Sony MDR-AS50G Active Headphones
Manufacturer: Sony Part number: MDR-AS50G
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Sony MDR-AS50G Active Headphones offer an affordable price tag, a secure fit, and good sound quality--they're a fantastic option for gym addicts.
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CNET editors' review
Sony MDR-AS50G Active Headphones price range: $27.99 - $49.99
- Reviewed by: Jasmine France
- Reviewed on: 04/07/2008
The good: The Sony MDR-AS50G Active Headphones feature an innovative design that spirals down for easy, compact storage, and it helps to ensure a secure fit. The modular cable is ideal for fitness and portable applications. The sound quality is good, and the price is fair.
The bad: The Sony MDR-AS50G's band tends to stick out from the sides of the head, which can make it hard to conceal under hair. The band is not adjustable, so not all users will be able to have it loop behind the ear.
The bottom line: The Sony MDR-AS50G Active Headphones offer an affordable price tag, a secure fit, and good sound quality--they're a fantastic option for gym addicts.
Although the headphone market continues to burgeon with new models, it can be surprisingly tough to find a decent, fitness-friendly pair. A few companies, such as Sennheiser, have stepped up to the plate with sport-branded earphones, which feature design attributes meant to keep them secured on the head during activity. Now, we can add Sony to the list. The company has released an impressive array of Active Headphones, the $50 MDR-AS50G among them. These excellent, uniquely-designed earphones are a perfect choice for the gym.
Sony hit the nail pretty well on the head with the design of the MDR-AS50G, but we're not without a few (very minor) gripes. Namely, the neckband is not adjustable, so it can have a tendency to stick out from the sides of the head. Also, not every user will be able to get the band looped over and behind the ear. That said, the design is such that the earphones will stay secure in the ears even without the band being looped over the ear. Moreover, they're actually comfortable regardless of the ear looping, although they can irritate the inside of the ear after several hours of wear. This is surprisingly rare, and it's no doubt because of the spiraling style of the neck band. Sony designed the twisting tendency of the band mainly to ensure the earphones compact down for storage, but it also serves to hold the earbuds in place by pushing them slightly toward the head. This seemingly simple trait is practically genius--it just works so well.
The Sony MDR-AS50G earphones feature a few other physical attributes worth noting. First, they're mainly black with some silver and a teeny bit of red accenting, so if the Sennheiser Sport line was a little too bright and flashy for you, the MDRs are a good alternative. Also, the cable is modular, which is usually ideal for active applications, as it keeps the main cable short enough (20 inches, in this case) to use with an armband without a lot of slack cord. Also, Sony was smart enough to include a clip on the cable for dealing with the weight added when you connect the included extender cable, which adds an additional 26 inches to the length--plenty for keeping your MP3 player in a bag or pocket. Sony also includes a rather clunky, but still useful, plastic case.
During our performance evaluation of the Sony MDR-AS50G earphones, we took a couple things into consideration, not the least of which was their ability to stay in place during activity. They passed this test with flying colors, failing to budge during a jog, a set of sit-ups, or a bout on the elliptical trainer. One thing to note: these earphones are not appropriate for cyclists, because they're not ideal for wearing just one earbud, which is the safe thing to do when riding. Also, they block out a reasonable amount of noise, so they may not be the best option for street runners. However, for general portable and gym use, the MDR-AS50Gs are great. They even sound good. Overall, we were impressed by the clear and mostly balanced audio response. Although the headphones definitely tend to be more bass-heavy, we didn't find it overwhelming. Mids were reasonably warm and rich, and the high-end detail was not muddled or lost.
User reviews
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FINALLY, SONY did it right...FINALLY!!!!!
by jonthn523 on April 13, 2008
Pros: Great fit, extremely lightweight, crisp sound, good design, and best of all, it doesn't fall out of my ears!
Cons: right earphone doesn't stay all the way in sometimes when I shift my head to the right...
Summary: alright folks, I must have gone through 10 different sony "workout" designed headphones over the course of the past fifteen years before coming across this one. I have to hand ...
Summary: alright folks, I must have gone through 10 different sony "workout" designed headphones over the course of the past fifteen years before coming across this one. I have to hand it to SONY on this one. Not only was this one affordable, but it met every expectation of mine for a workout headphone.
This is obviously different from the earphones that simply wrap around your ear (and then fall off after the first 3 steps in your jog), or the in-ear designs (that fall out of your ear and end up dangling against your chest or workout equipment). With this new spiral design, it makes sure that the earphones are pressed against your head with no chance of it falling out of your ear (this has been the biggest pet-peeve of mine)
The sound quality is pretty good. I'm not an over-the-top f-ing audiophile or anything, but I will have to admit the sound is very clear and crisp, even at the loudest setting of my iPod nano. (I hate it when some earphones output distorted sound when the volume gets to be too much)
In conclusion, I've found my one and only workout pair of earphones and won't be replacing this one any time soon.4 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Not for small heads / ears
by MagicTentacle on May 15, 2008
Pros: canalphones are always better than earbuds
Cons: canalphones won't stay in ears on small heads
Summary: The tension on the neckband is pretty much set and that means that if you have a small head and tiny ears, all you feel is the tension wanting to ...
Summary: The tension on the neckband is pretty much set and that means that if you have a small head and tiny ears, all you feel is the tension wanting to pull the headphones off you. also, one side tends to pull out of small ear canals regardless of the size of the fittings you use, and the neckband sticks way out on either side of your head looking rather ridiculous. Also, the cable sticks UP from the channel in the neckband instead of DOWN toward your music player.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Solid Sound and VERY well thought out
by Par Seven on April 18, 2008
Pros: Fit on head/ears, Sound, Lightweight, Good Price Point
Cons: Wish they had same design for on ear vs ear bud (in ear)
Summary: Absolutely great for running and working out. Provided my first and only completely unincumbered run with tunes (no cord bouncing, buds falling out, cord tugs, etc.). I read one reviewer ...
Summary: Absolutely great for running and working out. Provided my first and only completely unincumbered run with tunes (no cord bouncing, buds falling out, cord tugs, etc.). I read one reviewer that had bass and other sound issues. I assume they didn't realize or understand that these are ear buds and have to be inserted in the ear as such.
A really good value at $50 - thanks Sony!2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Excellent product, great sound, very comfortable
by moondog2008 on August 20, 2008
Pros: Great frequency response, including bass. Very comfortable. The head strap keeps them from falling out, while maintaining a snug fit which is critical for ear buds. Some level of noise attenuation as well.
Cons: Sound lacks some definition, but that's comparing them to the Shure E3s, which is unfair because those cost $150+. Need to make sure you use the correct size tip on the earbud. If the sound is lacking bass you may need to use a bigger tip.
Summary: You can get excellent bass response from these if you use the right size tip, and if the buds are snug in your ears. I found that by lowering the ...
Summary: You can get excellent bass response from these if you use the right size tip, and if the buds are snug in your ears. I found that by lowering the band on the back of my head so that it crosses close the lower part of my head the buds are rotated into my ears, causing a tight fit and producing plenty of bass. I suspect the reviews submited complaining about poor bass response are simply fit problems. Overall this is an excellent product. I could not believe the sound and fit, especially for the price. I'm a musician and I've tried many different types of headphones and ear buds. The Shure E3s sound clearer, but they have little bass and will not stay in while working out. These are excellent for active use including running and gym, and they sound great too.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Sony forgot the bass
by namamugi on August 14, 2008
Pros: perfect fit for me right away; highs sound better than stock iPod ear buds
Cons: Bass far worse than my stock iPod ear buds & Sennheiser MX75's. Did Sony check the sound of this model when making them? Similar priced in-ear buds had better bass than these, too.
Summary: Loved the fit, but with the bass being so poor, I returned these to the store the next day.
Summary: Loved the fit, but with the bass being so poor, I returned these to the store the next day.
1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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disapointing
Pros: It fits good on ears, very inovative
Cons: There is absolutely no bass whatsoever in these headphones. The sound quality is worse than the older one JVC i have.
Summary: Absolutely no bass on this headphone, I am very desappointed. It will probably be left.
Summary: Absolutely no bass on this headphone, I am very desappointed. It will probably be left.
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Happy customer
by caleeakins on August 5, 2009
Pros: Stylish design, lightweight, compact, good sound, blocks outside noise.
Cons: Somewhat bright sounding high end.
Summary: I cannot collaborate reports of lacking bass; they have quite powerful bass output. If experiencing weak bass, I suggest trying the different silicone ear pads for best fit.
The treble ...Summary: I cannot collaborate reports of lacking bass; they have quite powerful bass output. If experiencing weak bass, I suggest trying the different silicone ear pads for best fit.
After owning this product a while, I've concluded that, as the editorial review suggested, an adjustable head band would be an improvement, one that should be incorporated in future versions.
The treble is slightly aggressive and harsh, which may be a benefit for those with hearing loss. But the powerful bass helps Balance things out, and provides an overall pleasing sound quality. Vocals and sonic details are clear.
These are efficient headphones. I believe the rated 100 dB sensitivity is conservative. The Sony MDR-AS50G are much louder than my Philips SHN5500 noise canceling headphones (also rated 100 dB) with the power off, and slightly louder still with the Philips powered on. I'd rate them at least 110 dB. And the silicone ear pads provide good acoustic isolation, comparable to my noise canceling Philips, an added bonus.
Updated on Aug 30, 2009
Since they did not include an adjustable head band, and the fit was slightly loose, I pulled out my tool box and went to work. Attaching a two inch wire, cut from a clothes hanger, to the center point of the headband allows a more secure fit and consistent sound by bending the metal attachment to a smaller radius than the headband's. The physical connection is a challenge. I clamped the parts and coated in Goop household glue, then tightly wrapped in 3M electrical tape when dry. Sure, a hassle, but the end results are worth it. -
Would never buy Sony headphones again.
by lightion on July 22, 2009
Pros: The Sound is superb.
Cons: They won't last more than 6 months.
Summary: I owned two pairs of these. The first pair, the right ear died about three weeks after the warranty was up. I bought a second pair becuase I liked them ...
Summary: I owned two pairs of these. The first pair, the right ear died about three weeks after the warranty was up. I bought a second pair becuase I liked them so much only to have the exact same thing happen. I kept using this second pair becuase I don't have the money to buy another set of headphones. The left ear on this set died about six months after I bought them.
They are great sounding headphones but don't expect them to last more than three to six months. -
Stopped working after 4 uses
by 10Sbum1 on June 1, 2009
Pros: Light weight, stable in ear during exercise
Cons: Needs more base response
Summary: The right ear piece stopped working after 1 year with occasional (4) uses. Of course, bought them at Circuit City, so can't take them back. Not my usual experience ...
Summary: The right ear piece stopped working after 1 year with occasional (4) uses. Of course, bought them at Circuit City, so can't take them back. Not my usual experience with Sony products.
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Excellent Gym Headphones
by equimbo on April 9, 2009
Pros: Light, Great Sounding, Plays Loud
Cons: There are no cons.
Summary: I've gone through several headphones, including many models of the Sony Sports headphones, Bose in-the-ear, and Apple... and these headphones are the best of the bunch. It's a ...
Summary: I've gone through several headphones, including many models of the Sony Sports headphones, Bose in-the-ear, and Apple... and these headphones are the best of the bunch. It's a nice design, they don't fall out during a workout with heavy movement (jumping, running, etc.), and they can play loud.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sony
- Part number: MDR-AS50G
- Description: The MDR-AS50G is a unique headphone with flex-shaped neckband for comfortable, secure fit during active or sports use. With bass enhanced for superior sound quality, it features comfortable silicone earbuds.
General
- Product Type Headphones
- Weight 0.5 oz
- Additional Features Gold-plated plug
Headphones
- Headphones Type Headphones - Binaural
- Headphones Form Factor Behind-the-neck
- Headphones Technology Dynamic
- Connectivity Technology Wired
- Sound Output Mode Stereo
- Response Bandwidth 9 - 23000 Hz
- Sensitivity 100 dB/mW
- Impedance 16 Ohm
- Diaphragm PET - 0.4 in
- Magnet Material Neodymium
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x Headphones ( Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm )
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included Headphones cable - Integrated - 2 ft, 1 x Headphones extender - Detachable - 2 ft
- Included Accessories Cord clip, 3 ear tips, Carrying pouch
Power
- Power Device None
- Battery None
Product series
-
Sony MDR-AS20J Active Headphones
Manufacturer: Sony
Specs: Headphones, Over-the-ear, 0.5 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold-plated plug
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Sony MDR-AS40EX Active Headphones
Manufacturer: Sony
Specs: Headphones, Convertible, 0.2 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold-plated plug
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Sony MDR-AS50G Active Headphones
Manufacturer: Sony
Specs: Headphones, Behind-the-neck, 0.5 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm, Gold-plated plug
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Sony MDR-AS30G Active Headphones
Manufacturer: Sony
Specs: Headphones, Behind-the-neck, 1.4 oz, Stereo, Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm
Manufacturer info
- Sony
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Sony products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.sonystyle.com
- Address:
16765 W. Bernardo Dr., San Diego, CA 92127 - Phone: 1-877-865-SONY
- Email: contact@sel.sony.com
- Fax: 941-768-7790
