In our original tests, our listening panel of audio experts and musicians chose the MDR-7506 set over nearly 150 headphones in the same price range, as well as dozens that cost over $200. To test the headphones, we listened to them back-to-back, considering audio quality, comfort, build quality, and overall value for the money. Because the headphone world is competitive, it’s rare for picks to last more than a year or two, but the MDR-7506 has serious staying power.