Sony MZ-R55 Review by @highfidelity1989
Overview
The Sony MZ-R55 is an absolute classic portable MiniDisc recorder/player. It was released in October 1998 and got quite popular due to its new compact form factor and also public exposure in the music video of Bomfunk MC’s “Freestyler“. Unfortunately I do not own the iconic Sony MDR-V700 DJ headphones (yet), which were also shown in this music video. For me, the combo of the R55 and V700 headphones definitely represents late 90s style and (Hip-Hop) music culture. On with the review.
The R55 was Sony’s and generally any manufacturers first MiniDisc device running on a 1.2V gumstick battery. It does not support MDLP (LP2/LP4).
I have acquired my personal Sony MZ-R55 in 2024 and absolutely love it.
Please note that this review is based on my personal experiences and less of a technical review based on data sheet specs.
Design and Controls
The Sony MZ-R55 is fully made out of an aluminum case and feels very solid and relatively weighty compared to later models. The precision it is made with is superb and shows that this model was targeted towards the high-end MD models. Classy!
A special feature of this model is, that the MiniDisc compartment opens opposite as most oder models, meaning the hinges are mounted on top. Looks cool and fun to show-off.
The MiniDisc opening- as well as gumstick battery compartment are easily accessible and allow for quickly changing fresh batteries or swapping discs. The Sony battery sidecar used for the R55 is a little bulkier and fits 2 AA batteries for long playback- or recording time. A 3V DC connector is available for charging and power supply during recording as well.
The control layout and buttons layout is great in my opinion. Everything has a dedicated button, there is no menu as such on the Sony MZ-R55. This means, that play, track skipping, fast-forwarding- and reversing each have a separate control button. Recording-, pause-, stop- and Megabass- and end search buttons are also aligned well and easy to operate.
The relatively small 2-line display shows all information necessary. Track number- and name, remaining play time, etc. The LCD screen is very clear, regarding the age of this device it is remarkable and definitely needs to be mentioned.
Connections
The Sony MZ-R55 features a well appreciated physical line-out port, which in later models has been omitted for a menu-based line-out setting. The Sony typical line-in/optical plug is available for analog and optical recordings as well as a plug for recordings with a microphone and also the headphone jack with remote connector. The Sony RM-MZR55 was the original remote shipped with this device, but I also have tried other Sony remotes like the RM-MC33EL and they seem not to work properly. The screen of the remote does not show track title, and generally buttons do not operate as intended. Some functions like track skipping, etc. still work depending on the remote model. So, if you want to buy a R55 and use a remote with it, make sure to have it included in your order.
The following remotes have been tested:
• Sony RM-MZR55 (original remote)
• Sony RM-MC33EL (non-compatible or not fully compatible)
• Sony RM-MC38EL (non-compatible or not fully compatible)
Usage and Battery Life
I personally enjoy using the Sony MZ-R55 with its solid built quality and great physical button layout. Remember, since it is an older MiniDisc device, some thoughts have to be added here on the overall portability. The device is running on gumsticks, but may not have a long battery run time depending on the conditions of the batteries used.
Battery life greatly depends on gumstick quality, so the 2 AA battery sidecar is definitely needed to use the device as a true portable. With this battery sidecar you are good to go for hours of music listening and recording as you can always carry a few AAs or buy them easily, if urgently needed.
Sound
One of the main reasons I am enjoying the R55 is its sound. It is solid with lot’s of Bass and powerful enough to also driver some bigger headphone models, as also listed below. It is having a Sony sound signature, which is vibrant and warm, keeping your feet moving to whatever you are listening to. Since I am listening mainly to Deep House and 90s old-school Hip-Hop, this is sound signature is really welcomed. Clarity might be a bit lacking for this model thought, keep that in mind with some music genres. Short on that, Sony’s well known “MEGA BASS“ is available in 2 steps and I keep it in position “1“ mainly. There are no other presets or EQs available. Those came in later MiniDisc models. Bass heads choice is what the R55 is (in my opinion)!
The following headphones have been used with the device:
• Harman/Kardon CL (a portable, but larger headphone, great sound)
• Bowers & Wilkins P5, Series 2 (B&Ws portable HiFi headphone)
• Sony MDR-710LP (an ultra portable on-ear headphone)
• and more…
One more word on sound: I have not use the recording function of my Sony MZ-R55 a lot, yet. But I imagine this device being a capable MiniDisc recorder as well.
Conclusion
The Sony MZ-R55 is a classic MiniDisc device, which can be recommended to anyone who wants to try this format out. It has style, is solid built and sounds great. Worth trying it out!
Thanks a lot for reading. Keep rockin’ MiniDisc!
HighFidelity1989