Sony WI-C400 Wireless In-ear Headphones

Back in May of this year, I posted an article about a pair of upcoming wireless headphones from Sony, the WI-C400.  I thought these were the production version of the prototype from CES, but I was wrong.  Unfortunately Sony did not mention the C400 model in the IFA press releases, so it surprised me today when I saw the C400 on the Sony website.

In addition to the WI-1000X and WH-H700, Sony will be releasing a 3rd behind the neck wireless headset, the WI-C400 which I posted about back in May of this year.  I stumbled upon the new headset on Sony's website and on Amazon, so might as well post up an article.

Sony ZX300 Walkman to offer black colour option?

The ZX300 was just announced at IFA 2017 yesterday and like the previous ZX100, it will be offered in the standard silver colour that is the metal it is made from.  But it seems that Sony China may receive the ZX300 in black as well, dubbed ZX300A.

Sony WI-1000X for the sophisticated commuter

Today at IFA Sony introduced the WI-1000X, the third member of the new 1000X series of Noise cancelling headphones.

Sony releases an Update to the MDR-1000, the WH-1000XM2

Sony released an updated version of the MDR-1000X at IFA today, the WH-1000XM2. 

More after the break

Sony to introduce h.ear on Mini Wireless headphones at IFA 2017

Last day I posted an article about the new h.ear headphones Sony would be introducing at IFA tomorrow.  While I was able to identify both he H900N (h.ear on 2) and H700 (h.ear in 2), I was still not sure if the H800 would be non-NC version of the H900 or a new model, but now I can say for certain now that the H800s are a new model, the h.ear on Mini. 

Sony to Introduce New h.ear on Wireless Headphones (Update)

Sony will be introducing at least 2 new h.ear on wireless headphones at IFA this week, and perhaps a 3rd model as well.  The models will be the WH-H900N, WH-H800 and WH-H700.  The 900N model appears to be a direct successor to the current h.ear on headphones, MDR-100ABN.  The design appears at first identical but looking closer, the NC mic seems to have model position and the buttons on the left hand side are more flat and similar in design to the current headphone design.  I am sure there are more design changes to the right hand side but this is not visible in the press photos.  The H900N feature NC, Bluetooth and NFC.  The new colours reflect the new colour scheme being introduced on the new NW-A40.

Sony's AirPod competitor leaked, WF-1000X (Update)

In addition to the A40 and ZX300, the Sony WF-1000X also leaked, competitor to the Apple Airpods. I feel these need a new name, since WF-1000X does not roll off the tongue that well versus Airpods for example.  I will post up more details when I have some but for now press photos.  Click on the photos for larger size.

Sony ZX300 Walkman Released at IFA 2017

Press photos of the ZX300 have leaked, source is below. I will post more information as I receive it.  Click on the photos for a larger view. 

Sony NW-A40 Walkman debuts at IFA 2017

The new A-Series photos have leaked.  The entire set of photos is available to download at the link below in google drive.  As I stated before, the design is not changed, only the colours have been updated, black, light green (cyan?), beige, light blue a light toned red.

IFA 2017 Preview

IFA 2017 is just over a week from today and Sony will be holding their annual IFA press conference on August 31st at 13:00 CET local time.  While Sony has not updated their blog with regards to IFA, the live stream should be available on their YouTube page like last year.  Likewise you can visit Sony's site for the live stream.

Sony ZX300 appears on FCC website

I wrote about the new ZX300 and A40 in an article in the beginning of the month and at that time only the new A-Series was on the FCC website, but now the ZX300 has finally appeared on the FCC.  This is good news for Walkman fans in the US since this could signal that the new ZX could be on sale along with the new A-Series. Of course a FCC certification does not guarantee that it will be sold in the US, but it definitely helps.  It could mean an early 2018 debut at CES and not in the Fall of 2017, but that remains to be seen.

Sony to release a NW-ZX100 Successor, the NW-ZX300.

Sony will be introducing a second Walkman along with the NW-A40, the ZX200.  The new ZX200 will have a similar design to the older ZX100, but will offer a slimmer design, include 2 outputs on the top of device like the ZX2.  Controls have been moved to the side of the device with a touch screen as the main controls for menu operation.  Micro-SD support will be included along with NFC and bluetooth, most likely 4.1.  While I feel the ZX2 will still remain the top end model with the ZX300 slotting between the middle, to sit above the A40.  Pricing should reflect this so I would not expect this to be that affordable.  Unfortunately with no FCC filing (yet) for the ZX300 in the US, this model might only be available in Asia and possibly Europe, so anyone from the US wishing to buy this might have to import it.  

If anyone has anymore information or photos, please email me or leave an anonymous comment.  Thanks

Source

Sony to Introduce new NW-A40 Walkman at IFA 2017 (update)

IFA is still about 2 months away and it is about that time when the new Walkman appears on the FCC.  The filing from this past week shows the new Walkman to be part of the A-Series, A40, so an upgrade from the A30.  Not much is visible from the FCC docs apart from the fact it will feature NFC and BT low energy (up from v3.0).  The design should not change from the A30 since like with the A10 and A20, the only difference there was the addition of NC and I doubt Sony would spend money on a new design.  The device also showed up on Postel so it will be a global device but that might not include North America this year, perhaps maybe next year if even then.

Sony to introduce 6 New Wireless headsets (Update)

Wireless is where the future is, at least according to Sony and their recent 6 FCC fillings.  In early July Sony filed 7 new FCC entries, 6 of which are wireless headsets. Here is the list of what to expect: WH-1000XM2, WI-1000X, WF1000X, WHH900N, WH-H800 and WI-H700.  Unlike in the previous year, the FCC filings this year offer very little information on the design of the headphones, the images on the FCC docs are very limited sadly.

Sony to introduce new Wireless Stereo Headset (WI-C400) (Update)

Sony is set to introduce a new wireless stereo headset in the near future.  Little information exists about this model, labelled as WI-C400, but it will feature bluetooth and NFC.  The bluetooth version is not specified in the FCC documents, so hopefully it will be at least version 3.0 if not 4.0.

If we go back to CES 2017 this year, Sony introduced 2 wireless headphone prototypes during the show but did not offer any hands on for any website and both devices were behind glass at the show.  During the CES press conference, Kaz mentioned both the devices feature built in noise cancellation but I do not see any mention of NFC in the FCC documents.  If the device featured NC, I feel it would be mentioned in the item description in the paperwork as with previous Sony headphones with NC.

For anyone with does not remember the two prototypes from CES this year here is a quick reminder.  If the new WI-C400 are not the headphones from CES, then perhaps the prototypes will come later thus year, either in the summer or during IFA in the fall.  That being said, the confidentiality on the FCC documents runs out in late June, so any press information about the product could show up shortly.

Update

A new wireless device has appeared on the Indonesian certification site, WH-H900N.  It was registered on the 8th of May.  If this is one of the 2 devices previewed below, then hopefully they will appear on the FCC shortly and we should know a bit more about them.

(click for larger version)

(via Engadget)

FCC

Firmware Update: NW-A35/NW-A36/NW-A37 - Version 1.20 UPDATE

UPDATE: Version 1.20 out now

Sony Europe Link

Sony Asia Link

Sony Japan Link

Benefits and improvements from the previous update

• Addressed the issue where characters in the WALKMAN display appear corrupted when Thai appears in the song titles, etc.
• Addressed other issues.

Previous Benefits and Improvements

• Improved the response when the touch panel is pressed or scrolled.
• Addressed issues where the sound was skipping or cutting out under certain conditions.
• Addressed other issues.
• Addresses a rare issue where characters may become corrupted when Simplified Chinese or Traditional Chinese contents are displayed

It appears another firmware update has been released for the A30, v1.02 and this explains why the Asia Pacific version 1.01 was pulled, since the firmware fixes a specific issue related to that region.  Date released: 28-11-2016.

This information is for the following models:

•     NW-A35 / NW-A35HN / NW-A36HN / NW-A37HN

Benefits and improvements:

• Addresses a rare issue where characters may become corrupted when Simplified Chinese or Traditional Chinese contents are displayed

Do I need to download it? This update is not necessary if your Walkman has already been updated to firmware version 1.02 by the automatic firmware update function. If you're not sure, it's easy to check which version of firmware you have:

1. Tap the [Options/Settings] icon, in the bottom right corner of the screen
2. Select the [Settings] menu
3. Scroll until the bottom and choose the [Unit Information] menu
   Confirm the Model number and Firmware version

Sony Europe Link

Sony Asia Pacific Link

Sony Japan Link

Sony MDR-XB950 Headphones with NC & BT launch at CES 2017

Sony Expands the EXTRA BASS™ Headphones Series Powerful, Enhanced Bass Provides Music You Can Feel!

Sony Electronics announced today that it will further expand the EXTRA BASS headphones series designed to enhance the listening experience for today’s most popular music genres. The four additional members of the EXTRA BASS family are the MDR-XB950N1 wireless noise cancelling headphones, the MDR-XB950B1 wireless, the MDR-XB550AP which comes in a wide variety of colors, and the MDR-XB510AS water-resistant, in-ear sports headphones. This enhanced lineup enables users to enjoy the intensity of deep bass notes in a variety of locations and scenarios. Users can feel comfortable enjoying premium sound quality with bass booster no matter where they are.

The MDR-XB950N1 and MDR-XB950B1 EXTRA BASS Wireless Headphones

The MDR-XB950N1 and MDR-XB950B1 wireless headphones deliver powerful, enhanced bass response – the MDR-XB950N1 has added noise cancelling technology. Both support Bluetooth® audio streaming and simplified connectivity with Near Field Communications (NFC) technology, making it easy to connect wirelessly. For the ultimate wireless audio streaming experience, aptX®& AAC codec support ensures maximum signal quality.

The MDR-XB950N1 and MDR-XB950B1 listening experience can be controlled with a unique smartphone Sony | Headphones Connect app, which enables listeners to emulate different listening experiences: Arena, Club, Concert Hall, and Outdoor Stage. It is also possible to adjust the bass levels to suit your personal preference. For the MDR-XB950N1, this app can turn the noise cancelling settings on or off.

The MDR-XB950N1 headphones are easy to fold and come with a handy carrying pouch and the built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 22 hours of continuous, wireless music playback for the noise cancelling XB950N1. The XB950B1 provides up to 18 hours on a full charge. When your battery does run low, passive mode allows for continued listening with the supplied cable. With both the MDR-XB950N1 and MDR-XB950B1 users can enjoy the convenience of hands-free calling thanks to the integrated microphone and Bluetooth® profile connectivity. Once your phone is paired, simply press the phone button on the earpiece to accept incoming calls then press again to terminate the call. Music playback will automatically resume once the call is completed.

Sony Launches new WS620 Waterproof Sports Walkman

Sony has launched the new WS620 Waterproof Sports Walkman at CES 2017.  The new WS model features a similar design to the WS410 and depending on the region will ship in black, grayish white, blue and lime green.  Capacity will also vary depending on region, 4GB or 16GB (North America).

Waterproof even in salt water

The new WS features bluetooth and NFC for streaming audio from your smartphone. Like the previous model. the weight remains the same at 37g.  The device is rated for extreme weather conditions, -5°C to 45°C and features a durable and tough design.  The IPX5-rated splashproof remote control can be used in light rain or rinsed under the tap, and the IPX5/8-rated waterproof headset can be fully submerged in saltwater to a depth of 2m for 30min.  Both are IP6X-rated dustproof, so you can take your run or workout to the beach.

Ambient Sound mode

Like the updated WS410, the new WS620 features Ambient Sound mode. This mode uses the microphones built into the left and right side of the Walkman to allow you to hear the ambient sounds around you, even as you listen to music. So, you can listen to your fitness instructor or talk to your friends without missing a beat.

Battery life is rated for 12 hours and a quick 3 minute recharge provides up to 60 minutes of playback.

A built-in microphone for hands-free calls

You don’t have to pause your workout to take that important phone call. With a built-in microphone and Bluetooth connectivity, you can make and answer calls wirelessly from your smartphone.

Standard and waterproof earbuds for versatile listening

Get the best sound for your workout with a choice of standard or waterproof earbuds. Standard earbuds give you a comfortable fit and balanced sound. Hitting the pool? Switch to the waterproof earbuds; a thin film covers each earbud, preventing water damage within the Walkman and optimising sound levels for underwater listening.

Click on the photos for larger size

Sony Launches new A-Series for Europe and North America

Sony has finally decided to launch the new A-Series for the European Market and North America

Sony allows you to enjoy your music in style with the debut of the Walkman® NW-A35 series. With a focus on fashion and individuality, the new Walkman® NW-A35 has a vivid design that is easy to use, making it a perfect match for any lifestyle. Couple that with immaculate audio clarity thanks to the A35’s High-Resolution Audio[i], an intuitive user interface, and quality wireless playback, and you’ll always be at the heart of the music you love.

Great sound on the go

Conveniently portable, the new Walkman® NW-A35 is compact and weighs just 98g. Being Bluetooth® and NFC-enabled means you can connect wirelessly to your speakers or headphones – without the worry of getting tangled up in wires. It’s the perfect pair with the Sony MDR-100ABN Wireless NC Headphones.

The NW-A35 is also optimised with an extended battery of up to 45 hours (MP3) or 30 hours (Hi-Res Audio) from a single charge, so you can enjoy hours of music in style just about anywhere you go.

Don’t compromise the sound

The new Walkman NW-A35 offers breath-taking audio on the move with a combination of premium audio technologies to ensure incredible quality for all your tracks, including support for DSD formats. It is equipped with five POSCAP™ capacitors that strengthen the power supply for the S-Master HX™ digital amplifier, cutting distortion and noise across a wide range of frequencies. Also, the NW-A35 has two clock oscillators that are switched to provide optimal modulation which increases the clarity of sound and improves the sense of stereo, so that you can hear every breath, every drumbeat and every note.

Unlimited space for your music library

The improved 3.1-inch touch-screen and intuitive user interface with side keys for convenient control, the Walkman® NW-A35 excels at usability. It is available in 16GB with built-in memory that is expandable with a microSD card to store large music libraries. The NW-A35HN comes with all the features above but also comes supplied with Hi-Res Audio Digital Noise Cancelling in-ear headphones for reduced ambient noise.

The new Walkman® NW-A35 will be available in Europe from February 2017 in five eye-catching colours: Viridian Blue, Cinnabar Red, Charcoal Black, Lime Yellow, and Bordeaux Pink.

Seems that EU will only get A35 with 16GB and 16GB with NC headphones.  Canada and the US will receive a 16GB model and a 64GB model with NC headphones.  No pricing yet.

Sony NW-WM1 and NW-ZX2 Service Manuals

Here are the links to the ZX2 and WM1 model manuals thanks to Robert and lebellium.

NW-WM1A/WM1Z Manual

NW-ZX2 Manual

Full list of Walkman Service Manuals

As always with any service manual I have posted on the blog, use it at your own risk and I am not responsible if you brick/damage your device. If anyone finds anything useful please post a comment.

CES 2017 (Update)

Happy New Years fellow Walkman fanatics.  As with previous years, January brings a new year and CES.  And with 3 days until the press conference, here is what we can look forward to.  Apart from the new WS Model and new headphones, Sony could debut the new A-Series for North America and perhaps maybe some new wireless speakers.  This may be all we get in the Walkman area, unless there are some surprises from Sony but it has been a while since Sony has had an exciting CES. 

Sony will be holding their press conference this year on January 4th at 5 pm PST.  Times for other regions are as follows: 8PM East coast US, 2:00 AM January 5th Paris local time, Tokyo is 10:00 local time, and January 5th at 12:00 in Australia (Melbourne).  

As for other Sony products?  I am guessing a smartphone or two, new TVs, and 4K Blu-ray players.  While it would be great for some awesome new revolutionary products or innovations from Sony, doubtful, like I wrote earlier, it has been some time since Sony had an exciting CES.

Update: I can confirm the new A-Series should be at CES, meaning that the A30 will receive a more global release this year.

The link for the stream is below:

Stream will start in around 30 minutes time.

http://www.ustream.tv/sony