WM-F46

The WM-F46 is a midrange radio Walkman with built-in recording capability, built on a mechanism lineage that reached back to earlier recorder-oriented models like the WM-17. It combined AM/FM stereo reception with cassette recording and playback in a straightforward two-AA body, and includes variable tape-speed control that made it more flexible for voice capture, repeated listening, or off-air recording than simpler radio players. The layout remained practical and fairly tool-like.

Sony was continuing to preserve recording as a real portable behavior even while much of the line drifted toward pure playback. It was not a prestige recorder, but it was clearly built for users who still wanted to do something with tape instead of just consume it. It was a working machine more than a lifestyle one.