WM-EQ2

The WM-EQ2 introduced a compact, rounded cassette design that later shaped what became known as the Beans Walkman line. Its translucent shell turned the EQ2 into more of an accessory than a traditional portable player, emphasizing portability and visual identity over conventional form.

The feature set matched its casual intent. Auto Reverse kept playback continuous, Dolby B handled noise reduction, and the transport controls sat along the outer edge to preserve the smooth exterior.

Sony paired the unit with skeleton-style headphones, and the translucent housing let parts of the mechanism show through under certain lighting. The EQ2 also started a short run of variations built on the same tiny chassis.

The EQ3 added luminous material, the EQ5 and EQ7 introduced textured and rubberized finishes, and the EQ9 included miniature speakers. With its small footprint and clear visual identity, the EQ2 set the direction for this mid-nineties branch of cassette Walkman design.