Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Why I liked my old model MDR-RF925R headphones. When the included rechargeable batteries (2 aaa batteries in a case that turned them into a single "battery")degraded to the point that I would only get about 2 hours of performance before needing to charge them again I replaced them with 2 rechargeable aaa eneloop batteries (without the case) and was able to use them for 9 days (tv watching) before needing to put fresh eneloops into them. This was done very easily by pressing a button to pop off the battery cover. The fact that the eneloops would not charge from the included inductive charger without being inserted into the original battery case (would have been difficult) did not bother me at all since I have a smart charger for my eneloops anyway. The higher capacity of the eneloops combined with the smart charger preventing the batteries from falling out of condition (as the original batteries did) kept me very happy through many charging cycles until the headphones' "self-adjusting strap" (an automatic on/off switch)finally died. Why I will return my new MDR-RF985RK headphones. Reason #1 There is no battery cover on these and no obvious way to get them out (I don't want to risk damaging them & rendering the product un-returnable). The instruction booklet refers the customer to the store they were bought from or to Sony itself to see about replacing the "battery" (presumably still 2 aaa's in a special case but I am not actually sure about that). If I am incorrect and it's a different type of battery then that gives me double reason return these headphones (over and above just the lack of convenience due to lack of a pop off battery cover) since I would not be able to use my rechargeable batteries and smart charger after the original battery(s) falls out of condition (guaranteed with the "non-smart" type of charger built into these devices). Reason #2 While the old model had indestructible earpad fabric the new ones are covered with a shiny brittle plastic that will wear down easily over time. I have had in the past non wireless headphones with earpads covered with the same substance it just didn't last at all. While the instruction book gave no info at all about replacing the battery (to get more service revenue?) it did make sure to mention that replacement earpads will be available (would never have been needed on the old model). I am disappointed that Sony would do this especially since the new model is significantly more expensive than the old model. I have received less for more. That's going in the wrong direction. Gee whiz thanks Sony! You have lost me as a fan P.S. I know that people without rechargeable batteries and smart chargers may not care so much about this post but I am posting it for those who would care. Hope this helps.