Fewer brands are as well known around the world as Sony. The Japanese manufacturer has been responsible for some of the most iconic pieces of tech ever created. And while they might get more attention these days for their game console or TVs, they have always been a huge player in professional audio. With that in mind, we decided to take a closer look at two of their most popular headphone models -- the MDR-7506 and the MDR-7502.

Sony MDR-7502

Easily one of the best value set of cans around, the Sony MDR-7502 model is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an affordable set of headphones that don't skimp on sound quality. While they might not have all the top specs of a multi-hundred dollar set, they still deliver a high-quality experience more than good enough for professional settings. And while sound-quality is easily the most important quality when it comes to choosing a pair of headphones, a close second has to be comfort -- the last thing you need is to drop over a lot of cash on a great set of phones that you can't keep on for over an hour. Better yet, you can always leave the 1/4" adapter at the studio and use these on your phone or MP3 player as your dedicated set for listening to music. Other key features include gold connectors, an oxygen-free cord, a 30 mm driver,  a Frequency Response of 60-16kHz, and a 6.5 ft cable length. Easily the best headphones you can buy for the price.
Sony MDR-7502 @ $59.99 For clear, high-quality sound reproduction in a closed-ear design, Sony's MDR-7502 Headphone features gold connectors, an oxygen-free cord, high-quality sound reproduction at an affordable price. You won't find a better set of headphones for the price. Features:
Type Supra-aural (On-Ear), closed-back
Frequency Range 60 Hz to 18 kHz
Impedance 24 Ohms
Sensitivity 100dB SPL/mW
Maximum Input Power 1000 mW
Connectors 1/8" stereo mini-jack, with 1/8" to 1/4" TRS adapter
Cable Length 6.5ft
Weight .5 lbs
 

Sony MDR-7506

While the MDR-7502s are an excellent choice, if you're looking for something a step higher while remaining affordable why not go for the industry standard, the pair found in studios, arenas and homes all around the world? I'm talking, of course, about the Sony MDR-7506. One of the many reasons for the MDR-7506's huge popularity is easily the sound quality, but there's a lot more to it than that. For example, the circumaural closed-back design makes it perfect for use in professional applications while the 40mm diameter drivers deliver deeper bass, lower distortion, and wider dynamic range. They also feature a compact, foldable design for easy storage. All in all, they are the perfect studio headphones to playback your tracks with superb detail or to use as a reference set without the fear of sound bleed (and very minimal background noise).
Sony MDR-7506 @ $99.00 The MDR-7506 is an industry standard within the recording, film and live arenas. With its low impedance and closed ear design, the headphone does an outstanding job of cutting down background noise while providing plenty of volume in the studio or in the field. Features:
Type Circumaural (Over Ear), closed-back
Frequency Range 10 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance 63 Ohms
Sensitivity 104dB SPL/mW
Maximum Input Power 1000 mW
Connectors 1/8" stereo mini-jack, with 1/8" to 1/4" TRS adapter
Cable Length 9.8 ft
Weight .5 lbs
 

Final Thoughts ...

Regardless of you go for the industry standard in the MDR-7506 or the best dollar for dollar value MDR-7502, you can rest assured that you'll have a set of headphones that feature the quality and craftsmanship that Sony products are known for. Better yet, you'll be able to grab it at the best price around here at ProAudioLand!