Overview

Sony NW-A105 represents Sony’s Android-based approach to digital audio players, featuring the company’s proprietary S-Master HX digital amplifier technology and comprehensive Hi-Res Audio support. Released in 2019 as part of Sony’s h.ear range, the device combines a 3.6-inch HD touchscreen with Android 9.0 operating system, enabling access to streaming services and apps while maintaining Sony’s audio engineering heritage. The player supports extensive format compatibility including PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit and DSD up to 11.2896MHz, alongside advanced connectivity through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC codec support. This model has been discontinued by Sony and is currently available primarily through the used market at significantly reduced prices from its original MSRP.

Scientific Validity

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The Sony NW-A105 demonstrates mixed scientific validity performance. While SINAD measurement of 89 dB from Audio Science Review [2] exceeds the transparent level threshold of 80 dB, the device suffers from significant practical limitations. Output power of only 35mW at 16 ohms [3] proves inadequate for driving most over-ear headphones effectively, limiting real-world usability despite technically competent measurements. Frequency response specification of 20Hz-40kHz lacks deviation data from third-party sources, while comprehensive measurements for THD+N, SNR, and crosstalk remain undocumented in credible independent testing. The conservative evaluation reflects limited measurement transparency and output power constraints that affect practical performance despite achieving transparent-level SINAD measurements in available data.

Technology Level

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Sony demonstrates significant technological sophistication through proprietary S-Master HX digital amplifier technology, representing an all-digital signal processing approach that differentiates from conventional semiconductor DAC implementations [4]. The NXP i.MX 8M Mini Quad ARM Cortex-A53 processor running at 1.8GHz [5] provides contemporary computing power with 4GB RAM for Android 9.0 integration. DSEE HX upscaling technology for compressed audio enhancement demonstrates Sony’s investment in proprietary signal processing capabilities. The integration of advanced connectivity including Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth 5.0 with comprehensive codec support (LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC) represents appropriate adoption of cutting-edge wireless technologies. Sony’s established expertise in professional audio development, evidenced by collaborative development approaches with recording studios, supports the technical credibility of their implementation.

Cost-Performance

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The Sony NW-A105 in the current used market at approximately 120 USD demonstrates excellent cost-performance as the cheapest Android-based Hi-Res DAP available. After systematic evaluation of products with equivalent-or-better user-facing functions, no cheaper alternatives exist that provide the same Android OS ecosystem access enabling full streaming app integration (Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music, etc.). While firmware-based players like the Shanling M0 Pro at 129 USD offer superior measured performance with THD+N of 0.0006% and higher output power, they lack the essential Android functionality that defines the Sony’s user-facing value proposition. The Sony’s unique combination of Android OS, streaming service compatibility, comprehensive Hi-Res format support up to 32-bit/384kHz with DSD128, and established S-Master HX technology represents functionality that cannot be replicated by dedicated firmware-based players regardless of their superior audio measurements.

As no cheaper Android-based DAP with equivalent functionality exists in the current market, CP = 1.0

Reliability & Support

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Sony provides standard one-year warranty coverage through established global support infrastructure with professional-grade service centers. However, the NW-A105 suffers from severe battery life problems documented extensively across user reviews [6]. Reports indicate battery performance significantly below manufacturer specifications, with devices draining completely within 24 hours on standby with Wi-Fi enabled. Users describe battery life as “cut in half compared to previous models” with some reporting only 1.5 hours of playback resulting in 10% battery drain. The Android operating system complexity increases potential failure points compared to dedicated firmware implementations. While Sony’s support network provides capable technical assistance, the fundamental battery performance issues represent inherent design limitations affecting long-term usability and reliability.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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Sony demonstrates rational measurement-focused design philosophy through professional studio collaboration and scientific audio engineering approaches. The S-Master HX technology represents measurable performance improvements through all-digital amplification, while comprehensive format support addresses genuine user requirements for Hi-Res Audio playback. Android integration provides legitimate functional value through app ecosystem access and streaming service compatibility. However, the implementation raises cost-effectiveness concerns as Android complexity adds expense and power consumption without clear audio quality benefits over dedicated firmware solutions. DSEE HX upscaling technology provides questionable audible improvements despite technical sophistication. The design direction balances Sony’s established measurement-based audio engineering heritage against contemporary platform expectations, though some feature implementations prioritize marketing appeal over measurable audio performance improvements.

Advice

The Sony NW-A105 represents excellent value in the current used market for users requiring Android app ecosystem access for streaming services. At approximately 120 USD used, the device offers unique functionality no other DAP can match at this price point, combining Sony’s proprietary S-Master HX technology with full Android compatibility. The device excels for in-ear monitor users who can work within its 35mW output limitation while benefiting from comprehensive codec support and Hi-Res format compatibility. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the documented battery life issues that significantly impact practical usability, and users requiring power for over-ear headphones should evaluate alternatives with higher output capabilities. While dedicated firmware-based players like the Shanling M0 Pro offer superior measured performance, they cannot replicate the Sony’s Android streaming functionality, making the NW-A105 the most cost-effective choice for users prioritizing app ecosystem access.

References

[1] Audio Science Review - Shanling M0 Pro DAP Review, https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/shanling-m0-pro-dap-review.49351/, accessed 2025-10-14, THD+N: 0.0006% (SE), 0.0004% (balanced), SNR: 118-119dB, Output power: 90mW (SE), 236mW (balanced)

[2] Audio Science Review - Sony NW-A105 Digital Audio Player Review, https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/sony-nw-a105-digital-audio-player-review.12950/, accessed 2025-10-14, SINAD measurement: 89 dB

[3] Audio Discourse - Impressions of the Sony NW-A105 DAP, https://www.audiodiscourse.com/2020/02/impressions-of-sony-nw-a105-dap-schitt.html, accessed 2025-10-14, Output power: 35mW at 16 ohms

[4] Audio Science Review - S-Master HX Technology Discussion, https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/s-master-hx-amplifier-exclusive-another-sony-thread.34898/, accessed 2025-10-14

[5] The Walkman Blog - What SoC is Sony using in the new A and ZX Walkmans?, https://thewalkmanblog.blogspot.com/2019/10/what-soc-is-sony-using.html, accessed 2025-10-14, NXP i.MX 8M Mini Quad specifications

[6] Sony Help Guide - NW-A105 Battery Life Specifications, https://helpguide.sony.net/dmp/nwa100/v1/en/contents/TP0002432969.html, accessed 2025-10-14, Battery life specifications and user reports

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