I had always wondered exactly how good conventional headphones were at taking advantage of what Super Audio CD had to offer. This announcement by Sony answers my questions.

Sony will release the high-grade "MDR-SA series" headphones that support SACD o­n December 10th. The high level "MDR-SA5000" model supports audio playback up to 110kHz. The price is 77,700 yen. The mid-level model "MDR-SA3000" will be 38,850 yen, and the lower level "MDR-SA1000" will be 25,200 yen.

The upper level "MDR-SA5000" are headphones that support Super Audio CDs. They feature a 50mm diameter nanocomposite HD driver unit capable of playing audio up to 100kHz. It is designed to be lightweight with a frame made of magnesium, and the comfort of the headphones has been increased thanks to the use of stress dispersion headphone cushions and natural frame mechanism.

Furthermore, the headphones are specifically designed for high quality audio playback. This is because of the HD diaphragm structure improving frequency response, neosium magnet capable of producing 360kJ of magnetics to allow for clear mid-range tones and powerful low-range tones, and a porous housing that eliminates unnecessary resonance.

The earpads are made of natural leather. The cord is a 6N-OFC Litz cabling, and the cloth insulated construction allows for the coexistence of clear tone quality and lightness. The weight is 260g. An exclusive stand is included.

The "MDR-SA3000" uses a nanocomposite HD driver capable of playback up to 100kHz. It uses the same lightweight frame mechanism as the SA5000, also making them lightweight and comfortable. The weight is 265g. A carrying pouch and plug adapter are included.

The "MDR-SA1000" uses an HD driver unit capable of playback up to 80kHz. Other characteristics follow those of the upper level models. The weight is 265g. A carrying pouch and plug adapter are include.




Inspired by:
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20041122/sony.htm

Product Information (MDR-SA5000):
http://www.ecat.sony.co.jp/avacc/headphone/acc/index.cfm?PD=19133&KM=MDR-SA5000

Product Information (MDR-SA3000):
http://www.ecat.sony.co.jp/avacc/headphone/acc/index.cfm?PD=19132&KM=MDR-SA3000

Product Information (MDR-SA1000):
http://www.ecat.sony.co.jp/avacc/headphone/acc/index.cfm?PD=19129&KM=MDR-SA1000