This Pocket-Sized Sony Walkman Delivers Hi-Res Sound That Surprised Us

The Sony NW-A306 continues the legendary Walkman heritage with a modern twist. Compact, beautifully engineered, and packed with premium audio technology, it aims to deliver genuine hi-res performance on the go. Despite its minimalist size, this digital audio player (DAP) combines refined design with Sony’s advanced processing to create a listening experience that feels more substantial than its dimensions suggest.

Design & Build

Sony’s attention to detail remains unmatched in this class. The Sony NW-A306 features an elegant aluminum chassis, providing both rigidity and a premium tactile feel. The compact 3.6-inch form factor fits easily in one hand, making it perfect for travel or pocket use. Physical playback buttons along the right side are reassuringly clicky, while the gold-plated 3.5mm output subtly signals its audiophile intentions.
At just 113 grams, it’s lightweight yet solid, an ideal balance of portability and craftsmanship.

Display & Interface

The 3.6-inch touch display is crisp, vibrant, and sufficiently responsive for navigation through Android 12. The modern interface integrates seamlessly with popular streaming platforms like Spotify, Qobuz, and Amazon Music HD. While not as lightning-fast as flagship smartphones, operation remains smooth and intuitive. Sony’s custom Walkman app retains its classic simplicity, allowing users to focus on the music rather than menus.

Connectivity & Features

Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC and aptX HD ensures high-quality wireless playback, while Wi-Fi expands versatility for online streaming and updates. The USB-C port supports charging and data transfer, and expandable storage via microSD allows large FLAC or DSD libraries.
A highlight is the inclusion of Sony’s S-Master HX digital amplifier and DSEE Ultimate upscaling, which breathe new life into compressed audio. The result is a cleaner, more open presentation even from standard-resolution files.

Sound Performance

Sony has long been associated with a musical, balanced sound signature, and the NW-A306 carries that tradition forward. The tonal balance is clear and neutral, with slightly warm undertones that enhance the flattery of vocals and acoustic instruments.
Bass is tight and controlled rather than exaggerated, midrange is pure and expressive, and treble delivers finesse without harshness. Dynamic range is excellent, especially when paired with efficient in-ear monitors.
Compared with smartphone audio output, the NW-A306 offers noticeably better separation, imaging, and tonal coherence, a reminder that dedicated hardware still has its place in the streaming era.

Listening Notes

Listening through Focal Clear MG and Sony’s own IER-M9 in-ear monitors reveals just how refined the NW-A306 can sound. On Norah Jones’ Don’t Know Why, the player renders her voice with intimate warmth and crisp delineation between piano and cymbals.
Switching to Daft Punk – Giorgio by Moroder, it shows its control and speed, keeping electronic bass tight while layering complex synth textures without congestion. Jazz and acoustic tracks sound particularly vivid, with excellent spatial placement and microdetail.
Rock and orchestral material have good drive and scale, though the NW-A306’s modest output means full-size, high-impedance headphones won’t reach their full potential.

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Comparison

Compared with its predecessor, the NW-A105, the A306 is a clear evolution. Battery life is improved, the interface is faster, and overall sound quality is more natural and less digital-sounding. Against rivals like the Fiio M11S, Sony’s player trades output power for finesse; it’s smoother, quieter, and more refined, while the Fiio offers a bolder, more dynamic presentation.
For users who primarily use sensitive IEMs and value tonal purity and battery life, the NW-A306 is the more elegant choice. Those seeking raw power or balanced outputs might lean toward Fiio or Shanling alternatives.

Battery Life & Usability

Battery performance is impressive for such a small player, offering up to 36 hours of MP3 playback or around 26 hours with FLAC. The Android environment allows full app flexibility, though users may wish to limit background processes for maximum endurance. The overall experience is polished, practical, and refined, very much in keeping with Sony’s long-standing philosophy of reliability and quality.

Verdict

The Sony NW-A306 is a triumph of engineering in miniature form. It’s not about raw power but purity, precision, and portability. For listeners who value a focused hi-res experience without relying on their smartphone, this Walkman is an outstanding choice. While its output power won’t drive demanding over-ears, its sound quality, design finesse, and streaming versatility make it a premium everyday companion.

Best for: Audiophiles seeking a pocket-sized player that blends classic Sony musicality with modern convenience.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Clean, detailed, and musical sound signature
• Premium build and compact form factor
• Excellent battery life
• Android 12 with full streaming app support
• LDAC and aptX HD for high-quality wireless playback

Cons

• Limited output power for high-impedance headphones
• Small screen for extensive app use
• Pricey for casual listeners

Specifications

Feature	Details
Model	Sony NW-A306
Display	3.6-inch HD touchscreen
Operating System	Android 12
Storage	32GB internal, expandable via microSD
Audio Formats	FLAC, WAV, DSD, ALAC, MP3, AAC, etc.
Bluetooth	5.0 with LDAC, aptX HD
DAC/Amplifier	S-Master HX digital amplifier
Upscaling	DSEE Ultimate
Battery Life	Up to 36 hours (MP3), 26 hours (FLAC)
Weight	Approx. 113g
Connectivity	USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, Wi-Fi

Final Word:
The Sony NW-A306 may be small, but its sonic character and craftsmanship prove that the Walkman legacy is alive and well. With thoughtful design, modern features, and refined sound, it’s an exceptional companion for music lovers who demand quality in a truly portable package.