・MZ-R5ST

063   |   Sony  |   '97  10

The Perfect Ending

The highly anticipated MD base unit, constructed with Station + MD Walkman, makes a return within just one year~ Continuing the 1+1 concept with significant updates in control and functionality.

Walkman

The more square-shaped Walkman reduces volume by 20% compared to its predecessor MZ-R4ST. The unit itself limits to MIC REC, requiring LINE and Optical interfaces to be combined with Station.

The revolutionary Stick Controller introduces a cylindrical design with a rotating axis at the front, allowing intuitive control with forward and reverse movements. This novel control concept establishes a new design classic, profoundly influencing future trends in control design. Sony also innovates by upgrading the controller end and headphone jack from the previous proprietary Micro Plug to the standard Mini Plug, allowing users to freely pair earphones.

The new LIP-8 battery reduces endurance by approximately 13-16%, but charging time is also accelerated by 60%, reaching full charge in 3 hours.

Station

The bright silver-white tone sets a futuristic technological tone, transforming into an MD recording stand when combined with Walkman, featuring an easy One Touch mechanism for mounting and dismounting Walkman. The unique advanced flip-up panel is equipped with a versatile large backlit screen, providing outstanding display performance without the need for switching.

Equipped with Sony's signature Wide Bit Stream at the station, ATRAC utilizes Digital Signal Processing LSI  to enhance dynamic range and audio data bit lengths in surrounding circuits, moving towards multi-bit precision, accurately reproducing 20-bit fidelity for wide dynamic range recording and playback.

Sony also incorporates several unique editing features:

• UNDO: Allows reverting to the previous step in editing.
• Time Machine: Records sound data from 2 seconds before pressing record, compensating for missed recording opportunities.
• Rehearsal: Allows precise playback adjustments from -126 to +126 steps (1 step equals 0.06 seconds), facilitating editing confirmation.

Furthermore, specific keys are dedicated to commonly used editing, recording, and playback functions, including a REC Level control knob comparable to stand-alone equipment.

Diverse connectivity options include one set each of RCA input/output, independent Mini Plug for external use, and even up to two professional-grade Optical inputs plus one output. A card-type remote control adds a surprise element, ensuring uninterrupted enjoyment of MD music whether on-the-go or at home.

Perhaps due to the maturity of overall technology and market saturation, MD Station, like a fleeting moment of glory, formally concludes an era two generations later...