, instruments feel like they're floating in space, not jammed together. ▶ Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! @ 6:28
Easy to make EQ decisions and catch subtle issues sometimes missed on speakers. ▶ Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! @ 6:38
It has a flat frequency response which is good for accurate sound monitoring. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 5:52
It reproduces fine details in sound very well. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 6:08
Frekuensi headset dari 5 sampai 30.000 Hz, lebih dari cukup untuk telinga manusia yang hanya mendengar 20-20.000 Hz. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 3:14
Karakter suara sangat cocok untuk musik vokal dan suara manusia, sangat direkomendasikan untuk penggemar musik Jepang dan studio recording. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 5:55
Desain dan tuning suara sudah stabil sejak tahun 1989, digunakan luas di studio-studio Jepang. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 8:40
Rekomendasi untuk penyuka musik vokal dan musik Jepang, kualitas suara jauh lebih baik dibandingkan headphone biasa. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 11:54
Sony MDR CD 900 ST is a studio monitor headphone with a very strong center focus, replicating the sound of a singer being directly in front of the microphone. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 0:48
The bass has a mid-bass hump with good impact, slam, details, and clarity, providing a pleasing sound with good tonality. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 5:45
Mids are vocally focused, detailed, clear, and have good separation and tonality, making everything sound realistic and natural. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 6:46
Treble is slightly accentuated and bright but never harsh or fatiguing, staying well controlled and detailed. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 7:11
Soundstage is fairly close but with good imaging and depth, allowing good tracking of sound movement across the stage. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 8:28
The headphones are engaging and fun, suitable for both monitoring and casual listening, and provide accurate sound reproduction. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 10:07
They can be trusted for accurate monitoring without weird resonances or reverbs, making them reliable for live sessions. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 10:24
The MDR-M1 features a redesigned high resolution driver that reproduces the entire frequency spectrum. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 2:52
The MDR-M1 can reproduce sub bass down to 20-30Hz, which the 7506 cannot. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 2:58
The MDR-M1 has detailed yet smooth high frequencies that are not brittle or harsh. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 3:12
The MDR-M1 has an impressive mid-frequency response, providing a complete and natural sound. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 3:25
The MDR-M1 offers natural sound that is not overly hyped or exaggerated, aiding accurate mixing and mastering. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 3:42
The MDR-M1 provides very good translation for mixes outside the studio, maintaining accuracy. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 4:05
The MDR-M1 has a tuned port to ventilate and control bass response, delivering tight and accurate low end with punchy transients. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 4:23
The MDR-M1 outperforms many trusted studio headphones in translation and accuracy. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 4:55
The MDR-M1 bass response is tight, goes very low, and translates well outside the studio. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 6:55
The MDR-M1 is an objective reference headphone for mixing and mastering, providing accuracy rather than hype. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 7:08
It offers very clear and balanced sound, allowing for stress-free listening. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 9:31
The sound quality is very clear, making it suitable for professional music monitoring and audio engineering. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 12:02
The headphones reproduce all instruments and vocals evenly, reflecting the mastering engineer's intent. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 9:59
The MDR-CD900ST allows clear focus on individual instruments like bass and hi-hat without losing overall balance. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 11:18
These headphones best relay sound in the most glorious neutral and unbiased way. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:12
They allow you to hear everything clearly and help find audio flaws during production. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:19
Sony MDRs have a very good deep, powerful and punchy bass, clear highs, present mids, and an extended low end for accurate monitoring. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:31
40 millimeter drivers deliver high quality sound with a wide frequency response of 10 Hz to 20 kHz. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:54
The mid-range is excellent with an even and flat response promoting well-balanced and clear reproduction of vocals. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 2:11
Recommended for voice-overs or podcasting due to clear vocal reproduction. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 2:23
音質がフラットで、低音や高音の強調がないため、正確な音を聞くことができる ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 0:48
小さな音までしっかりと聞こえ、色付けされていない状態で音を再生できる ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 7:36
音の強弱が綺麗に再生される高性能なイヤホンである ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 8:37
繊細な音をクリアに再生してくれる ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 9:49
The headphone design places drivers directly on the ears, minimizing indirect sound and providing a direct connection preferred in Japan for vocal monitoring. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 1:02
The bass cutoff below 100Hz can be advantageous for vocal monitoring by cutting unnecessary bass and making vocals clearer, acting like a built-in high-pass filter. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 2:45
The driver design and overall characteristics are similar to MDR-7506, with slightly higher impedance and lowest resonance frequency, but almost no difference in actual use. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 3:30

Build Quality (23)

業務用のスタジオモニターヘッドホンとしての高い信頼性とプロ仕様感がある ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 0:07
ケーブルが柔らかく扱いやすい ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 6:28
パーツが豊富で自己修理が可能 ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 3:07
メンテナンス性が良く、部品交換が簡単 ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 14:57
The CD900 has a unique amorphous diamond plasma deposition coating on the driver diaphragm, which none of its siblings have. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 1:22
The headphone has a durable build and cables that can be replaced if needed. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 4:04
The Sony MDR-CD900ST is a well-made headphone with a professional image and is widely used in Japanese recording studios. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 0:21
The headphone is Japanese-made with good support and was a de facto standard in Japan for many years. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 3:34
Build feels premium without being heavy, better build quality than HD600s. ▶ Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! @ 7:47
Sony MDR-CD900ST is the industry standard headphone used in music studios and radio. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 0:49
It is a professional headphone designed for music studio work. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 2:15
Headset ini cukup spesial dan eksklusif diproduksi di Jepang. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 0:42
The MDR-CD900ST has a gargantuan attached quarter inch plug, which is robust. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 8:12
The MDR-CD900ST has a very light and smooth build with thin metal parts, not plastic. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 9:34
No exposed wires on the MDR-CD900ST, indicating good build quality. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 10:58
The cable is beautiful and textured, similar to an old vacuum cord, adding durability. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 12:31
The MDR-M1 has a replaceable cable on the left side and comes with two different cables for versatility. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 1:55
The MDR-M1 has a removable cable with two cables included for studio and consumer use. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 7:20
They have a neodymium magnet which provides excellent power handling. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:47
The replacement ST Pad 2 uses antibacterial leather and has a different ear pad shape that changes the sound. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 0:38
The replacement process is not very difficult and can be done by most users with some care. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 2:27
日本製で品質が信頼できる ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 2:38
The cable is a straight cable with a simple solder terminal, making it easy to repair. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 4:19

Comfort (21)

軽量で長時間の使用でも疲れにくい付け心地 ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 13:52
Sony MDR CD900ST is super lightweight and very comfortable, can be worn for hours without noticing them on. ▶ Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! @ 6:07
Great for critical mixing sessions, super spacious and comfortable for long sessions, hearing music with fresh ears. ▶ Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! @ 8:41
The headphone is very lightweight. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 3:00
Material headset terbuat dari plastik yang ringan, hanya 200 gram. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 2:05
Bantalan kuping fleksibel dan bisa diputar sampai 90 derajat, nyaman digunakan. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 4:45
Sony MDR-CD900ST headphones are insanely light, adding to comfort. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 5:23
Yaxi pads add extra comfort to the Sony MDR-CD900ST. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 5:30
The clamp force is decently linear, providing a nice fit. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 10:52
The pads on the MDR-CD900ST are great and feel really high quality. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 11:53
The MDR-CD900ST is very light, which is appreciated for long wear. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 12:08
The headphone is very light at about 200 grams and feels durable despite its plastic build. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 1:17
Using Yaxi pads greatly improves comfort and sound quality, making the sound more balanced, cohesive, natural, and realistic. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 3:53
The MDR-M1 ear cups are much more comfortable and soft, designed for all day comfort. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 1:03
The MDR-M1 headphones are incredibly lightweight at just 216 grams, lighter than the 7506. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 1:46
The headphones are very light and comfortable to wear for long periods without fatigue. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 5:24
Generous headband padding enhances comfort. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 2:55
Simple studio design and comfortable fit, which improves after breaking them in. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 3:21
The thicker pads increase distance from the driver, reducing fatigue and improving comfort. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 1:07
Changing to ST Pad 2 transforms the MDR-CD900ST into an over-ear headphone, improving fit. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 1:18
The replacement pads provide better fit and higher stability with increased adhesion compared to the original pads. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 3:25

Value for Money (18)

It has a legacy of influence on the audio industry that has been immeasurable. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 7:38
It is a sub-$100 headphone when purchased used with pads, offering excellent value for money. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 3:48
It is affordable, priced around 17,000 to 18,000 yen, making it accessible. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 2:43
It has a long history since 1989 and was highly regarded at the time of release for its quality and support. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 3:08
Won the blind test and has been a go-to headphone for over a year without letting down. ▶ Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! @ 8:54
Banyak orang memodifikasi headset ini untuk meningkatkan kualitas atau menambah fitur seperti bluetooth. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 9:42
Harga sekitar 2,7 juta rupiah sudah termasuk pengiriman dan bea cukai, masih terjangkau untuk kualitas profesional. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 10:23
The Sony MDR-CD900ST is a standard, world-renowned headphone used by musicians, voice actors, and video professionals. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 3:50
It is suitable for both music production and casual music listening. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 12:13
Sony MDR headphones have been the professional's choice on movie sets and recording studios for over 30 years. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:02
Their price point is shockingly low. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:27
Versatile headphones suitable for a wide variety of genres from bass heavy dubstep and film scores to rock, folk, and audiobooks. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 3:07
Perfect for content creators including music production, live streaming, podcasts, filmmaking, mixing and mastering. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 3:50
Highly recommended for producing audio content for podcasts or videos. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 4:18
Sony MDR-CD900ST is a classic and widely used headphone model, still popular after more than 30 years since release. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 0:14
価格が6000円しないぐらいでコストパフォーマンスが良い ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 10:08
古くからある製品で性能が折り紙つきで安心して購入できる ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 10:12
Sony MDR-CD900ST is a famous model worldwide and the absolute standard in Japan for over 30 years. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 0:31

Design (8)

パッケージがシンプルでプロ用らしい ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 2:09
赤帯モデルはデザインがかっこいい ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 4:48
右左がはっきり分かりやすいデザイン ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 5:21
The black plastic parts have a glossy, pearlescent glittery finish, setting it apart visually. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 1:35
The R and L markings are clear and the top headband has padding for comfort. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 9:43
The MDR-M1 cans fold inward to lay flat, making them easy to carry and store. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 2:30
They fold down into a compact travel factor for easy storage and travel. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 3:00
The ST Pad 2 pads have clear L/R color coding, improving usability. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 0:32

Noise Isolation (7)

The MDR-M1 ear cups greatly enhance isolation, reducing headphone bleed during recording. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 1:17
The MDR-M1 provides better acoustic isolation, keeping out outside noise to help focus. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 1:30
The MDR-M1 provides isolation and natural sound stage for recording, plus accuracy for mixing and mastering all in one pair. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 5:13
Closed-ear design provides comfort and outstanding reduction of external noises with excellent noise cancellation. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 2:30
Virtually no audio leakage unless at extremely high volumes. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 2:48
密閉型で外部の音が聞こえにくく、音に集中できる ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 7:07
CD900ST has less sound leakage than the MDR-7506 at the same perceived output. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 2:04

Connectivity (5)

ケーブルが2.5mと長くプロ用として使いやすい ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 5:36
Sensitivity 106 dB dan impedansi 63 Ohm, cocok digunakan langsung di handphone atau laptop tanpa perlu power tambahan. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 3:35
The MDR-M1 has a 50 ohm impedance, so it does not require an external amplifier. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 2:10
9.8 foot corded cable provides more than enough slack for working in a studio without removing headphones. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 3:41
ケーブルが2.5メートルのロングケーブルで柔らかく使いやすい ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 2:48

Durability (3)

断線しにくいケーブル設計で耐久性が高い ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 15:10
長く使い続けられる信頼性のある製品 ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 15:42
Kabelnya panjang sekali, sekitar dua setengah meter dengan jack 6.5 mm yang kuat dan dilengkapi per untuk mencegah kerusakan. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 2:17

Cons (64)

Sound Quality (27)

The original CD900 does not have rear damping present in the later ST version. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 1:49
The sound stage is really tiny and the imaging is only slightly better than average. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 5:52
The sub-bass extension and texture feel weak and distant. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 6:07
It lacks treble extension and any sense of air, with a strong veil over the top end. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 6:23
Its age shows in detail retrieval, which is not as good as modern counterparts. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 5:20
The headphone has some trouble extending past the diffuse field curve and has dips and peaks in the frequency response. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 1:29
The headphone is not as exciting, immersive, or stagey as some audiophile-focused headphones. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 8:48
There is a slight elevation peak around 10 kHz in measurements, though partly due to the measurement rig. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 4:51
The headphone rolls off after about 15 kHz, which might limit the highest treble extension. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 5:37
The soundstage is all over the place with a weird thumping low mid, lacking bass and sounding compressed. ▶ I Tested The 10 Best Headphones ($50 to $150) @ 5:31
No good transient response and the sound profile is not balanced or neutral as often claimed. ▶ I Tested The 10 Best Headphones ($50 to $150) @ 5:44
Lacks real depth of sound and any nice character even after burn-in. ▶ I Tested The 10 Best Headphones ($50 to $150) @ 5:59
The headphone lacks sufficient low-frequency reproduction for modern popular music production. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 6:36
The sound distance is too close, which is not suitable for mixing and mastering in current music production styles. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 6:43
The headphone's sound characteristics do not fit the current music production style where mixing and mastering are done on headphones. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 5:59
Changing the headphone amplifier or earpads does not fundamentally improve the sound to meet modern needs. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 8:03
Small dip around 5 kHz followed by a rise up to 8.5 kHz can make cymbals or white noise sound a little exaggerated, especially on big, high-end, heavy tracks. ▶ Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! @ 6:46
The midrange sound may feel a bit flat or less emphasized compared to consumer headphones with boosted bass and treble. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 5:57
Kurang cocok untuk musik tipe IDM atau musik elektronik yang kompleks, suara bisa terdengar kacau. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 6:14
The headphone is not easy to drive, requiring more power and working best with desktop setups or sound boards, not portable devices. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 1:52
The bass has a slight bleed into the lower mids, causing a bit more bass presence than actual, which may require EQ adjustment. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 10:45
Soundstage is less wide than average for a closed-back headphone, which may feel somewhat limited in spatial width. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 8:33
The MDR-M1 bass might seem underwhelming to those used to hyped frequency responses. ▶ Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? @ 7:38
Compared to Audio-Technica ATH-M50, the MDR-CD900ST has less emphasized bass, which might feel less powerful for bass-heavy music. ▶ SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review @ 10:24
Bass might be lacking compared to headphones like Beats which have patented low end frequency boost. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 1:43
音がフラットすぎて、そのままだと好みの音にはならず、エフェクトをかける必要がある ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 8:26
The narrow sound bandwidth makes it difficult to use for purposes other than vocal monitoring, not suitable for mixing or listening to music. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 3:14

Build Quality (10)

無償修理期間がなく、壊れたら有償修理のみ ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 2:32
It has hard-attached cables which might be inconvenient for some users. ▶ Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) @ 4:04
The Sony MDR-7506 has plasticky build quality that feels fragile and uncomfortable ear cups. ▶ I Tested The 10 Best Headphones ($50 to $150) @ 5:09
It is an old model from 1989 and does not have improvements that modern headphones offer. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 3:08
There is no free repair period; all repairs are paid. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 2:20
Kabel tidak bisa dilepas, jika rusak harus diperbaiki atau diganti secara manual. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 10:01
The attached cable on the MDR-CD900ST is non-detachable, which may be inconvenient. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 5:36
Headphones do not have a removable aux cable, which can be a negative for some people. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 4:30
Removing the original ear pads requires strong force and can risk damage if not careful. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 1:48
Installing the replacement pads requires some effort and pulling, which might be tricky for very unskilled users. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 2:22

Value for Money (8)

There is no clear discernable reason for the average headphone enjoyer to hunt this one down, as similar or better sound quality can be found in other models like the V6, 7506, MDR1, CD900 ST, and JVC HA MX100 Z. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor @ 6:47
Not recommended for beginners or those starting music production today as it does not meet modern needs. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 0:49
It is not a special or superior headphone despite its professional image and usage in studios. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 2:36
There are better alternatives available today in the same price range, such as Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro, and Shure SRH840. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 7:15
Buying this headphone based on its popularity or because others have it is not recommended. ▶ 【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ @ 9:12
Packaging sangat sederhana dan tidak ada garansi resmi. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 0:38
無償修理期間がなく、修理は全て有償であるため注意が必要 ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 1:25
変換プラグが必要で、付属していないため別途購入が必要 ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 3:47

Comfort (6)

The MDR-CD900ST's ear pads cause the ear to feel cramped inside, making it a hard place to live for the ear. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 11:45
The MDR-CD900ST's ear pads touch the ear directly, which can be uncomfortable. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 11:51
Stock pads are extremely thin and uncomfortable, causing the driver assembly to press against the ears and limiting wear time. ▶ Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved @ 2:59
Can be uncomfortable with extended use initially, though comfort improves after breaking them in. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 3:24
Original foam padding is prone to overheating according to some users, though the reviewer has not experienced this. ▶ 🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony @ 3:36
The fit is physically very bad, feeling like a bumpy piece of steel pressing on the ear due to thin ear pads. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 1:25

Noise Isolation (4)

Tidak ada teknologi noise cancellation atau fitur modern lainnya. ▶ Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st @ 7:22
Noise isolation is clearly inferior compared to global versions due to thinner ear pads and poor fit. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 1:48
Sound leaks cannot be properly prevented due to poor isolation. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 1:57
Bass leaks out below 100Hz, which is undesirable for sound quality. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 2:34

Design (3)

デザインが味気なく、市販品としては好みが分かれる ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 15:27
The headphone does not come with a power cord attached. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones @ 2:39
The headband is simplified and cannot be folded, designed only for indoor use. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 3:49

Connectivity (3)

ケーブルの長さが長すぎてパソコン用途には不便な場合がある ▶ 超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ @ 5:42
The quarter inch plug on the MDR-CD900ST is very large and bulky. ▶ Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st @ 8:17
変換アダプターのコネクター部分が長く、使い勝手に影響がある ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 4:49

Durability (2)

The original ear pads on the MDR-CD900ST tend to wear out and become damaged over long-term use. ▶ SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ @ 0:19
The cable is a straight cable without curl code processing, which is less durable for field monitoring environments. ▶ 【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 @ 4:06

Microphone Quality (1)

口の開閉音やくちゃくちゃ音などもきれいに拾ってしまい、好みが分かれる可能性がある ▶ SONY MDR−CD900ST @ 8:50

Review sources

🎧 Amazing budget studio headphones that can do it all! Sony MDR-7506 18 pros, 4 cons
Sony MDR-M1 Headphones Review: The NEW Studio Standard? 19 pros, 1 cons
超生音【SONY MDR-CD900ST(赤帯)】SENNHEISERと聴き比べ 13 pros, 3 cons
Audiophile sound UNDER $100. (Old school Sony) by DMS — 10 pros, 5 cons
Review headset monitor langka di Indonesia !! Sony CD900st 11 pros, 4 cons
【警告】SONY MDR-CD900ST は買うな！！ 5 pros, 9 cons
Z Unboxing - Vintage Sennheiser & Sony M1st by ZeosPantera — 10 pros, 4 cons
SONY MDR−CD900ST 9 pros, 5 cons
Sony MDR-CD900 Review - The Granddaddy Studio Monitor by GREQ Reviews — 7 pros, 6 cons
Sony MDR-CD900ST - Studio and Pleasure Approved by the Honest Audiophile — 9 pros, 4 cons
【소리체험】 소니 일본 프로 헤드폰들의 공통점? 🤔 MDR-CD900ST / M1ST 비교 측정리뷰 by 아레지나 테크리뷰 — 6 pros, 7 cons
SONY MDR-CD900STを手軽にカスタマイズ！YAXI stPad2 を試してみる！ 8 pros, 3 cons
SONY MDR-CD900ST ヘッドフォン headphones 5 pros, 3 cons
SONYヘッドフォンMDR-CD900ST Review 7 pros, 1 cons
Did SONY beat Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser?! 6 pros, 1 cons
I Tested The 10 Best Headphones ($50 to $150) by In The Mix — 0 pros, 4 cons

Frequently asked questions

Is the Sony MDR-CD900ST worth buying?

Based on 16 independent YouTube reviews, the Sony MDR-CD900ST scores 3.8/5 with 143 positive and 64 negative points mentioned by reviewers, placing it #28 in the Wired Earbuds category.

What do reviewers like most about the Sony MDR-CD900ST?

The most praised aspects are sound quality, build quality, comfort — Sound Quality (58 mentions), Build Quality (23 mentions), Comfort (21 mentions).

What are the most common complaints about the Sony MDR-CD900ST?

Reviewers most frequently criticize sound quality, build quality — Sound Quality (27 mentions), Build Quality (10 mentions).

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