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Sony’s original Walkman Signature Series WM1 is a two-player flagship range introduced in 2016: the NW-WM1Z and NW-WM1A. Both are dedicated digital audio players (DAPs) with native DSD playback, microSD expansion and a 4.4mm balanced headphone output. The WM1Z is the higher-priced model, with twice the internal storage and a much heavier copper chassis; the WM1A uses a lighter aluminum-oriented construction and is easier to carry.
What the Walkman Signature Series WM1 is
Sony launched the WM1 series in Japan on October 29, 2016, as part of a broader Signature Series family that also included the MDR-Z1R headphones and TA-ZH1ES headphone amplifier. The range was designed for listeners who keep music locally and want high-resolution playback without relying on a phone or computer.
The two original WM1 players use Sony’s S-Master HX full-digital amplifier design with the CXD3778GF device. Sony’s launch material specifies PCM playback up to 384kHz/32-bit and native DSD playback up to 11.2MHz. Supported file families include MP3, non-DRM WMA, ATRAC, WAV, AAC, HE-AAC, FLAC, Apple Lossless, AIFF, DSD, APE and MQA, although exact behavior can depend on the file and firmware.
Each player has a conventional stereo mini-jack and a 4.4mm balanced jack. Sony publishes maximum output of 60mW + 60mW at 16 ohms through the stereo mini connection and 250mW + 250mW at 16 ohms through the balanced connection. Those are manufacturer specifications, not independent listening-test results.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
NW-WM1Z versus NW-WM1A
| Specification | NW-WM1Z | NW-WM1A |
|---|---|---|
| Internal storage | 256GB | 128GB |
| Approximate weight | 455g | 267g |
| Chassis/material distinction | Gold-plated oxygen-free-copper chassis | Lighter construction; Sony positions it as the more portable model |
| Display | 4.0-inch | WM1-family interface; exact display specification not stated in the cited material |
| Expansion | microSD, microSDHC and microSDXC | microSD-family support |
| Headphone outputs | Stereo mini-jack and 4.4mm balanced | Stereo mini-jack and 4.4mm balanced |
The practical difference is not simply sound quality. The WM1Z weighs about 188g more than the WM1A—roughly the weight of another small portable player—so it is less comfortable in a pocket. Its 256GB internal memory is useful for a large lossless library, while the WM1A’s 128GB can be expanded with a microSDXC card.
Sony also specifies a four-wire braided internal cable developed with KIMBER KABLE for the WM1Z. That construction detail and the copper chassis explain much of the model’s premium positioning, but the available official material does not establish a controlled, independent listening advantage over the WM1A.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Battery life depends heavily on the format
Sony Ireland’s WM1Z estimates show why a single battery number is misleading:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →| Playback material | Sony estimate |
|---|---|
| MP3, 128kbps | Up to 33 hours |
| FLAC, 96kHz/24-bit | Up to 30 hours |
| FLAC, 192kHz/24-bit | Up to 26 hours |
| DSD, 11.2MHz | Up to 11 hours |
These are Sony’s playback estimates, so screen use, volume, output mode, file handling and other settings can reduce real runtime. Sony’s help documentation lists approximately seven hours for a full charge.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Storage and 4.4mm balanced headphones
Using microSD
Both WM1 players accept microSD, microSDHC and microSDXC media. That matters most with the 128GB WM1A or with a high-resolution collection whose files are substantially larger than CD-quality tracks. Check the player’s file-system and capacity requirements before buying a card, and keep a backup of music stored on removable media.
Connecting balanced headphones
The 4.4mm socket is a genuine balanced output, not merely a larger version of the 3.5mm jack. Use headphones with a dedicated 4.4mm balanced cable or a replaceable cable terminated for that connection. A passive adapter cannot turn an ordinary single-ended 3.5mm headset into a balanced headphone, and incorrectly combining output grounds can damage equipment.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Size, weight and everyday handling
The WM1Z measures approximately 72.9 × 124.2 × 19.9mm and weighs about 455g. The WM1A weighs approximately 267g. Both are substantial compared with a phone, and the WM1Z’s copper body makes that difference especially noticeable during commuting or extended handheld use. Buyers who mainly listen at a desk may value the heavier construction; pocket listeners should treat the WM1A’s lower mass as a major advantage.
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Price, age and what to check before buying
The original launch announcement listed approximate European prices of €3,300 for the NW-WM1Z and €1,200 for the NW-WM1A. A later Sony Ireland listing gave the WM1Z an €2,885 RRP including VAT. These are historical, regional reference prices, not a universal 2026 street price.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
The models date from 2016, so availability and condition vary sharply by country and seller. Before purchasing, verify:
- the exact suffix—NW-WM1Z or NW-WM1A—and the intended regional version;
- whether the unit is new, open-box or used;
- battery health and charging behavior;
- current firmware and compatibility with your music files;
- the warranty, included case and cable;
- the seller’s return policy and the authenticity of the serial number.
No single worldwide 2026 stock position or current used-market price is established for these 2016 players, so seller-level verification is essential.
Which WM1 should you choose?
Choose the NW-WM1Z when
- You need 256GB of built-in storage for a large local library.
- You are comfortable carrying a 455g player.
- The copper chassis and premium construction are important to you.
- You already own headphones with a 4.4mm balanced cable and will use the higher-output connection.
Choose the NW-WM1A when
- You want the same core high-resolution format support in a substantially lighter body.
- You can manage storage with 128GB internal memory plus microSDXC.
- You would rather direct the budget toward headphones, a balanced cable or music storage.
Neither model should be bought solely on an assumption that its amplifier or chassis has a proven audible superiority; the published evidence establishes specifications and construction, not an independent sound-quality ranking.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
