Sony continues to use its in-house S-Master HX digital amplifier with an integrated DAC, paired with an improved power supply, new capacitors, a copper heatsink and two crystal oscillators – a first for the ZX series, as this technology was previously reserved for the more expensive WM1 series. The music player supports all common formats up to 32-bit at 384 kHz, as well as DSD. DSEE Ultimate is designed to improve the quality of compressed music. A vinyl filter promises a warmer sound.
Sony is once again using a 5-inch touchscreen, but battery life is nearly twice as long as the previous model's, at 38 hours of FLAC music playback. Since the ZX900 is based on Android and supports Wi-Fi, streaming apps are also available. The user interface gets some practical and charming extras, such as a system-wide equalizer and the option to visualize music playback with a cassette.
Pricing and availability
The Sony Walkman NW-ZX900 can be pre-ordered from Sony for $1,899. Shipping will begin on january 12th.