Sony MDR-MV1 Vs Sennheiser HD 600 Comparison Review

While the Sennheiser HD 600 is one of the prime open-back headphones for mixing and mastering, the Sony MDR-MV1 is also a top contender. Both headphones cater to audio professionals and audiophiles who demand accuracy, spatial clarity, and a natural soundstage. However, key differences such as impedance, frequency response, and tuning make each model unique in its own way. Whether you’re seeking the analytical precision of the HD 600 or the immersive spatial characteristics of the MV1, this comparison will help you decide which headphones best suit your needs.

What You Get

Look & Feel

In terms of design, both the Sony MV1 and Sennheiser HD 600 have a similar pro-audio look. The HD 600 is a bigger headphone with a lot more clamp force, while the MV1 is smaller with a more snug fit. I prefer the tighter pinch on the HD 600 because I’m more adjusted to it and I think the earpads are better than the MV1. If you don’t like your headphones to pinch down, then you’ll definitely find the MV1 more comfortable.

Design

Both of these headphones use dynamic drivers, with the Sennheiser HD 600 being just slightly bigger than the Sony MV1. The main difference between the two is their impedance, which makes a difference in determining whether or not you want to dish out the extra money on an amplifier. If you just want to plug your headphones into a simple headphone jack, the MV1 will be the best fit. Otherwise, if you go with the HD 600, you’ll need a good amplifier to drive it.

Soundstage

Mixing headphones require a certain amount of soundstage for properly assessing a track. Both the MV1 and HD 600 are open-back headphones that properly showcase all the sound elements with reference quality spatial imaging. The MV1 has a lot of great spatial properties and images incredibly well, but the pure stereo accuracy of the HD 600 is hard to beat. You might already be convinced by the HD 600’s ability due to the fact that it is more time-tested than the MV1, which was only released a few years ago. The MV1 has a very dome-like appearance, giving off a more non-linear soundstage than the HD 600. However, the HD 600’s comparative linearity might be a better choice for more surgical precision when mixing. While the MV1 also has spatial accuracy and precision, the positioning is a lot floatier and airy. You get great dimension as a result, but it might not always be the best for exact panning movement.

Low End

Both the MV1 and HD 600 have impactful bass. The MV1 has a particularly thick tone that brings the low frequencies to a larger scale compared to the HD 600. Those looking for a bit more depth will most likely prefer the HD 600. While the MV1 seems to have this richness to it, the HD 600 has better clarity due to its more resolving frequency response. The MV1 is very engaging to listen to in its low end, but you might find it to rely too much on texture to make it a more qualifying reference sound compared to the HD 600.

Mids

Your decision between the Sony MV1 and the Sennheiser HD 600 might depend on which midrange is the flattest and most neutral. If that’s the case, then the HD 600 is the way to go. It’s the purest and most raw midrange of the two and a better representation of clarity. In comparison, the MV1 is a bit more energized, with pronounced instruments and vocals that appear more extended than the HD 600. There’s an uptick in the upper-mids that adds a sharper underline to the sound, and while this might be exciting to listen to, a mixer could describe this sound signature as a bit exaggerated.

Highs

Neither the Sony MV1 nor the Sennheiser HD 600 hold back when it comes to high frequencies. These aren’t headphones that will feature any glistening textures in their high-end detail, rather they will offer sharp, refined frequencies you can assess. The MV1 has a bit more edge to its treble, but the HD 600 is clearer in terms of sizzling cymbals and other high-frequency sound elements.

Summary

Choosing between the Sony MDR-MV1 and Sennheiser HD 600 comes down to your specific audio preferences and workflow. The HD 600 remains a gold standard in the industry, delivering unmatched midrange neutrality and stereo imaging, making it ideal for detailed mixing and mastering. On the other hand, the MV1 offers a more spacious, immersive presentation with a textured low end, catering to those who prioritize spatial depth and dynamic listening. If you need a reference-grade, time-tested headphone, the HD 600 is a clear choice provided you have the right amplifier. However, if you want a more modern, plug-and-play option with an expansive soundstage, the MV1 is a compelling alternative. Either way, both headphones offer exceptional clarity and performance, ensuring a premium listening experience.

The Sony MDR-MV1 and Sennheiser HD 600 are available at Audio46.