Neumann NDH 20
Neumann
37 Overall Score
vs
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
Sony
50 Overall Score
What Buyers Say
Neumann NDH 20
No customer feedback yet
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
92 out of 100 low confidence 9 reviews
The Sony MDR-Z1R is widely praised as a flagship closed-back headphone with exceptional build quality, comfort, and a unique sound signature that combines wide soundstage, controlled bass, and airy layering. Reviewers emphasize the need for a high-quality DAC/amp and balanced connection to unlock its full potential, and note that while expensive, it offers reference-level performance that rivals or exceeds competitors. A few mention a tight fit initially, but overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a masterpiece in headphone history.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Wide soundstage for closed-back
- Controlled, deep bass
- High comfort with deep earpads
- Reference-level sound quality
Cons
- Very expensive
- Requires high-quality DAC/amp
- Tight fit initially for some
- Needs balanced cable for full potential
- Heavier than some open-back models
Build quality 5
Soundstage 4
Bass performance 4
Comfort 4
Value for money 3
Amplifier requirement 3
Scores
Studio
Music
Budget
Commute
Gaming
Work
Calls
Specifications
| Neumann NDH 20 | Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | over-ear | over-ear |
| Open/Closed | closed | closed |
| Foldable | ✓★ | — |
| Weight | 0.39 kg★ | 1.35 kg |
| Ear Cushion | memory foam | genuine sheepskin |
| Headband | spring steel and aluminum | genuine leather |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver Size | 38 mm | 70 mm★ |
| Freq Min | 5 Hz | 4 Hz★ |
| Freq Max | 30 kHz | 120 kHz★ |
| Impedance | 150 Ω | 64 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 114 dB★ | — |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✓★ |
| Codecs | — | Sony MDRZ1R Signature, Hi-Res Headphone, Black |
| Noise Control | ||
| ANC | ✗ | — |
| Transparency | ✗ | — |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | ✗ | ✗ |
| Wired Connector | 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
| Detachable Cable | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cable Length | 3 m | 3 m |
| Microphone | ||
| Microphone | ✗ | — |
Pros & Cons
Neumann NDH 20
- Strong build (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong sound (76th percentile)
- Below average social proof (10th percentile)10th %ile
- Below average mic (15th percentile)15th %ile
- Below average anc (32nd percentile)
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
- Strong user sentiment (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong sound (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong social proof (84th percentile)84th %ile
- Strong build (75th percentile)
- Below average comfort (2nd percentile)2nd %ile
- Below average mic (15th percentile)15th %ile
- Below average anc (32nd percentile)
Pricing
Verdict
Winner: Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
Scores 50 overall, wins 4 of 7 usage categories and 4 of 21 specs.