Sony MDR-EX15LP review

Through‐manufactured utility. Cable is one ot the thinnest, simple twin‐core split at the ‘Y’. Cable has a little memory, is not soft—I expect to tangle, but not badly. Strain relief at the plug is ok, nothing at the housings. The tips go in fairly deep, and the matte surface holds good. Through‐design feels reasonably robust. Comfort is good, but shiney pointed housings are only passable to press in and out. Sony have a reputation for a smooth, functional, black aesthetic—they offer blue and pink also, both colors prove visual design is not an interest at Sony.

Volume is passable. Even considering, volume range is only passable. Envelope is good, neither too damped or ringing. Precision is average. Though the lack of volume and lowband means 15LPs will likely be good, overall timing is outstanding. Swells have no effect on timing, though scatter and muddle frequency. There’s not much wrong at any available frequency. As you may have gathered, light on the lowband—an EQ suggests they fade near 60Hz, and respond flat. Highband is lacking too, but acceptable. Some paper throughout the sound. No echo or resonance worth noting. Within range, there’s good detail and color. Scale is average, positions good.

First thing I’m going to tell you, the 15LP’s become all‐round outstanding on the end of good amps, Plugged into a phone, they’re quiet and not the best for voice, due to some spit, but otherwise tidy. As for orchestra and especially soundtracks, the lack of lowband removes the drama, but the 15LP’s are clear, colorful and positioned, so not all bad. Timing is outstanding for rock, no kidding, though vocal bias may not be what many are after. Same story for everything else—clean, unexaggerated and communicative, outstanding timing, but slightly narrow ranges, and papery.