In 1998, Sony leaned harder into activity alignment and stylistic variety to keep the analog models culturally current. The lineup maximized its remaining strengths in a market already tilting toward file-based players.
WM-EK1
The WM-EK1 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It features Dolby B, remote control operation, and bass boost, and uses AA batteries. It is an early high-end model that enhances convenience through the introduction of electronic control functions.
WM-FK2
The WM-FK2 is a Walkman with a built-in radio. It features a bass boost function and uses AA batteries. It belongs to the early Walkman lineage that integrated radio functionality.
WM-EX7
The WM-EX7 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It features Dolby B, remote control operation, and bass boost functionality, 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-EQ9
The WM-EQ9 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic inversion function. It features a bass boost function and uses AA batteries.
WM-EX9
The WM-EX9 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It features Dolby B, remote control operation, and bass boost, 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-EX20
The WM-EX20 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It features Dolby B, remote control operation, and bass boost, 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.
1998 represented Sony’s last major analog push to keep the Walkman relevant. The intensified lifestyle focus smoothed the transition into the first file-based experiments under the Walkman name. 1998 left the category having extracted every possible cultural value from its analog roots, yet the effort itself revealed how much ground had already shifted.
