WM-EX382

The WM-EX382 is a midrange EX-series playback Walkman that brought together auto-reverse, Mega Bass, AVLS, and a conventional plastic body with belt clip and manual tape selector. Powered by two AA batteries, it stayed in the familiar middle territory between the stripped lower EX players and the more refined, Dolby-equipped or remote-driven models above it. This model was practical and easy to use without trying to look especially special.

A model like this only becomes visible when you care about the structure of the line as a whole. The EX382 is the middle holding. It is not what people remember, but it is part of what made the late EX family feel broad and usable instead of top-heavy.