News in short
- Sony has introduced three premium Walkman models: NW-WM1ZM3, NW-WM1AM3 and NW-ZX900.
- The flagship NW-WM1ZM3 costs $5,899 in the US, approximately ₹5.6 lakh.
- The lineup features Sony’s DSD Remastering Engine and S-Master HX digital amplifier technology.
- The NW-WM1ZM3 and NW-WM1AM3 have 5.5-inch displays, while the NW-ZX900 has a 5-inch screen.
- Sony claims up to 40 hours of MP3 playback on the NW-ZX900 and up to 35 hours of streaming on the flagship models.
Sony has launched three premium Walkman digital audio players in select global markets. The new Signature Series lineup includes the NW-WM1ZM3, NW-WM1AM3 and NW-ZX900.
The models focus on premium materials, dedicated audio hardware and high-resolution sound playback. Sony has opened pre-orders in select markets, with sales expected to begin soon through authorised retailers.
The flagship NW-WM1ZM3 carries a US price of $5,899, making it the most expensive model in the lineup.
Sony Signature Series Walkman price and availability
Sony has announced the following prices for its new Walkman models in the US.
| Model | US price | Approximate price in India |
|---|---|---|
| NW-WM1ZM3 | $5,899 | ₹5.6 lakh |
| NW-WM1AM3 | $2,999.99 | ₹2.85 lakh |
| NW-ZX900 | $1,899.99 | ₹1.8 lakh |
The approximate Indian prices are currency conversions, not confirmed India retail prices. Sony has also listed Canadian prices for the three models.
The Walkman players are available for pre-order in select global markets. Sony says they will reach authorised retailers soon. The company has not specified an India launch date in the supplied information.
Premium materials and audio technology
The NW-WM1ZM3 sits at the top of the new lineup. It features a gold-plated oxygen-free copper chassis, including a main chassis made from copper with 99.99 percent purity. Sony says this construction helps improve bass response, soundstage and high-frequency reproduction.
The flagship also uses Kimber Kable wiring. Sony has paired this hardware with its S-Master HX digital amplifier technology and DSD Remastering Engine.
The NW-WM1AM3 and NW-ZX900 use aluminium-alloy main chassis designs. Both also feature a gold-plated oxygen-free copper rear chassis.
Sony has equipped all three models with the DSD Remastering Engine and support for Native DSD audio. These features target listeners who prioritise high-resolution playback and dedicated music hardware.
The NW-ZX900 additionally features an ultra-low-noise low-dropout regulator and crystal oscillators. Sony says these components help support the player’s audio performance.
Displays and battery life
The NW-WM1ZM3 and NW-WM1AM3 feature 5.5-inch displays. The NW-ZX900 has a slightly smaller 5-inch screen. Users can customise the Home Screen interface across the lineup.
Battery life varies by model and playback type. Sony claims up to 35 hours of 128kbps MP3 playback and up to 31 hours of streaming on the NW-WM1ZM3 and NW-WM1AM3.
The NW-ZX900 offers the longest claimed battery life. It can deliver up to 40 hours of 128kbps MP3 playback and up to 35 hours of streaming.
These figures depend on playback conditions and settings. The advertised MP3 figures also use 128kbps files, so results may differ with other formats.
What the new Walkman lineup offers
Sony’s Signature Series targets listeners who want a dedicated music player rather than relying entirely on a smartphone. The range combines premium chassis materials with dedicated amplification and digital audio processing.
The NW-WM1ZM3 leads with its gold-plated copper construction, while the NW-WM1AM3 and NW-ZX900 offer alternatives at lower prices. Buyers will need to weigh these hardware differences against their listening habits and budgets.
For Indian consumers, local pricing and availability remain important unanswered questions. Sony has yet to confirm those details in the supplied announcement.
