The MDR-EX500 is a sound-isolating inner-ear headphone with improved wear ability and sound quality. The newly developed 13.5 mm diameter driver unit is positioned at an angle perpendicular to the ear (previously, the layout was parallel), which reduces sound leakage and improves sound quality, as well as providing a better fit and stability. The outer design features a highly rigid, spin-finish aluminum housing and a stainless mesh material for the sound tuning port. Using metallic materials like these, the drive unit realizes a high-quality appearance similar to that of a precision tool.