By 1991, Sony was still shrinking the chassis and simplifying controls to make the Walkman feel effortless in daily use. The focus stayed firmly on analog cassette performance while the designs grew more intuitive.
WM-EX66
The WM-EX66 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It features remote control operation and is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries.
WM-EX77
The WM-EX77 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic inversion function. It features Dolby B and is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries. It is an early high-performance model that combines automatic inversion and noise reduction functions.
WM-FX77
The WM-FX77 is a Walkman with a built-in radio. It features remote control operation and automatic reversal, and is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries. It belongs to the early Walkman lineage that integrated radio functionality.
WM-SX77
The WM-SX77 is a playback-only Walkman. It features remote control operation.
WM-EX88
The WM-EX88 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It features Dolby B and remote control operation, and is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries. It is an early high-end model that enhances convenience through the introduction of electronic control functions.
WM-WX88
The WM-WX88 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries.
WM-EX90
The WM-EX90 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic inversion function. It features Dolby B and is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries. It is an early high-performance model that combines automatic inversion and noise reduction functions.
WM-GX90
The WM-GX90 is a Walkman with radio and recording capabilities. It features Dolby B, remote control operation, automatic reversal, and is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries. It has an early combined configuration that combines radio and recording functions.
WM-DX100
The WM-DX100 is a professional-grade Walkman with recording capabilities. It features automatic reversal and is compatible with both AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries. It belongs to a lineage that prioritizes practicality as a portable recording device.
1991 was the year optimization replaced invention as the driving force behind new models. That steady improvement created the conditions for the prestige and youth-oriented segmentation that followed. 1991 left the Walkman feeling increasingly effortless and ready for more targeted identities, yet the optimization also signaled that analog had reached the limits of what it could meaningfully evolve.
