Sabre2
100+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Mar 29, 2016
- Posts
- 378
- Likes
- 400
Hehe, which set u getting ? Or Both?My plastic covers for my intended purchase of M2 arrived before it, I shall await for my set with anticipation
SONY NW-WM1Z M2 / WM1A M2
Sonywalkmanuser
Headphoneus Supremus
Full article using the most accurate japanese to english translator:
https://www.sony.jp/feature/products/220209/?s_pid=jp_/walkman/_wmsptop
To a higher level of understanding at a single listen.
Delivering even the feelings that are put into the "sound".
NW-WM1ZM2 / NW-WM1AM2
The flagship Walkman models "NW-WM1Z" and "NW-WM1A" released in October 2016 have finally undergone a long-awaited full renewal this spring: the "NW-WM1ZM2," which inherits the Signature Series name and further sharpened its extreme sound quality, and the "NW-WM1AM2," which delivers sound quality that is as close as possible to the high-end. NW-WM1AM2," which realizes sound quality approaching that of high-end products. We asked the four core members of the development team about the commitment that went into these new models, which are now available after a five-and-a-half-year hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-saturation.
Point 1: Aiming for "an even higher level of sound that can be recognized by a single listen
New Flagship Walkman
The new flagship Walkman model, the NW-WM1ZM2, like its predecessor, the NW-WM1Z, is positioned as part of the Signature Series. First of all, please define the Signature Series again.
Tanaka: The Signature Series is the collective name for a group of flagship models that combine the analog and digital sound quality technologies Sony has cultivated over many years of product development to create the ultimate personal music experience. The NW-WM1Z is the first generation model in the series, and the series as a whole has thoroughly pursued high sound quality with the goal of "reproducing the emotion and atmosphere of the music that the artist wants to convey. The direction of sound quality has not changed at all.
In the first generation, the "Signature Series" included siblings designed based on the design concept of the Signature Series, but later the definition was made stricter and there was one model for each category. However, the definition was later tightened to one model per category.
Could you briefly describe the features of the new model?
Tanaka: First of all, the product concept is "the ultimate portable player that allows you to enjoy any music source with the best sound quality. There are three major points of evolution from the previous model.
The first is the evolution of sound quality, which is the most highly anticipated of all. The DMP-Z1 is a high-end player that dramatically improves sound quality based on an unprecedented concept, which was released in 2018. The development team members are almost the same as those who worked on the previous model, and the goal of the development was to achieve a "higher level of sound quality that can be recognized at first listen," while continuing the trend of the previous model, which has been well received by customers.
The second is the further expansion of sound source compatibility. In order to support streaming music distribution services and music download services, which are becoming increasingly compatible with high-resolution and other high-quality sound, we have taken the plunge and installed the Android OS in our flagship model. As we will discuss in detail later, we have taken measures to address concerns about the impact on sound quality and battery life.
The third and final point is the evolution of operability. The global trend toward "listening" to music for deeper enjoyment is increasing in portable audio devices, and operability that does not interfere with the music experience has become significantly more important than in the past. The new model features a 5.0" HD touch panel display, which is larger and higher resolution than before, and also offers improved operability response.
Point 2: Technology and know-how cultivated in the Signature Series "DMP-Z1
and know-how cultivated in the Signature Series "DMP-Z1
Please tell us more about the evolution of sound quality in the new "NW-WM1ZM2" and "NW-WM1AM2". First of all, could you tell us about the basic direction of its evolution?
Sato: This overlaps with what Tanaka just mentioned, but in a word, it is "orthodox evolution. In addition, we are trying to create a sense of sound spaciousness, which surprised many people with the "DMP-Z1," not only in the left and right directions, but also in the height and depth directions, in a product of this size.
In terms of sound quality, as with the top-of-the-line model, we have made it so that it can be enjoyed in any genre. By building on these improvements, we were able to make the sound more natural and smooth, and to enhance the expression of the extension of the high frequency range and the sinking of the low frequency range. The key point is that these improvements were achieved not through specific breakthrough innovations, but through the steady accumulation of detailed improvements for high sound quality.
Are there any specific genres that have been improved as a result of these improvements?
Sato: The previous generation model was highly acclaimed for the quality of its sound for live instruments as well as for the sound of hammering, but we believe that the new model has greatly improved the sound quality of live instrumental performances even more than before. Of course, you will be able to feel the improvement in sound quality in all genres.
I understand that the new model incorporates many of the technologies used in the DMP-Z1.
Sato: The biggest part is the power supply. If we had done something like the "DMP-Z1" with three battery cells and a ......, it would have been that big, so we didn't do it (laughs), but we used the know-how we gained from that to strengthen the digital power supply.
More specifically, as in "DMP-Z1," we have adopted wound coils in the power supply circuit. Numerically, the laminated coil used in the "NW-ZX500" released in 2019 was superior, but when we actually compared the sound, the wire-wound coil was better. We have always selected components by comparing their sound, and this time we applied the same method to the digital power supply part. We also used OFC (oxygen-free copper) for the cable connecting the battery and the board.
Sekine: Normally, OFC cables would not be used for batteries, so we made a rather reckless request to our manufacturing partner to use them exclusively. Also, the FTCAP (polymer capacitor) used in the previous model was replaced with a new generation (FTCAP3) for this product, and since it is used in a Walkman, we specially tuned the capacitor to make it even better.
Sato: Incidentally, the previous model used the first generation of FTCAP, which became the second generation (FTCAP2) with the DMP-Z1, and now we have installed the third generation, which is even more advanced. The development of this product took a tremendous amount of time and effort, and our in-house Hi-Fi team put all of our past know-how into it, making many prototypes before finally achieving this form. It is one of the parts that I am personally very attached to.
This product also includes a capacitor with large legs. I had wanted to do this for a long time, and actually tried to do it with the "NW-ZX2" released in 2015, but at that time I had to give up because I could not fit it into the size of a Walkman. This time, we heard that our partner was working on a new high-capacity, high-efficiency capacitor with legs, so we optimized it for the Walkman and installed it.
Is a capacitor with legs advantageous in terms of sound quality?
Sato: Yes, it does. Surface-mount capacitors used in small devices such as Walkman must be thin and small by their nature, and this has a slight effect on sound quality. However, since capacitors with legs take up so much space, I decided to use only one capacitor in the main power supply area in this product. But that is more than enough to make a big contribution.
However, it is a big capacitor to look at. Was it difficult to install it?
Sato: Actually, we increased the size of this capacitor with legs when the design was already almost finalized, so it caused a lot of trouble for the designer. As I mentioned earlier, we had decided to mount a capacitor with legs from the initial design stage, but we initially planned to use one with a smaller diameter. However, in the middle of prototyping, our partner made one with a larger diameter (......), and it was so good that we decided to use this one after all (laughs).
(Laughs.) How exactly did these innovations improve the sound?
Sato: Sound quality is determined by the combination of various parts, so it is difficult to explain individual effects. As a result, I feel that we have come one step closer to the Signature Series' goal of "reproducing the emotion and atmosphere of the music that the artist wants to convey," which is extremely natural and without a fake feel.
By the way, is what you have described so far the same for "NW-WM1AM2" as well as "NW-WM1ZM2"?
Sekine: Yes. They are exactly the same. We thought about differentiating between the models, but we decided to equip both models with the same hardware in order to provide the best possible musical experience.
Sato: As a result, there are fewer differences in hardware than in the previous model. The predecessor "NW-WM1A" was often praised for its energetic sound, but the "NW-WM1AM2" has a slightly more mature sound with a higher quality feel. We encourage you to compare the two.
Point 3: 99.99% pure oxygen-free copper chassis and ultra-thick Kimber cables are the
Advantage of Signature Series "NW-WM1ZM2
Now that we have said that, we are interested in the unique features of the Signature Series "NW-WM1ZM2". Specifically, what are the differences between the "NW-WM1ZM2" and the "NW-WM1AM2," and how do these differences make a difference in the sound?
Sato: The biggest difference is the chassis material. Like its predecessor, "NW-WM1ZM2" is made of oxygen-free copper with gold plating, while "NW-WM1AM2" is made of aluminum. The former, however, increases the purity of the oxygen-free copper from 99.96% to 99.99%, thereby achieving extended highs and clear, powerful bass reproduction.
So just 0.03% can make that much difference?
Sato: Yes, you might wonder what a difference 0.03% makes, but when I compared the results, they were completely different (laughs). (Laughs.) We had been planning to do this for a long time for the successor to the "NW-WM1Z.
What other innovations or difficulties did you encounter with the chassis?
Yokoyama: The designers suggested that the rear cover of the "NW-WM1ZM2" be made by cutting aluminum instead of press molding. The previous generation "NW-WM1Z" had an aluminum rear panel inside the back, but we thought that if we made it a high-precision machined part and assembled it so that it also contributed to the rigidity of the body, the sound would improve. From a design standpoint, it would be possible to create a shape that could only be achieved by machining, and it would be an eye-catching feature.
Sato: When we actually did this, too, the sound quality did indeed improve, which was a pleasant result for me. But it is true that, from my experience, the sound is better when the body is machined. Compared to casting, the body is cut from a tightened mass. This has been verified in experiments with previous models.
Tell us about the differences between the two products other than the chassis.
Sato: In the previous generation NW-WM1Z, we used KIMBER KABLE's KIMBER KABLE cables for the internal wiring connecting the amplifier and the headphone jack. The unique braid structure of the "Engineered with KIMBER KABLE" cables extended the impedance flatly to the high-frequency range and reproduced reverberations and reverberations well. This time, the cable diameter has been changed to a thicker 4-strand braided cable, the same as the "MUC-B20SB1" that can be used with the Signature Series headphones "MDR-Z1R", etc., to further improve sound quality.
Wasn't it difficult to fit a thicker cable into such a small body?
Sato: Yes, it was. We asked our mechanical development staff to consider how to make the cable fit without any difficulty, while also considering development efficiency during manufacturing. I was very happy that we were able to achieve this, because I was actually quite particular about this aspect as well.
This made it possible to use a Kimber cable with exactly the same specifications from the base of the amplifier to the ear, and we are the only company that makes both headphones and players that can do this. The MDR-Z1R has the same philosophy regarding sound, so it's a great match. I would recommend the NW-WM1ZM2 as a combination that will bring out the best in sound quality.
Incidentally, "NW-WM1AM2" uses conventional OFC cables, which are also very good.
Point 4: The evolution of the solder that connects all the components
sound quality to the bottom
I heard that the "high sound quality solder" used in many of Sony's AV equipment has evolved as an invisible improvement this time. What specific improvements have been made?
Sato: For the "DMP-Z1," we used gold-added "high sound quality solder" for the important parts of sound quality that are soldered by hand, but we had not been able to catch up with the development of high sound quality solder that can be used in the process of mounting components on the board. The development was finally completed, and starting with this product, for the first time, gold-added high sound quality solder can be used for all soldering.
Is the development of solder really that difficult?
Sato: The characteristics vary greatly depending on how much of each material is mixed in a given ratio, so it takes an enormous amount of time and effort to go through the trial and error process of making a prototype, trying it out, and making another prototype (see ......). In addition to the sound quality characteristics, the strength and reliability required to securely fix the large components unique to high sound quality models is also high, so these tests also take a lot of time and cost a lot of money. It took three years after the release of the "DMP-Z1," but we were finally able to produce a satisfactory product.
How much does this change the sound quality?
Sato: The breadth and transparency of the sound have been greatly enhanced. You will feel as if the overall sound quality has been raised to a higher level.
So just by improving the solder, you can make such a big difference.
Sekine: All electrical components are connected by solder, but the effect is beyond our imagination. We actually made prototypes of different solders and compared the results, and the difference was so great that we could clearly hear the difference. It took a long time to develop the high sound quality solder, but we believe that the hard work was worth it.
Please tell us about any other notable efforts to achieve high sound quality.
Sato: This is also derived from the "DMP-Z1," but we improved the sense of sound separation and bass quality by gold-plating the terminals of the crystal oscillator. Originally, the parts manufacturer made this part gold-plated to increase durability, but after comparing the two, we found that it also improves the sound, so we decided to include it in the new model as well.
Another detail is the separate power supply for the crystal oscillator. This was advised to us by a member of our in-house team working on IC recorders, and when we tried it, it was very good. On the floor where Walkman is being developed, there are great people in various fields, and we have an environment where we can share not only this product but also the know-how that Sony has cultivated over the years. So, although this product is only a portable player, it makes considerable use of Sony's overall audio know-how.
I guess you could say that this is a product that could only be made by Sony.
Sato: That's right. What I just talked about is the technical aspects, but I was also helped by the fact that we were able to consult with them about sound quality. I mentioned earlier that we actually compared the sound several times while selecting components, but there are many aspects of sound quality that cannot be evaluated numerically. We cannot say, for example, that the audio level went up from 27 to 80 after replacing a part with this one.
Naturally, we compare these parts by listening with our ears, but the trouble is that the parts that we have worked hard on sound better when we listen to them ourselves (laughs). (Laughs.) No matter how hard we try to look at it from a bird's eye view, there is a limit. But Sony has many engineers who have been working on high-quality sound models for a long time, so we were able to refine the sound quality by having them test it as well.
Point 5": Refining sound quality in signal processing, including the DSD remastering engine
DSEE Ultimate improves sound quality for lossless codecs
In terms of sound quality improvements over the DMP-Z1, the DMP-Z1 is the first Walkman with a DSD remastering engine. What is this about?
Sekine: The "DSD Remastering Engine" converts any sound source into a DSD signal equivalent to 11.2 MHz and converts it to a smoother, more analog-like sound. The "DMP-Z1" converted up to 5.6MHz equivalent, but this unit has evolved to be able to convert up to 11.2MHz equivalent.
In terms of signal processing for high sound quality, DSEE has also been upgraded to the latest "DSEE Ultimate" (the previous generation model was equipped with "DSEE HX").
Tanaka: DSEE Ultimate uses AI technology to automatically identify the type of music and reproduce not only the high frequencies but also the subtle sounds with high precision. The latest version of DSEE Ultimate in this model has improved upscaling accuracy for lossless codecs equivalent to CD sound quality compared to that in existing Walkman models.
Sekine: The key point is that DSEE, which was originally a function for compressed sound sources, has now evolved to target lossless sound sources. Recently, the number of streaming services that handle lossless sound sources has been increasing, and we believe this will be of great benefit to users.
Point 6: Sony's Android OS-based Walkman
Promises "better than ever" sound quality
Now that you've talked about high-quality sound hardware, please tell us about the first flagship model to feature the Android OS. However, many users seem to have a negative view of the sound quality. What is your view on this?
Sekine: As you know, Sony has resumed the use of the Android OS in the "NW-ZX500" and "NW-A100" released in 2019, and we have applied our knowledge and know-how to the design of this new product as well. Many of them seem to be concerned about the increase in noise caused by the additional circuitry required to run the Android OS. It is true that a high performance processor is required to run the Android OS, which increases noise. In fact, Walkman has managed to combine the convenience of the Android OS with high sound quality through various innovations, such as shielding the processor in the "NW-ZX500" to suppress noise.
Sato: In the "NW-ZX500," we covered the processor with a block of gold-plated copper, which is not oxygen-free copper, to improve sound quality by affecting the weight of the block itself. In the new model, we have taken this idea one step further by enclosing the processor section with a solid block of gold-plated machined oxygen-free copper to strengthen the ground and block out noise. The effect is obvious when you actually listen to the sound. You can enjoy extremely clear sound.
Incidentally, Sony has equipped its previous models, such as the NW-WM1Z, with high-performance processors, even though they do not run the Android OS. Naturally, the necessary noise reduction measures have been taken. Therefore, we are not conscious that we have done anything special just because the new model is equipped with the Android OS. We recognize that the innovations in the latest models are just an extension of what we have done in the past.
I see, so you have already established countermeasures for high-performance processors even before the Android OS was installed, and you have upgraded these countermeasures to a higher level this time as well, in other words, there are no problems.
Sekine: That is correct. What is most important is to ensure that the Android OS can correctly handle high-resolution audio. In fact, the current Android OS has a problem in that it is difficult to play back high-resolution sound sources without degradation due to the limitation of the sampling frequency it can handle. The conventional Android OS has an output limit of 48Hz/16bit, so even if the streaming service supports high-resolution, Android OS-based players cannot correctly play back high-resolution sound quality (i.e., it is down-converted).
Therefore, we designed a unique signal path for the NW-A100 and NW-ZX500 so that they could play back high-resolution sound sources without degradation. This model also incorporates the same features, so that W. Music and other applications such as high-resolution streaming services can correctly play back high-resolution sound sources with no degradation in sound quality. Not all services (apps) are supported, but we have confirmed that there are no problems with major services.
Tanaka: In addition to support for various streaming services, the device is also compatible with Sony's "360 Reality Audio" 3D audio technology, which allows users to enjoy a more realistic sound experience through personal optimization using the dedicated "Headphones Connect" application.
Please tell us about any other special features of the Android OS compatibility.
Sato: We have made it possible to adjust the volume in 120 steps on the Android OS, just as in previous models. Furthermore, the volume is fixed at the maximum level inside the OS, and the S-Master digital amplifier uses a pulse height volume control to squeeze the volume.
Point 7: 40 hours of continuous playback & USB Type-C port
Comfortable for everyday use with enhanced basic functions
We have talked a lot about the sound quality of the NW-WM1ZM2 and NW-WM1AM2, but since Walkmans are for everyday use, we cannot neglect their basic performance as portable players, such as battery life. How did you go about creating this aspect of the Walkman?
Sekine: First of all, the pre-installed music playback application "W. Music" is specially designed to reduce power consumption, enabling approximately 40 hours of continuous playback even at 96 KHz/24-bit high-resolution playback.
The previous generation model was capable of about 33 hours, so this is a significant increase over that.
Sekine: As the name "Walkman" implies, this is a dedicated device, so we are particular about battery life. In addition, playback using applications other than W. Music does not use the same low power consumption as W. Music. Therefore, by installing the largest battery among past Walkman models, we have made it possible to achieve approximately 18 hours of continuous playback even when playing music using applications other than W. Music. In addition, with the aim of reducing battery consumption when not in use (standby), the Walkman is equipped with a feature called automatic power off. It takes a little time to start up because the power is turned off, but it prevents a situation where the battery runs out before you know it.
Sato: And the external connection terminal has changed from WM-PORT to USB Type-C terminal. The advantage of this is its versatility. The same chargers and cables can be used with most Android smartphones, so there is no need to bring a special cable just to charge the Walkman.
Sekine: Of course, the charging speed is also noticeably faster. The data transfer speed is also faster than the previous generation model, so content can be transferred smoothly.
Sekine: There are no major changes in this area. In addition to using a highly stable Φ4.4mm (JEITA unified standard) balanced connection, LDAC is supported for enjoying high-resolution sound quality even wirelessly (via Bluetooth). It also continues to have a function that allows the unit to be connected to a PC or other device and used as an external USB DAC.
Point 8: Designing products that you will want to carry around with you
Design products that make you want to "listen" comfortably
Please tell us about the design of the new model. The new model has a larger screen without changing the overall impression. What was your overall design policy?
Yokoyama:As I explained earlier, designers participated in the development of this product from the beginning, so we heard the developers' thoughts on sound quality and the elements for high sound quality, and we proceeded with the design by considering how to embody them. We then considered the size of the product, and how much we could reduce the size of the product so that users would carry it around with them.
Did you have any motifs in mind?
Yokoyama:I imagined a small notebook that I usually carry around with me. It was about one size larger than the previous model. Smartphones are getting much larger these days, and I thought that this size would make people more inclined to carry it around with them.
On top of that, since the Android OS will also be installed in this model, we wanted to make the screen size as large as possible, so we installed a larger 5.0-inch touch panel display.
So you kept high sound quality in mind while keeping the size portable?
Yokoyama: Yes. On top of that, we designed the main features to be the machined aluminum panel on the back, which I mentioned earlier, and the bulge on the back when viewed from the side. While incorporating the functions described up to this point into the body, we did not try to hide them, but rather to reveal them as actively as possible, and to design a straightforward expression of this product that was created for sound quality.
Sato: In this case, the button layout has been moved up slightly compared to the "NW-WM1Z," with the topmost power button placed on the top ridge.
Yokoyama: As a result, the volume buttons (+ and -), which are most frequently used, are located on the right side of the body, where the fingers rest when holding the body, making blind operation easier. The shape of the HOLD switch on the left side has also been changed from the previous model to ensure that it can be operated without error.
What is the purpose of the larger screen size?
Tanaka: As I mentioned at the beginning, more and more people nowadays enjoy music with a "listening" attitude. At such times, it should not be stressful to select the song you want to listen to from a list on the screen or in a streaming application, or to adjust the sound quality in detail.
Indeed, since today's streaming apps use a UI that assumes a large-screen smartphone, it seems quite difficult to operate them on a small screen. We felt that the large screen would make operation more comfortable, which is an advantage because it would allow us to concentrate on "listening.
Yokoyama: On top of that is the weight. If we didn't have to think about weight, we could have considered making the size a little larger and further promoting the expression of functions, such as expressing the flow of electric current in the design, but we really wanted to avoid exceeding 500 g, or the weight of a plastic bottle, so we decided to make it a size and weight that would make people want to pick it up rather than just expressing functions. However, we wanted to avoid exceeding the weight of 500g, or the equivalent of a plastic bottle, and so we focused on a size and weight that would make people want to pick it up rather than just expressing functionality.
Point 9: First, we want you to pick it up and experience the sound and feel of our new flagship.
and experience the sound and feel of the new flagship.
Finally, do you have a message for our readers?
Sato: Thank you for your patience. With the reborn "NW-WM1ZM2" and "NW-WM1AM2," I believe that we have been able to improve the sound quality as an extension of the previous models by using newly developed high-quality sound solder and capacitors. We would be happy if you could hear the sound at stores that carry the product and like it. Please take a look at our new flagship Walkman, which is also compatible with streaming.
Sekine: Recently, it has become possible to listen to lossless and high-resolution music through subscription streaming services. What makes this experience different from the past is that you can easily enjoy uncompressed sound sources, and in vast quantities. When the sound quality experience of your favorite music is improved, you will like and enjoy that music more. We are proud that the "NW-WM1ZM2" and "NW-WM1AM2" have been created to provide such an experience. We hope that these products will make you feel that "music is fun!
Yokoyama:From the very beginning of the product development process, we had a series of dialogues with the development team members, and while pursuing maximum sound quality, we designed the product so that it can be handled as a natural extension of the body. By doing so, we hope to provide an experience of becoming one with the best sound quality. In addition to the basic structure of the product, we also paid close attention to the feel of the product when you hold it in your hand, and carefully considered every detail of its shape. We have also designed the product so that when you look at it, the highlights flow beautifully from every aspect. We hope that, in addition to the sound quality, you will enjoy the pleasure of owning the product in this way.
Tanaka: The NW-WM1ZM2 is a new flagship Walkman that has surpassed the very high hurdle of updating the Signature Series, five years after its predecessor. The NW-WM1AM series is a new flagship Walkman, designed to deliver the best sound quality in the history of Walkman products, from CDs to the latest high-resolution streaming audio. The NW-WM1AM2 shares the same design as the flagship model, making it an extremely high-performance product.
The sound quality as well as the quality of the housing of both models will give you a sense of the atmosphere of the product, so we hope that you will first take them in your hands and experience the total product.
https://www.sony.jp/feature/products/220209/?s_pid=jp_/walkman/_wmsptop
To a higher level of understanding at a single listen.
Delivering even the feelings that are put into the "sound".
NW-WM1ZM2 / NW-WM1AM2
The flagship Walkman models "NW-WM1Z" and "NW-WM1A" released in October 2016 have finally undergone a long-awaited full renewal this spring: the "NW-WM1ZM2," which inherits the Signature Series name and further sharpened its extreme sound quality, and the "NW-WM1AM2," which delivers sound quality that is as close as possible to the high-end. NW-WM1AM2," which realizes sound quality approaching that of high-end products. We asked the four core members of the development team about the commitment that went into these new models, which are now available after a five-and-a-half-year hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-fi hi-saturation.
Point 1: Aiming for "an even higher level of sound that can be recognized by a single listen
New Flagship Walkman
The new flagship Walkman model, the NW-WM1ZM2, like its predecessor, the NW-WM1Z, is positioned as part of the Signature Series. First of all, please define the Signature Series again.
Tanaka: The Signature Series is the collective name for a group of flagship models that combine the analog and digital sound quality technologies Sony has cultivated over many years of product development to create the ultimate personal music experience. The NW-WM1Z is the first generation model in the series, and the series as a whole has thoroughly pursued high sound quality with the goal of "reproducing the emotion and atmosphere of the music that the artist wants to convey. The direction of sound quality has not changed at all.
In the first generation, the "Signature Series" included siblings designed based on the design concept of the Signature Series, but later the definition was made stricter and there was one model for each category. However, the definition was later tightened to one model per category.
Could you briefly describe the features of the new model?
Tanaka: First of all, the product concept is "the ultimate portable player that allows you to enjoy any music source with the best sound quality. There are three major points of evolution from the previous model.
The first is the evolution of sound quality, which is the most highly anticipated of all. The DMP-Z1 is a high-end player that dramatically improves sound quality based on an unprecedented concept, which was released in 2018. The development team members are almost the same as those who worked on the previous model, and the goal of the development was to achieve a "higher level of sound quality that can be recognized at first listen," while continuing the trend of the previous model, which has been well received by customers.
The second is the further expansion of sound source compatibility. In order to support streaming music distribution services and music download services, which are becoming increasingly compatible with high-resolution and other high-quality sound, we have taken the plunge and installed the Android OS in our flagship model. As we will discuss in detail later, we have taken measures to address concerns about the impact on sound quality and battery life.
The third and final point is the evolution of operability. The global trend toward "listening" to music for deeper enjoyment is increasing in portable audio devices, and operability that does not interfere with the music experience has become significantly more important than in the past. The new model features a 5.0" HD touch panel display, which is larger and higher resolution than before, and also offers improved operability response.
Point 2: Technology and know-how cultivated in the Signature Series "DMP-Z1
and know-how cultivated in the Signature Series "DMP-Z1
Please tell us more about the evolution of sound quality in the new "NW-WM1ZM2" and "NW-WM1AM2". First of all, could you tell us about the basic direction of its evolution?
Sato: This overlaps with what Tanaka just mentioned, but in a word, it is "orthodox evolution. In addition, we are trying to create a sense of sound spaciousness, which surprised many people with the "DMP-Z1," not only in the left and right directions, but also in the height and depth directions, in a product of this size.
In terms of sound quality, as with the top-of-the-line model, we have made it so that it can be enjoyed in any genre. By building on these improvements, we were able to make the sound more natural and smooth, and to enhance the expression of the extension of the high frequency range and the sinking of the low frequency range. The key point is that these improvements were achieved not through specific breakthrough innovations, but through the steady accumulation of detailed improvements for high sound quality.
Are there any specific genres that have been improved as a result of these improvements?
Sato: The previous generation model was highly acclaimed for the quality of its sound for live instruments as well as for the sound of hammering, but we believe that the new model has greatly improved the sound quality of live instrumental performances even more than before. Of course, you will be able to feel the improvement in sound quality in all genres.
I understand that the new model incorporates many of the technologies used in the DMP-Z1.
Sato: The biggest part is the power supply. If we had done something like the "DMP-Z1" with three battery cells and a ......, it would have been that big, so we didn't do it (laughs), but we used the know-how we gained from that to strengthen the digital power supply.
More specifically, as in "DMP-Z1," we have adopted wound coils in the power supply circuit. Numerically, the laminated coil used in the "NW-ZX500" released in 2019 was superior, but when we actually compared the sound, the wire-wound coil was better. We have always selected components by comparing their sound, and this time we applied the same method to the digital power supply part. We also used OFC (oxygen-free copper) for the cable connecting the battery and the board.
Sekine: Normally, OFC cables would not be used for batteries, so we made a rather reckless request to our manufacturing partner to use them exclusively. Also, the FTCAP (polymer capacitor) used in the previous model was replaced with a new generation (FTCAP3) for this product, and since it is used in a Walkman, we specially tuned the capacitor to make it even better.
Sato: Incidentally, the previous model used the first generation of FTCAP, which became the second generation (FTCAP2) with the DMP-Z1, and now we have installed the third generation, which is even more advanced. The development of this product took a tremendous amount of time and effort, and our in-house Hi-Fi team put all of our past know-how into it, making many prototypes before finally achieving this form. It is one of the parts that I am personally very attached to.
This product also includes a capacitor with large legs. I had wanted to do this for a long time, and actually tried to do it with the "NW-ZX2" released in 2015, but at that time I had to give up because I could not fit it into the size of a Walkman. This time, we heard that our partner was working on a new high-capacity, high-efficiency capacitor with legs, so we optimized it for the Walkman and installed it.
Is a capacitor with legs advantageous in terms of sound quality?
Sato: Yes, it does. Surface-mount capacitors used in small devices such as Walkman must be thin and small by their nature, and this has a slight effect on sound quality. However, since capacitors with legs take up so much space, I decided to use only one capacitor in the main power supply area in this product. But that is more than enough to make a big contribution.
However, it is a big capacitor to look at. Was it difficult to install it?
Sato: Actually, we increased the size of this capacitor with legs when the design was already almost finalized, so it caused a lot of trouble for the designer. As I mentioned earlier, we had decided to mount a capacitor with legs from the initial design stage, but we initially planned to use one with a smaller diameter. However, in the middle of prototyping, our partner made one with a larger diameter (......), and it was so good that we decided to use this one after all (laughs).
(Laughs.) How exactly did these innovations improve the sound?
Sato: Sound quality is determined by the combination of various parts, so it is difficult to explain individual effects. As a result, I feel that we have come one step closer to the Signature Series' goal of "reproducing the emotion and atmosphere of the music that the artist wants to convey," which is extremely natural and without a fake feel.
By the way, is what you have described so far the same for "NW-WM1AM2" as well as "NW-WM1ZM2"?
Sekine: Yes. They are exactly the same. We thought about differentiating between the models, but we decided to equip both models with the same hardware in order to provide the best possible musical experience.
Sato: As a result, there are fewer differences in hardware than in the previous model. The predecessor "NW-WM1A" was often praised for its energetic sound, but the "NW-WM1AM2" has a slightly more mature sound with a higher quality feel. We encourage you to compare the two.
Point 3: 99.99% pure oxygen-free copper chassis and ultra-thick Kimber cables are the
Advantage of Signature Series "NW-WM1ZM2
Now that we have said that, we are interested in the unique features of the Signature Series "NW-WM1ZM2". Specifically, what are the differences between the "NW-WM1ZM2" and the "NW-WM1AM2," and how do these differences make a difference in the sound?
Sato: The biggest difference is the chassis material. Like its predecessor, "NW-WM1ZM2" is made of oxygen-free copper with gold plating, while "NW-WM1AM2" is made of aluminum. The former, however, increases the purity of the oxygen-free copper from 99.96% to 99.99%, thereby achieving extended highs and clear, powerful bass reproduction.
So just 0.03% can make that much difference?
Sato: Yes, you might wonder what a difference 0.03% makes, but when I compared the results, they were completely different (laughs). (Laughs.) We had been planning to do this for a long time for the successor to the "NW-WM1Z.
What other innovations or difficulties did you encounter with the chassis?
Yokoyama: The designers suggested that the rear cover of the "NW-WM1ZM2" be made by cutting aluminum instead of press molding. The previous generation "NW-WM1Z" had an aluminum rear panel inside the back, but we thought that if we made it a high-precision machined part and assembled it so that it also contributed to the rigidity of the body, the sound would improve. From a design standpoint, it would be possible to create a shape that could only be achieved by machining, and it would be an eye-catching feature.
Sato: When we actually did this, too, the sound quality did indeed improve, which was a pleasant result for me. But it is true that, from my experience, the sound is better when the body is machined. Compared to casting, the body is cut from a tightened mass. This has been verified in experiments with previous models.
Tell us about the differences between the two products other than the chassis.
Sato: In the previous generation NW-WM1Z, we used KIMBER KABLE's KIMBER KABLE cables for the internal wiring connecting the amplifier and the headphone jack. The unique braid structure of the "Engineered with KIMBER KABLE" cables extended the impedance flatly to the high-frequency range and reproduced reverberations and reverberations well. This time, the cable diameter has been changed to a thicker 4-strand braided cable, the same as the "MUC-B20SB1" that can be used with the Signature Series headphones "MDR-Z1R", etc., to further improve sound quality.
Wasn't it difficult to fit a thicker cable into such a small body?
Sato: Yes, it was. We asked our mechanical development staff to consider how to make the cable fit without any difficulty, while also considering development efficiency during manufacturing. I was very happy that we were able to achieve this, because I was actually quite particular about this aspect as well.
This made it possible to use a Kimber cable with exactly the same specifications from the base of the amplifier to the ear, and we are the only company that makes both headphones and players that can do this. The MDR-Z1R has the same philosophy regarding sound, so it's a great match. I would recommend the NW-WM1ZM2 as a combination that will bring out the best in sound quality.
Incidentally, "NW-WM1AM2" uses conventional OFC cables, which are also very good.
Point 4: The evolution of the solder that connects all the components
sound quality to the bottom
I heard that the "high sound quality solder" used in many of Sony's AV equipment has evolved as an invisible improvement this time. What specific improvements have been made?
Sato: For the "DMP-Z1," we used gold-added "high sound quality solder" for the important parts of sound quality that are soldered by hand, but we had not been able to catch up with the development of high sound quality solder that can be used in the process of mounting components on the board. The development was finally completed, and starting with this product, for the first time, gold-added high sound quality solder can be used for all soldering.
Is the development of solder really that difficult?
Sato: The characteristics vary greatly depending on how much of each material is mixed in a given ratio, so it takes an enormous amount of time and effort to go through the trial and error process of making a prototype, trying it out, and making another prototype (see ......). In addition to the sound quality characteristics, the strength and reliability required to securely fix the large components unique to high sound quality models is also high, so these tests also take a lot of time and cost a lot of money. It took three years after the release of the "DMP-Z1," but we were finally able to produce a satisfactory product.
How much does this change the sound quality?
Sato: The breadth and transparency of the sound have been greatly enhanced. You will feel as if the overall sound quality has been raised to a higher level.
So just by improving the solder, you can make such a big difference.
Sekine: All electrical components are connected by solder, but the effect is beyond our imagination. We actually made prototypes of different solders and compared the results, and the difference was so great that we could clearly hear the difference. It took a long time to develop the high sound quality solder, but we believe that the hard work was worth it.
Please tell us about any other notable efforts to achieve high sound quality.
Sato: This is also derived from the "DMP-Z1," but we improved the sense of sound separation and bass quality by gold-plating the terminals of the crystal oscillator. Originally, the parts manufacturer made this part gold-plated to increase durability, but after comparing the two, we found that it also improves the sound, so we decided to include it in the new model as well.
Another detail is the separate power supply for the crystal oscillator. This was advised to us by a member of our in-house team working on IC recorders, and when we tried it, it was very good. On the floor where Walkman is being developed, there are great people in various fields, and we have an environment where we can share not only this product but also the know-how that Sony has cultivated over the years. So, although this product is only a portable player, it makes considerable use of Sony's overall audio know-how.
I guess you could say that this is a product that could only be made by Sony.
Sato: That's right. What I just talked about is the technical aspects, but I was also helped by the fact that we were able to consult with them about sound quality. I mentioned earlier that we actually compared the sound several times while selecting components, but there are many aspects of sound quality that cannot be evaluated numerically. We cannot say, for example, that the audio level went up from 27 to 80 after replacing a part with this one.
Naturally, we compare these parts by listening with our ears, but the trouble is that the parts that we have worked hard on sound better when we listen to them ourselves (laughs). (Laughs.) No matter how hard we try to look at it from a bird's eye view, there is a limit. But Sony has many engineers who have been working on high-quality sound models for a long time, so we were able to refine the sound quality by having them test it as well.
Point 5": Refining sound quality in signal processing, including the DSD remastering engine
DSEE Ultimate improves sound quality for lossless codecs
In terms of sound quality improvements over the DMP-Z1, the DMP-Z1 is the first Walkman with a DSD remastering engine. What is this about?
Sekine: The "DSD Remastering Engine" converts any sound source into a DSD signal equivalent to 11.2 MHz and converts it to a smoother, more analog-like sound. The "DMP-Z1" converted up to 5.6MHz equivalent, but this unit has evolved to be able to convert up to 11.2MHz equivalent.
In terms of signal processing for high sound quality, DSEE has also been upgraded to the latest "DSEE Ultimate" (the previous generation model was equipped with "DSEE HX").
Tanaka: DSEE Ultimate uses AI technology to automatically identify the type of music and reproduce not only the high frequencies but also the subtle sounds with high precision. The latest version of DSEE Ultimate in this model has improved upscaling accuracy for lossless codecs equivalent to CD sound quality compared to that in existing Walkman models.
Sekine: The key point is that DSEE, which was originally a function for compressed sound sources, has now evolved to target lossless sound sources. Recently, the number of streaming services that handle lossless sound sources has been increasing, and we believe this will be of great benefit to users.
Point 6: Sony's Android OS-based Walkman
Promises "better than ever" sound quality
Now that you've talked about high-quality sound hardware, please tell us about the first flagship model to feature the Android OS. However, many users seem to have a negative view of the sound quality. What is your view on this?
Sekine: As you know, Sony has resumed the use of the Android OS in the "NW-ZX500" and "NW-A100" released in 2019, and we have applied our knowledge and know-how to the design of this new product as well. Many of them seem to be concerned about the increase in noise caused by the additional circuitry required to run the Android OS. It is true that a high performance processor is required to run the Android OS, which increases noise. In fact, Walkman has managed to combine the convenience of the Android OS with high sound quality through various innovations, such as shielding the processor in the "NW-ZX500" to suppress noise.
Sato: In the "NW-ZX500," we covered the processor with a block of gold-plated copper, which is not oxygen-free copper, to improve sound quality by affecting the weight of the block itself. In the new model, we have taken this idea one step further by enclosing the processor section with a solid block of gold-plated machined oxygen-free copper to strengthen the ground and block out noise. The effect is obvious when you actually listen to the sound. You can enjoy extremely clear sound.
Incidentally, Sony has equipped its previous models, such as the NW-WM1Z, with high-performance processors, even though they do not run the Android OS. Naturally, the necessary noise reduction measures have been taken. Therefore, we are not conscious that we have done anything special just because the new model is equipped with the Android OS. We recognize that the innovations in the latest models are just an extension of what we have done in the past.
I see, so you have already established countermeasures for high-performance processors even before the Android OS was installed, and you have upgraded these countermeasures to a higher level this time as well, in other words, there are no problems.
Sekine: That is correct. What is most important is to ensure that the Android OS can correctly handle high-resolution audio. In fact, the current Android OS has a problem in that it is difficult to play back high-resolution sound sources without degradation due to the limitation of the sampling frequency it can handle. The conventional Android OS has an output limit of 48Hz/16bit, so even if the streaming service supports high-resolution, Android OS-based players cannot correctly play back high-resolution sound quality (i.e., it is down-converted).
Therefore, we designed a unique signal path for the NW-A100 and NW-ZX500 so that they could play back high-resolution sound sources without degradation. This model also incorporates the same features, so that W. Music and other applications such as high-resolution streaming services can correctly play back high-resolution sound sources with no degradation in sound quality. Not all services (apps) are supported, but we have confirmed that there are no problems with major services.
Tanaka: In addition to support for various streaming services, the device is also compatible with Sony's "360 Reality Audio" 3D audio technology, which allows users to enjoy a more realistic sound experience through personal optimization using the dedicated "Headphones Connect" application.
Please tell us about any other special features of the Android OS compatibility.
Sato: We have made it possible to adjust the volume in 120 steps on the Android OS, just as in previous models. Furthermore, the volume is fixed at the maximum level inside the OS, and the S-Master digital amplifier uses a pulse height volume control to squeeze the volume.
Point 7: 40 hours of continuous playback & USB Type-C port
Comfortable for everyday use with enhanced basic functions
We have talked a lot about the sound quality of the NW-WM1ZM2 and NW-WM1AM2, but since Walkmans are for everyday use, we cannot neglect their basic performance as portable players, such as battery life. How did you go about creating this aspect of the Walkman?
Sekine: First of all, the pre-installed music playback application "W. Music" is specially designed to reduce power consumption, enabling approximately 40 hours of continuous playback even at 96 KHz/24-bit high-resolution playback.
The previous generation model was capable of about 33 hours, so this is a significant increase over that.
Sekine: As the name "Walkman" implies, this is a dedicated device, so we are particular about battery life. In addition, playback using applications other than W. Music does not use the same low power consumption as W. Music. Therefore, by installing the largest battery among past Walkman models, we have made it possible to achieve approximately 18 hours of continuous playback even when playing music using applications other than W. Music. In addition, with the aim of reducing battery consumption when not in use (standby), the Walkman is equipped with a feature called automatic power off. It takes a little time to start up because the power is turned off, but it prevents a situation where the battery runs out before you know it.
Sato: And the external connection terminal has changed from WM-PORT to USB Type-C terminal. The advantage of this is its versatility. The same chargers and cables can be used with most Android smartphones, so there is no need to bring a special cable just to charge the Walkman.
Sekine: Of course, the charging speed is also noticeably faster. The data transfer speed is also faster than the previous generation model, so content can be transferred smoothly.
Sekine: There are no major changes in this area. In addition to using a highly stable Φ4.4mm (JEITA unified standard) balanced connection, LDAC is supported for enjoying high-resolution sound quality even wirelessly (via Bluetooth). It also continues to have a function that allows the unit to be connected to a PC or other device and used as an external USB DAC.
Point 8: Designing products that you will want to carry around with you
Design products that make you want to "listen" comfortably
Please tell us about the design of the new model. The new model has a larger screen without changing the overall impression. What was your overall design policy?
Yokoyama:As I explained earlier, designers participated in the development of this product from the beginning, so we heard the developers' thoughts on sound quality and the elements for high sound quality, and we proceeded with the design by considering how to embody them. We then considered the size of the product, and how much we could reduce the size of the product so that users would carry it around with them.
Did you have any motifs in mind?
Yokoyama:I imagined a small notebook that I usually carry around with me. It was about one size larger than the previous model. Smartphones are getting much larger these days, and I thought that this size would make people more inclined to carry it around with them.
On top of that, since the Android OS will also be installed in this model, we wanted to make the screen size as large as possible, so we installed a larger 5.0-inch touch panel display.
So you kept high sound quality in mind while keeping the size portable?
Yokoyama: Yes. On top of that, we designed the main features to be the machined aluminum panel on the back, which I mentioned earlier, and the bulge on the back when viewed from the side. While incorporating the functions described up to this point into the body, we did not try to hide them, but rather to reveal them as actively as possible, and to design a straightforward expression of this product that was created for sound quality.
Sato: In this case, the button layout has been moved up slightly compared to the "NW-WM1Z," with the topmost power button placed on the top ridge.
Yokoyama: As a result, the volume buttons (+ and -), which are most frequently used, are located on the right side of the body, where the fingers rest when holding the body, making blind operation easier. The shape of the HOLD switch on the left side has also been changed from the previous model to ensure that it can be operated without error.
What is the purpose of the larger screen size?
Tanaka: As I mentioned at the beginning, more and more people nowadays enjoy music with a "listening" attitude. At such times, it should not be stressful to select the song you want to listen to from a list on the screen or in a streaming application, or to adjust the sound quality in detail.
Indeed, since today's streaming apps use a UI that assumes a large-screen smartphone, it seems quite difficult to operate them on a small screen. We felt that the large screen would make operation more comfortable, which is an advantage because it would allow us to concentrate on "listening.
Yokoyama: On top of that is the weight. If we didn't have to think about weight, we could have considered making the size a little larger and further promoting the expression of functions, such as expressing the flow of electric current in the design, but we really wanted to avoid exceeding 500 g, or the weight of a plastic bottle, so we decided to make it a size and weight that would make people want to pick it up rather than just expressing functions. However, we wanted to avoid exceeding the weight of 500g, or the equivalent of a plastic bottle, and so we focused on a size and weight that would make people want to pick it up rather than just expressing functionality.
Point 9: First, we want you to pick it up and experience the sound and feel of our new flagship.
and experience the sound and feel of the new flagship.
Finally, do you have a message for our readers?
Sato: Thank you for your patience. With the reborn "NW-WM1ZM2" and "NW-WM1AM2," I believe that we have been able to improve the sound quality as an extension of the previous models by using newly developed high-quality sound solder and capacitors. We would be happy if you could hear the sound at stores that carry the product and like it. Please take a look at our new flagship Walkman, which is also compatible with streaming.
Sekine: Recently, it has become possible to listen to lossless and high-resolution music through subscription streaming services. What makes this experience different from the past is that you can easily enjoy uncompressed sound sources, and in vast quantities. When the sound quality experience of your favorite music is improved, you will like and enjoy that music more. We are proud that the "NW-WM1ZM2" and "NW-WM1AM2" have been created to provide such an experience. We hope that these products will make you feel that "music is fun!
Yokoyama:From the very beginning of the product development process, we had a series of dialogues with the development team members, and while pursuing maximum sound quality, we designed the product so that it can be handled as a natural extension of the body. By doing so, we hope to provide an experience of becoming one with the best sound quality. In addition to the basic structure of the product, we also paid close attention to the feel of the product when you hold it in your hand, and carefully considered every detail of its shape. We have also designed the product so that when you look at it, the highlights flow beautifully from every aspect. We hope that, in addition to the sound quality, you will enjoy the pleasure of owning the product in this way.
Tanaka: The NW-WM1ZM2 is a new flagship Walkman that has surpassed the very high hurdle of updating the Signature Series, five years after its predecessor. The NW-WM1AM series is a new flagship Walkman, designed to deliver the best sound quality in the history of Walkman products, from CDs to the latest high-resolution streaming audio. The NW-WM1AM2 shares the same design as the flagship model, making it an extremely high-performance product.
The sound quality as well as the quality of the housing of both models will give you a sense of the atmosphere of the product, so we hope that you will first take them in your hands and experience the total product.
Last edited:
hamhamhamsta
500+ Head-Fier
Holy Batman! The strange things we do pursuing sound pefection!
buzzlulu
Headphoneus Supremus
- Joined
- Nov 27, 2003
- Posts
- 1,916
- Likes
- 1,005
Do these stores have them in stock and is it possible to use a buying service to ship to the States? Curious how much customs duty into the US would be - I think it depends on what harmonized tariff code the buying service uses when shipping it in
Nope, I just cheek their website, Yodobashi, Bic, Nojima all listed as backorder. And on Sony Japan website is also listed as preorder shipped in June.
buzzlulu
Headphoneus Supremus
- Joined
- Nov 27, 2003
- Posts
- 1,916
- Likes
- 1,005
So I guess the wait continues. I will have to make due with my original WM1Z 
Still no sign as to when Amazon or Sony USA will be receiving these. Both do not even have a preorder page up yet.
Still no sign as to when Amazon or Sony USA will be receiving these. Both do not even have a preorder page up yet.
Kiats
Headphoneus Supremus
To be fair, Sony is hardly known for its service. You can ask any of the dealers.
It is the same way that AK has become as well. But for such brands, allow the ADs to deal with them to insulate us from the hubris. I get their DAPs/stuff only because of how they sound. That’s why I only deal with their ADs. 
shootertwist
100+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Sep 6, 2010
- Posts
- 319
- Likes
- 145
Reading the translated interview was very informative, so they did really improve on the soundstage and spaciousness of the sound. This is on point with my impressions of using it even in the initial hours, the music really envelopes you in different angles that just puts a smile on your face
Sonywalkmanuser
Headphoneus Supremus
Holy Batman! The strange things we do pursuing sound pefection!
Dirt, Grime and Oxidation can build up over time on any electrical contact points like the the balanced and single ended audio connector, microSD contact points, usb connection points on your Walkman. This also affects the contact points of your iem/headphone cables and usb charging cables.
By cleaning them, you are ensuring that the electrical signals flows through them without the additional unwanted resistance caused by the build up.
If anyone is worried about electric short circuit, recommend to switch off the Walkman before spraying.
Last edited:
Sonywalkmanuser
Headphoneus Supremus
Now compare and contrast to this developer interview from A&K where more than half the video is talking about the external design of the dap. The only technical discussion is about controlling heat, battery life and using a lower powered ESS dac and some discussion on channel separation.Reading the translated interview was very informative, so they did really improve on the soundstage and spaciousness of the sound. This is on point with my impressions of using it even in the initial hours, the music really envelopes you in different angles that just puts a smile on your face
Sonywalkmanuser
Headphoneus Supremus
In my opinion, other than Sony, I think other dap manufacturer who is meticulously serious about hardware sound engineering is iBasso:
@Whitigir i am sure you will agree with my opinion.
So I hope this reduces my Sony fanboy label…
@Whitigir i am sure you will agree with my opinion.
So I hope this reduces my Sony fanboy label…
Sonywalkmanuser
Headphoneus Supremus
Sony wm1zm2
Caylin N8ii
Shanling M9
FiiO M17
What is he saying about M17?
Users who are viewing this thread
