Sony Walkman NWZ-W262 2GB review

Earphones and MP3 player in one with a dynamic, exciting sound Tested at £50

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Convenient and ideal for sporty types, they do the key things right

Pros

  • +

    All-in-one solution

  • +

    secure and comfortable fit

  • +

    dynamic, exciting sound

Cons

  • -

    Limited controls are hard to reach

  • -

    low storage for money

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And here’s a curveball MP3 player entry. Combining a flexible, sporty – it’s water-resistant and washable – pair of neckband-style earphones and a 2GB MP3 player, this is a one-stop piece of mobile music kit.

Your controls are on the ears: skip track and play/pause on one; a playlist/shuffle button and volume on the other. You’ll have to memorise the placement but if you don’t mind hitting play and leaving it, then it’s not an issue.

The in-ear buds burrow in a little more than normal but they sit securely and comfortably. You’ll get eight hours of playback – not great compared to some – but recharge is quick, delivering an hour from a three-minute refuel.

The Sony NWZ-W262s sound good, too. They give music plenty of room to breathe and are capable of bass weight and treble clarity, only falling a little short in terms of absolute detail.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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