This new headset was a spontaneous buy. After a few days, however, we realized how good it is so we decided to write a review about it.
We are talking about the Sony MDR-EX650AP. These are in ear headphones (they come with different sized silicone plugs of course) with an integrated microphone. This was the reason to buy them in the first place: having a new headset for an iPhone 6S (and therefore SE, too) with a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
What is really surprising is the fact that they are really made from massive brass. That should be good for longevity and shields a bit better from surrounding sounds. To keep the metal shiny, Sony covered it with a clear coat. If it gets worn over time, you may have to polish the metal from time to time – the function should not be affected. The material gets honestly vintage then, because it ages visibly. The earphones sit very comfortable in the ear, the weight balance is perfect.
The great choice of materials is also true for the cable: is has a somehow rough structure and is covered with a plastic, that is really nice to touch. This combination has a clear goal though: to not transfer cable sounds to the headphones. And this works surprisingly well, you almost hear nothing besides your music. When using other headphones you often hear how the cable rubs on your jacket, but this is not the case with the Sonys.
The sound quality is great on both sides. If you use the MDR-EX650AP for music listening you will notice that the sound reproduction is excellent for this price class. It is airy, the bass is powerful, the highs not too harsh. If you take telephone calls, you can hear yourself the exact right amount (crosstalk).
Important for everybody else on the other side of the line (and always hating people using cheap headsets with horrible mics in it): the microphone records the voice very loudly and clearly. It is a clear improvement compared to headsets in the same price range and in certain situations even better than the built in mics in the iPhone. If you decide to buy the Sonys, you will not only make yourself happy, but also everybody you will be calling. The microphone in the MDR-EX650AP really makes a good job.
Good material,
good sound,
good microphone.
So what is not so good? There are two points for Apple users: The remote only has one button. This is enough for taking calls and ending them, but that is about it. Although sometimes less is more, you should now it before you buy. And this great headset is only available with a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a Lightning model is not available. If you have a newer iPhone, you have to look for another model or use the Apple adapter.
Everybody with an iPhone with a standard headphone jack can buy the Sony MDR-EX650AP without thinking twice. We do not often have a product that just does what it says and a few days later still surprises with its great performance.
