Updated 15 Feb, 2012, 6:16 pm IST

Sony Walkman NWZ-E443

28 Oct, 2009, 9:00 am IST | Shayne Rana | PMPs PMPs

This is the second new player in the very popular Sony Walkman PMP range that the company has launched only recently in India. The previous model, the S544 did quite well in my observation. This model, the E443, is part of their E-Series of players that may be smaller in size but certainly not in features. Here’s how it fared.

Form Factor
The E443 comes with a 2-inch TFT LED backlit display that also sports a 240 x 320 pixel resolution like the S544. The display is of course a little smaller. The navigation system is however exactly the same. A round five way nav-pad is accompanied by two function keys that make it look like Mick Mouse’s head. A proprietary USB port is located at the bottom next to the 3.5mm earphone socket and volume keys are placed on the side next to the key-hold switch.

The slight weight at approximately 54g gives it that feel good factor so you don’t simply dismiss it as some sort of cheap run-of-the-mill PMP. The wine color also adds to its appeal. The display once again (and shouldn’t have been surprised) fund was not scratch resistant. So after a little wear and tear action of pocket play, it started to show signs of ‘fatigue’.

Features and Performance
There’s no difference in the UI as compared to the S544. Which implies it’s still smooth and easy to navigate with drop down menus available for every function. The best part about the Walkman players is the almost immediate start up.

Media
Audio quality is a non-issue. The E443 is loud and it’s clear from the high to the lower frequencies there’s really nothing to complain about. The bundled earphones are great as is but with a better set you’ll only enhance your audio experience. The EQ presets will make a difference in terms of output but the customizable options via the 5 band graphic EQ setting will allow you to personalize the tone quality to your specific preferences. The Clear Stereo and Clear Bass functions also make for quite an enjoyable experience for the ears so does the Dynamic Normalizer. The AVLS technology lets you set a volume limit so you don’t damage your hearing.

The player’s FM radio was quite receptive although it did seem to store any break in the auto tuning as a preset so instead of nine channels I ended up with 20. The majority was just obviously just static. Since there’s a recording option for the radio you can save your favorite tracks for playback at a later time. The device also comes with a built-in microphone so you can leave voice memos. The mic isn’t as powerful as the S544’s as the range was not too far. For clear voice recordings you’d have to have the device quite up close and personal with your vocal chords.

Tags: Walkman , PMP

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