The new Z1000 series, or Walkman Z, is aimed at audiophiles who aren’t happy with the clarity and fidelity of smartphones. With a big 4.3-inch screen, Android 2.3 and DLNA connectivity, the Walkman Z is also designed as a mobile entertainment device.
Though not overtly mentioned, the most logical product to compare this to is Apple’s iPod Touch. Like the Touch, which is basically an iPhone ‘without the phone’, the Walkman Z appears to be an Android phone without the phone. You can connect to Wi-Fi and download Android apps and games and play them offline. It’s even possible to make calls using an app like Skype with a pair of earbuds that have a built-in mic. This wasn’t demoed, but it should be possible.
The audiophile quality of the device, Sony says, comes from the integrated S-Master MX digital amplifier, which is techno speak for reducing noise and enhancing clarity and sound processing for a richer experience. Though not officially mentioned, Sony executives did say that it’s a lot better than the iPod Touch’s audio.
On the video side, the Walkman Z has a micro-HDMI port to connect directly to a TV for playback. The DLNA connectivity makes it possible to stream content over to DLNA-enabled TVs, PCs and speakers. Bluetooth is also built-in for connecting to speakers that way.
To go with all this, Sony will be pushing its own brand of earbuds and headphones, though these are largely aimed at a more serious audiophile.
The Walkman Z will be available in the spring (probably April) with the 16GB coming in at $299.99 and the 32GB priced at $349.99.
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