▸MD-SS321

120　｜　Sharp　｜　'99  03.05

Tough・Slim・Stamina

Sharp新聞稿指出：

• '99年MD總需求預估為750萬台(相較前年+133.7%）
• 隨身型MD約330萬台(相較前年+134.4%)
• 光Player即達約70%佔比的230萬台(相較前年+149.8%)

隨著搭載MD的家用組合音響與手提音響的普及，外出用MD Player需求成長也更受期待。 Sharp本次以更為隨身的攜便與多樣化設計對應廣泛多樣的需求推出了三款系列作。

面向年輕~成人族群提案，以銳利且運動風展現堅實的設計基本的MD-SS321，是MD機身初　Monocoque Body，何謂Monocoque Body?這是廣泛應用於火車、汽車車架與車體一體化的單體式機身結構，採用了鋁板與壓鑄件壓製而成的一體化，類似蛋殼與龜殼構造，將機械外殼以最小限度的加工能充分對應外部衝擊，並取代內部空間骨架，"單殼式結構"是呂大少認為較能傳達的名詞。

採用新薄型Slot In機構，相較前作MD-SS311厚度-11%一舉突破2cm大關來到18.5mm的纖薄新境界，體積-18%的120.5cc，整體更加袖珍小巧卻保有One Touch入 / 出碟的簡便滑順體驗。 MD的核心ATRAC的LSI，採用0.25μm低功耗LSI。

光學頭與機械結構也進行低功耗設計，實現充電池即多達19小時長效續航。音訊的壓縮 / 展開仍使用第6世代ATRAC演算獲得清晰具延伸感的高音質。

設計完全一新的背光線控，直立式的長瘦型更易與握持掌控，Play、音量與選取等基本功能配置W Shuttle樣式的雙旋紐，僅需單手即可直覺高效地操控。

Tough・Slim・Stamina

Sharp's press release states：

The total demand for MDs in '99 is estimated at 7.5 million units (+133.7% compared to the previous year).  

Portable MDs are around 3.3 million units (+134.4% compared to the previous year).  

Optical Players account for approximately 70% of the share with 2.3 million units (+149.8% compared to the previous year).  

With the growing popularity of home audio systems and portable sound systems equipped with MDs, the demand for portable MD Players is also expected to grow further. Sharp has responded to a wide range of diverse needs by introducing three series models, focusing on enhanced portability and diversified design.  

Targeting young to adult audiences, Sharp presents the MD-SS321, which emphasizes a solid design with a sharp and sporty style. This model is the first MD device to feature a Monocoque Body.  

What is a Monocoque Body?

It is a single-shell body structure widely used in trains and car frames where the frame and body are integrated. The structure is made from pressed aluminum plates and die-cast components, similar to the structure of an eggshell or turtle shell. By minimizing external processing, the outer shell can effectively resist external impacts while replacing the need for internal support frames. "Monocoque structure" seems to be the most accurate term for this design.  

The new slim Slot-In mechanism reduces thickness by 11% compared to the previous MD-SS311, breaking the 2cm barrier and reaching a new ultra-thin level of 18.5mm. The volume is -18% to 120.5cc, making the unit even more compact while retaining the smooth and convenient One-Touch disc loading/unloading experience.  

The core ATRAC LSI of the MD adopts a 0.25μm low-power LSI.  

The optical head and mechanical structure have also been designed for low power consumption, achieving up to 19 hours of battery life. Audio compression and expansion still utilize the 6th gen ATRAC algorithm, ensuring clear and extended high-quality sound.  

The newly designed backlit remote control adopts a slim, vertical form that is easier to grip and operate. The basic functions such as Play, Volume, and Selection are arranged in a dual rotary "W Shuttle" style, enabling intuitive and efficient one-handed operation.

MZ-E70