Walkman Meets ANDROID: Sony NW-A105 Review

[@SuperReview]

If you ask "Why would someone use a Walkman instead of a phone?" probably don't join the Super* Discord channel: discordapp.com/invite/ZBpXZnp

[@glove17]

Compare it to ipod maybe, cause those 2 products is the best use review

[@davidzhorvath]

Being in Tokyo since 2014, I now 100% understand why one would need a walkman and a phone at the same time. Especially Xperia users ( who will also need a Sony camera ). But on top of that, battery life! You can't charge your phone at work, so a walkman on the train in Tokyo is a must have, as are the hi res audio sony earphones, and the MORA service, which we can't access when I am in Korea or the USA.

[@LincolnRon]

It makes absolutely no sense to me why would someone use a phone instead of a portable audio device. (Because you are so poor that you are forced to use your hand-phone is the only reason I can think of.) It's like "Why buy a laptop when I can use a pen & paper?". I was always an iPod user until the Pioneer XDP-100R came out. Now I'm a Pioneer fan.

[@SuperReview]

@@LincolnRon This is just narrow-minded in the opposite direction 🤔

[@LincolnRon]

@@SuperReview nnnnnnNNNEEormm!

[@sebastam2603]

We had a 1st gen Echo in our master bathroom for listening to music in the morning kzbin.infoUgkxABghAEkaIDGZfHRBH3D3rBrlraNmnC71 and while in the shower. I didn't realize how tinny and awful the sound output on the original Echo was until we replaced it with the Studio. It was a sonic upgrade far beyond what I was expecting. Just wow. I love it because it's like having speakers IN the shower. My friend likes it because the music is so loud that she can no longer hear me singing. So that's a win-win.

[@Abinash91]

After few years, people will be like : I wish these things were a bit thinner, a bit bigger and maybe had a camera and were able to make calls too!

[@SuperReview]

Gross.

[@bernand79]

Damn, the future will be amazing

[@sidiox7857]

The lg v40!

[@tonytan8721]

You mean the Walkman phone they made 10 yrs ago?

[@Abinash91]

Tony Tan - Yes exactly. 🤣 I am sure things will go full circle once again.

[@taltigolt]

wish they made a new xperia in this design

[@SuperReview]

🤞

[@benpenph]

♡♡♡

[@Kingkodiakbear]

This looks more like Xperia XZ2 Compact: Compact

[@garethsmyth6593]

I bought one of these on Amazon and it arrived yesterday. It is so small and compact. As a blind person I was able to turn on the talkback screen reading feature by pressing and holding the two volume buttons for three seconds. I have been playing around with it a little bit but like yourself I probably will get a SD card because as you say it has got lots of software preinstalled. My walkman did not seem to come with headphones but I have a good stereo pair which I used and the sound was quite good. I like yourself will probably only use the music player feature rather than any of the other apps on there. I am so glad though that it is accessible, as many years ago you had to learn your way around the device by memory or get someone to help you.

[@hullislam6368]

If you are blind, how did you write this comment. Pls?

[@rockmusic8550]

That’s awesome. I’m blind as well, so I’m thrilled to know that it’s accessible.

[@rockmusic8550]

What’s the most accessible music player app? I’m not familiar with android, I’ve only used ios

[@jacoposcattini1815]

Hi dear..what kind of headphones do you use for this walkman?

[@garethsmyth6593]

@@jacoposcattini1815 I have a small pair of in ear headphones which I use for travelling. I can’t remember the make of them.

[@nguyenleucduong3446]

Now, we can just use a flip phone and bring this to check mail or maps, and this is a damn good Player

[@ThePhooPhighters]

did you try this ?

[@orronoco524]

I really wish Sony released their walkman phones again with same size as this A105

[@SuperReview]

Yessssssssssss. A small Xperia with Walkman buttons on the outside 😍

[@boboyalonzo2209]

Yess xperia 3 compact

[@ugnikalnis]

Yes I also up for that I had first Walkman with casette support I was early age kid back then I still have working SE Walkman 810i phone also casette player Walkman also works.

[@clemente111]

Xperia xz1 compact is almost similar though

[@multiversescriptutes8400]

Just buy the walkman.

[@aaronlegend14]

Wow. It's built so perfectly. It's what we dreamed of one day getting back in in the mid 2000s.

[@kylerobinson6102]

I used to have a walkman phone in about 2007 and it was pretty cool. Had a slider and a walkman style controller built into it. Sorry for the late reply.

[@hualongdeng8229]

Your suggestion of using pinning as a solution for the security issues was valuable.

[@Nagare89]

Your comment on the potential security risk is important. Thanks for that!

[@Maikeru_Dabittsu]

Ah, the Xperia compact everyone wanted. Also Google play services probably is the reason for the battery life

[@FrancisLitanofficialJAPINOY]

Maikeru Dabittsu APKPURE OR APK FILE DOWNLOAD AND INSTALL. China blocks Google Play.

[@bennybouken]

@@FrancisLitanofficialJAPINOY that doesn't sell in Japan you boomer

[@Th3K37]

It's a blessing and a curse

[@clintodom6751]

Thanks for taking the time to post this. It answered most of my own questions about the same upgrade from the NW-a45

[@ItsTheMojo]

The battery life on the player is what had me send it back. With the player on, but doing nothing (airplane mode, bluetooth, wifi, etc. all off, no music playing) the battery was dropping between 1.5% and 2% per hour, giving standby time of around 2.5 days when not in use. I did wonder if that were simply some major screw-up Sony had made and would be fixable by an update. But I realised that if they didn't test that prior to release I didn't want to know what else they might've screwed up. With wifi on the battery life drops to at most 7 hours. I found the UI of the 55 to be as smooth and easy to use as the 105, felt as good as the 105 in my hand and the fact that the 105 doesn't support playlists in any really usable way (not possible to create or edit on the device), the 55 just presented itself as a much better option. The only place I could find where the 105 outdoes the 55 is with the EQ - 10-band rather than 6. Since I'm not really in a position to hear any sound quality difference between the 105 and the 55 I just decided I don't think a 10-band rather than 6-band EQ is worth an extra £140.

[@franklingoodwin]

That's pretty typical of most smartphones with a smaller battery than 3500 mah though. I'm guessing this doesn't benefit from Doze that most Android phones have, so it can't optimise it's battery by learning your normal usage patterns. If it drains the same amount during the night as it does during the day, it doesn't have Doze

[@jackslayter3440]

What about to shut player down when you don't listen the music? Can it save battery more economic then in stand by mode with display off?

[@jmcc2275]

Turn it OFF.

[@ItsTheMojo]

@@jmcc2275 well done on completely missing the point.

[@lorddragon5041]

Thanks for all man. This is what I'm looking for a review, lot of information and a direct comparation for the last generation. I will keep my Walkman NW-A55 as my DAP for the moment, as you do, I don't use streaming apps too, and the battery is very important be cause on my work I can't charge nothing because we use machines that needs special plugs of power. Keep the good work, and happy New year.

[@SuperReview]

Happy new year ✌️

[@J276]

Using my all time favourite music player whilst wearing a pebble makes this really special for me.

[@rcrdofjrdo]

Thanks for the review. I got this to replace/upgrade the NW-A17 that was almost 10 years old. The operation, speed and controls are superb, in addition to the sound quality and build of the product, which you have sufficiently covered. I had a lot of concerns in relation to the battery, but I used some open source software called Universal Android Debloater and was able to uninstall from my Walkman things like Gmail, Drive, Chrome, Google Assistant, Calendar and other things like the Calculator, Contacts and location / printing services. I left Google Play store. Not only this *dramatically* improved battery life, but I also no longer have security concerns, as there are no Google services that can be accessed from it. Truly recommended fix for this rather brilliant music kit!

[@cfc3972]

Please can you remember/list what apps you uninstalled please , 👍

[@richardborrello6777]

If this thing could make phone calls it would be my primary device

[@SuperReview]

Same.

[@pirates3922]

Get a phone

[@hip360hop]

they sell these things called smartphones that I think you may be interested in

[@CyclingNeko]

THIS!

[@richardborrello6777]

@DerpyDoge (and the size!)

[@zero5uk]

Cheers for this review. Everything covered for me. Had 3-4 years off from Sony Walkmans after using them for many years. Only recently plugged an old ZX1 (the expensive 128gb full metal body) where the port is now old/intermittent and realized how much better it does sound than my Pixel phone. But moved to Spotify and didn't look back. This brings the Walkman back into the fold, esp downloading songs on Spotify and filling with FLACS so you can keep the player on airplane. It's the physical buttons I really miss on my phone--cycling with a bumbag, can't believe I've gone so long taking phone out, swipe screen each time to change tracks. The pinning feature is also a good one--cheers.

[@glsracer]

I actually bought a new in box A55 a while back and I loved it so much that I just bought a like new ZX300 to use at home. The MrWalkman Walkman One firmware is amazing even in 2024. The sound is excellent and streaming online music via LDAC to the older DAPs works so well that I actually prefer not having streaming on the DAP. The lack of security patches on older Android DAPs means that eventually they will be a security risk on your network. The A35-A55 and the other custom Linux DAPs will never pose that risk.

[@Fazeshyft]

As impractical as a dedicated music player may be in 2020, I'm thrilled to see a few holdouts. Maybe they'll make a comeback as an offshoot of the "minimal phone" fans? I like this device. Would like to see other UIs than Android, though.

[@vitorfernandes651]

How is this impractical. I wouldn’t go for a run with my phone. Too heavy and awkward size. This thing you don’t even feel it.

[@easyalpha1]

Actually it’s very practical…considering it’s less drain on your phone.

[@Jacob1Jacob2]

This is perfect! My school banned phones and this is the closest thing to a phone. Now I just need the money. Oh

[@mattiatamo2298]

At the moment, even if it's older I am still sticking with the Sony NWZ-A15 because of the battery life and size/weight

[@bangbambang1387]

Yeah, even after watching many yt videos about nw 55 and 105, i still stick around with nw a26, less weight and size. Fun to carry around while running.

[@SGVirtusAuthor]

I've been using the Sony Walkman (NWZ-A17 I believe) for years now. It's the best thing ever. I'm grateful for your review, this is curious.

[@yesterdaystech86]

GrieverTV I love it too but my LG v30 phone gives better Audio quality. Still use it because of excellent battery and no interruptions from the phone. The price is too high. You can buy lg v20 or v30 for cheaper that have better dac and headphone amp.p...

[@zpolt]

This looks sick! Nice review man. I need android DAP in my life.

[@SuperReview]

Prepare your chargers 😅 Happy New Year, zpolt!

[@ganshengkai7060]

No, I advise you to get IBasso DX160

[@ganshengkai7060]

Karan Palilkar neutral, good separation and imaging, Wide soundstage. Somemore price close to Sony nw105.

[@jpdj2715]

PEOPLE ASK QUESTIONS IN THE COMMENTS that are easily looked up in the web: Android Direct download and streaming via WiFi. High-Resolution Audio wireless LDAC, premium wireless codec. 3x standard BLUETOOTH bit-rate. DSD playback DSD audio formats up to 11.2MHz. High-quality PCM to DSD conversion. S-Master HX delivers High-Resolution Audio in maximum quality Digital amplifier, with reduced distortion and noise. High-Resolution Audio Compatible Higher-than-CD quality. Rigid aluminum milled frame for improved sound quality Superior rigidity for low impedance and clear, stable sound and solid bass. Optimized circuit board layout Separate Audio block on the printed circuit board. DSEE HX Upsampling is improved a processor which intelligently recognizes instruments, voices and musical genres. Hence it can accurately rebuild detail lost in digital compression. The processor also works when streaming. NFC One-touch and Bluetooth for instant connectivity Near Field Communication and Bluetooth for a quick, seamless connection. Film capacitor - High-quality Transparent, expansive highs and natural sound. Fine Sound Resistor Even, effective distribution of power to the circuit components, for consistent sound quality. Supported by Android 9. Gives a huge range of media apps and music services. Wi-Fi compatible for direct download and streaming Enjoy your favorite streaming and music apps. Advanced solder containing gold for clearer sound Minimum signal loss. For clearer sound and vocals. Cassette Tape UI Cassette Tape user interface and screensaver. Does it do tape-hiss? Store even more music with the microSD card slot . USB Type-C port . Vinyl Processor Subtle mimicry of the low-frequency resonance, tone-arm resistance and surface noise to deliver an authentic listening experience. Does it do tape-hiss? Listen for longer with up to 26 hours’ battery life When playing MP3 128kbps

[@bulitzecroz9463]

A load of info! 👍🏿👌🏿

[@jpdj2715]

@@bulitzecroz9463 - yes. But, does it do dynamic compression to tape standard and in that present me with a subtle tape hiss noise floor? Does it pause when my phone rings?

[@bulitzecroz9463]

@@jpdj2715 the reviewer should be able to answer your question. He has a unit. If he cares enough about his subs, he should. ✌🏿

[@Calebmepapi]

What would be the purpose of this device outside of music listening? Any professional uses? I work in audio full time and love this item... but most people listen on there phones 😂😂

[@Andersljungberg]

Sony claims that LDAC means 990 kb / s and that provide high-resolution music

[@Bonno460xvr]

Thank you so much. You really showed me what the device does. I think I’m going to buy it.

[@Bonno460xvr]

i ended up buying a Japanese model off ebay. really looking for something with battery life, small, but the main requirement was to show album art as i recognize my cds by their album art. I was hoping it do FM radio but seems they removed that from the android model. Also the FLAC is nice, but bluetooth also is a selling point. Wifi be nice for spotify and youtube music but my CD library is pretty big, big to me at 1600 albums.

[@siyuanxu3537]

Still using A45 too, the A55/A105 are finale available in Europe since Dec. But the A45 is enough for me. Thanks for the Unboxing and Review.

[@Mangold108]

the iPod - Android version/alternative. (I just hate the apple system to import file) I love to have them in folders.

[@franklingoodwin]

@@NintendoDude888 People that import files (and yes I know it was an rhetorical question). Who asks stupid questions these days?

[@franklingoodwin]

@@NintendoDude888 I don't import files often. But others do,, that's my point. Just because you or I don't doesn't mean others don't too

[@Andersljungberg]

@@franklingoodwin no problem, if you copy your own CDs. then the songs will automatically end up in your iphone if i have understood the thing correctly

[@krokodilen31]

@@NintendoDude888 apple ppl dont

[@Taydiablo3]

I love Sony products but I can’t see myself buying this, only because I won’t to carry around two devices, phone and Walkman.

[@zxrfp]

I carry my main phone and an old iPhone I use solely as an iPod. I got used to it quickly but your comfort may vary

[@harurenford2296]

It's nice for running

[@a3marketing991]

I like this device for storing and playing music. Great for the gym. My iphone+ is way too big for the gym and doesn't store a library of music as well as this.

[@earthpotato5143]

Lol Sony is having the same problem like the Apple product. I'm talking about Ipod Touch. Its similar to Iphone except without SIM card. Ipod Touch aim for Music player with iOS. Now Sony is doing it with Walkman + Android OS.

[@carmstrong6507]

EarthPotato This isn’t the first time that Sony released an Android Walkman. In 2011 Sony released the Z series Walkman. Then in 2012 & 2013 Sony released the F800 & F880 Walkmans. I wanted to get a Sony Android Walkman back then but I couldn’t afford one. Since I am making more money now I ordered one from Amazon.com a few days ago.

[@gehtdinichtsan309]

finally no more propiertary charging connector.

[@JohnAranita]

I bought this from an eBay vendor who is located in Japan. I was worried that I could not work this device in English, but the first screen on the first power on I chose English. I rip music CDs, and so I was happy that I could drag and drop MP3 files on Windows File Explorer to this device. I turned off WiFi, NFC, and Bluetooth to conserve the battery.

[@klen7642]

This just launched today in the Philippines and just bought one. Oh boy. Being a 1st time walkman user (Has an LG G6 cause of the HiFi DAC) I am quite excited to use this in the long run.

[@schizomnia]

How much in php?

[@klen7642]

The base model goes around Php 17,899 (around $350).

[@GrimYak]

@@klen7642 Nice that you have one dude. I myself cannot justify this as I do not listen to FLACS direct to a wired headphones and listen to bluetooth constantly via Spotify or youtube music at 320kbps. With LDAC now in android it is really more convenience as I use the XM3 and Bose QC35II with the occasional Galaxy buds for portability. But if I were to have a collection of Hi res audio like FLACS and a wired headphones this would be the player id go with.

[@Andersljungberg]

when you have an Android based media player it means you have a small computer with a processor to work. and there is a lot going on in the one that is not going on in a one player without Android

[@Just_RJ]

I was actually looking this up a month ago, especially the anniversary edition purely for the aesthetic and the fact that I'd like a good dedicated music device. I really liked the cassette vibe and I thought it'd be really cool to have. But the price tag went crazy, so I'm trying to recreate it with the A45/55, but no dice. It's exclusive to the A100/105.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, I tried to get the Anniversary Edition, prices got silly. FWIW, all A100s support the cassette "screen saver," but I disable it for battery life concerns :P

[@mianovak9700]

Ive been using an a55 and im looking at this device because ive found myself using the a55 as a blutooth dac to listen to podcasts. Thank you for informative video

[@manueliux]

Just return fiio m6 after 2 days dealing with the Bluetooth connection and just ordered this one. I kind of like some of the features you said on the video. Security is one issue also for me but I’ll figure it out a way to not compromise some personal info. Battery I understand that but I will use this one just for music and maybe for about 2 or 3 hours the most. Thanks for your review the most complete one I’ve seen in KZbin 👍🏽

[@alisonb4898]

I still use my creative zen. Which is over 10yrs old now and plays anything including films, it’s small lightweight and nearly indestructible. Best thing I’ve bought.

[@wowerman]

Yes. I have ZEN X-fi. Amazing sound quality. It still has original battery which lasts forever, its very light. I lost one some years ago. Guess what I did even knowing that there are new gadgets on market. I bought another ZEN X-fi. It boggles my mind why Creative does not continue with Players anymore.

[@FawazK]

Your taste in music is awesome! Personally this is the player I've been waiting for. A Walkman, Android, and Affordable. The battery thing is a major bummer, but alas - I have USB C chargers everywhere I sit so charging shouldn't be a problem. I can't wait to get my hands on one!!!!

[@SuperReview]

I've added one of those wireless charging adapters to mine, kind of a dope pair.

[@raghavkumar9470]

You're the one keeping audiophiles alive.

[@SuperReview]

There are many like us out there. In the beyond.

[@franklingoodwin]

His doing a good job, but I doubt he's stopping audiophiles from dying 😄

[@zioqqr4262]

Listening to you is such a pleasant experience, and your reviews are very digestible and useful!

[@SuperReview]

🙇‍♂️

[@fisherman7633]

Love the Computation joke on 6:05. Your background is really nice.

[@viswesh713]

Mine is A55 it is just awesome. Good video as always.

[@Camerontwhite]

I was about to get one of these until I discovered a major downside to using Android apps on the Sony A105. Sony has limited the audio quality on all of the apps outside of the walkman app to 48 kHz/16-bit, meaning you can only listen to Hi-Res audio in full quality in the Sony app. Other Android apps like Tidal and Amazon Music HD etc that offer Hi-Res content will be limited to 48 kHz/16-bit. This is unfortunate for me because I have more Hi-Res content than can fit on a 512 GB SD card, and I'd like to stream my own Hi-Res files with Plex. Thoughts on this? Thanks for the review! EDIT: Actually, it looks like they just updated the Walkman as of May 28 and now Hi-Res streaming with apps is available!

[@SuperReview]

I only use the stock app, don't use streaming apps, so it's not something I've encountered. Doubt I can hear a difference over 16-bit, but does seem annoying if you've built a library that's 24-bit.

[@VorkKnightOfGood]

The Sony music app (formerly Walkman) can be downloaded from xda and side-loaded to any device running android 4.2 and up

[@SuperReview]

Nice!

[@yesitshassan]

its not the same version, the one offered is the one made for the Xperia mobiles

[@SuperReview]

@@yesitshassan Same general interface? Or very different?

[@yesitshassan]

Really different!

[@yesitshassan]

Like the other one had material design

[@James-Purdy]

Big ups to you for crediting the artist whose music you used, especially putting it in the video not just the description. Too many channels don't.

[@SuperReview]

Making beats and making them available to KZbinrs is no joke, mucho respect to Birocratic.

[@stanleygreen7760]

The Sony powered Walkman syncs all new music as well..though you have to plug in the USB power cable

[@Th3K37]

First time checking your videos and gotta say kudos for bringing up all the points I wanted to hear.... I might disagree with a few points that I'd like to address. First of all let's just agree that reaching the point to buy an audio player means that you're looking for an ultimate sound experience. I understand that there's no audio improvement over the A45 however the only reason I think Sony introduced this one is to include the Android OS. For example, I'm a lifelong Sony Xperia user who for unfortunate reasons had to switch to something else cause after my XZ3 was destroyed, I couldn't afford to get the Xperia 1 ii which for me is Sony's first move to try and use all their cards wisely. The first thing I noticed once I gave all other flagships a try was the lack of sound quality and options that Sony provided....not saying that they're bad but non of my headphones ever sounded as close as an Xperia did. So I know that I can get something as cheap as the A45 but there will be one important thing (in my opinion) that's missing....and that's streaming apps. I got so used to stream via Spotify or listen to a performance on KZbin.. I got used to Sony phones for years that I couldn't get used to the sound setup of any other phone (even though they're good but Sony is Sony). So I understand that the battery life for this device will drain pretty fast even if I'm using WiFi and Bluetooth but it'll offer something the A45 will never offer... which is using apps like Spotify and/or Android streaming apps. And for someone like me who's willing to invest in an additional device to get the Sony audio eq and features... I really have no problem in getting a power bank and SD cards as well. Do I think this device is perfect? No. I think they need to increase the battery life and keep everything else as it is. Same audio like A45 isn't a bad thing, it's good cause you get the same sound on more apps. I'd rather wait for Sony to add a new device with longer battery life but quiet honestly as a musician and music lover I seriously can't live with basic audio interfaces of other phones and I won't buy an expensive pair of headphones while Sony always gave me the best quality in every headphones I used...I must own this player. Anyway, you've done a good review, great tips on the security part and generally I liked the way you showcase the pros vs cons...just keep in mind that there are people like me who only care about a good sound quality over battery life and other features.

[@victortan6378]

Agreed. Reason I'm looking at a105 is bcoz it has better sound quality than my phone and streaming services. Wouldn't know where to start to download songs lol

[@89Ent]

i really love the form factor ... so compact!

[@Zedexization]

Aint a walkman if it doesnt fit in your pocket

[@89Ent]

@@Zedexization yes, but compared to other DAP such as Onkyo / Pioneer / Fiio, this is a lot smaller, but still not as compact as old Ipod or Shanling

[@JessAyu]

I'm digging this, i could minimize the battery usage of my phone by this...also when travelling (on car, ship etc) i got dizzy when i'm looking at my screen even to change song...the idea of 1 decice for social media and interactions, one other is for music and youtube, kinda pretty neat...

[@JessAyu]

@Otie Jason then you must not listen to music on your phone a lot...it does drain battery -_-

[@TravisJones812]

Does anyone else remember when it took Sony 2 years to add a 3.5mm jack to their phones after Nokia had them?

[@DrinManlapaz]

Love the shirt! Nice review. Keep it up!

[@BigBlueGuy]

I had an Android powered Walkman back in the 2010's. It's good to see that they're continuing to make it.

[@cacadodo666]

I feel like iM a kid in the 80s again. Japan releases so much variety and accessories for their country, but give us scraps. wth

[@anotherjuan]

it looks so goood! the color and hardware design is my kind of aesthetic and i love sony! 🖤🖤🖤

[@SuperReview]

It really is a super clean look. They get it right.

[@PeteZajot]

I would totally buy because of how much I miss IPods, I’m an early 2000’s kid so almost every cool kid used to have one, but that American price man... you could totally get a brand new Nintendo Switch or Xbox One X for that price 😬 idk, maybe I’ll keep waiting for a price drop or just stick to my good old Smartphone

[@brybry9977]

The iPod touch 7th gen came out last year. It's $100 less than this.

[@rsdno]

What a good Review I think I will still get this and if I do buy it I wont forget to use your link Thank You

[@VincenzosCornSalad]

What’s this, after years of listening to IGN Tech Fetish I’ve finally found this delight of a man again, couldn’t be happier to see you’re still at it!

[@SuperReview]

The Fresca pours on.

[@VincenzosCornSalad]

@@SuperReview As it should!

[@cefirodewinter9086]

If I can add a Sim Card to that thing I will probably use it as my phone it reminds me so much to my old Xperia E1 it had a walkman and button, it was durable and overall the best phone I've ever own and it was low end phone from 2014

[@rlaw8658]

it's like a compact xperia phone!! I just like the block style from sony.

[@marko204]

It reminds me of z5 compact :v 🤔

[@Xpandro]

reminds me of the Xperia series, but with a smaller and thicker size.

[@SuperReview]

Definitely. Sony makes attractive hardware, IMO.

[@klen7642]

@@SuperReview very underrated.

[@Eric-qi9us]

no one else talked about app pinning. That's the only thing I needed and you just convinced me to upgrade to this from my nw-a35 in the future.

[@SuperReview]

Definitely a clutch feature that’s under appreciated, I use it with all my Android DAPs.

[@Alexander5R]

I liked your review and your headphone collection intrigued me.

[@SuperReview]

It's a really dumb collection, but it's fun.

[@dont4450]

While some like the Android platform, including myself, im not a fan of it being on my portable music player. I have a Sony nw a55 that only has Sony proprietary music app which I put on the Mr Walkman firmware. I LOVE IT. It's portable enough to be completely unintrusive, yet sounds great. And let's not forget the battery life. When I'm home and in the mood to stream from quobuz, I use my astell&kern kann alpha. But I hope sony keeps the non-android platform in mind.

[@beverlyfrederick5362]

Enjoyed your video ! Brought back great memories in the 1980s, when I had the Sony Walkman WM-FM 10 Stereo Personal Cassette and Radio Player. Love Sony ★★★★★

[@SuperReview]

Nice! I've still got an old Walkman AM/FM radio, and it still works 👍

[@beverlyfrederick5362]

You are so lucky it still works !!!

[@matthewweflen]

Not interested in streaming, thus will be sticking with the A45. I hope Sony ends up releasing another offline purpose-built player to continue their higher end lineup.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, will be interesting to see if they're all-Android going forward, or if this is just a new series in their lineup.

[@ItsTheMojo]

Even though I use streaming, the 105 just isn't up to being usable due to the poor battery life. I get better battery life with the A55 streaming from my phone (which doesn't have a headphone jack and has entirely useless volume control).

[@Andersljungberg]

The future is obviously streaming like example Tidal and Amazon music HD etc. It can be expensive to tease the record companies

[@Andersljungberg]

@@ItsTheMojo my first CD freestyle, had significantly worse battery life

[@ItsTheMojo]

@@Andersljungberg the future might be streaming eventually. So what?

[@endopurwanto8206]

Thanks for the advice.. it's really useful advice..

[@trellusg]

Oh wow, Erasure, Fingers and Thumbs! Was listening to that very song a few days ago. 🙌🏽

[@SuperReview]

It's so good.

[@VSMOKE1]

That Sony Music app is available if you root your phone I installed it years ago on my note 4 And there's plenty of updates for it

[@SuperReview]

I don't think it's the same app. Sony Music app is available freely in the Play store.

[@JigglyPKMN]

I bought an A55 when I saw what Sony did with the A100 series. The 100 series is a few steps too close to a smartphone for my tastes.

[@SuperReview]

I get it.

[@afifrobbani4492]

Hope there still will be a A60 series that wasn't Android but come with type c port.. keep the 200$-ish price too

[@migararodrigo4714]

JigglyPKMN ikr. I don’t use streaming services so Android is basically useless for me, especially as it halves the battery

[@tonyjuarez6296]

What’s the difference between a a55 and a45?

[@migararodrigo4714]

Tony Juarez largely aesthetics and differences in solder I believe. Few new software features but nothing major. Audio quality is basically identical

[@RW-ij1ci]

I love the idea of it, but when I spent damn 1200 on a dumb iphone and $300 on their pods... I'm stuck there for awhile. But I think my next phone might be a dumb flip phone and things thing honestly.

[@manuel_winde]

That’s where I’m at. At least Apple prodhold their value quite well so you can sell it and get some money back. I managed 4months with a dumbphone before, but was lured back with a free upgrade to an iPhone 11pro. Already fed up with it and want a burner phone, book and MP3 player with no distractions and notifications

[@jonnybgoode007]

Thanks. Very well done review. I appreciate. :)

[@DEVUNK88]

the nice thing about old walkmans is they were simple, the nice thing about the new walkman is the interface is familiar

[@dayeah765caoni3]

USB C port finally！！！！

[@nameinvalid69]

I don't care about calls, cuz I'm foreveralone... but if it got a camera and not priced absurdly... that's almost a perfect device... I like it thick. Phone nowadays are TOO THIN & TOO BIG.

[@KakkoiSan]

True, I don't want others to look at my chrome and youtube histories 😨😂

[@younusyounus3873]

Perfect job . The different sound quality if you listen to DSD file infact of you can hear different sound .

[@goldenpen3164]

I'm still using my 45 at work and it saves my phone battery and gives me plenty of music time. This one looks way sexier but I'll wait with it till my 45's battery gets too old. But thanks for the review. I'll keep this one in mind

[@andyr8812]

I bought this player some four months ago (about the same time this video was published), and yes, its battery life is *very* disappointing. You might need to carry it with a battery bank. Otherwise, the sound is great.

[@aangirasahn3024]

Sony music app can be sideloaded to any android

[@SuperReview]

I don't think it's the same as the Walkman app on this device. I tried to rip it off my Walkman and sideload it onto my Samsung S10e, crashed on launch immediately.

[@condawg6602]

@@SuperReview the s10e is a great music player

[@TheDealer1228]

When you were saying "amp hiss" all I was hearing was "aunt piss" and I was laughing so hard my iems popped out of my ears.

[@SuperReview]

LOL, it's an unfortunate name for an aunt.

[@afifrobbani4492]

Whoa, someone watching KZbin with IEM too.. i thought i am the only one wierdo out there 😆

[@jaromor8808]

@@afifrobbani4492 yeah, what are the chances, right? there's like 7 ppl watching youtube :D

[@stayjuice3724]

Since owning the A105, taking the system update, the update kills the volume (it’s too quiet) but you can use a Cyrus sound key, using a USB micro to usb type-c lead and then it sounds way way better. If you are doing to use a dac (Cyrus sound key) then you need monitor headphones like Marshall’s or bower and Wilkins to enjoy it’s full potential. Audio is my thing.

[@SuperReview]

Which region are you in? Surprised your volume got lower.

[@thetruemorg]

Thanks for a fantastic review.

[@creepinwhileyousleepin]

I almost wish phones didn't exist. This looks really nice

[@FoxyBoxery]

Phones are great

[@bigredii2253]

Chad Thundercock Frr‼️😂😂🤣

[@livacreative]

Okay that defines I will go with LG V60. Thanks man.

[@untildusk1639]

I've been wanting to have a separate player for my music. I really like this Walkman, but I am not going to spend that much for it.

[@SuperReview]

Can get the A45 Walkman for around $150 now.

[@Cosmoproto]

@@SuperReview Where at? I can't anything for less than $200 that isn't used.

[@vivianlawrence778]

This might make you laugh, or at least roll your eyes, but I am currently using a 2006 Zune that is slowly dying 😆 So I'm shopping for a replacement. So happy I found your review here. You answered everything I wanted to know and educated me on things I didn't know that I needed to know 😁 EXCELLENT REVIEW!!! Speaking of battery life, I can no longer go 30 miunutes without having to plug-in my charger, so two days sounds like a lot to me 🤭 The only thing I use my player for is at bedtime. I have my own media loaded which I listen to as a "help me go to sleep" thing only, so now I know I wouldn't need the A105, even though the features sound amazing. All I need is a basic player, so now I'm going to check-out the A45/55. 👍 THANK YOU for your concise and informative review. Blessings 🙏😇

[@jaysontanner5071]

i'd rather have this, or something like it, than a phone. if it wouldn't buffer like phones do. but that's just me.

[@jessongraju6553]

Watching on 2012 SONY XPERIA-E[android-4.1,jellybean].It have walkman music player app.

[@seyniole1898]

Again, showing FKJ. Take notes people.

[@johngregory7800]

I hope I can appreciate this kinda device....I did complate buying this or a NC Headphone. idk but my experience got better after buying the MDR 1000 mx3. Will buying this make the music better on that kind of headphone?

[@Darkest_matter]

I actually sampled some fkj's music. soundcloud.com/n34rmus1cb34t5/vybe-improved-longer

[@cristianooliveiraamaroferr4522]

The most beautiful design and the better excellent size for any hand! With just one important observation... Sony should have built it with making and receiving call smartphone capability too! I would even buy a new kind of Sony Samrtphone if they would make it phisicaly identical with the same design and size of this Sony NW-A105!

[@SuperReview]

I would use it as my phone if I could :D

[@cristianooliveiraamaroferr4522]

I would even buy a new kind of Sony Samrtphone if they would make it phisicaly identical with the same design and size of this Sony NW-A105! @@SuperReview

[@cristianooliveiraamaroferr4522]

I've got a Black Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact! It is an excellent Smartphone but In fact, when I saw it at the first time through the internet, I thought that it was considerably smaller then it is really is and just after when I have already bought and received it in my house I could realize with my own hands that it is not from the exact size I wished it would be! I mean: two fingers smaller vertically speaking exactly like NW - A105 Walkman! Sony, please, make a new Smartphone with all these characteristics for all of us!

[@SuperReview]

With BUTTONS.

[@JS-pv2os]

Great review! Thank you!

[@SuperReview]

👍

[@cefgil3905]

This review was way to long! But with that being said you did a great job!

[@do1du]

iPod killer just 15 year too late

[@SGVirtusAuthor]

I love that it still has the buttons on the side. Also, could you tell me what version of Bluetooth this one utilizes please?

[@SuperReview]

Bluetooth 5.0 according to the specs page: www.sony.com/electronics/walkman/nw-a100-series/specifications

[@SGVirtusAuthor]

@@SuperReview Thanks for the reply. I may have to buy one of these bad boys!

[@pramonoy8797]

thanks for this review!!!!

[@siemprepalante773]

Great review. Looking forward to hopefully trying this out. I use a cheapo cellphone, which I don't carry with me, and wasn't looking forward to spending more money on a phone simply to have a DAC and a quality music experience. Enjoy the new year.

[@SuperReview]

Feliz Año Nuevo.

[@ian.bravo2]

If only it has a sim card slot. That’ll be my daily phone.

[@asdfgh4543]

I know right.

[@SuperReview]

💯

[@champen22]

Sim card slot + 5000 mah battery and I am buying

[@asdfgh4543]

Xperia walkman

[@RehanKhanNISER]

what are the specifications which processor how much RAM??

[@SuperReview]

According to an app I have (Device Info HW), 4GB RAM, processor is "Cortex-A45".

[@RehanKhanNISER]

@@SuperReview update drivers of your laptop

[@AltRockLover]

It’s a thing of beauty, no doubt about it! In terms of build quality, it reminds me of Microsoft’s ZuneHD, which is stunningly beautiful in its execution, but ultimately a limited use music player which few people bought, myself excluded lol. When I bought my first true smartphone, it didn’t make sense to carry 2 devices for music. Besides, I found the sound quality to be considerably better on my phone, which was kind of disappointing since I loved the Zune! Anyway, I don’t see how this Walkman would be a step up in sound quality from most smartphones, as you pointed out. It seems like a Sony money grab, which is ok, but at this price point, it really should set itself apart from a smartphone, if that’s even possible! And the battery life is completely unsatisfactory, just like the ZuneHD. If you just set it to random play, with the screen off, and no WiFi, the ZuneHD would play all day! But if you used its beautiful OLED screen it would significantly cut into the battery life. As much as I love new gadgets, I think this is one I’ll have to live without. But, I thoroughly enjoyed watching your video!

[@krecik8448]

first of all find me a phone with good headphone amplifier, secondly, phones electromagnetic fields generated by them cause digital noise on the pcb resulting in distorted sound, also typical phone got just 10 up to 20 levels of volume, sony nw a series got 120 lines of volume, also the battery time is a lot longer on dedicated audio players

[@joseitsme]

Sweet.... The Cure!!! I was listening to that album " Kiss me" tonight coming home from work.

[@SuperReview]

It's quite good.

[@touchingpeopleonthetrain1779]

Red version looks amazing, like the sliding Sony Walkman phone. The battery life was a deal breaker for me. Runs Android 9 very well, naturally with long startup times.The screen is very sharp, if a bit washed on the colour side. Chassis is smooth and well done, let down by tiny cheap feeling/looking buttons.

[@SuperReview]

Battery life seems to be getting better w/ firmware updates, listened overnight ~8 hours and was still at 70% battery. But that's w/ wifi turned off.

[@KGA7771]

Q: do I have to download the songs from google play or can I just download some from Spotify?

[@SuperReview]

You can do anything you can do with Android.