Sony Adds To Accessories Lineup

By John Laposky -- TWICE, 11/18/2008

San Diego — Sony has expanded its stable of audio accessories by four SKUs, including a new Bluetooth headphones model, and also unveiled a new universal remote control.

Announced today is the first wireless model in Sony’s sports headphones line. The behind-the-neck DR-BT160AS Bluetooth Active Style headphones feature a subtle, built-in microphone for hands-free cellphone operation and A2DP Bluetooth Stereo protocol for music streaming from compatible devices, plus remote-control functionality.

The headphones are water resistant and feature an adjustable earpiece shaft designed to distribute the weight behind the ears, rather than on the back of the head, for a more comfortable feel during athletic activity, the company said.

They include rechargeable li-ion batteries.

They are available now for a suggested retail of $130.

The company’s new MDR-NC7 noise-canceling headphones are an update of Sony's most popular MDR-NC6 model, with improved noise-canceling technology that reduces approximately 87.4 percent of ambient noise, the company said.

Ear cups that swivel flat and a foldable headband allow for compact storage. Batteries are located in the housing, as opposed to the headband, for convenience. They sport a 30mm driver and a closed-type design and include a carrying pouch and in-flight adapter.

The headphones are available now in black or white versions with a suggested retail of $50.

For portable use, Sony’s new battery-powered SRS-M50 travel speakers feature a magnetically shielded 39mm driver unit.

The speakers clip together for portability and are available now in black, pink and white versions for a suggested $50.

Also new, Sony's MDR-EX36V EX Style ear buds feature colorful metallic accents, in-line volume control and new hybrid silicone buds in three sizes. They provide high audio quality along with deep bass sound, the company said.

Available now in silver, red, blue and pink, the ear buds have a $30 suggested retail.

Finally, Sony's RM-VL610 universal remote control features swappable colored back plates to adjust for a user’s home décor. A “bright” option includes crimson red, Chantilly pink and sky blue panels. A “neutral” pack has pearl, champagne and Kilimanjaro brown. The remote is designed to be face down when not in use to show off the finish.

The multifunction remote can control up to eight compatible A/V components. It features onscreen setup menus and a learning function for programming from other remotes, and one-touch system control with 12 macro functions.

Priced at a suggested $30, it is available now.