Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Discman

The Discman was a brand of portable compact disc players developed and manufactured by , debuting with the D-50 model in November 1984 as the world's first . Measuring approximately 13.4 cm by 4 cm—roughly the size of a jewel case—the D-50 featured a compact design with a one-chip LSI circuit and smaller optical pickup to enable on-the-go playback, priced at 49,800 yen and offering core functions similar to Sony's stationary CDP-101 player but without or repeat capabilities. The Discman line quickly gained popularity, earning its nickname by analogy to Sony's earlier cassette players, and it sparked a sensation in the audio industry by creating a new market for portable high-fidelity music. Over the following years, the brand expanded with innovations such as improved battery life, shock-resistant mechanisms in later models, and ultra-compact variants including the 1988 Pocket Discman, which weighed just 300 grams and supported both standard 5-inch and smaller 3-inch discs for extended portability. By the mid-1990s, cumulative shipments of Discman and related CD Walkman units exceeded tens of millions, driving growth in CD software titles and revitalizing consumer audio sales, with the line turning profitable within 1.5 years of launch. In 1997, rebranded the Japanese Discman lineup as CD Walkman to align with its broader portable audio heritage, marking the transition amid rising digital formats, though the Discman name endured in international markets as a symbol of and 1990s personal entertainment innovation.

History and Development

Origins and Invention

Following the successful launch of the world's first home player, the , in October 1982, sought to replicate the groundbreaking portability of its cassette players by developing a mobile CD player to accelerate adoption of the new format among everyday consumers. The CD market had initially struggled, appealing mainly to audiophiles due to high costs and limited software availability, prompting leadership, including Chairman Akio Morita, to prioritize a consumer-friendly portable device that could broaden the technology's appeal. Development of the began immediately after the CDP-101's release in late 1982, involving an intensive engineering effort led by executives like Ohsone of the General Audio Division and Tsurushima of the Audio Business Group, with teams focused on radical and cost reduction. The project spanned approximately two years, culminating in the completion of the first production model by mid-1984, driven by Morita's directive to achieve a retail price under 50,000 yen despite anticipated initial losses. Engineers at 's facilities, including the Technology Center known for and optical innovations, tackled core technical hurdles such as shrinking the optical pickup mechanism to fit a targeted approximately the size of a CD but with added thickness for portability (13.4 cm x 13.4 cm x 4 cm), based on an internal wooden mockup, while integrating one-chip LSI circuits to minimize parts count and power draw. Major challenges included extending battery life beyond the limitations of early prototypes, which initially offered only about one hour of playback using specialized rechargeable packs with 6 C-size NiCd cells in an external holder, and mitigating shock and vibration sensitivity inherent to the delicate laser-based reading system in a handheld device. To address portability issues, the team experimented with analog buffering techniques in prototypes to reduce skipping from movement, though these were rudimentary and not fully resolved in the initial design. The first prototype, internally designated the D-50 in Japan (and D-5 internationally), weighed around 1.3 kg including its battery holder and featured a wooden mockup as a size benchmark to guide component integration. Key innovations in optical mechanics and power efficiency laid the foundation for the Discman's emergence as a pivotal step in personal audio evolution.

Initial Launch and Early Models

The Sony Discman debuted with the D-50 model in Japan on November 1, 1984, priced at ¥49,800, equivalent to approximately $220 USD at the time. The device was introduced as a portable counterpart to Sony's successful Walkman cassette players, marketed under the new "Discman" brand to emphasize its compact design and on-the-go CD playback capabilities, with advertisements highlighting the superior audio quality of compact discs in a mobile format. This launch occurred on the second anniversary of the compact disc format's commercial introduction, positioning the D-50 as a key product to accelerate CD adoption among consumers. The D-50, and its export variant the D-5 released in the United States in 1985 at $350, featured a 16-bit linear and basic playback functions similar to Sony's home CDP-101 player, including track search and headphone output, but lacked any digital anti-skip protection, necessitating a steady hand during use to avoid interruptions from movement. The unit measured roughly 13.4 cm by 4 cm, comparable to a CD case, and was powered by rechargeable nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, with later options including nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) packs for improved efficiency. Accessories bundled with early units included lightweight and the rechargeable battery pack, enhancing its portability for personal listening. Regional variations adapted the D-5 for international markets, incorporating different power adapters to accommodate varying voltage standards, such as 110V for versus 100V in . Early production also saw minor adjustments to optimize life, addressing challenges with in portable mechanisms. Despite the high initial price—set at half the production cost to stimulate demand—the D-50 proved an instant success, contributing to the broader proliferation of players and becoming profitable within 1.5 years of launch.

Technology and Design

Core Components and Audio Technology

The optical pickup system in Discman players featured a compact assembly emitting at a 780 nm , suitable for reading the reflective pits on standard 120 mm . This assembly included a focusing and photodetectors in a three-beam to track the disc's spiral groove accurately. To enable portability, Sony engineers employed a folded design, which significantly reduced the overall size of the pickup unit compared to those in home CD players, making it feasible to integrate into a handheld device. Audio circuitry in early Discman models relied on 16-bit pulse code modulation (PCM) digital-to-analog converters (DACs), delivering a frequency response from 2 Hz to 20 kHz and a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 90 dB to match the fidelity of compact disc audio standards. By the early 1990s, designs evolved toward 1-bit pulse-density modulation (PDM) techniques in subsequent models, such as the D-99 (1990), which simplified circuitry and reduced power draw while maintaining comparable audio quality through oversampling and noise shaping. These adaptations prioritized low consumption for battery operation without compromising the 44.1 kHz sampling rate inherent to CD playback. Power management systems in later Discman variants incorporated DC-DC converters to step up voltage from 3 provided by two batteries, addressing the high demands of the and servo motors with playback consumption typically around 1.2 and yielding 2-3 hours of initial . Early models like the D-50 operated at higher voltages such as 6 from rechargeable packs or external adapters, reflecting the power-intensive nature of initial portable adaptations. Headphone amplification used integrated linear Class-AB stages optimized for 16-32 loads, paired with analog volume controls that included basic anti-clipping measures to protect against during portable use. The CD mechanism employed a radial arm servo to position the optical pickup along the disc's tracks, ensuring smooth seeking and constant linear velocity rotation at up to 500 rpm for inner tracks. Error correction relied on the Cross-Interleaved Reed-Solomon Code (CIRC) system, which interleaves Reed-Solomon codes across frames to double burst error tolerance—correcting burst errors up to approximately 2.5 mm (such as scratches), with for defects up to 8 mm—thus enhancing reliability in environments.

Anti-Skip Innovations and Portability Enhancements

Early Discman models addressed skipping issues primarily through mechanical damping to stabilize the pickup during motion. The D-66, released in 1986, featured a dual damper anti-shock mechanism incorporating springs and three fluid-filled rubber bags to cushion the optical mechanism and spindle motor, providing improved stability over earlier designs without electronic buffering. introduced Electronic Shock Protection () in 1992 as a solution with the D-515, employing buffers to pre-store audio data and prevent interruptions from vibrations. Initial implementations offered short buffers of about 3 seconds, with the technology evolving to longer durations in subsequent models, such as the 40-second anti-skip buffer in the 1993 D-626, which used to maintain continuous playback by reading ahead of the current position. By the 1990s, advanced systems like G-Protection further refined skip prevention through a combination of digital buffering and mechanical innovation, allowing gradual buffer refilling during playback to achieve recovery times as low as 0.06 seconds in high-end units. This hybrid approach, peaking in late-1990s models, integrated shock detection with dynamic adjustments to the pickup assembly, making Discman players suitable for and other active scenarios. Premium variants, such as those in the D-100 series from 1989, incorporated additional stabilization elements like enhanced suspension, though not full gyroscopic sensing. Portability enhancements complemented these anti-skip advances, with progressive size and weight reductions transforming the bulky initial models into compact devices. The original 1984 D-50 measured approximately 140 x 40 x 118 mm and weighed 390 g without batteries, while by 1995, models like the D-66 successors approached 150 g or less through miniaturized components and magnesium casings. LCD displays became standard for showing track numbers, playback time, and status, aiding user interaction on the go. Wired remote controls, such as the RM-DM1 for early models like the D-66, enabled hands-free operation. Battery options evolved from short-life AA alkaline cells to rechargeable lead-acid packs in models like the D-66, offering extended playtime of up to several hours, with mains and car adaptors for versatility. Enclosure improvements included durable, impact-resistant plastics, and optional weather-resistant cases for outdoor use, though dedicated rugged variants remained limited.

Models and Variants

Standard CD Discman Models

The standard CD Discman models represented Sony's core line of portable, uncompressed audio CD players, evolving from bulky initial designs to more compact and user-friendly devices over two decades. The first generation, spanning 1984 to 1987, introduced the format to portable use with basic playback capabilities. The Sony D-50, also known as the D-5 in some regions, debuted in November 1984 as the world's first portable CD player, measuring approximately the size of a CD case at 13.4 cm x 4 cm and weighing 590 g, powered by an external battery pack without remote control or repeat functions. Subsequent models in this era, such as the D-20 released in 1987, shifted to internal battery operation using four AA cells for improved portability, offering simple repeat and shuffle modes along with a line-out jack. The D-66, introduced around 1990, was a typical early 1990s model with programmable track selection, LCD display, repeat modes, remote control, and Mega Bass system. In the mid-range evolution from 1988 to 1995, focused on enhancing usability and audio features while maintaining CD standards. The D-88, launched in 1988, was notable for its ultra-compact design supporting 8 cm mini-CDs, improving portability despite the era's limitations on skip resistance. The D-99, released in 1990, incorporated a 1-bit for smoother sound reproduction and introduced a manual disc ejector mechanism for easier loading, alongside Mega Bass enhancement for low-frequency boost. By 1996, models like the D-151 added programmable memory for custom track sequencing, powered by two AA cells with approximately 5 hours of playback. Late models from 1996 to 2005 refined navigation and sound quality, integrating advanced processing while prioritizing portability. The D-EJ series, starting around 2000, featured jog dial controls for intuitive track skipping and menu navigation, combined with G-Protection—a refined anti-skip variant offering up to 40 seconds of buffering to ensure seamless playback during vigorous activity. High-end examples like the D-NE900 in 2004 provided support for and playback with advanced anti-skip features. Certain late models, such as variants in the D-NE lineup, incorporated AM/ radio tuners for hybrid functionality, allowing preset station storage alongside CD playback. Anti-skip innovations like G-Protection were essential for these models' viability in active lifestyles. Production of standard CD Discman models phased out by 2005, supplanted by flash-based players, with the D-NE345 serving as one of the final iterations in the uncompressed audio line.

ATRAC and Compressed Audio Variants

Sony's (Adaptive Transform Acoustic Coding) was introduced in 1992 as a audio compression technology designed to reduce file sizes while maintaining near-CD quality audio, initially for formats but later adapted for CD-based players. Developed to enable longer playback times on , followed in 1999, supporting such as 132 kbps, 105 kbps, and 66 kbps at 44.1 kHz sampling for approximately 1/10th the data size of uncompressed CD audio (1411 kbps stereo). , released in 2002, further improved efficiency with including 64 kbps and 48 kbps, achieving about 1/20th compression relative to standard CD audio, allowing up to 30 times more music storage on a single or compared to linear PCM. Key Discman models incorporating ATRAC3plus included the D-NE1, launched in 2003 as the first portable CD player to support this format alongside MP3 and standard CD-DA playback. The D-NE1 featured exceptional battery life of up to 150 hours for ATRAC3plus playback using two rechargeable NH-14WM batteries and two AA batteries, far surpassing the 90 hours for uncompressed CD audio. The D-NF600 series, introduced around the same period, offered a hybrid approach with ATRAC3plus and MP3 support, enabling up to 490 tracks on one 700 MB CD-R/RW at lower bit rates like 48 kbps, equivalent to roughly 30 full audio CDs' worth of content. These models used Sony's SonicStage software for PC-based creation of ATRAC CDs, where users could import audio, apply compression, and burn discs with seamless track transitions and gapless playback within groups. Technically, Discman players supported recording files to and media via , with backward compatibility for standard audio and discs, ensuring versatility. Features like Group Play allowed organization of tracks into up to 255 albums or playlists on a single disc, facilitating navigation during extended playback sessions. Battery life for the D-NF600 series reached 42 hours on alkaline batteries for 48 kbps , compared to 26 hours for audio , emphasizing the format's efficiency for portable use. These variants positioned the Discman as a bridge between traditional and emerging digital players, aiming to extend the format's relevance by offering compressed audio storage without requiring new hardware ecosystems like flash-based devices. By integrating proprietary compression with familiar CD media, targeted users seeking high-capacity playback in a rugged, anti-skip design, though adoption was limited as open formats gained traction.

Video CD and Multimedia Models

The (VCD) standard, finalized in 1993, utilized compression at a of 1.5 Mbps to deliver VHS-quality video on standard media, enabling approximately 80 minutes of playback per disc. extended the Discman line to support this format with portable multimedia players that incorporated integrated screens for on-the-go video viewing, marking a shift from audio-only devices to hybrid media capabilities. The first Video CD-capable Discman, the D-V7000 released in 1994, featured a 3-inch LCD screen and was powered by four batteries. It included analog video output for connection to external displays and supported overlay controls for navigation during playback. Subsequent models built on this foundation with improved features for video playback. These Discman models found niche applications in portable viewing during , though their bulkier design—adding about 0.5 kg for the screen and —limited widespread adoption.

Impact and Legacy

Market Reception and Cultural Influence

The Discman experienced robust commercial success in the 1980s, accelerating the broader adoption of technology among consumers. By 1985, worldwide sales of s had reached approximately 1 million units, with projections exceeding 2 million in 1986, a milestone that included significant contributions from portable models like the Discman. Overall sales hit 3 million units by the end of 1986, reflecting the device's role in popularizing formats. Priced between $200 and $400 for early models, the Discman appealed primarily to urban youth seeking on-the-go music playback, with selling over 200 million portable audio players globally by the late , encompassing both and Discman lines, and exceeding 400 million in total across its history. As a of the and , the Discman symbolized the shift from analog cassettes to , enabling personalized soundtracks amid the rise of and videos. It featured prominently in period advertisements, including Sony's own commercials emphasizing its portability during dynamic activities. The device boosted sales by supporting 8cm mini-discs in models like the D-88 from , which accommodated shorter, affordable tracks tailored for portable listening and aligning with the era's emphasis on hit-driven music consumption. In the competitive landscape, the Discman faced rivals such as ' early portable CD players, introduced around 1985, and Technics' compact models, yet Sony maintained a dominant position through innovative and product . By 1990, Sony held about 50% market share in the U.S. portable audio sector, leveraging the family—including Discman variants—to outpace competitors. The Discman profoundly influenced social listening habits, popularizing "commuter listening" by allowing users to immerse themselves in music during urban travel, effectively creating private audio bubbles in public spaces. Its clip-on and belt designs integrated into fashion trends, with accessories enabling hands-free portability that complemented aesthetics. However, pre-anti-skip models drew criticism for fragility, often skipping during motion and frustrating active users until technological refinements addressed these issues. Adoption varied globally, with strong uptake in —Sony's home market—and the , where it aligned with growing CD infrastructure and youth culture. In , growth was more gradual, hampered by higher battery costs for the power-hungry devices and lingering preference for cost-effective cassettes.

Decline and Modern Relevance

The introduction of Apple's in 2001 marked a pivotal shift in portable audio, as its storage provided greater durability, larger capacity, and freedom from the skipping problems inherent in CD-based players like the Discman, accelerating the latter's decline through the . Sony responded by transitioning to digital alternatives, launching the NWZ series of Network Walkman players in the mid- to emphasize compressed audio files over physical discs. By the early , Sony had discontinued Discman production, with the last models appearing in retail catalogs around 2011. Sales of portable CD players, including the Discman, plummeted alongside the broader CD market, which saw U.S. album shipments drop from a peak of 942.5 million units in 2000 to just 34.4 million by —a 95% decline driven by digital downloads, file-sharing , and the rise of streaming services. Portable CD player sales, which peaked in the late , fell sharply below 1 million annually by the mid-2000s as consumers favored skip-free digital devices. Sony's compression, intended as a bridge to in late Discman variants, ultimately failed to compete with open formats like MP3. Despite its obsolescence, the Discman retains modern relevance through collectibility, with vintage models like the D-50 fetching $100 or more on secondary markets such as , often prized for their historical design. Enthusiast communities sustain interest by offering repair guides and resources for maintaining these devices, while niche custom modifications in the 2020s—such as integrating adapters—revive functionality for retro users. Culturally, the Discman appears in institutions like the Museum of Modern Art's collection and Sony's Archives in , symbolizing early portable audio innovation that influenced today's streaming devices by establishing on-the-go music consumption. As of 2025, produces no new Discman models, though surviving units remain compatible with standard modern for playback. The widespread disposal of these players contributes to challenges, as their components— including plastics, metals, and rare earth elements—pose environmental risks when landfilled or incinerated without proper .

References

  1. [1]
    Sony History Chapter9 Opposed by Everyone
    Sony's line of portable CD players, which enjoyed widespread popularity following the success of the D-50, was nicknamed "Discman" since these portable players ...
  2. [2]
    Product & Technology Milestones−Personal Audio - Sony
    D-50. The world's first portable CD player. After the release of the world's first compact disc player, the CDP-101, in 1982, the theme for engineers was to ...Missing: Discman | Show results with:Discman
  3. [3]
    [PDF] Annual Report 1988 - Sony
    In 1988, we affirmed our leadership with the introduction of Pocket Discman, the world's smallest and, at 300 grams (10.6 ounces), lightest CD player.Missing: brand history
  4. [4]
    Sony Celebrates Walkman® 20th Anniversary
    Jul 1, 1999 · It includes the Sony Discman* portable CD player 'D-50' in 1984, DAT Walkman 'TCD-D3' in 1990, and MiniDisc Walkman" 'MZ-1', 'MZ-2P' in 1992.
  5. [5]
    History of Sony's Semiconductors - Timeline | Company
    Atsugi plant construction completed by Sony. Sony Atsugi Plant in 1960. Figure. 1966. Commercialized the world's first monolithic IC for small radios. Photo of ...
  6. [6]
    D-50 - Walkman Central
    The D-50 was the first portable compact disc player, the "world's smallest" at launch, and required a battery holder for portability.Missing: history prototype
  7. [7]
    How Sony Solved the Discman's Biggest Problem
    May 14, 2025 · Sony tackled skipping in the D-50 and subsequent models through mechanical and design improvements, reinforcing the chassis and refining servo ...Missing: 1982 Atsugi<|separator|>
  8. [8]
    D-50 compact disc compact player - Explore the Collections - V&A
    Jan 13, 2015 · The Sony D-50, made 1984-1985, was the first portable CD player, the world's smallest and most affordable, and could be used with a battery ...Missing: 1982 prototype
  9. [9]
    https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O1305128/d-50-compact-disc-compact-cd-player-sony/
  10. [10]
    The Story of Sony's First Portable CD Player
    Dec 24, 2024 · In 1985, the company launched the D-50MkⅡ—officially marketed as “Discman”—introducing a rechargeable battery pack and a more compact design.
  11. [11]
    Sony D-50 Portable Compact Disc Player Manual | HiFi Engine
    Specifications: Disc format: CD. Digital converter: 16-bit linear CD. Mechanism: KSS-110A. Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz. Output: 10mW (headphones), 1.6V ( ...
  12. [12]
    Sony D-5 Portable CD Player | Sound & Vision
    May 17, 2012 · Sony introduced the world's first portable CD player, the D-5, in late 1984, just a year after its first home player, the CDP-101, ...
  13. [13]
    Sony BP-DM10 NiCad Battery Pack For Sony Discman portables
    The Sony BP-DM10 is a rechargeable NiCad battery pack compatible with select Sony Discman portable CD players.Missing: MDR- PF6
  14. [14]
    SONY D-50 Discman (1984) - Wolf Design Review
    Jul 11, 2020 · The Sony D-50, is well regarded as the World's first portable CD player. Released in 1984 it was quickly nicknamed the discman.
  15. [15]
    Question about imported Sony D-50 (D-5) CD player : r/vintageaudio
    May 2, 2024 · I recently imported a Sony D-50 portable CD player from Japan. In the US it's known as the D-5 or D-5A but outside of the US it's known as the D-50.Missing: regional power adapter
  16. [16]
    History of the Compact Disc - Low End Mac
    May 1, 2014 · Sony's first portable CD player, the Discman D-50, was introduced in November 1984. At first, the D-50 was not profitable but as the product ...
  17. [17]
    Lasers in Consumer Electronics: The Optical Pickup
    The optical pickup maintains laser focus, stays on track, detects the reflected beam, and recovers digital data from encoded pits.Missing: Discman | Show results with:Discman
  18. [18]
    Sony CDP-101 Compact Disc Player - Hi-Fi Hall of Fame
    PCM produces a highly accurate and faithful reproduction of the original audio signal. This DAC employed 16 bit coding and a sampling rate of 44.1 kilohertz ...
  19. [19]
    A brief history of audio DACs | Audio Science Review (ASR) Forum
    Apr 4, 2016 · DACs in audio applications really hit their stride when the CD was introduced back in 1983. Prior to that they only appeared in low volume professional ...Old (vintage) vs new CD Player DAC differences?Remaining Considerations on DSD | Page 3More results from www.audiosciencereview.com
  20. [20]
    Audio Analysis IV: Compact Disk Players - jstor
    For the CD system to meet its specified 20. Hz to 20 KHz frequency response with 90 db dy- namic range, the filter must be flat at 20 KHz (so as not to ...<|separator|>
  21. [21]
    Sony Discman (D-50 MkII) | Hi-Fi News
    Sep 23, 2019 · The original Sony D-50 did not include any kind of battery as part of its basic structure. Rather, it had to be fitted to one of the various ' ...Missing: prototype weight anti-
  22. [22]
    Headphones with CD Walkman; Impedance - Head-Fi
    Apr 23, 2006 · The CD Walkman specifies 16 ohm for the audio output and that many popular headphones have an impedance of 32 ohm. This represents a mismatch - does it not?Finally... My review of the Sony D-EJ1000! (Sort of...) - Head-FiUsing an amp is NOT always an improvement. Am I crazy? - Head-FiMore results from www.head-fi.org
  23. [23]
    [PDF] Reed-Solomon Codes and Compact Disc
    The ratio of the number of bits before and after this operation, the rate of the CIRC code, is 3:4. The parity symbols can be used here to correct errors. Due ...Missing: arm | Show results with:arm
  24. [24]
    D-66 - Walkman Central
    The D-66 did not include any of the electronic jog-resisting features that would become common later, but attempts were made to make it more stable than was ...Missing: protection | Show results with:protection
  25. [25]
    D-100 - Walkman Central
    The D-100 was yet another example of Sony's ability to squeeze a lot of complex electronics into a very small space. Several printed panels are squeezed ...Missing: gyroscopic sensors
  26. [26]
    https://www.reddit.com/r/ObsoleteSony/comments/1efkqdd/the_1993_sony_discman_d626_was_a_rare_portable_cd/
  27. [27]
    D-20 - Walkman Central
    The D-20 used normal batteries, had a simple repeat/shuffle mode, locking devices, a line out, and optional remote. It had a reasonable playing time.Missing: stereo | Show results with:stereo
  28. [28]
    Sony D-66 Discman CD Player Manual | HiFi Engine
    Specifications: Disc format: CD. Digital converter: 16-bit linear. Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz. Output: 9mW (headphones), 0.6V (line).
  29. [29]
    Sony D-99 Discman CD Player Manual | HiFi Engine
    Specifications: Disc format: CD, Digital converter: 1-bit, Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz, Output: 9mW (headphones), 1V (line), Accessories: headphones.
  30. [30]
    Sony D-151 Portable CD Player Manual | HiFi Engine
    Specifications: Disc format: CD, Digital converter: 1 bit, CD Mechanism: KSS-530A, Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz, Output: 20mW (headphones), 0.7V (line).
  31. [31]
    Sony D-EJ761 (2002) review - Head-Fi
    Aug 25, 2008 · Playback is via a jog dial instead of next/ previous buttons: Just flick the jog dial back and forwards to select tracks, long flick to fast ...CD Players through the years:A.A.'s CollectionSony CD Players through the yearsMore results from www.head-fi.org
  32. [32]
    What is Super Bit Mapping? | Sony USA
    May 25, 2022 · Super Bit Mapping (SBM) is a function of the Blu-ray Disc player that smoothens the gradation of video signals output which results to superior color gradation ...Missing: D- NE900
  33. [33]
    Support for D-345 | Sony USA
    D-345. DISCMAN W/ SUPER ESP / Included components may vary by country or region of purchase: RM-DM18L. AllDownloadsManuals & WarrantyQuestions & Answers.Missing: NE345 | Show results with:NE345
  34. [34]
    Sony Ditches ATRAC, Connect Music Store - WIRED
    Aug 31, 2007 · ATRAC was originally developed by Sony in 1992 as a way to squeeze an album's worth of music onto its then-revolutionary MiniDisc media. The ...
  35. [35]
    [PDF] FM/AM Portable CD Player - Sony
    Enjoy your ATRAC CD Walkman! Thank you for purchasing the D-NF600. This CD Walkman is called an “ATRAC CD Walkman,” because you can enjoy “ATRAC CDs” on it.
  36. [36]
    D-NE1 Specifications - Sony UK
    NO. Digital tuner. NO. BATTERY LIFE. MP3 (h). 135.0. ATRAC (h). 150.0. CDDA (h). 90.0. SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES. SIMPLE BURNER software. YES. External dry battery ...
  37. [37]
    [PDF] SON 947; D-NE1 - Sony
    △LONG BATTERY LIFE OF UP TO 150 HOURS PLAYBACK WITH. (2) NH-14WM(A) RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES AND 2 “AA” BATTERIES FOR. ATRAC3PLUS™ PLAYBACK AND 90 HOURS FOR CD ...
  38. [38]
    Sony D-NE510 ATRAC3/MP3 CD Walkman - Amazon.com
    ATRAC3 plus is an advanced audio compression technology that offers multiple bit, extended song capacity and superior sound quality. Get up to 490 songs on one ...
  39. [39]
    [PDF] SonicStage Ver. 2.3 - Sony
    Using SonicStage, you can store music data imported from audio CDs or music files on your PC, and burn your own CDs (ATRAC CD or audio CD). * You can listen to ...
  40. [40]
    Sony to License "ATRAC 3™"
    Feb 26, 2000 · February 26, 2000 - Sony Corporation today announced plans to license the LSI codec of the "ATRAC 3" sound compression technology developed by ...
  41. [41]
    An Overview of Video Compression Algorithms - EE Times
    MPEG-1, the Coding of Moving Pictures and Associated Audio for Digital Storage Media at up to about 1.5 Mbps, is an International Standard ISO-11172, completed ...
  42. [42]
    5.4: MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 Video Coding | GlobalSpec
    MPEG-1 was the first standard, finalized by MPEG in 1993 as ISO/IEC 11172. ... 1.5 Mbps [3]. The ... As for MPEG-1 video, which is adopted as the video CD ...
  43. [43]
    Sony D-V7000 Portable Video CD Player Manual | HiFi Engine
    Specifications. Disc format: CD. Digital converter: 1-bit. CD Mechanism: DAX-01A2. Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz. Output: 30mW (headphones), 0.7V (line).
  44. [44]
    Sony D-V7000 discman CD Portable Video CD Player walkman | eBay
    Sony D-V7000 discman CD Portable Video CD Player walkman ; Quantity. 1 available ; Item number. 376604665498 ; Brand. Sony ; Accurate description. 4.9 ; Reasonable ...
  45. [45]
    Sony MD Walkman MZ-NE810 Portable MiniDisc Player with ... - eBay
    Sony MD Walkman MZ-NE810 Portable MiniDisc Player with Remote Tested Working ; Returns. Accepted within 60 days. Seller pays return shipping ; About the seller.
  46. [46]
    COMPACT DISKS: AUDIO INDUSTRY'S NEW HOPE
    Jan 11, 1986 · Last year, sales leaped to about 1 million players, and many expect 1986 sales to top 2 million, turning them into a half-billion-dollar ...
  47. [47]
    Compact Disc Players Are Introduced | Research Starters - EBSCO
    By 1984, 230,000 players had been sold. By 1986, the figure was 3 million. New technologies, however, made CDs a bit precarious. Digital audiotape (DAT) was ...
  48. [48]
    https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/compact-disc-players-are-introduced
  49. [49]
    Four Decades of Sony Walkman - CCS Insight
    Jul 2, 2019 · ... Walkman included two headphone jacks, allowing music to be enjoyed with a friend. Sony sold more than 400 million Walkman players globally ...<|separator|>
  50. [50]
    Sony Discman Commercial - YouTube
    Sep 7, 2007 · Rare 1980's Sony Discman Portable CD Player Japan Walkman. EIGHTIES ... First 12 Minutes of MTV. Jersey Mark•2.9M views · 9:25 · Go to ...
  51. [51]
    Check out the 1988 Sony D-88 Discman—the tiniest CD player ever ...
    Sep 15, 2025 · Check out the 1988 Sony D-88 Discman—the tiniest CD player ever! Full-sized CDs stuck out, but it was built for 8cm singles #TechHistory ...
  52. [52]
    [PDF] Revealing Strategy Pattern: The Evolution from Walkman to IPod
    1990, Sony's Walkman retained a 50% market share within the U.S. and 46% in Japan. Sony also enjoyed a price premium of roughly $20 over rival offers. By ...
  53. [53]
    1985 Philips CD 10 Portable CD Player - YouTube
    Sep 11, 2016 · Some say the first portable CD player available ? check out my instagram too if you like - solid_state_vintage for “new pickup” and photos ...Missing: 1980s | Show results with:1980s
  54. [54]
    From Walkman to Your Phone: 40 Years of Portable Music
    Jun 25, 2020 · The Sony Discman (1984). As you'd expect, the Sony Discman was a portable compact disc player, which made its debut in 1982. When the Discman ...
  55. [55]
    The Sony Discman: A Revolution in Portable Music
    Sep 6, 2025 · In the 1980s, music was no longer tied to the living room stereo. Cassette players like the Walkman had already made personal soundtracks a ...
  56. [56]
    How popular were discmans and portable cd players in the 90's ...
    Jul 4, 2023 · Mini Disc players weren't that popular outside of Japan. ... Alkaline batteries were quite expensive consumables back then, so I ...Japan vs UK - best market to find a portable Sony MD player - RedditWhy didn't minidisc win the format war over CDs? - RedditMore results from www.reddit.comMissing: Europe | Show results with:Europe
  57. [57]
    Innovation Success: How the Apple iPod Broke all Sony's Walkman ...
    Mar 7, 2012 · But between the third quarters of 2004 and 2005, sales of the iPod had leapt 616%. As the same customer base kept repurchasing new and ...
  58. [58]
    Visual Guide to Sony's Network Walkman (1999-2013)
    Sep 10, 2024 · Released on October 19, 2013, this model matched the design of the S780 series and marked the end of production for the E series with the ...
  59. [59]
    Sony Discman - Are these the last models? | Stereo2Go forums
    Mar 27, 2021 · I just had a look and this was the last Sony Discman to appear in an Argos Catalogue, ten years ago in Spring/Summer 2011. It was the only MP3 ...Sony D-321 Full ReviewBest Portable Sony DiscmanMore results from stereo2go.com
  60. [60]
    https://www.statista.com/chart/12950/cd-sales-in-the-us/
  61. [61]
    https://d3.harvard.edu/platform-digit/submission/sony-from-disruptor-to-disrupted/
  62. [62]
    SONY: from disruptor to disrupted - Digital Innovation and ...
    Feb 1, 2018 · Clay Christensen, in his 2003 book The Innovator's Solution, chronicles how Sony disrupted both the radio and television business beginning in the 1950's.
  63. [63]
    Rare SONY Discman D-50 MUSIC CD PLAYER FOR PART OR ...
    Very Rare Cd Player sony D50 Not working , dont know the reason. Will sell for parts or repair. Please see photos to understand condition. See full description.
  64. [64]
    The Discman Era - by ObsoleteSony - Obsolete Sony's Newsletter
    Oct 6, 2025 · In 1984, Sony introduced the world's first truly portable CD player and one of the most radical audio products the company had ever shipped.
  65. [65]
    Sony Corporation, Tokyo. "Discman" Portable Compact Disc Player ...
    90-day returnsSony Corporation, Tokyo. "Discman" Portable Compact Disc Player (model D-50). 1984. Plastic, metal, and electronic components.
  66. [66]
    Sony Archives | Japan Experience
    May 5, 2018 · Sony Archives: the Sony Archives in Shinagawa, Tokyo s dedicated to the history of Sony Corporation's products since its formation in 1946.
  67. [67]
    https://www.wcrecycler.com/blog/the-environmental-impact-of-cd-roms
  68. [68]
    Environmental Impact of CD-ROMs - West Coast Computer Recycler
    Feb 19, 2014 · It is difficult to dispose of a CD-ROM when it is no longer needed. Instead, it is probable that a disc would be sent to landfill, or else incinerated.<|control11|><|separator|>