Sony MDR-EX650AP Review

Summary / TL;DR

Looking for affordable in-ear headphones? The Sony MDR-EX650AP offers high-quality sound and a sleek design. With solid brass housing, these earbuds reduce vibrations for clearer audio. The cables are durable but slightly thin, and the earbuds fit snugly with various silicone tips. While lacking color options, they balance elegance and functionality well.

Comfort-wise, they are lightweight and secure for everyday use but may not suit intense workouts. Audio performance is rich and balanced, with punchy bass and clear mids and highs. However, they may not satisfy hardcore audiophiles. The noise isolation is decent but not exceptional, relying on a good fit for effectiveness.

The in-line remote is basic but functional, though it lacks volume controls. The package includes multiple ear tips, a carry pouch, and a clip. Compatibility is broad with a 3.5mm jack, but an adapter is needed for newer devices without a headphone jack. Priced mid-range, they offer good value with impressive build quality and sound performance, despite some minor drawbacks.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Sony WH-CH520.

Introduction

Looking for a solid pair of in-ear headphones that won't break the bank? The Sony MDR-EX650AP might just be what you need. They’re designed to deliver high-quality sound without costing a small fortune. With their sleek appearance and practical features, these earphones aim to please both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. But do they truly live up to the hype?

In this review, we'll look at various aspects of these headphones, from their build quality to their audio performance. Spoiler alert: there's a lot to like, but a few quirks too. Let's dive in and see if they're worth your hard-earned cash.

Design and Build Quality

The Sony MDR-EX650AP earbuds have a sleek and elegant look. These earbuds feature a solid brass housing that not only gives them a premium feel but also helps reduce vibrations for clearer sound. The brass finish adds a touch of class without being too flashy.

The cables are made of a durable, tangle-free material, which is always a bonus. Who enjoys spending time untangling wires? However, the cables can feel a bit thin and may not withstand heavy wear and tear over long periods. So, if you're rough with your gear, this might be something to keep in mind.

The earbuds themselves are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry around. The 12mm neodymium drivers are housed in a small, ergonomic casing that fits snugly in your ears. The design also includes well-angled nozzles, which help in achieving a better fit and seal.

One minor gripe is the lack of color options. While the brass finish is classy, it would have been great to have a few more choices to match different styles. But hey, you can't have everything, right?

Overall, the design and build quality of these earbuds strike a good balance between elegance and functionality. They look good, feel premium, and are built to last—just don't expect them to survive a wrestling match with your backpack.

Comfort and Fit

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of comfort and fit! The Sony MDR-EX650AP earbuds are designed with both comfort and practicality in mind. They come with a range of silicone ear tips in different sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your ears. This is super important because a snug fit not only makes them stay in place but also improves the sound quality by providing a good seal.

Comfort-wise, these earbuds are pretty lightweight, so they don't feel like you're lugging around a ton of bricks in your ears. The housing is made of brass, which not only looks sleek but also feels sturdy without being overly heavy. This balance between weight and durability is a win-win. Now, let's talk about the cable. It's a sturdy, tangle-free design, which is fantastic because nobody has time to deal with annoying knots. However, it’s worth noting that the cables can be a little stiff, making them slightly less flexible than other options out there.

For those of you who love to take your music on the go, these earbuds are a good choice. They sit securely in your ears, even during light jogging or a brisk walk. But, if you're planning on using them for more intense workouts, you might find that they aren't as steadfast as some sport-specific models. In summary, the fit and comfort of the Sony MDR-EX650AP are solid for everyday use and light activity. They might not be the best choice for hardcore fitness enthusiasts, but for casual listeners, they deliver a comfy experience.

Audio Performance

Let's talk about audio performance, shall we? Right off the bat, these earphones deliver a sound that's rich and well-balanced. They've got a brass housing, which isn't just for looks. Brass actually helps reduce vibrations and resonance, so you get cleaner audio without that annoying metallic twang.

When it comes to bass, these earphones don't mess around. The lows are punchy and deep without being overwhelming. Think of a drumbeat that hits you in the chest but doesn't drown out the vocals or other instruments. The mid-range is clear and natural, making it great for podcasts or acoustic tracks. And the highs? They're crisp and bright but not too sharp – just the right amount of sparkle.

Now, let's be real. No product is perfect. While the sound quality is pretty top-notch, the earphones might not satisfy hardcore audiophiles looking for ultra-high fidelity or extreme detail. But for the average listener, these do an excellent job. They're particularly good for genres like pop, rock, and electronic music.

One thing to note is the soundstage. For in-ear headphones, the soundstage is surprisingly spacious. You can actually feel some separation between instruments, which is pretty cool considering the form factor. However, it's still not going to match the expansive sound you'd get from over-ear headphones or high-end speakers.

In summary, if you're on the hunt for earphones that deliver solid, well-rounded audio with some impressive bass and clarity, these will tick most of your boxes. Just don't expect them to replace your high-end, audiophile-grade equipment.

Noise Isolation

Noise isolation is a pretty big deal when you’re choosing headphones. The Sony MDR-EX650AP does a decent job here, thanks to its in-ear design. These earphones come with snug-fitting silicone tips that help to block out a good amount of external noise. But let's be real – they’re not magic. If you’re sitting on a plane or in the middle of a busy street, you’ll still hear some background noise. These aren't active noise-canceling headphones, so they rely purely on the physical barrier created by the ear tips. 

Fit and Seal

Getting the right fit is super important for noise isolation. Make sure you try out the different sizes of ear tips included in the box to get the best seal. A good seal will not only improve noise isolation but also boost the bass performance. 

Everyday Use

For everyday use, like commuting or working in a semi-noisy office, these earphones will do a fine job of keeping most distractions at bay. However, if you’re in a gym or somewhere with a lot of sudden loud noises, don’t expect complete silence. Overall, while the Sony MDR-EX650AP doesn’t offer top-of-the-line noise isolation, it strikes a decent balance for its price range.

Microphone and Controls

For those of us who need to take calls on the go, the microphone and controls on the Sony MDR-EX650AP are a mixed bag. The in-line remote is pretty straightforward with a single button that handles all your basic functions. You can use it to play/pause music, answer/end calls, and skip tracks. However, the button can sometimes feel a bit stiff, making it tricky to press accurately, especially when you’re on the move.

As for the microphone, it's decent but not spectacular. During calls, your voice comes through clearly in most environments, but it can struggle a bit in noisier settings. If you're in a busy street or a noisy cafe, the person on the other end might have a hard time hearing you without a bit of background noise creeping in.

One thing to note is that there are no volume controls on the in-line remote, which can be a bit inconvenient. You’ll have to reach for your phone or device to adjust the volume. For some, this might be a minor inconvenience, but if you’re used to having full control at your fingertips, it could be a deal-breaker.

Overall, the microphone and controls on these headphones do the job, but they aren’t going to blow anyone away. They're functional and get the basics right, but some improvements could definitely be made to enhance the user experience.

Video by: Kolosalus

What's in the Box

So, what do you get when you unbox these earbuds? Let’s take a closer look at the contents inside the package.

• The headphones themselves: The main attraction, of course, are the earbuds. They're sleek and have a premium look and feel.
• Different sizes of ear tips: You get four pairs of silicone ear tips in various sizes (SS, S, M, and L). This ensures you can find the perfect fit for your ears without much hassle.
• Carry pouch: There's a small, soft pouch included for easy storage and portability. It isn’t the sturdiest, but it gets the job done.
• Clip: A clothing clip is also part of the package. This helps keep the cable in place and prevents it from tangling, especially when you're on the move.

It’s a pretty straightforward package. You won't find any fancy extras, but everything included is practical and useful. The different ear tip sizes are a nice touch, ensuring you can get a comfortable fit. However, it would have been great if the carry pouch was a bit more robust. Overall, you get the essentials needed for a good listening experience right out of the box.

Compatibility

Compatibility is a big deal when you're looking at headphones, right? So, let's talk about how well the Sony MDR-EX650AP plays with different devices.

First things first, these earbuds come with a standard 3.5mm jack. This makes them universally compatible with most smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even some gaming consoles. If your device has a headphone jack, you're good to go.

But, what if your device doesn't have a headphone jack? Many newer smartphones, like the recent iPhone and some Android models, have ditched the 3.5mm port. In that case, you'll need an adapter. Unfortunately, an adapter is not included in the box, so you'll have to buy one separately. Bummer, right?

Now, regarding in-line controls and the microphone, they work seamlessly with both iOS and Android devices. You can easily take calls, adjust the volume, and skip tracks regardless of your phone's operating system. However, some users have reported that the buttons may not always function perfectly on older devices or less common operating systems.

So, to sum it up, the Sony MDR-EX650AP is pretty darn versatile in terms of compatibility. Just be prepared to grab an adapter if you're using a device without a headphone jack.

Price and Value

Price and Value When it comes to bang for your buck, the Sony MDR-EX650AP headphones do a pretty solid job. These in-ear headphones are positioned at a mid-range price point, making them accessible without breaking the bank. So, what do you get for your money? A lot, actually. The build quality is impressive, with the brass housings giving it a premium feel and enhancing the sound quality. The audio performance is stellar, especially if you're into clear highs and rich mids. The microphone and controls are functional and user-friendly, which is a huge plus if you plan to use these for calls or on-the-go commands.

But let's be real—no product is perfect. Some users might find the bass a bit lacking compared to more bass-heavy alternatives. And although the noise isolation is decent, it's not on par with more expensive, dedicated noise-canceling models. Still, considering the price, these headphones deliver a lot of value. If you're looking for a reliable pair of in-ear headphones that won't empty your wallet, the Sony MDR-EX650AP is definitely worth considering. They offer a great balance of quality, performance, and affordability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sony MDR-EX650AP offers a solid mix of sound quality, comfort, and durability that is hard to beat in its price range. If you value clear mids and highs, these in-ear headphones deliver. The brass housing isn't just for looks; it actually makes a difference in the audio experience. However, there are a few downsides. The noise isolation could be a bit better, especially if you're planning to use them in really noisy environments.

Also, while the in-line controls and mic are handy, they could be more responsive. On the plus side, these headphones are pretty comfortable for long listening sessions, and they come with a good variety of ear tips for a better fit. The design is stylish yet understated, making it perfect for both casual and professional settings. 

Overall, if you're looking for a dependable pair of in-ear headphones with good sound quality and a sturdy build, you won't be disappointed with these. They're a great value for the price and a worthy addition to your audio gear collection.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications