Sony offers a broad assortment of well designed, high-performance headphones ranging from full-size studio monitors such as the MDR-V700DJs all the way down to Fontopia-series earbuds, such as the MDR-EX71SLs. The Sony MDR-710LPs are a portable headband model that strikes a good balance between style, comfort, performance and value -- costing from £15.
The MDR-710LPs successfully combine revealing sonic performance with an ultra-portable, collapsible headband design. We appreciate the soft, lightweight, leatherette earpads, which give the headphones an exceptionally comfortable fit.
The black, silver and grey colour scheme and sleek style lend the Sonys a modern, pricey appearance. Frequent travellers will make good use of the included hard plastic clamshell-type carrying case (97 by 58mm), which can protect the headphones when they're folded up.
The 1.2m cord is ideal for connecting to a portable audio device that's stashed in your coat pocket or for connecting to an MP3 player's in-line remote control, but it's probably too short for use with home-cinema gear. Unlike some other portable headphones, these don't include an extension cord for domestic use.
The greatest sonic asset of the MDR-710LPs is the tight, punchy bass response generated by their 30mm drivers -- which reminds us of what you get from pro studio models. However, we wish the Sony MDR-710LPs sounded fuller in the mid-range and treble registers. You'll definitely hear an exceptional amount of detail in your music, but don't expect velvety warmth.
Despite falling short of perfection, the Sony MDR-710LPs are nonetheless comfortable, decent-sounding headphones that we wouldn't hesitate to snap up, considering the price.
Edited by Jasmine France
Additional editing by Elizabeth Griffin
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