---
product_id: 2538899
title: "MDR-CD900ST Studio Monitor Stereo Headphones (Japan Import)"
brand: "sony"
price: "€ 228.49"
currency: EUR
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 8
category: "Sony"
url: https://www.desertcart.ie/products/2538899-mdr-cd900st-studio-monitor-stereo-headphones-japan-import
store_origin: IE
region: Ireland
---

# 40mm dynamic driver 5-30,000 Hz frequency range 2.5m wired cable MDR-CD900ST Studio Monitor Stereo Headphones (Japan Import)

**Brand:** sony
**Price:** € 228.49
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎶 Hear what the pros hear — elevate your sound game with Sony MDR-CD900ST!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** MDR-CD900ST Studio Monitor Stereo Headphones (Japan Import) by sony
- **How much does it cost?** € 228.49 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.ie](https://www.desertcart.ie/products/2538899-mdr-cd900st-studio-monitor-stereo-headphones-japan-import)

## Best For

- sony enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted sony brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Robust Wired Connection:** 2.5-meter cable ensures uninterrupted, high-fidelity sound without latency or dropouts.
- • **Timeless Professional Build:** Sony’s legendary durability and studio-tough design make these headphones a lasting investment in your audio setup.
- • **Studio-Grade Precision Sound:** Experience crystal-clear audio with a wide 5-30kHz frequency response, trusted by top Asian studios.
- • **Warm Analog-Inspired Tonality:** Enjoy a subtle warmth and rich midrange that breathes life into digital tracks, reducing listener fatigue.
- • **Lightweight Comfort for Marathon Sessions:** At just 200g (without cable), these headphones stay comfortable during long workdays or creative bursts.

## Overview

The Sony MDR-CD900ST Studio Monitor Stereo Headphones deliver professional-grade audio fidelity with a 40mm dynamic driver and a broad 5-30,000 Hz frequency range. Lightweight and comfortable at 200g, they feature a 2.5m wired connection for reliable, high-quality sound. Renowned across Asian studios for their warm, detailed midrange and durable build, these headphones are a must-have for serious audio professionals and discerning listeners alike.

## Description

Specifications: Type: Closed Dynamic Frequency response: 5-30,000 Hz Impedance: 63 Max. Input Power: 1,000mW Plug: Stereo Standard plug Cord length: 2.5m (Single) Net weight (without cord): 200g Item model number: MDR-CD900ST Weight: 381 g

Review: these are supposedly used in all the studios in Asia where people know what a good pair of headphones should sound like - I have been using a well broken-in pair (and much reviled by the headfi.org crowd) of Koss Pro4AAAT for some now. I wanted to try something new and bought these. My decision was based on several factors. These have rave reviews everywhere. I recall reading a post somewhere that the midrange these headphones produce is "magic". But it is more than having been reviewed by golden-eared kids on headfi.org - these are supposedly used in all the studios in Asia by real professionals who make the music that we listen to, and they should know what a good pair of headphones should sound like. These headphones are also considered by many to be superior to the popular highly regarded Sony 7506 headphones. I listened to a number of studio monitor headphones but I never heard Sony 7506. I owned a very similar model, a highly rated Senal SMH-1000, and I gave it up because it sounded too abrasive to my ears. Anyway, Sony MDR-CD9000ST is a very good looking pair of headphones, except for that cheesy 80's "for digital" sticker, as if someone still makes headphones strictly for analog music. The headphones are slim and not overbuilt, but the fit and finish is excellent. They are very light and comfortable. I could keep them on for hours. Compared to these, my Koss headphones feel like two bricks squeezing my head, although I am used to it. But the sound did not impress me. The sonic signature was similar to the Senal headphones, except that the sound was much more delicate and refined. Still, to me the headphones sounded "zingy", "hissy" and "wispy" - bright, sibilant, lightweight and thin. I listened to the headphones for about 20-30 hours and nothing seemed to change. I really wanted to keep these but I like what I like so I am going to have to give them up and go back to my Koss phones. Although I did not care for their sound, I am still going to rate these five stars, because these are very popular professional quality headphones that have their purpose - maybe the studio mixes created by using them turn out to be superior? Unfortunately, only a few models of headphones are available locally to be auditioned, and they are typically the least expensive ones. So we end up relying on amateur reviews to make purchasing decisions. These reviews really don't mean much, because we all have our individual preferences. The self-professed experts throw around terms like soundstage, bass quantity, treble extension, and whether there is a midbass hump or a low treble suckout. You can read stuff like "V-shaped dark presentation" and similar nonsense. Manufacturers would probably laugh if they read some of those reviews. What matters the most to me is how the headphones are voiced. I like gorgeous, fleshed out tones. When I hear an instrument, like a piano or a violin, I listen for the body and texture of the sound. When I hear a drum, I want to feel the energy of the impact. My advice is to listen to these before buying.
Review: "For Digital" - I purchased these because of how fond I've been of my MDR-7506 cans- I had done a bit of research that basically indicated to me that these were a tinge more warm and colorful than the MDR-7506's extremely clean and neutral presentation- this is true! These were introduced to market in 1988 and are visually adorned with marketing that says they're "For digital"- my speculation is that these headphones are tuned a little warm to compensate for the shock many listeners would have had going from the warmth and subtle ambiance in analog music to the comparatively sharp and fuzz-less digital sound on the newfangled CDs of the time. If that was the intent, I would say it was a success! These add a layer of color and a light warm roundness to digital music, without making big sacrifices in terms of accuracy and technicality. Compared with the MDR-7506, I would say they have a slightly narrower soundstage and are minimally less technical, but with the tradeoff benefit of that endearing extra warmth and character. I would use the MDR-7506 if accuracy was top priority, but these have less capacity to become fatiguing for long listening sessions and breathe a different sort of life into digital music. On the physical end of things, they're thankfully built Sony studio-tough. Worth noting, these came with a 1/4 in jack and no 3.5 adapter, so if you're planning on interfacing with more modern consumer electronics, you'll likely want to grab an adapter separately. Clamping force is not excessive but perhaps a bit more than on the MDR-7506 (can't say this definitively as my 7506 cans have had a nice headstart breaking in). The MDR-7506 has a longer cable but is more managable due to it being coiled- I've found I need to shorten the cable on these using an easy rubber band solution. Earpads are a refurbishment you should plan on making at some point, as the crumpled pleather is notorious for turning nasty and flaking out over time. All in all, these are great! The MDR line from around this time earned their reputation as spectacular all-time monitors- the biggest compliment I can pay these is that every time I listen to them, I can't believe how great they sound for how old they are, technologically.

## Features

- Colour : black
- Number of packs : 1
- Connections : Wired
- Material : format: sealed dynamic driver unit: 40 mm, dome type (CCAW adopted), maximum input: 1000 mW, impedance: 63 Î, sound pressure sensitivity: 106 dB/mW, playback frequency: 5 ~ 30,000 Hz, cable length: (without cable) approx. 200 g: approx. 2.5 m, Plug: Stereo Standard Plug, Ground

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B000UPEJCU |
| Additional Features | Lightweight |
| Age Range Description | Adult |
| Antenna Location | Recording |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Best Sellers Rank | #72,127 in Electronics ( See Top 100 in Electronics ) #864 in On-Ear Headphones |
| Brand | Sony |
| Brand Name | Sony |
| Built-In Media | Cable |
| Cable Features | Detachable |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Wired Devices |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Control Type | Touch Control |
| Controller Type | Volume control |
| Customer Reviews | 4.2 out of 5 stars 1,459 Reviews |
| Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Earpiece Shape | Rounded or oval |
| Enclosure Material | Format: sealed dynamic driver unit: 40 mm, dome type (CCAW accepted) Maximum input 1000 mW, impedance: 63 Ω, sound pressure sensitivity: 106 dB/mW playback frequency: 5 ~ 30,000 Hz, cable length: (without cable) approx. 200 g: approx. 2.5 m, Connector: standard stereo plug, ground |
| Form Factor | On Ear |
| Frequency Range | 5hz - 30khz |
| Frequency Response | 30000 Hz |
| Headphone Folding Features | On Ear |
| Headphone Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
| Headphones Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Impedance | 63 Ohms |
| Is Autographed | No |
| Is Electric | No |
| Item Weight | 290 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Sony |
| Model Name | MDR CD900ST |
| Model Number | MDR-CD900ST |
| Noise Control | None |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Series Number | 900 |
| Specific Uses For Product | Recording |
| Style Name | Modern" or "Contemporary |
| Theme | Music, Portability, Professional |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Sony
- **Color:** Black
- **Ear Placement:** Over Ear
- **Form Factor:** On Ear
- **Impedance:** 63 Ohms

## Images

![MDR-CD900ST Studio Monitor Stereo Headphones (Japan Import) - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61sjWix2kvL.jpg)

## Questions & Answers

**Q: are these compatible with iphones (5 or 6) and samsung galaxy phones?**
A: These are true studio monitor headphones! They have no inline controls and a long, straight, somewhat heavy cable with a heavy metal 1/4" phono connector. So, although they will work with ANY phone, they are not the best suited to portable use. They don't fold up and you'll need an adapter to plug them into your phone (they don't come with one, or anything else for that matter). They also have fairly flat frequency response; for most people this is experienced as cold, "sterile" sound with not enough bass! If you are set on these, might I suggest the MDR-7506 model. They are almost identical physically, but fold up, have a coiled (but still heavy) cord and a "warmer" more pleasing sound. They also come with an integrated mini phone adapter (just unscrew the 1/4" connector!) Still, not the most portable and no inline controls, but you'll save some money and probably like them better.

**Q: Is it possible that after 10-hour flight bass become weaker? Thank you.**
A: Weaker? No. I have owned 3 pairs in my life over the last 2 decades. Highly doubt this will happen in a 10 hour time period but over time, the pads can flatten and therefore the drive becomes just a half-millimeter to one millimeter closer to your ear causing it to sound like there is less bass and more prominent mids and highs. I say this because when my pads deteriorate over time and I've bought new stock pads, It sounds like the highs become slightly recessed making it sound like there is more bass.

**Q: I'm looking for a case for these, can anyone give a reasonable recommendation?**
A: No

**Q: Are the legit ones Made in Japan?**
A: Yes

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ these are supposedly used in all the studios in Asia where people know what a good pair of headphones should sound like
*by A***Z on July 31, 2014*

I have been using a well broken-in pair (and much reviled by the headfi.org crowd) of Koss Pro4AAAT for some now. I wanted to try something new and bought these. My decision was based on several factors. These have rave reviews everywhere. I recall reading a post somewhere that the midrange these headphones produce is "magic". But it is more than having been reviewed by golden-eared kids on headfi.org - these are supposedly used in all the studios in Asia by real professionals who make the music that we listen to, and they should know what a good pair of headphones should sound like. These headphones are also considered by many to be superior to the popular highly regarded Sony 7506 headphones. I listened to a number of studio monitor headphones but I never heard Sony 7506. I owned a very similar model, a highly rated Senal SMH-1000, and I gave it up because it sounded too abrasive to my ears. Anyway, Sony MDR-CD9000ST is a very good looking pair of headphones, except for that cheesy 80's "for digital" sticker, as if someone still makes headphones strictly for analog music. The headphones are slim and not overbuilt, but the fit and finish is excellent. They are very light and comfortable. I could keep them on for hours. Compared to these, my Koss headphones feel like two bricks squeezing my head, although I am used to it. But the sound did not impress me. The sonic signature was similar to the Senal headphones, except that the sound was much more delicate and refined. Still, to me the headphones sounded "zingy", "hissy" and "wispy" - bright, sibilant, lightweight and thin. I listened to the headphones for about 20-30 hours and nothing seemed to change. I really wanted to keep these but I like what I like so I am going to have to give them up and go back to my Koss phones. Although I did not care for their sound, I am still going to rate these five stars, because these are very popular professional quality headphones that have their purpose - maybe the studio mixes created by using them turn out to be superior? Unfortunately, only a few models of headphones are available locally to be auditioned, and they are typically the least expensive ones. So we end up relying on amateur reviews to make purchasing decisions. These reviews really don't mean much, because we all have our individual preferences. The self-professed experts throw around terms like soundstage, bass quantity, treble extension, and whether there is a midbass hump or a low treble suckout. You can read stuff like "V-shaped dark presentation" and similar nonsense. Manufacturers would probably laugh if they read some of those reviews. What matters the most to me is how the headphones are voiced. I like gorgeous, fleshed out tones. When I hear an instrument, like a piano or a violin, I listen for the body and texture of the sound. When I hear a drum, I want to feel the energy of the impact. My advice is to listen to these before buying.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "For Digital"
*by T***N on July 30, 2024*

I purchased these because of how fond I've been of my MDR-7506 cans- I had done a bit of research that basically indicated to me that these were a tinge more warm and colorful than the MDR-7506's extremely clean and neutral presentation- this is true! These were introduced to market in 1988 and are visually adorned with marketing that says they're "For digital"- my speculation is that these headphones are tuned a little warm to compensate for the shock many listeners would have had going from the warmth and subtle ambiance in analog music to the comparatively sharp and fuzz-less digital sound on the newfangled CDs of the time. If that was the intent, I would say it was a success! These add a layer of color and a light warm roundness to digital music, without making big sacrifices in terms of accuracy and technicality. Compared with the MDR-7506, I would say they have a slightly narrower soundstage and are minimally less technical, but with the tradeoff benefit of that endearing extra warmth and character. I would use the MDR-7506 if accuracy was top priority, but these have less capacity to become fatiguing for long listening sessions and breathe a different sort of life into digital music. On the physical end of things, they're thankfully built Sony studio-tough. Worth noting, these came with a 1/4 in jack and no 3.5 adapter, so if you're planning on interfacing with more modern consumer electronics, you'll likely want to grab an adapter separately. Clamping force is not excessive but perhaps a bit more than on the MDR-7506 (can't say this definitively as my 7506 cans have had a nice headstart breaking in). The MDR-7506 has a longer cable but is more managable due to it being coiled- I've found I need to shorten the cable on these using an easy rubber band solution. Earpads are a refurbishment you should plan on making at some point, as the crumpled pleather is notorious for turning nasty and flaking out over time. All in all, these are great! The MDR line from around this time earned their reputation as spectacular all-time monitors- the biggest compliment I can pay these is that every time I listen to them, I can't believe how great they sound for how old they are, technologically.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A required headphone for anyone who listens to music produced in Asia.
*by W***O on November 27, 2023*

A required headphone for anyone who listens to music produced in Japan, especially if it was produced in the era these were introduced (late 80s). These are still used today, on channels like THE FIRST TAKE. Which is what spurred me to check them out again. These had been on my radar for years, but I could never justify the exorbinant import price, which often topped $300. These have dropped to a much more reasonable at $150 since I first read about them. Best I can tell the very similar looking MDR-7506 is effectively a less exprensive international/consumer version of these - and while I haven't heard them, I did watch a teardown of both the CD900ST and the MDR-7506, and that was my conclusion. The MDR-7506 just has a collapsing mechanism as well. So if you want to save some money from importing, that would be the way I would go. Me, I'm into this crap enough that I wanted the EXACT headphones that get used in studios. And I wanted that FOR DIGITAL sticker. So yes, I paid the charming 80s Japanese sticker tax. Remember, these are FOR DIGITAL only. No analog allowed. 🙃 I'm still waiting for my Yaxi stPad2...pads to arrive. Because, while these do sound incredible out of the box, long term comfort is an obvious issue. Less of an issue in the studio, I presume, where these are going on and off of ears frequently. No comfort issues with the headband, just pressure on ears from, I will call them questionably thin pads. They are infamous. Less infamous the great adjustment system that takes the guess work out of having these evenly adjusted, and remembering where they should be. Adjustement steps are definite, sturdy, and most importantly, numbered. I will stress they are not wildly uncomfortable as is, I've worn far worse. In fact, in the future I may get a set of MDR-7506's for use with Yaxi Pads to keep these as original as possible to what producers and musicians heard in the studio in 1987. The way I would sell someone on these is to have them listen to something, anything, on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE. The rustling, background noises, banter, introductions transport you there, and then the performance blows you away. It's like a personal concert. Continuing, as studio monitors should, it's garbage in, garbage out. Poorly mixed and produced music is going to sound poorly mixed and produced.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Sony MDR-CD900ST Studio Monitor Stereo Headphones (Japan Import)
- YAXI stPad2 LR(Red&Blue) Earpads for Sony MDR7506/900ST
- Sennheiser Genuine Adapter Cable Female 1/4" 6.3mm to Male 1/8" 3.5mm Plug for Headphones

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*Product available on Desertcart Ireland*
*Store origin: IE*
*Last updated: 2026-02-12*