Tuesday 24 September 2013

(Updated) Sony Japan Debuts new ZX-Series Walkman

Today Sony Japan introduced the new ultimate Walkman, the NW-ZX1.  The ZX1 is expected to arrive in early December with an estimated price of around 75,000 yen or 560 Euros.  The new ZX1 is carved out of a solid piece of aluminum to minimize any unwanted inference and electrical noise.  At 128GB, the ZX1 is the highest capacity Walkman in the brand's history.  Just like the new F-Series, the ZX1 is equipped with the new S-master HX amp.

The lower bulge apart from housing the amplifier, also permits a more comfortable hold in one's hand.   The front is adorned by a 4inch (854x480) touchscreen.  Connectivity options are identical to the new F-Series, Wifi (a/​b/g/n), bluetooth ver 3.0, NFC, and GPS.  FM radio and noise cancellation are both absent though.  The ZX1 unfortunately not running on the latest Android OS, and is instead still on 4.1.  Codec support includes, MP3, WMA, ATRAC, ATRAC Advanced Lossless, Linear PCM, AAC, HE-AAC, FLAC, Apple Lossless, AIFF.  Output is reported as 15+15.

There seems to be clear stereo on the ZX1, and no headphones are included in the box.  Music playback is supposed to be around 32 hours (128kbps) and 5 hours for video.  Dimensions are 60.7 × 122.8 × 15.3mm and a weight of 139g.  Included with the ZX1 is a carrying pouch, USB cable, WM-port cap and instruction manual.  At this time there is no information regarding availability outside of Japan, but if anything expect any international announcement at CES 2014.

As I have mentioned above there is no Noise Cancellation, neither the press release or spec page mention it.

More photos after the break.

Thanks sealplayerz and Jien for the info.

Click on photos for larger view.









Source: Sony Press JP

16 comments:

  1. Awesome, even if expensive, piece of kit!!!!!! I'm ecstatic. Already collecting money for it!!

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  2. THERE IS NOISE CANCELLING!!!! :-D

    In addition to the features described above, in order to achieve further high-quality sound, "NW-ZX1" was to optimize the layout of the electric circuit and selection of electrical components related to sound quality. In addition, the assembled precisely to the high rigidity monocoque body with machined aluminum alloy the audio board, making it a strong structure against unwanted disturbances such as electrical noise that can affect the sound quality. In addition, the built-in high-capacity memory of 128GB, it can be saved in the hi-res content of about 800 songs minutes ※ 4. In addition, music playback of 35 hours ※ 5 and "noise-canceling function", with the hardware buttons to the side, and realized the body slim design of about 13.5mm "NW-F880 series", a music distribution service We are strengthening the function of the digital music player through the full line of network service cooperation, including music dial tone "mora" and Sony "Music Unlimited".

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    1. There is no NC, what you posted is from the F-Series. If you check the ZX1 press release you'll see no mention of NC, even the official specs don't mention any NC sadly.

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  3. Great!!!! I'm just hoping this is available outside Japan!

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  4. Any gossip regarding the processor in this Walkman?

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  5. I have an imported F807, but I'm now saving money for this walkman, err, maybe. It just screams high quality, but why no noise canceling? I assume Flac will be supported, plus all the positives of the F series will be included. I LOVE the physical buttons...wish my F had them as well. 128 gb is perfect.

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    Replies
    1. Yes FLAC is supported, but there is no noise cancellation or FM radio. Bluetooth and WiFi are present.

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  6. I have an imported F807, but I'm now saving money for this walkman, err, maybe. It just screams high quality, but why no noise canceling? I assume Flac will be supported, plus all the positives of the F series will be included. I LOVE the physical buttons...wish my F had them as well. 128 gb is perfect.

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  7. With the PS4 delayed till February here...I think I just found my Christmas gift :'(

    Wallet sobs in the shadows...

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  8. Yes, the ZX-1 club has a pretty steep admission price...hopefully, Sony will make it available internationally...that would make getting one slightly easier (and more rational as well). Cheers!

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  9. The ZX-1 club has a pretty steep admision fee...hopefully, Sony will make it available internationally...that would make getting one slightly easier (and more rational, too). Cheers!

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  10. OK. The ZX1 is available to try at the Sony building in Tokyo...only ONE unit available to try.

    Quick impressions:

    It is a lot smaller than it looks. Actually a very nice size and premium feel finish (if a bit concerned about the durability of the "leather"back).

    It feels very fast and responsive. A lot more so than the Z series.

    Sound: As usual with HD, the source is everything Mozzart sounded fine but lacked punch...didn't get very loud either. I then tried Hatsune Miku and it was BRILLIANT. Amazing clarity, with zero hissing or dissortion.

    From what I saw and excellent player. Now, is it 350usd better than the new F series? I'm still not sure...but definitely a great product.

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  11. This walkman is pure class, but maybe the new f series is where the sensible money is, and the z series will be like gold dust in the uk.

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  12. I hoped for FM radio. My old X1 32gb is my best companion although I have iPods and iphone

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  13. No chance to change the akku? I hope nobody pay for that.

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  14. Still waiting 4 this Walkman here in Canada.

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