Sony revives the Walkman with a $5,899 flagship

The lineup includes the aluminum-bodied NW-WM1AM3 priced at $2,999.99 and the entry-level NW-ZX900 at $1,899.99. While these figures may seem jarring for a device once synonymous with plastic cassette players, Sony claims the hardware is built to provide an unmatched audio experience. The flagship model features a precision-machined, gold-plated oxygen-free copper chassis, heavy KIMBER KABLE wiring, and dual solid high-polymer capacitors.

Beyond the boutique build, the players run on an Android-based interface with native DSD support and offer up to 35 hours of high-resolution battery life. Whether the average listener can discern the difference provided by gold-plated internal components remains a subjective debate, but for those committed to high-fidelity portable audio, these units begin shipping in January.