During a pre-IFA press conference last week, Sony provided details on a number of new audio products, including three additions to its Hi-Res Audio Series: a new soundbar, new headphones, and a new hi-res audio player. A rundown of each product's features is listed below, but the one that really piques our interest is the $300 Walkman NWZ-A17, which supports hi-res file playback, has 64GB of onboard memory (expandable via microSD), has Bluetooth to receive streamed audio from other devices, and has a small, attractive form factor with a 2.25-inch QVGA color display.
From Sony
HT-ST5 soundbar with wireless subwoofer
Experience true 7.1-channel surround sound from seven discrete digital amplifiers and nine speakers in a sleek, stand-alone unit sound-tuned in collaboration with Academy Award-winning Sony Pictures engineers.
• High-definition soundbar with wireless subwoofer.
• Immersive 380-watt system with 7.1-channel surround sound.
• Dolby TrueHD & DTS-HD Master Audio high-definition format support.
• S-Force PRO FRONT SURROUND sound technology for a wide soundstage.
• Bluetooth with One-touch connectivity (NFC) plus aptX and AAC codec support.
• Three HDMI inputs with 4K pass-through and ARC functionality allows for a simple one-cable connection to the TV.
• Mobile App for Android and iOS integrates streaming services like Pandora and Spotify and provides full navigation control.
• Available late September for $999.99 at Sony stores and other authorized dealers nationwide.
MDR-1A hi-res headphones
Sony MDR-1A headphones deliver ultra-responsive, hi-res audio performance with thoughtful design and comfort, for a sound experience bar-none.
• Sound reproduction up to 100 kHz (for high-resolution audio).
• 40mm driver units with Aluminum Liquid Crystal Polymer diaphragm for articulate audio reproduction (3-100 Hz).
• Four-conductor cable for better signal separation and resulting sound quality.
• Silver-coated OFC cable minimizes signal transmission loss.
• Beat Response Control for improved bass and transient response.
• Ergonomic ear pads for powerful response and long-term comfort.
• Enfolding structure for wrap-around feel and improved acoustic seal.
• Inward axis structure delivers optimum fit.
• Silent joints won't disturb your audio experience.
• Supplied: conventional audio cable and smartphone mic/remote cable.
• In-line remote and microphone for hands-free phone calling.
• Carrying pouch included.
• Two available colors: silver & black.
• Available late September for $299.99 at Sony stores and other authorized dealers nationwide.
Walkman NWZ-A17
Named the smallest and lightest Hi-Res Audio digital music player, the all-new exquisitely styled 64GB Walkman NWZ-A17 with flexible memory capacity supports hi-res audio playback.
• 64GB Hi-Res Walkman portable music player.
• World's smallest and lightest Hi-Res Audio player (as of August 2014).
• Supports Hi-Res audio playback including: WAV, AIFF, ALAC, FLAC, and more.
• DSEE HX upscale audio (MP3, AAC, and WMA) to Hi-Res quality.
• S-Master HX digital amplification for unparalleled sound.
• Up to 50 hours MP3 playback and 30-hours Hi-Res playback.
• Stream music wirelessly with Bluetooth & NFC connections.
• Compact, slim design with microSD memory card slot.
• Easy navigation of songs & folders.
• 2.25" QVGA LCD display.
• Drag & drop from iTunes for Mac or Windows.
• Low-resistance circuitry design for natural, balanced sound.
• Intuitive user interface and FM radio.
• Available late September for $299.99 at Sony stores and other authorized dealers nationwide.
Additional Resources
• Sony Hap-S1 Hi-Res Music Player Reviewed at HomeTheaterReview.com
• Sony HT-ST7 Soundbar Reviewed at HomeTheaterReview.com.
