WM-F69

The WM-F69 is a more capable radio Walkman that combined AM/FM stereo reception with auto-reverse playback, Dolby B noise reduction, and a hold lock to prevent accidental operation during movement. Powered by two AA batteries, it uses a compact body that brought together several of the conveniences Sony was steadily making standard in the upper-middle radio tier. This model was clearly built for uninterrupted, more frictionless everyday listening.

Here Sony was refining the radio Walkman around lived use instead of novelty. Auto-reverse and hold lock are not glamorous features, but they make a real difference once the machine was being carries, pocketed, and uses in motion.