After the launch of the F886, an audio Walkman which was slightly disappointing when it came to 24-bit files, Sony has put the pedal to the metal and announced to the world in Las Vegas what we had seen coming for several months: its first 24-bit-compatible portable player – a high-end version, that is, a version which contains high-quality materials and electronics.
The ZX1 has aluminium housing and contains components used by Sony in its Hi-Fi products: outsized capacitators of the OS-CON type, reinforced cabling, technology to improve 16-bit DSEE HX files, and a Sony S-Master HX digital amplifier .
Compatible with Mac and PC, it can read 24/192 files in WAV, FLAC, Apple Lossless, AIFF and PCM formats. It offers 32 hours of audio reading and works on Android 4.1 (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC). Note that headphones are not included with the product. Price 700 Euros
PP Garcia for Qobuz