The display is very sharp with 300ppi pixel density, unlike many other budget DAPs with grainy displays, such as the Shanling Q1 with a 199ppi display. However, given the overall footprint of the device and its intended function, this display size is absolutely fine. Measuring 3.1” diagonal, the NW-A55’s display might seem small by modern standards. The WMPort is a nuisance in an era of standardized USB ports. It forces you to carry an extra cable only for the NW-A55 and mars the otherwise excellent experience. Sony’s decision to use a proprietary port is nothing but a nuisance. Instead, the bottom of the device has all the ports: 3.5mm output jack, lanyard eyelet, and the notorious WMPort. The top side is bereft of controls or ports. The left side of the device houses the microSD card slot. The NW-A55 can take microSD cards and up to 200GB cards were tested during this review. playback buttons are circular whereas volume buttons are rectangular). Moreover, the buttons have differing sizes and shapes based on function (e.g. The volume up and pause keys have raised “nubs” to distinguish them while in the pocket. Speaking of the buttons, they are placed on the right side of the device. The playback buttons are logically placed and have a satisfying click. The buttons are also conveniently placed and can be distinguished with the device in a pocket. The candybar shape with rounded sides and flat corners make the A55 a joy to hold and operate in one hand. Sony absolutely nailed the industrial design with the NW-A55. So not much in the way of accessories, which is disappointing. The box basically has the WMPort charging cable inside and nothing else. The packaging of the NW-A55 is barebones with few accessories inside.

Given the entry-level nature of the device, the unboxing experience is no-frills.

Battery Life (hours): 20 – 45 hours, depending on file type, playback settings etc.

Controls: Volume buttons, playback control buttons – play/pause, previous track, next track, hold button.

Reconstruction Filters: 2, Fast and Slow.

Codec support: PCM – 24bit/384KHz, DSD – DSD256.Memory: 16/32 GB internal, up to 512GB microSD card.Screen: Sony 3.1″ (480×800) IPS Capacitive Touchscreen.

Sony walkman nw a55 cover