Sony Group Corporation has launched a new lineup of premium digital music players under its iconic Walkman brand, marking a significant hardware update after several years. The three models, priced between $1,900 and $5,900, are aimed at audiophiles seeking high-fidelity portable sound experiences, according to a company statement released Thursday.
The new Walkman devices feature an enhanced “DSD Remastering Engine,” designed to give digital music files a warmer, more analog-like sound. When streaming compressed audio files of lower quality, the players employ artificial intelligence to detect music genres and enhance high frequencies and subtle details. This capability aligns with the growing availability of high-resolution, lossless audio streaming on platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music.
Preorders for the three models are currently open, although Sony has not provided details on shipping dates. The company notes that to fully benefit from the Walkmans’ sound quality, users will require premium headphones capable of reproducing fine audio nuances.
The lineup includes two higher-end WM1-series models—the NW-WM1ZM3 priced at $5,900 and the NW-WM1AM3 at $3,000—both featuring 5.5-inch 1080p displays, offering improved screen size and resolution compared to last year’s editions. The entry-level NW-ZX900, costing $1,900, has also been upgraded to a 5-inch 1080p screen from the previous 720p display.
The flagship NW-WM1ZM3 model incorporates additional premium elements, including a gold-plated, oxygen-free copper chassis intended to enhance sound fidelity. Gold-plated screws purportedly provide a stable ground connection that contributes to powerful bass response, an expansive soundstage, and extended high-frequency clarity. The other two models use aluminum-alloy enclosures with gold-plated rear chassis components.
All three players operate on Android, with the NW-ZX900 notably advancing to Android 16 from the older Android 12 on its prior version. Sony’s battery life claims are based on playback of low-quality, 128 kbps MP3 files, a scenario unlikely to reflect typical audiophile usage. The two top-tier models offer up to 31 hours of streaming and 35 hours of local playback, while the NW-ZX900 provides as much as 35 hours streaming and 40 hours of offline use.
These developments highlight Sony’s ongoing focus on niche segments within its broader personal audio market. The Walkman faces competition from other hi-fi digital player makers, including Astell & Kern and several Chinese brands, which often price their devices significantly lower than Sony’s offerings.
Beyond portable music players, Sony’s professional audio division has recently introduced other products targeting sound enthusiasts. Earlier in October, it unveiled a $250 spatial audio microphone designed for smartphones to capture immersive recordings. In 2023, Sony acquired boutique headphone manufacturer Audeze, a move that has had an early impact primarily within its PlayStation gaming division. Last month, the company released a new line of gaming headphones that incorporate Audeze’s planar magnetic driver technology.