Our rating:
The gist
The NW-A36HN model is part of the Sony Walkman A30 series, an entry-level high-resolution digital audio player integrated with Sony’s highly-acclaimed audio technologies. Compared to the earlier A10 and A20 series, the A3O series now sports a touchscreen interface and operating system similar to the more premium (read: expensive) Sony Walkman models such as the NW-ZX300 and the NW-WM1A. Equipped with high-quality capacitors to strengthen the power supply of the digital amplifier, the A30 series has the capacity to cut distortion and noise across a wide range of frequencies making it ideal for high resolution music.
The good
High-resolution audio
Touchscreen
Sound quality
Build and quality
Battery life
Noise-cancelling earphones
Sony audio technologies
Sony brand name
The bad
Touch screen not for big fingers
Proprietary USB data transfer cable
Our verdict
We loved the Apple iPod when it was all the rage. But we also loved the fact that, despite the tough competition, the Sony Walkmans continued to stick it out there until it’s time to regain the music market once again. Although lately, Sony has been bringing out high-resolution audio products aimed mostly for the high-end market with deep pockets. However, the fact that they released several entry-level models could only mean one thing: there is actually a market for high-resolution music, and it continues with A30 series. As for the A36HN model, it’s all what a music lover would be looking for in a DAP capable of playing high-resolution audio. Equipped with the best Sony can offer in an entry-level model: features such as ClearAudio+, DSEE HX, and VPT (Surround) can help the overall audio experience even more appealing. Audiophiles, of course, would say otherwise. Nonetheless, with or without audio colorization, the overall sound quality is great. Plus, the handsome look, build, and quality are truly exceptional too for the price. The iPod is dead. Long live the Walkman!
Quick specs
Model: NW-A36HN
Internal memory: 32GB
External memory: 128GB (micro SD, microSDHC, microSDXC)
Display size: 3.1-inch, 800×480 pixels
Output power: 35mW per channel
Audio formats: MP3, WMA, FLAC, PCM, AAC, HE-AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DSD
Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.2 (SBC, LDAC)
Radio: FM
Headphones: MDR-NW750N earphones with digital noise cancellation
USB charging time: 4 hours
Weight: 98g