Sony NW-A306 eight month update + mp3 Answers YOUR questions

[@Jacob1451_Kapnobatai]

If you invert your display colors, the Cassette Screensavers change colors, too. It's really cool. I just got my A306 and have been loving it.

[@duskmike8526]

How do u get the screensaver that shows the quality u are listening to?

[@Jacob1451_Kapnobatai]

@duskmike8526 tap the 3 dots in the right corner of the music player where your music is playing, then check the box that says "Display Cassette Screensaver"

[@Andyhandle]

Soo tempted! Keep up the great reviews! Audible is a key reason why I'd go for this over other daps around this price range. The android support is handy for downloading apps like audible, pocket casts... I found flat lights good for avoiding the issues over head lights (for example the Beurer TL30UK SAD Lamp).

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Totally agree!

[@thomask1424]

I am assuming that the tape reels do not change size as the music plays. That would be really cool is the reels reflected the recording's length. My question, though, is can you install the Sony Headphone app on to this. I would think that if you can install it on your phone you should be able to install on the N306, too.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I believe it wobbles like movement is happening but never really reaches the end

[@robb181522]

Hi, Hope you can help with this one. i subscribed to Tidal/ 1st month free/ in Tidal i down loaded to a "Play list" 1400+ songs, which i can play, but i want to down load the "Play list" via usb to my new sony NW-A306 Walkman via Tidal app both ends, and file transfer or usb dac, erm but carnt ?. I down loaded to my computer for speed and ease of use, as the walkman is small and slow. Idiots guide please.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Ive used Tidal off and on for several years but found having the actual (non service) data file best. When you say downloading are you asking about downloading songs or tags for a playlist you steam (no real files on your device)?

[@robb181522]

I have made a" play list "and " my cllection "in the Tidal app on my desktop computer. I can play all 1478 track. I want to transfer those 1478 track via USB to my sony walkman NW-A306.

[@GrimReaper4383]

How do I get the art work to show album covers?

[@ΓιάννηςΝάκας-ι4υ]

Hello can you please compare it to an iPod 7th Generation? Thanks from Greece

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Ive had a number of Ipods over the years and while I did love them for there time this is better - no comparing the sound quality. The cons to 7th gen ipod are not the best sound quality, scratches easily, chunky, dont bother with the EQ .... Sony NW-A306 is all about sound quality and so many EQ and sound options/tweaks.

[@ΓιάννηςΝάκας-ι4υ]

@@TUXXREVIEWS do you have apple music on it? And if yes, how does it work?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

@@ΓιάννηςΝάκας-ι4υ Ill make a video on this very subject (have one for tidal etc why not).

[@Haydos]

Streaming isnt worse quality compared to local files. Its just streamed.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

streaming involves allot of additional factors like your internet speed, the player processing the data and WILL NEVER be 100% consistant.... and Never the quality of DSF file. I can hear the diffrence with ease.

[@Haydos]

@@TUXXREVIEWS that's kinda of true but if you download the files before via the streaming app it will be the same. Also DSD masters are very rare. Sorry if my comment seems rude. I didn't mean it like that 😭

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

@@Haydos Not rude at all, I just want to make sure people (esp new HD Audio users) dont get confused. Streaming does have some positives like giving access to a large number of HD music files at once for new users. I may make a more detailed video on the subject soon. I do have a pretty large amount of DSD and DSF. Also new people reading this please note Sony developed DSF around 2005. DSF files typically have the file suffix ".dsf" - DSF stands for Direct Stream Digital Stream File, a file format for storing DSD audio tracks

[@oliversankoh4912]

What is the name of this mp3 player looking like a cassette?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

amzn.to/43HSTlu sony nw-a306

[@_kmCarter]

I want to order this item for the screen saver alone.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I can understand this 100%

[@JOSEPHJRTORCHIA]

Hey, what's up! Can you believe I can't find a video on downloading from Tidal to a computer? Can you make a video on that?

[@GrimReaper4383]

3 questions 1) What's the max size card can the nw-a306 use? 2) Can the nw-a306 display cover art for all audio formats? 3) What's the best free program to use for copying music? So I can get the highest quality.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

1. I have yet to find a card mine wouldnt take. Please click amazon link for factory tech specs. I do however believe a card bigger than you need can cause slow down on searches, 2. yes 3. I havent ripped inawhile so I will need to look into this for 2023 new software.

[@මීගමුවේ-කොල්ලෙක්]

1. I have the largest microSD (1.5 TB from SanDisk) and it works without slowing down or anything. So every card should work. 2. I don't know. But there are no problems with DSD or Flac. 3. I recommend using Exact Audio Copy.

[@bandz7597]

Free mp3 download net works for me, flac downloads and no viruses (yet)

[@mightymegafant]

Hi Tuxx. Happy New Year. I just purchased a Sony Walkman NW-A360. I unboxed it and (per the instructions) charged it for about 3.5 hours. I turned it on this morning and the screen immediately instructed me to enter my code to unlock it. I thought it was telling me to create a code BUT,... it was telling me to enter a code that appears to have already been created. My brand new, out of the box, walkman is locked and is useless. Did sony mistakenly create a passcode before boxing this particular walkman? Could this walkman have been previously owned and reboxed? Has there been similar reports about this occurring? Thank you for your help.🤔

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Never heard of a new unit with this issue. Sometimes people do sell used items with a code on them. Are you 110% sure it had all the original seals on package? If purchased under my amazon link I would return to Amazon. Where did you buy it?

[@mightymegafant]

@@TUXXREVIEWS Thank you. Did not appear to be tampered with (Unless someone was really good at repackaging.) I took it back to Best Buy and Geek Squad tech was also puzzled as to why it came with a previously installed pass code. Since neither of us could figure out how to unlock it,... he was nice enough to just order me another one. It's charging right now and I'm gonna give it a second try with this new one. Thanks for the response. 📱🎸🎹

[@18yearsoldnot]

Would you recommend this device for AirPods Pro? I can get refurbished iPhone SE and just leave the sim out… but I kind of like the tactility of the play and pause and skip buttons.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Apples really bad about wanting to keep people in there eco system as in they dont play well with others. If you really want full function apple products you kinda have to be apple apple apple. It should work on ther devices paired but apple .... I would suggest a diffrent brand like Sony - Better quality audio imo and plays well with other brands.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

PS. I've had iphones and macs and ipods in the past. The only apple devices in my house atm is ipads. due to how they interact with other brands and limits of apple. Its perfect for some people but not others wanting more. Its a long conversation and apple fanboys will defend apple till the end even when they lie on stage.

[@18yearsoldnot]

@@TUXXREVIEWS thanks! Already own the AirPods Pro - also plan on using my seenheiser ie300 when I want a bit better quality. I just don’t trust any other brand to bake an in-ear that doesn’t go too far inside the ear canal . So for me it’s more about the ergonomics

[@dont4450]

I have the a55 with the Mr Walkman firmware on it.i just bought my nw-a306 and am very disappointed with the sound. I did a sided by side comparison with the a55, and it blows the a 306 away. The sound on the a55 is much fuller and much louder. With the a306, I had to buy a headphone amp for the same results as my a55. All controls on both were set exactly the same. The only difference is the firmware from Mr Walkman. So I'll be selling the a306 soon and happily be sticking to my a55.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Questions ... When you say A55 are you refering to the Samsung phone or older sony product? Also what headphones are you using? There was a firmware update in late 23 that increased the volume some but yes its not as loud as some other older sony products. It does have allot of never newer sound features and for me the quaility and is AWESOME and volume (while could be loulder) is fine. Takes the right combo of "quaily music file", player and headphones / earbuds.

[@dont4450]

@@TUXXREVIEWS of course I'm referring to the Sony nw a55 player. I'm using final e4000 buds, and audio technica ath m50x. With the "Mr Walkman firmware", the a55 sounds very close to my astell&kern kann alpha which is unbelievable.

[@Shiva-zi5kz]

I’m thinking of buying this player how good the battery is when we stream through streaming service

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Its great. The battery does go down 10-15% faster while streaming, the same as other devices like a phone will go down faster while streaming.

[@zywica-music]

Would it be too weak for Senheiser 660S?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Sure you could but.... The Seneiser is 150 Ω and the SOny NW-A305 is 80. Theres allot more resistance in the Seneiser so a headphone amp would be better. The Seneiser is really more for home listening then on a plane etc. Sure

[@zywica-music]

@@TUXXREVIEWS thanks. And what headphones/earphones would u recommend for best results with nwa306? And what amp would fit nwa306/Sennheiser hd660s combo in your opinion?

[@zywica-music]

Sennheiser sounds good if not too quiet with A306 (volume to 120) so I left it for "bigger" projects on PC and got SONY WH-1000XM5 for the walkman. That pair sounds decent.

[@mickeybreg1]

will that cassette background will also show up when using apple music?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

no

[@switchblades2274]

It looks sooo cool

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Thanks! Its a great player!

[@ewnyMetroExpress]

Kool! Can you recommend a good HD speaker?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Price range is the question. This sony is nice for versitility amzn.to/3wxgNTU

[@whbali]

Not sure if I missed the detail, how does the sound quality on Spotify?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I may make a new video just on this but for now I'll say its good. Its not as amzing as your own real HD audio file but its VERY enjoyable and better than cell phone random connection imo.

[@whbali]

Thank you! Much appreciated.

[@krhetsogaming5121]

can this play videos?

[@RealEyes24]

can you replace the battery of this NW-A306 version?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Not like a easy switch like some cell phones - Not to say it cant be done but not easy

[@NetvoTV]

If I will get Sony MDR-Z1R, iBasso D16/DC-Elite, should I get a very slim player for the high res music storage and just spend on 256gb of iphone storage or spend on the 512gb of the iPhone storage as the player and storage as well which has less things to charge too?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

If you really must use your phone for music (and I get the one device thing) I would suggest the Sony Xperia 1 V (Amazon link amzn.to/493YPI6 and on sale right now). It wont be free like a apple or Samsung phone but closer to a real Sony HD Dap. Also for headphones watch the ohms (resistance) that will reduce the overall volume (and quality of experience) For headphones (even on Apple or Samsung) I would suggest the SONY WH-1000X5 (amazon link: amzn.to/3ASx20D ) Amazing both corded and cordless and on a Black Friday sale right now.

[@maxidrivemaxidrive4330]

Which earbuds work better with this player, the XM5 or Linkbuds listed in your descriptions?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I always suggest wired headphones (Link to Sony amzn.to/3KPPGHz) fist but I get it, people love ear buds and I do too. For the Sony NW-A306 I would suggest the Sony WF-1000 XM5 - Amazon link amzn.to/4bYKLjv

[@BobbyMiller]

Have you ever considered the 707? I love the size of the 306 but wondering if the 707 has a noticeable bump

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Yes and plan on reviewing and comparing in the future. Have your heard the 707? What are the reasons you think its worth the price bump?

[@mmetmalachite2653]

​@@TUXXREVIEWSit totally worth but it is extremely important to import asian model .. otherwise it ain't worth it

[@prashantshukla01]

Hi Bro, How can I install FM radio that should work without internet (offline) , If you can help with please. I'm in Asia (India)

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

You can download (google play store) some FM options but if your really looking for a FM without internet I would try a diffrent device like my recent upload kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJukZ6eDg5VgoJY

[@MegaLocoxx]

Does this NW- A306 have a "pure music" mode? I mean, when I see this walkman turn on and the first thing I see is an android menu and feels like a phone, then I have to go to the walkman app for music,which is something I dont like. Its there a way to start up the device with the walkman app on?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

For me I power up, hit walkman icon and goes to music. Is that what you mean?

[@MegaLocoxx]

@@TUXXREVIEWS No, what I meant is if there is a way to start up in the walkman app (music) when you press the power up the device? Like a short cut?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

@@MegaLocoxx I get it, but saddly not that I know of.

[@MegaLocoxx]

@@TUXXREVIEWS Oh, OK. It's just that I don't like the fact that when I power up the device, the very first menu its an Android (cellphone). I wanted a different interface menu that shows me something different than what my phone shows me when I power it up and I use my phone everyday a lot of times.

[@chevymusclecar1970]

@@MegaLocoxxyou can pin the Sony music app. Work very well.

[@avushpavush]

can you tell me how much ram this dap has? I am afraid to use 3 app on the background like my file manager, my music player and my headphones app without problem... also I need to know if it support for aptx adaptive? I have sennhiser headphone that support just aptx adaptive...

[@avushpavush]

@@whatgaca I hope so... you have the device?

[@avushpavush]

so can you please check for me how much ram it has? @@whatgaca

[@dontevencare24]

This device sux azz while using Amazon music app - plays for a minute then buffers endlessly - have full wifi connection and reinstalled the Amazon music app multiple times- any advice on what I can do to improve streaming quality?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I may do another video on streaming but mine streams fine, no buffering issue at home or in my C7 corvette. I haven't tested it connected to a cell phone mobile hot spot yet. I do think the best sound is from your high quality audio file (Example FLAC or DSF)

[@joncruz]

What's the RAM on this ?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Dont believe Sony has disclosed that. Click link in Description for even more specs. DAPs are big on talking storage space but not ram.

[@joncruz]

@@TUXXREVIEWS But you have the device, just check it on settings/ about. I don’t understand what’s the secret.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

@@joncruz Its not like a computer, It may show "storage" size but of course there is a memory slot so its expandable but not ram. For example on a computer may be 2TB storage and 64 gigs of ram - Not the same on a player. Its like saying how much ram is on a Sony Camera - not always displayed the same way under settings. . BUT no Big Secert, I'm not at home atm. You cant click a link? Where would you suggest finding this on the player? I dont believe its just under settings. Its too bad there wasnt a way to expand the ram like on home computers as more ram could make the OS faster.

[@joncruz]

@@TUXXREVIEWS Brother it’s like an android phone, just go to: Settings / about device and you will find RAM, CPU, ROM etc. And of course RAM is not expandable lol I bet Sony is hiding this information on paper to cover probably 3GB of RAM All I see everywhere its the device is great but lags.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

@@joncruz I'll check when I get home but I really believe it's hidden.

[@jonathancabeza8881]

Is it supported with aptx ?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

On Sonys website it says yes. Its not a common question so some NW-A306 tech specs doesnt list it but sony says YES

[@GrimReaper4383]

There's a new update for it. 2.00.02

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

YES - IT came out 12/13 Well worth downloading.

[@davidhariri2344]

Can I watch videos on this device?

[@stomms]

Not really, too small screen.

[@rifsulaiman1495]

Hi bro..can i fill songs from my android phone to this walkman via bluetooth? Thx

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I've always transitioned with usb, not sure but leans to no

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

Sorry no wireless transfer of data is as secure as a wired connection. I havent atempted bluetooth transfer

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

@@bctrailbagger When it comes to transferring music files, there are two primary methods: wired and wireless. Wired connections use cables to transfer data between devices, while wireless connections use radio waves to transmit data over the air. Wired connections are generally faster and more reliable than wireless connections. Ethernet cables, for example, can transfer data at speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second1. On the other hand, wireless connections are more convenient and allow you to transfer files without the need for cables. However, wireless connections can be slower and less reliable than wired connections, especially when transferring large files 2. When it comes to audio quality, wired connections are generally better than wireless connections. Wireless audio quality can deteriorate when transmitting audio wirelessly, and audio quality is generally better when using wired connections 2. In summary, wired connections are generally faster and more reliable than wireless connections, while wireless connections are more convenient. When it comes to audio quality, wired connections are generally better than wireless connections. However, the choice between wired and wireless connections ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

[@2324dc]

I'm looking to upgrade my sony nw-a45 but does the new walkman have the sensme channels?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

It has a full array of playlists ways to mix the music up but please see amazon link for additional tech details. I dont want to say no but I dont use this function. I've found it to be inaccurate at best on other systems.

[@2324dc]

@@TUXXREVIEWS From my experience it was spot on at categorizing each song, I loved that I could just pick a channel/playlist and jump straight into a certain mood. The feature is not supported by the new walkmans which is a bummer.

[@stomms]

Had this one for about a year, biggest problem is very low power from 3.5 mm headphone jack. It realy can work only with small in ear heaphones and with nothing bigger for sure. Also screen is too small, sometimes needed apps just does not fit on it and some buttons can be somewhere over the edge. Got it sold and will buy something more powerful and with bigger screen. Otherwise good device, not slow in any means. If one wants to use only BT headphones with it - then it could be good enough.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

what one did you buy?

[@stomms]

@@TUXXREVIEWS I bought Hiby R6 III now, but haven't received it yet. Also there is new muche better and much more powerful DAP than Sony NW-A306 in this price range or even cheaper available now: HiBy R4.

[@stomms]

I received my Hiby R6 III, OMG how much better and much louder sound it has, just no comparison to this small Sony... After trying real Hi-Res player I hardly can recommend this Sony to anyone, it is just an overpriced toy.

[@martincowling6562]

No offence , Still feel that the NWA-55 was the better one, because it was surly private where you had no Android as to signing up to things , where they can track and trace everything you do as you have no privacy like the NWA-55 And gradually most features ran by android will no longer get updates and could stop working because not compatible no-more. But the sound quality by Sony still hits the top as to certain big name brands, This is why it's hard to find a NWA-55 as people ask extreme money, knowing what I know as the battery was better too,

[@gabix7488]

You have a smart phone accounts on social media and you're affraid that your privacy its destroyed by a music player ?

[@TheShade247]

Although the music sounds amazing, but android experience is just horrible, slow and choppy and sometimes causes music to stutter

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

So you have allot of apps on it? - If studdering (mine doesnt) but I would suggest deleting any apps on it except the music apps you use.

[@TheShade247]

@@TUXXREVIEWS other than stock Android apps I only have Apple music and Spotify, I will try disabling all other google apps to see if that makes any difference

[@edwardlouis3428]

A lot of talk, little info on the device.

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

What info did you really want that was not included in the video? Be honest.... Its an unboxing and all additional tech specs are in link.

[@tintinquirit8732]

I'm afraid about the software, it looks like crappy xperia, low and bugged

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I LOVE my Xperia 1 V phone. Its not Low quality or buggy at all.

[@tintinquirit8732]

@@TUXXREVIEWS I talk about my experience, I used xperia L1 and L2, that was so crap

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

@@tintinquirit8732 Perhaps the old ones, I didnt use those but I can say first hand the xperia 1 V is awesome. I use this phone daily. Thats like saying PS5 graphics suck based on owning a PS1 or PS2. However the Sony NW-A306 sounds amazing but as you can see from my videos can lag a little but still worth it. It has features of $1000+ DAPs

[@zahidwadud8875]

Stop Shaking

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

shaking? timestamp please.

[@dont4450]

I have the nw a55 and am so happy with the sound. It's almost as good as my astell&kern kann alpha with lower power. I want to know if the a 306 has the same sony music app as the a55?

[@TUXXREVIEWS]

I believe sony uses the same app. I know the firmware is the same as the 07