Sony NW-A55 16GB High-Resolution Digital Music Player Walkman Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Sony NW-A55 16GB High-Resolution Digital Music Player Walkman. The NW-A55 is equipped with an S-Master HX digital amplifier, designed to maximize the quality of high-resolution audio sources. It supports DSEE HX for upscaling MP3 and CD sources to high-resolution quality, and LDAC for high-resolution wireless Bluetooth music playback. The device also features a Bluetooth receiver function, allowing you to enjoy smartphone audio with enhanced sound quality through S-Master HX or DSEE HX processing. With 16 GB of internal storage, it offers ample space for your music library.

2. Setup

2.1 Package Contents

• Sony NW-A55 Digital Music Player
• USB Cable (for charging and data transfer)
• Quick Start Guide
• Other documentation (may vary by region)

2.2 Charging the Device

Before initial use, fully charge your NW-A55. Connect the supplied USB cable to the USB Type-C port on the player and to a USB AC adapter (not supplied) or a computer's USB port. The charging indicator will illuminate during charging and turn off when complete.

2.3 Powering On/Off and Initial Setup

To power on, press and hold the power button on the side of the device until the screen illuminates. For initial setup, follow the on-screen instructions to select your preferred language and configure basic settings. To power off, press and hold the power button until the power options appear, then select 'Power off'.

Image: Side view of the Sony NW-A55 Digital Music Player, highlighting the power, volume, and playback control buttons.

2.4 Transferring Music

Connect the NW-A55 to your computer using the USB cable. The device will appear as a removable drive. Drag and drop your music files (MP3, FLAC, DSD, etc.) into the 'MUSIC' folder on the player. For managing large libraries, consider using Sony's Music Center for PC software.

2.5 Inserting a microSD Card

The NW-A55 supports microSD cards for expanded storage. Locate the microSD card slot on the device, insert the card until it clicks into place. Ensure the device is powered off before inserting or removing the card.

3. Operating the Device

3.1 Basic Controls

• Power Button: Press and hold to power on/off, short press to turn screen on/off.
• Volume +/- Buttons: Adjust playback volume.
• Play/Pause Button: Start or pause music playback.
• Skip Forward/Backward Buttons: Skip to the next or previous track.
• Hold Switch: Locks all physical buttons to prevent accidental operation.

Image: Front view of the Sony NW-A55 Digital Music Player with the screen off, showing its sleek design.

3.2 Touchscreen Navigation

Navigate through menus and select options by tapping the touchscreen. Swipe left/right or up/down to browse content and settings.

3.3 Audio Features and Settings

Access sound settings from the main menu to customize your listening experience.

• S-Master HX Digital Amplifier: Enhances high-resolution audio quality.
• DSEE HX: Upscales compressed audio files (MP3, CD) to near high-resolution quality using AI technology.
• LDAC: Sony's high-quality wireless audio coding technology for Bluetooth.
• Bluetooth Receiver Function: Connect your smartphone to the NW-A55 via Bluetooth to use the Walkman's audio processing for your smartphone's music.
• Equalizer: Adjust frequency bands to tailor the sound to your preference. Custom presets can be saved and loaded.
• DC Phase Linearizer: Adjusts low-frequency phase characteristics to mimic traditional analog amplifiers, with various types (Type A Low, Standard, High; Type B Low, Standard, High) to choose from.
• Dynamic Normalizer: Minimizes volume differences between songs, ensuring consistent playback levels.
• Vinyl Processor: Recreates the warm, rich playback characteristics of a record on a turntable. Offers options like Standard, Arm resonance, Turntable, and Surface noise.
• DSD Remastering: Converts all PCM signals to DSD signals for a wider soundstage and smoother sound, though it may reduce bass and overall volume.

Image: Top-down view of the Sony NW-A55 Digital Music Player connected to headphones, with the screen displaying music playback information.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning the Device

Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents. Keep the ports free of dust and debris.

4.2 Battery Care

To prolong battery life, avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures. Fully charge the device periodically if it will not be used for an extended period. The battery charger saver option can help maximize battery life by preventing overcharging.

4.3 Software Updates

Periodically check for software updates via Sony's official website or Music Center for PC software to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 Device Not Powering On

• Ensure the battery is charged.
• Check if the Hold switch is engaged.
• Try resetting the device by pressing the reset button (if available, refer to the Quick Start Guide for location).

5.2 No Sound Output

• Check the volume level.
• Ensure headphones are properly connected.
• Verify that Bluetooth is connected to the correct device and volume is adjusted.
• Check sound settings for any active features that might affect output (e.g., DSD Remastering reducing volume).

5.3 Bluetooth Connection Issues

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both the NW-A55 and the connecting device.
• Place devices close to each other during pairing.
• Delete previous pairing information and attempt to pair again.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

Your Sony NW-A55 Digital Music Player is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package for specific terms and conditions. For technical support, product registration, or to download the full user manual, visit the official Sony support website or contact Sony customer service.

Online Support: www.sony.com/electronics/support/