The Swift Summary
Pros
Cons
- Superb audio for bass lovers
- Incredibly comfortable
- Wired audio only
Prefer a wireless version? Check out the MDR-XB950BT headphones.
Features list for the Sony MDR-XB950AP headphones
- Impressive Bass Enriched Sound
- Beat Response Control reduces heavy bass distortion
- Fold flat design (swivelling ear cups)
- Over-ear cup design
- Wired only connection
- Inline remote control and microphone
- Take calls using remote controls when connected to a smartphone
- Pressure-relieving ultra thick ear pads
- Adjustable padded head strap
- Customise inline remote using Sony SmartKey app
- 1 year manufacturers’ warranty
Swift Thoughts
Design
The metal headband and ear cup fascias certainly give the MDR-XB950AP a premium look and feel. They have a substantial, somewhat bulky aesthetic which I know will appeal to a lot of people. The branding is subtle and the red trim detailing is a nice complimentary touch.
Audio Performance
If you like your bass, you’ll love these headphones. The audio quality is rich, deep and balanced with hardly any noticeable compromises via some clever airflow design. The Sony MDR-XB950AP’s utilise an advanced direct vibe structure to seal in the bass alongside sculpted air vents to optimise low frequency airflow.
Comfort
The ear cups are super soft and have extra thick padding making the MDR-XB950AP headphones very comfortable, even when wearing for long periods of time.
Build Quality
Whilst they are not the most expensive product on the market these days, I must say the build quality is surprisingly good.
Functionality
Whilst the MDR-XB950AP headphones don’t come fully stacked with trick functionality, what functions is does have, it does well. If you prefer a set of headphones that just work well without any unnecessary marketing-hype fluff – the XB950’s are a great choice.
Swift Scores
Design
Audio Performance
Comfort
Build Quality
Functionality
Battery Life
FAQs
Q: Are the Sony MDR-XB950AP headphones suitable for larger head sizes?
A: Yes, the headstrap extends quite a bit.
Q: How long is the audio cable?
A: Approx 120cm (1.2 metres)
Q: Do they come with a case?
A: No. But check out our recommended case below.
Q: Are they suitable for exercising (running) with?
A: Yes. They fit well and are unlikely to fall off – just expect some ear sweating though. 🙂
Q: Are they noise isolating?
A: Yes. Even when you crank the music up there is basically no audio leakage.
What’s in the box?
- Sony MDR-XB950AP headphones (with attached 1.2m audio cable)
Tech Talk
How does the enhanced bass or ‘Xtra Bass’ work?
The Sony MDR-XB950AP extra bass headphones contain powerful lightweight 40mm neodymium drivers that produce a deep, balanced sound, even at high volume. Sony combined these drivers with a highly sensitive diaphragm that enables users to turn the headphone volume up louder without needing an amp. The wideband frequency range of 3 Hz to 28 kHz is designed for today’s bass-heavy music.
As mentioned previously, Sony utilise their unique Beat Response Control technology to provide a tight, deep bass response, making it perfect for low-end focused music styles. Cleverly designed air vents maximise airflow within the low frequency range. This in turn optimises the efficiency of the diaphragm to enable more accurate reproduction of bass rhythms.
Sony MDR-XB950AP Xtra Bass Headphones
The Sony MDR-XB950AP noise cancelling headphones are available in black with red trim detailing.
Download the manual
If you’re interested you can download the Sony MDR-XB950AP Manual in PDF format. Just look directly underneath the ‘Product Details’ section header. It’s called ‘User Guide’.
Alternative headphones
Prefer wireless? If you like what the MDR-XB950AP headphones have to offer but would really like the freedom of wireless connectivity then you’ve got to take a look at the Sony MDR-XB950BT wireless headphones. They have the addition of an on/off bass boost button!
Recommended accessories
Check out the Geekria Headphone Carry Case to help protect your Sony MDR-XB950AP’s.
