Sony WM-EX194

The WM-EX194 is a stereo cassette player Walkman manufactured by the Sony Corporation. It is a basic player, which provides up to 25-hours playback time and has the popular MEGABASS function. This was a basic cassette player with a plastic case for the budget end of the market, however it uses some useful advancements in technology. The audio circuit uses the LB8115 audio IC manufactured by the Toshiba Corporation. This IC was also used in the Sony WM-FX193, and it was one of the most advanced ICs that could operated on a single 1.5 V battery.

This Walkman also uses a disc motor, which provides an extremely smooth tape speed and consumes very little power. The sound quality is actually quite good providing you use a good pair of headphones. I did not have the original ones that usually come with this model, but I would expect them to be average in frequency response. A great feature of this player is that you could expect approximately 25-hours playing time using two AA size batteries.

Classic Player

I like the plastic shape and design, and the raised Sony logo looks smart.

Controls

On the side is the AVLS switch, rotary volume control, and a standard headphone socket. AVLS is the volume limiting system to prevent the player from producing the maximum volume level, which could be dangerous to your ears.

Logo

This is a very affordable product made to a reasonable specification using modern plastics and materials, and it is ideal for any collector who might appreciate good engineering.

This is a lovely Walkman worth buying.

Cost / eBay

This player is a nice example of technology from history, and since they no longer make them, they might increase in price over time. This model was mass-produced, and therefore there are many of them around in attics. A player on its own might fetch a few pounds, however with headphones and the box in mint condition you could make a tidy packet.

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