Sony NWZ-W202 W-Series Walkman (2GB, black)
Manufacturer: Sony Part number: NWZ-W202
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Sony W-Series Walkman is a great option for active users who want an all-in-one music device to use while working out.
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CNET editors' review
Sony NWZ-W202 W-Series Walkman (2GB, black) price range: $189.00
- Reviewed by: Jasmine France
- Reviewed on: 04/14/2009
- Released on: 03/30/2009
The good: The Sony W-Series Walkman offers an innovative, ultracompact design that incorporates an MP3 player into a pair of earbuds. It's easy to use and Sony includes a unique feature for browsing songs.
The bad: The Sony W-Series Walkman does not have a screen and will not be comfortable for all users.
The bottom line: The Sony W-Series Walkman is a great option for active users who want an all-in-one music device to use while working out.
There's more than one way to make a wireless MP3 player, and building it directly into a set of headphones may seem like the easy way out, but it gets the job done. Plus, there are none of those audio-fidelity issues you might run into with technologies such as RF and Bluetooth, which is probably why Sony elected to take this route with its new W-Series Walkman. This 2GB MP3 player is built into a set of impressively small earbud-style headphones and sports a palatable price tag of just $69.
We've got to give props to Sony for the design of the W-Series Walkman, which is available in a choice of two colors (black or pink). Two rectangular audio modules--measuring roughly 2-inches long by 0.8-inch wide and 0.4-inch deep--attach to one another via a flexible, twisting neckband. It's the smallest all-in-one MP3 player/headphone we've ever seen, and it's impressively lightweight, as well (1.3 ounces). Of course, with any such device made specifically for active pursuits, a secure fit is a chief concern. Luckily, the W-Series Walkman is up for the task: we tested the player walking, jogging, and doing jumping jacks and found it quite capable of staying in place during all of these activities. Still, comfort is somewhat of a concern--the fact that the earbuds are integrated will no doubt cause issues for some, despite Sony's inclusion of three sizes of silicone eartips.
As might be expected, the W-Series Walkman's interface is rather untraditional. Naturally, there's no screen--it would be rather difficult to view one on a device that's attached to your ears anyway. Music plays straight through in alphanumeric order by default, or you can activate the shuffle switch on the inside of the right earpiece to randomize playback. The bottom edge of the right module contains the remainder of the controls: a volume rocker and a jog dial. Swiping the dial forward or backward serves to cycle through tracks.
The W-Series Walkman is predictably light on extras, but Sony does integrate a few unique and useful features. The first is something called Zappin, which lets you browse through tracks by ear by playing a snippet of the chorus of each song. You can choose between long (10 seconds) and short (4 seconds) settings for this mode, and if you come across a song you want to hear, a press of the jog button will start it from the beginning. The player also offers a quick-charge feature that will give you 90 minutes of playback from a 3-minute charge--particularly handy for a fitness-friendly player. And the package includes a sticky-bottomed stand/docking station for charging the device and transferring songs (done via standard Mini-USB). Finally, each earpiece is magnetized and when you stick them together, the player automatically powers down.
Unsurprisingly, the W-Series Walkman is an audio-only device; it can play back MP3, AAC (unprotected only), and WMA (subscription included) files. Although a playlist section showed up under the player when we connected it to our PC, there is no indication by Sony that the device can support anything resembling a playlist. This would be a welcome feature, considering the sporty applications. Another gym-friendly extra that would have been nice is an FM tuner, though we can certainly understand excluding one in such a compact device. The small size of the player also excuses the rather unimpressive 12-hour rated battery life, which CNET Labs beat by just about 25 minutes in testing.
But as for the straight-up digital-audio playback, overall audio quality will depend at least somewhat on how the headphones fit. The deeper the earbuds go and the better the seal, the deeper the bass response will be. For our part, we had to hold them in to really hear what the W-Series could offer on the low-end--and what it offers is more than adequate. Regardless of fit, you can expect clear-sounding audio with no distortion or background hiss. Also, the earbuds aren't the best at blocking outside noise, but this is a good thing if you're going to be jogging outdoors. The player's volume gets plenty loud, though, if you want to drown out the hum of gym equipment.
User reviews
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BEWARE! NOT SWEAT RESISTANT!
by polleitor on May 11, 2009
Pros: Sexy design, ultra comfortable as you lose completely the wires. Good sound quality. Pretty good idea, as it could have been the best mp3 player for working out.
Cons: NOT SWEAT / MOISTURE RESISTANT. Kind of a joke since its market is focused on people who will use it mainly for working out, jogging, etc. Volume will max out, and the song-skipping-wheel will not function at all.
Summary: I?m highly disappointed with this product. The whole idea of working out without hassling with wires made me want this mp3 player since it was announced a while back ...
Summary: I?m highly disappointed with this product. The whole idea of working out without hassling with wires made me want this mp3 player since it was announced a while back at CES. Couldn?t wait for it to hit stores, so I ordered from the sonystyle store. When I finally got it, I went to the gym and after jogging for 30 minutes with it, the controls become irresponsive. Volume maxes out and it didn?t lower if I pressed it. Can?t skip songs nor get zappin to work. I am so pissed off that a product like this that it will be used by people for working out can?t get sweat on it. I guess the testing team is a bunch of nerds who just tested it jumping or walking around their cubicles for about 2 minutes.
If you are thinking of buying this and you are planning on using it to run or for working out, I would advise you to wait and see if Sony can address this big issue. If you workout without sweating, then go ahead. I guess that?s the way Sony thinks people do exercise, without sweating.7 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
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If it worked, I would have gladly paid double !
by Tag7Alpha on May 14, 2009
Pros: If this device were remotely reliable, it would be the perfect answer for those of us who spend endless hours in the gym. Very comfortable, good ergonomics... innovative shuttle feature...
Cons: After seeing the review here on CNET, I promptly ordered the W202 thru the SonyStyle store... and was thrilled with both the form factor and sound when it arrived. It lasted three days in the gym. The replacement broke two days later. Stay away!
Summary: I've now spent two hours on the phone trying to get a reasonable response from Sony regarding expedited replacement of my second NWZ - W202. I was told by ...
Summary: I've now spent two hours on the phone trying to get a reasonable response from Sony regarding expedited replacement of my second NWZ - W202. I was told by their tech support that these are being returned by the dozen. My intuition is that the open mini-usb port on the headset allows sweat to wick into the unit... not a very slick design element for something specifically designed for the gym. Please heed my advice - this is a no go...
6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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finally a smart player
by cityperk on April 20, 2009
Pros: i have been waiting for this since the invention of the mp3 player.no cords to tangle.comes w/ 3 sizes of ear pieces to accomodate all.sound is great.battery life is great.comes with 14 day trial of napster.could not be any easier to navigate.buy it.
Cons: none. am sure apple will be right behind this player.
Summary: was so tired of the cords on headphones.now i am free. you will not be disappointed.sony scores big with this unit.i have various ipods,but this is ...
Summary: was so tired of the cords on headphones.now i am free. you will not be disappointed.sony scores big with this unit.i have various ipods,but this is fantastic.no muss,no fuss.downloads are simple and quick.once in your ears,comfortable and no movement.they stay put.buy and you will will put your ipod away.
5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Unreliable performance
by mjorgey1 on May 11, 2009
Pros: First off, I SOOO want this to work for my. I love the way it feels. It fits great, no wires. I don't care about not having a display. It's just perfect for working out. When it works, it works great.
Cons: I've turned one in already, and I'm getting ready to send my second one back. It goes into Zappin mode on its own, It shuts off on its own. turns on on its own. I don't know what causes it, but it's identical in rpoblems to the first one.
Summary: Just don''t sweat on it. The charge connection is open and vulnerable to sweat. Funny for a piece that is advertised for working out with. It seems real sensitive ...
Summary: Just don''t sweat on it. The charge connection is open and vulnerable to sweat. Funny for a piece that is advertised for working out with. It seems real sensitive to that. They need to put a plug over that port. The design is great, but consistent performance needs to be more hardy. Sometimes in the cradle, it doesn't take a charge. Sometimes it loses battery life very quickly. I think the 12 hr time is all the time it's off the charger, not just operating time. Make sure you charge it before each use, and don't get sweat on it.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great fit, great sound, easy to use!
by Cubsfan101 on May 8, 2009
Pros: Sounds amazing with a great fit. Super easy to put songs on. Zappin' in feature both makes me feel awesome and make me feel futuristic. Easy to adjust and use while active. Why did it take so long for companies to make this? Buy it!
Cons: I think it would be cooler if this didn't have a stand and only plugged straight cord-to-computer, but it's no big deal. I haven't had it long enough to know, but I hope it stands up to rain/sweat/other moisture.
Summary: I have had this for about a week now, and its every bit as awesome as I expected it to be. Lightweight, easy to use- was anyone else sick of ...
Summary: I have had this for about a week now, and its every bit as awesome as I expected it to be. Lightweight, easy to use- was anyone else sick of armbands? Headphones that didn't stay in? This thing rocks and is my favorite purchase of the year! Seriously, it rocks. If you run or exercise to music, get this.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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your new best gym fried
by viperblack on April 17, 2009
Pros: Light, Durable, good sound, easy to use, and quick charging
Cons: 2gb needs more like 4 or 8 at the same price
Summary: I just got this a few days ago and I will never go back to wired this are going to start a new generation of mp3headphone combinations I just hope ...
Summary: I just got this a few days ago and I will never go back to wired this are going to start a new generation of mp3headphone combinations I just hope sony markets them right cause if they did they could change the market or at least grab a big chuck of it.
These work perfect for anyone whos actime I've been mountain bike riding and wieght lifting and there perfect they never shift or move at all and the sound is always so clear and loud. I dont ever miss the whole screen thing no more casue its not needed when you working out the jog dail is really usefull for skipping tracks and the zappin feature isn't that bad after you get use to it. I recomend these to anyone who wants something to work out with or just dosnt want to deal with earbuds no more I would say this thing is well worth the money even is the storage is limited a bit. Plus at least it has controls you can use unlike the new ipod I think its a waste of money and I should know I retured it with in the first week of owning it.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A innovative,stylish,unique,nice sounding player.
by Tech_2cool on December 25, 2009
Pros: 1>Stylish,ultracompact,unique design.
2>Good build Quality
3>Good Sound Quality
4>3 pairs of earbuds provided as per your liking.Cons: 1>Not resistance to water or sweat.
2>Lack of FM Radio
3>Lack of Sound Recorder and other featuresSummary: I purchased this product about 2 months ago.I am relieved that it is working fine till now.Many people have experienced problems with this player,mainly because it is ...
Summary: I purchased this product about 2 months ago.I am relieved that it is working fine till now.Many people have experienced problems with this player,mainly because it is not waterproof.Sony has looked into this problem and is providing free service to those who have experienced problems related to sweat.If you are having a similar problem related to sweat then you can go to the nearest Sony service centre and get your walkman repaired for free.For more details,visit the official site of Sony.
Now about this device, i love the unique design which is the only reason why I purchased it.Sound Quality is relative.The player is able to pump out smooth highs and clear mids.But Bass is unimpressive.It is tight but lacks punch.
If you listen Accoustic Pop,Electronica,Trance,Bollywood Pop then you will love the sound quality.But if listen Hip-Hop,Hard Rock or Normal Pop you will be disaapointed because of its bass.OVERALL,The sound quality is good for casual listeners.But if you are a audio purist look somewhere else.Honestly,I listen to my SONY 5.1 Home Theatre(Rs 50,000)and in comparison to that the player just sounds faded.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Understated Wonder
by zenApe on April 26, 2009
Pros: Sleek, solid build
Attention to detail
Great implementation of Zappin
Nice looking dock
Snug fitCons: No problems so far.
Summary: Sony has created an amazing product that they should do more to capitalize on. The device is sleek, solidly built, with great attention to detail. I especially love the way ...
Summary: Sony has created an amazing product that they should do more to capitalize on. The device is sleek, solidly built, with great attention to detail. I especially love the way the two sides snap together and turns off in respond.
The Zappin feature is surprisingly well-implemented. Annoucements of "Zappin in", "Zappin out" and sound effects enhances the experience and makes sure you feel in control. Compared to Apple's speaking shuffle solution, this solution is much simpler and works much better in practice. It is so much easier to recognize a song by hearing it compared to listening to a robot say its title.
Some reviewers have the cheek to complain there's no display. That's precisely the point of this player. It's meant to be worn on the head. This player is about how to solve the problem of headphone cords and still providing a reasonable interface.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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NOT SWEAT RESISTANT
by gracdp on October 23, 2010
Pros: None. Last slightly longer then a 3rd gen shuffle under normla jogign conditions.
Cons: Will stop working in a few weeks of normal jogging - not sweat resistant. The volume control stopped on mine. The controls are difficult to operate whilst jogging. Unformtabe headset. takes some adjusting to stop ear piece popping out.
Summary: This, like the 3rd gen iPod Shuffle, is a waste of money for joggers as both devices completely fail after being exposed to sweat. A waste of money if you ...
Summary: This, like the 3rd gen iPod Shuffle, is a waste of money for joggers as both devices completely fail after being exposed to sweat. A waste of money if you intention is to use them for exercise.
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THe music quality is awesome with the looks
by Arkoprabho on October 19, 2010
Pros: the miniature size of such an awesome thing with their features
Cons: nothing!!!! their aint any flaws
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sony
- Part number: NWZ-W202
- Description: Free yourself from the hassle of headphone cords and appreciate your music with the new Walkman NWZ-W202. This fresh, new headphone-style Walkman offers the Zappin function with a Jog Dial Operation, a unique spiral form that eliminates messy cords, and a 3 minute quick charge for 90 minutes of playback.
General
- Product type Digital player
- PC interface(s) supported USB
- Flash memory installed 2 GB Integrated
- Digital storage None
- Weight 1.3 oz
- Dimensions (W x D x H) 7.4 in x
- Color Black
- Available body colors Pink,
Black - Included accessories 3 ear tips,
Stand Digital Player / Recorder
- Supported digital audio standards MP3 ,
Protected WMA (DRM) ,
WMA ,
AAC - Playback modes Repeat shuffle
- Response bandwidth 20 - 20000 Hz
Audio Features
- Sound output mode Stereo
CD System
- CD system type None
- Digital audio standards supported MP3,
AAC-LC,
WMA,
WMA-DRM Radio
- Tuner type None
Headphones
- Headphones type Binaural In-ear ear-bud (with behind-the-neck mount)
- Sound output mode [Sep 14, 2011 from CDS: Audio Output] Stereo
Connectivity
- Connector type 1 x USB
Battery / Power
- Battery Lithium ion Rechargeable Player batteryIntegrated
- Mfr estimated battery life 12 hour(s)
- Recharge time 90 min
System Requirements
- Peripheral / Interface devices [Jul 2, 2008 from CDS: System Requirements] USB port
- Operating system Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition SP2 or later,
Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic SP1,
Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium SP1,
Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate SP1,
Microsoft Windows Vista Business SP1,
Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP2 or later Sustainability
- CNET Labs: Battery drain test / audio playback 744.4 min
Product series
-
Sony NWZ-W202 W-Series Walkman (2GB, black)
Manufacturer: Sony
Specs: 2 GB,
MP3,
Protected WMA (DRM),
WMA,
AAC,
Player battery - Rechargeable - Lithium ion,
12 hour(s),
Digital player -
Sony NWZ-W202 W-Series Walkman (2GB, pink)
Manufacturer: Sony
Specs: 2 GB,
MP3,
Protected WMA (DRM),
WMA,
AAC,
Player battery - Rechargeable - Lithium ion,
12 hour(s),
Digital player
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Sony products on Shopper.com
-
- Manufacturer:Sony
- Address:
16765 W. Bernardo Dr., San Diego, CA 92127 - Phone: 1-877-865-SONY
- Email: contact@sel.sony.com
- Fax: 941-768-7790
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