Sony has seamlessly blended its classic Walkman heritage with modern audio technology in the release of the Sony NW-WM1AM2 digital audio player. This device is equipped with Android 11, S-Master HX amplifier technology, high-resolution audio support, and advanced sound processing options, positioning it as a premium digital audio player (DAP). While it maintains Sony’s signature warm and organic sound profile, there are notable enhancements and features that still distinguish it in the current market. Thanks to the friend loaner.
Design and User Experience
The NW-WM1AM2 retains the iconic Walkman design, exuding a premium feel with its robust aluminum alloy frame. This construction not only enhances durability but also effectively reduces electrical noise and interference, ensuring a stable, high-quality sound output. However, weighing approximately 450 grams, some users might find it slightly hefty for portable use.
Physical Features and Controls
- Buttons and Ports: The right side houses large, tactile physical media buttons for easy control. The top features both pre protected 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended headphone outputs, catering to various audio preferences.
- Display and Interface: The device boasts a 5-inch HD touchscreen with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. While responsive, it may not offer the same modern interface experience as some competitors. The inclusion of Android 11 allows users to access the Google Play Store, enabling the installation of apps like Tidal, Qobuz, and Apple Music. The native Walkman app is optimized for the best playback experience. Overall, the interface is stable, though the processor may exhibit occasional sluggishness during intensive tasks.
Battery Life
- Playback Duration: The NW-WM1AM2 offers up to 40 hours of continuous 96kHz FLAC high-resolution audio playback. However, streaming services and higher-resolution files may result in shorter battery life. Charging is facilitated through a USB Type-C port, allowing for fast music file transfers and easy connectivity with various devices.
Audio Performance – Sony’s Signature Sound
The NW-WM1AM2 delivers Sony’s characteristic warm, organic, and soothing sound signature. Notably, some tracks may exhibit a more recessed treble, which could be a point of consideration for treble enthusiasts.
Bass
- Low Frequencies: The bass is tight and controlled, avoiding any undue emphasis. While it handles deep sub-bass effectively, it doesn’t overly accentuate these frequencies, maintaining a balanced presentation.
Midrange
- Vocals and Instruments: The midrange offers a natural and slightly laid-back presentation. Instrumental transitions are smooth, with clear and full-bodied vocals, providing an engaging listening experience.
Treble
- High Frequencies: The treble is smooth and gentle, free from harshness. Some recordings might reveal a subdued treble response, especially when compared to other models.
Advanced Sound Settings and Menus
The Sony NW-WM1AM2 comes equipped with advanced sound processing options, allowing users to tailor their listening experience.
Direct Source Mode
- Pure Audio Output: When activated, this mode disables Sony’s digital processing features, delivering the cleanest possible sound. Deactivating it enables features like DSEE Ultimate, EQ, and DC Phase Linearizer. For critical listening, it’s advisable to keep this mode on.
DSEE Ultimate – Digital Sound Enhancement Engine
- Audio Upscaling: This feature enhances the quality of compressed audio files, such as MP3s, making them sound more refined. However, it has a negligible effect on high-resolution files like FLAC and DSD. It’s recommended to enable this feature for lower-quality files and disable it for high-resolution audio.
DC Phase Linearizer – Analog-Like Sound
- Sound Warmth: This setting imparts an analog warmth to the audio. Options like Type A and Type B introduce a subtle tube amplifier character. For the most natural sound, keeping it off is suggested, but selecting Type A can add a slight analog feel if desired.
Equalizer and ClearAudio+
- Sound Customization: The 10-band equalizer allows for personalized sound adjustments. ClearAudio+ tends to boost mid frequencies and soften treble, which might not suit all preferences. For an unaltered sound, it’s best to keep it off. To enhance treble, a mild V-shaped EQ setting can be employed.
Comparison to the End Game Boss
Price undependant, The Cayin N8ii offers a broad and balanced soundstage, enhancing the clarity and distinction of various instruments. Notably, synthesizer-generated African wind instrument is rendered with increased brightness and clarity. This device excels in delivering superior resolution and technical performance, justifying its premium price point.
Initial observations reveal that, following the percussion segments, string instruments expand towards the lower right and left corners of the auditory field. Additionally, vocals in tracks like Toto’s are presented with a closer proximity, and the articulation at the end of lyrics is notably clear. These nuances underscore the N8ii’s advanced soundstage and precision. However, such differences become more apparent during critical listening sessions and may not be as pronounced during casual playback. For instance, in Barış Manço’s “Nick The Chopper,” the higher frequencies are distinctly perceptible, whereas in recordings by artists like Daft Punk and Toto, these variations might be subtler.
Testing with the S12 earphones reveals that the N8ii delivers a robust performance, characterized by an expansive soundstage and more organic, clearer bass reproduction. This combination provides listeners with a rich and immersive musical experience.
Pros and Cons of the Sony NW-WM1AM2
Pros
- Sound Quality: Delivers a warm, natural, and organic audio signature, ideal for extended listening sessions.
- Build Quality: Features a solid aluminum alloy frame that reduces electrical noise and interference.
- Battery Life: Offers up to 40 hours of continuous high-resolution audio playback.
- Connectivity: Supports both 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended outputs, along with LDAC and aptX HD for high-quality wireless audio streaming.
Cons
- Treble Response: Some recordings may exhibit a recessed treble, which might not appeal to all listeners.
- Interface Performance: The processor may show occasional sluggishness during intensive tasks.
- Weight: At approximately 450 grams, it might be considered heavy for portable use by some users.
Conclusion of Sony NW-WM1AM2 Review
The Sony NW-WM1AM2 stands out as a premium digital audio player that merges classic design with modern features. Its warm and natural sound profile, combined with robust build quality and extensive connectivity options, makes it a compelling choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts with budgets around 1200 usd. While there are minor considerations regarding treble response and interface performance, the overall experience it offers is immersive and satisfying. And if not all, its a dated device. And the lines I wrote claim otherwise 😉
