Walkman One (for NW-A50Series)


This update wouldn't be possible without the generous donation of a WM1A from Nayparm (after having to sell mine). Check out his website, www.npaudio.uk, for hardware modifications for WM1A/Z, ZX300, and more!


Most of the answers to your questions are already answered below, or in the info files that can be found in the downloaded firmware archive, or in the FAQ. For example, in the "External_Tunings" folder there is a info file describing what to do to change the sound signature. Please read all this info, and if you couldn't find the answer to a certain question, you can ask it below, in the comments section, or via email. Thanks!


Updates (September 20th):
- instead of having separate firmware packages for different sound signatures, you can now choose (in the settings file) from 4 available sound signatures that come in a single package;

Midnight is now the "Warm" sound signature, while Dawn (v2.1, unreleased before) is the "Bright" sound signature. The other two sound signatures are "Neutral" (which sits somewhere between Warm and "Bright") and "WM1Z", which is the Sony NW-WM1Z sound.

- in the "CFW" folder in the internal storage, where the settings file can also be found, you will now see a "StockRevert" folder, containing everything required to get back to the stock firmware;
- in the same folder you will also see an "External_Tunings" folder, which contains the external tunings for the 4 sound signatures, as well as info related to the applying of these tunings (both these folders require about 246 MB available in the internal storage).


Features:
- 4 sound signatures in 1 package: "Neutral", "Warm", "Bright", and the "WM1Z" stock sound;
- an additional settings system, which can be found in the Internal Storage (in the "CFW" folder), allowing you to set various settings (open the settings file, [settings.txt], for more info);
- a boot log file for the settings system, to check if the settings file is read correctly and all the values are valid (can be found in the same "CFW" folder);
- 10-band equalizer/Tone Control (switch between these two from the EQ screen, by tapping on the bottom-right menu button);
- DC Phase Linearizer with 6 selectable modes;
- Vinyl Processor with 4 selectable modes;
- Direct Source replacing ClearAudio+ (while Direct Source is enabled, DSD and MQA playback will not work);
- visualizers: Spectrum Analyzer/Analog VU Meter/Digital Peak Meter (while in the playback screen, tap the bottom right button, and then tap "Change playback screen")
- info about the file being played showing up at the top of the playback screen;
- a bar indicating the audio volume is showing up at the top of the screen;
- the CEW2 region doesn't apply a volume limit with this firmware;
- three boot modes: "Normal", "Plus v1", and "Plus v2" (find settings for these in the settings file);
- DSEE AI (present on DMP-Z1);
- visualizations more in sync with the music;
- progressive JPEG and interlaced PNG album covers are supported.


Missing features in comparison to the stock firmware:
- FM Radio
- VPT Surround
- Language Study
- ClearAudio+
- Noise cancelling
- Line-out functionality


Boot modes:
"Plus v1" - a different flavor of the normal chosen sound signature;
"Plus v2" - usually better than the Plus v1 mode, and it also consumes less battery;
"Normal" - provides the normal chosen sound signature;


Please read the FAQ for more info about how to install/revert back to stock from this firmware, about the settings file, or about how to change/start in the chosen Plus mode.

You can also find info related to installing and reverting to stock or about the tunings in the downloaded ZIP archive, from the link below.

__________________________________

What should I do if I'm using one of the previous/existing custom firmware versions?

1. Revert to stock using the StockRevert package corresponding to your currently installed firmware

2. Install "Walkman One", following the instructions available in the downloaded ZIP archive


You can find the StockRevert for the previous modded firmware versions, here

__________________________________




Enjoy!



169 comments:

  1. Hi I have installed Walkman One but I can't apply External_Tunings.
    When I connect my Walkman and PC in USB mass storage mode, it is recognized by Explorer but not by External_Tunings.
    Help me :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, please read the information in the tunings folder very carefully. You don't need to try to apply all the tunings. Apply just one, depending on what sound signature you're using.

      Again, please read all the info available!

      Delete
    2. I read and understood, but I can't solve it.
      I'm trying to apply Bright but it doesn't work.
      Is it related to inserting the SD card into the walkman main unit?
      I'm Japanese and use Google Translate so it may be hard to read.
      I'm sorry

      Delete
    3. You first need to change the sound signature to Bright in the settings file, then restart the player, and then install the Bright tuning.

      Open the settings file, change SIG from 3 to 2 (SIG=2), restart the player, then install Bright tuning after restart.

      Delete
    4. I can't find this on the Walkman One (WM1Z)
      "first need to change the sound signature to Bright in the settings file"

      Delete
    5. Hey, just read the FAQ section carefully.

      Delete
    6. windows defender will block the program , you need to set 'Allow' first

      Delete
    7. To understand how unreliable Windows Defender is, it doesn't detect installation files as containing a virus for everyone.

      Delete
  2. Would it be possible to implement some sort of play history log? I use last.fm, but at the same time, I mostly listen to music on my Walkman and there's no way to add your scrobbles unless you remember what you listened to. Rockbox has this feature, but I don't know how feasible it would be on one of these Walkmans.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Unfortunately this is not really possible, sorry.

      Delete
  3. In your opinion, which is the best sound signature to use?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'd go more towards "WM1Z", with the MX3 region, Plus v2, and different DAC init, but "Neutral" with the TW region is also a nice choice.

      Some people like "Bright", for example, so it all depends on you in the end.

      Delete
  4. Thanks again for another wonderful custom Firmware! I'm going to give this a try right now.

    What's your favorite sound signature? I'll give "Bright" a listen for now and then try the other ones as well.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I enjoy "WM1Z" (MX3 region, Plus v2, different DAC init) with my Shure SE846. "Neutral" is also nice with the TW region, but it depends on your ears.

      Delete
  5. What are the main differences between Walkman One and Midnight v2 firmwares?:0

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's mentioned above 😅

      Walkman One integrates 4 sound signature into one firmware.

      Please read the text above for more info.

      Delete
  6. I don't know why I still prefer original firmware with the VPT surround set to Studio better than any of the custom firmwares using Shure SE215. Is there something wrong with my ears?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You hear what you hear, there's nothing wrong with your ears. Enjoy.

      Delete
  7. Does the mod affect bluetooth or are the changes only really noticable when using a cord?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Different sound signatures won't have their specific effect via BT, but BT sound overall should be better.

      Delete
  8. In your opinion, is it worth updating if I have already installed the previous Midnight with the Project Z sound signature? Are there any further improvements? What do you think of Region J?

    Which one is darker? Midnight or WM1Z signature?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Midnight sound signature is also available in this firmware as "Warm", and changing the sound signature is easy.

      WM1Z is not as dark, it's more towards balanced, with plenty of mids.

      Delete
    2. in terms of sound quality, without considering the frequency response, is the WMZ1 better? For soundstage ecc...

      Delete
    3. I prefer it to be honest, at least with the Shure SE846.

      The thing is that you could install this firmware, test the "WM1Z" signature (with Plus mode or other settings on or off), and if you don't like it you can simply switch to "Warm".

      The "Warm" tuning is the Project Z one.

      If you decide to give it a try, read info about how to change the sound signature correctly (change signature in settings file, restart player, apply only corresponding tuning).

      Delete
    4. "The "Warm" tuning is the Project Z one."

      wait so the WM1Z is a brand new sound signature? Was it already present in any release prior to this one?

      Delete
    5. Yes, "WM1Z" and "Neutral" were not available before.

      Delete
    6. It is mentioned above :)

      "Midnight is now the "Warm" sound signature, while Dawn (v2.1, unreleased before) is the "Bright" sound signature. The other two sound signatures are "Neutral" (which sits somewhere between Warm and "Bright") and "WM1Z", which is the Sony NW-WM1Z sound."

      Delete
    7. Okok, I was convinced that the old Project Z was the current WM1Z, it will mean that I will try it

      Delete
  9. you said that "The "Warm" tuning is the Project Z one."
    in the previous firmware (Midnight_v2_(for_A50)) there were two external tunings, the Project Z and the midnight, so... where did the midnight one go? Are you not using it anymore because Project Z was already dark and better?

    and when i reverted to stock, the first installer worked, the second one asked me to plug the cable even if i already plugged it in, in USB mass storage mode, why?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ignore the second installer thing, it's fine.

      The Midnight tuning is no longer available.

      Delete
  10. one last thing: i don't understand why is called the "single package"
    as in previous firmware, I still have to install the external tunings from the pc, and in addition I also have to modify the settings file, where is the convenience in doing this? am I missing something? it is very convenient to have all the external tunings saved directly on the player, it would be even more fantastic if there was no need to install them from a pc, but perhaps it is not possible. What is the difference from the Midnight v2 for example? the fact that they're on the player?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Without the ability to change sound signatures like this, there would've been 4 separate firmware versions. That means using StockRevert and install another one every time you want something else, which takes some time.

      I think it's much more convenient and faster to be able to do it through the settings file instead.

      Delete
    2. oh okok, I didn't know you had to go back to stock firmware before installing a different tuning with the old firmware, thanks for the answers!

      Delete
  11. Can I ask you this question, you didn't answer it directly the last time. What happens when I enter one of the 3 boot modes?
    Ex. If I enter Normal boot mode when I choose WM1Z sound signature is it means that the sound is the WM1Z sound? Or I have to switch to one of the Pluses mode to have the WM1Z sound? The last one is the WM1Z sound signature the WM1Z sound signature when using the normal boot mode?
    Thanks for answering my questions, I really need to know, because I never heard the sound signature of the WM1Z before.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The WM1Z sound is in the Normal mode, with all other settings (like DAC initialization) disabled.

      Delete
    2. Thank you for answering, your modification to the firmware is great btw!

      Delete
  12. No radio now? Not into my stock firmaware also.
    No chance to get one of the precious cfw with radio unlocking for european countries?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, the current version is based on the WM1A/WM1Z firmware, for greatly improved sound quality. This firmware doesn't support FM radio, hence why it's not available.

      Send me an email, I can help with the radio unlocking on the stock firmware.

      Delete
  13. Etymotic_IEMSeptember 29, 2021

    Hi man,

    First of all, terrific work. I've been following you for a while now and it seems that each update improves over the other. The neutral signature benefits my Sony WH-100XM3 pretty good and the Etymotic in-ears sound somewhat better (although I am yet to see which signature suits these in-ears best). Region: MX3, DAC: different.

    I was looking into the Sony NW-A105 and noticed that one of the latest firmware 'Enables sound adjustment during Bluetooth output'. If this is from the Sony player side, you think you might look into it and extract the code for the next update? Keep up the good work!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey,

      I'm glad you're enjoying this :)

      Unfortunately it won't be possible to do what you suggested. First, we don't have any kind of access to the A105 firmware, and second, both players have a different OS, it's Android vs some custom Linux firmware.

      Delete
    2. Etymotic_IEMSeptember 29, 2021

      Thanks for the reply, I appreciate your efforts!

      Delete
  14. i don't know if this bug or issue only on my end, it seems the BT receiver mode is bugged?
    kinda stutter and hang audio when the screen is off, it just fine with screen is on tho

    setup :
    PC (BT 5.0) > walkman

    screen is on = totally fine
    screen is off = messed up

    current setup is the wm1z tune, plus v2, normal dac / different dac is same result

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This is mentioned at the "Plus mode version" option in the settings file. Plus v2 mode with BT Receiver and screen off can cause this issue.

      I personally keep the screen on with brightness set to minimum, but if I want to use BT Receiver for a long time, I just boot into the normal mode instead.

      Delete
    2. ah i see, my bad for not notice it, and thanks for the info, will check later :)

      Delete
  15. Hello

    I was wondering if the mod DMP-A50R FE is not available anymore and in this mod what could be the setting configuration or the closest sound signature to the A50R mod, thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The DMP-FE is now as the Bright signature, so you could try that.

      Delete
  16. Hello,
    If the sound signature can be changed via setting in the setting files, then do I have to apply the external tuning everything I want to change the sound signature (notice four external tuning files are included in the downloaded package).

    Thanks.

    C.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Regarding whether external tuning file needs to applied, I have read the information file and have answered my own question.

    Thanks very much for all your effort, amazing work you do here.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Replies
    1. You could, but it won't sound as intended, and many things will not work.

      Delete
  19. Does it mean with this FW I can`t plugin chinch for connecting to my amp? only via USB?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you think about the line-out function that is normally available via the WM port, this function is not available. If you are not talking about that, please share more details.

      Delete
  20. Hi,

    Thank you for all your great work. I'm having issues with my A50 being detected when I try to install Walkman One. Anything I'm doing wrong?

    Thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, you probably didn't revert to the stock firmware after being on some older custom firmware.

      Delete
    2. Is it still possible to download the old custom firmware? Would you be kind enough to put up a link.

      Thanks

      Delete
    3. I don't keep copies of old firmware, and old firmware doesn't sound as good as this latest one, plus there might be issues related to the installation/uninstallation.

      Delete
    4. If you read the info above carefully, you'll find a link to get previous StockRevert packages, if that's what you want.

      Delete
  21. Hi
    Thanks for sharing this, I really enjoy the improved sound quality. One thing just want to confirm you that though it is fine with FLAC file, it produces no sound when I play DSD file.
    Is this the same issue with you all? Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It seems you didn't read the FAQ :)

      There is no sound playing DSD or MQA with Direct Source on.

      Delete
  22. Great thanks. Sure I can't read thru all the comments :).
    By the way, is there any quality compromise on the Direct Source off? What is your suggestion? If not DSD file-Source on and if yes-source off?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was talking about the FAQ, which is mentioned before the download link for the firmware, and not about the comments: https://www.nwmods.ml/p/faq.html

      Because this firmware was not intended to run on these players, Direct Source on just sounds louder than Direct Source off, otherwise there should be no quality compromise.

      Delete
  23. Hey, just wanted to say that i'm very happy with this mod in particular :') it's simply the most spectacular sounding mod you ever released to date. Currently using the wm1z tuning - plus V2 mode and it just sounds so right. I'll definitely be donating in the future, thank you for these mods, really!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for sharing this, and also thank you for your support. It's greatly appreciated!

      I'm glad you like it and that I was able to provide this. I use it myself, of course, on an A45 and also an A55, especially when I'm on the go.

      Delete
    2. No problem, i also wanted to know if you know if there is any major difference when choosing a region in the config file. To my understanding the japan region is the best "sounding" one, but above i read that you like to use the "mx3" region. Is there any region that is the "best" one?

      Delete
    3. I don't think there is a best sounding region. It depends on your listening gear, as well as your own ears. My advice is trying both J and MX3, for example, and decide for yourself.

      You could listen to the J region for a while, and then you could switch to MX3, playing some same songs you are familiar with.

      Delete
  24. sweetsweetwaterOctober 20, 2021

    I am using the NW-A50 with the display language "Japanese". The previous "DMP-A50_FEv2" kept the Japanese display, but the "Walkman One (for NW-A50Series)" changes to English display mode. Is it possible to set my device to Japanese display mode?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can go into Device Settings and change the language to Japanese if you want.

      Delete
    2. sweetsweetwaterOctober 20, 2021

      Thanks for the reply. I am very impressed with your efforts.

      However, after using it for a while, I encountered a symptom that the menu moves by itself. Since this does not occur when the hold button is turned on, I believe it is an abnormal behavior of the touch panel.
      Since it occurs even after restoring to stock ROM, I think it is a malfunction of my device, but I will give you the information for your reference.

      Delete
    3. Yeah, the firmware can't cause something like this. I'm sorry to hear about this issue.

      Delete
  25. Will DMP A50R be updated?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Walkman One firmware is basically A50R but even better.

      Delete
  26. Hi, after updating to the walkman one firmware, some album arts don't work anymore :(

    i had the FE firmware before upgrading to it, what changed?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I would try doing a full database rebuilt.

      Delete
  27. Hey, I have been looking at instlling this but am confused by the sound differences in sound signatures.

    Is there any explanation on what each one of them does to the bass, mids and treble respectively?

    thanks for doing this though!

    ReplyDelete
  28. Well, "Warm" has an emphasis on lows, it sounds more relaxed but there are also plenty of details, at least with my headphones.

    "Bright" brings out the highs in the light, while "Neutral" is a combination between the two.

    "WM1Z" is how the WM1Z player sounds like, as good as it can on less capable hardware like that of the A55, when compared to the WM1Z.

    The changes are not as simple as an EQ, so I'd feel more comfortable trying the signatures out and deciding which one you like for yourself.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi MrWalkman, thanks for your hard work.

    1) Is there any particular reason for removing the VPT Surround feature ?

    In my opinion it is one of the best feature that Sony offers with these Walkman compared to other brands. I mean it is a good feature for not audiophiles like me especially in the Studio preset.

    ----------

    Since i put most of the tags directly into the filename and organize my library in folders, i don't like how the NW-A55 handles displaying folder/file names.
    On my old NWZ E585 (without touch screen), if you let the cursor on a specific folder, after 1sec it displays the full folder name in a pop up above or below and it disappears if you move the cursor again.
    But to see the full folder/file name from the Walkman NW A55 system explorer you need to press and hold on a folder and it only displays the 42 first characters of this folder name in a tiny pop up box (which is ridiculous).

    2) Is there a way to remove that 42 characters limit when pressing+holding on a file/folder ?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello.

      1. I didn't exactly removed the feature, it's just that it's not available in the WM1A/Z firmware, which this mod is based on.
      2. I can't really modify this kind of behavior, as I don't have access to the player app's source code.

      Delete
  30. Good morning MrWalkman

    I have a problem with my NW-A55, I want to play music from the Micro SD but I can't.

    It allows me to record the music from the Music Center in the micro SD, but when choosing the music it is as if it were empty, it does not let me play the icon of the Sicro SD.

    I have checked the information icon of the device and it gives me the capacity of the Micro SD and when I have spare space.

    What I can do?.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, would you please try formatting your SD card from the player itself first?

      Back up your music first.

      Delete
  31. May my a55 high gain can drive Dunu SA6 at 113dB sensitivity and 60ohm impedance ? thank you sir

    ReplyDelete
  32. If an A55 or A55L is locked on Japanese language only will this firmware allow language to be changed to English?
    It's proving difficult to buy one of these in the UK without importing it from Japan and some sellers are noting "Japanese language only"
    Many thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  33. Hello, can you add feature for change speed of play? It is very handy for audiobooks (for play faster 125% for example)?

    ReplyDelete
  34. hi all is it possible to eliminate that annoyng "database creation" at every turn ON of the device by a mod firmware?

    there is already a firmware that do that ? thanks in advice

    ReplyDelete
  35. whenever I tried the DAC mode whether its bluetooth or wired theres a static sound and sometimes the sounds are delayed. can you please fix it?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Please check the settings file, at the "Plus Mode Version" section, for more details.

      Delete
  36. Can you please swap Direct Source out for ClearAudio+? Maybe it's just me, but I noticed more of a difference with CA+ versus DS and I prefer the former because of it.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Will I lose my music if I install it?

    ReplyDelete
  38. Thanks to this CFW, listening to music on my walkma every day has become even more fun!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, I'm glad that you decided to give it a try, and that you like the sound!

      Delete
  39. Hey I have a problem with BT, it has Bright version, I had U / J / MX3 region set and it doesn't work BT can't connect with laptop and phone, what do you do?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, if the player was already paired to your computer, please remove it and pair it again.

      Otherwise, nothing was changed regarding BT, so it should work as before.

      Delete
    2. ok , Thanks, you are doing a great job. ;)

      Delete
  40. GeordiepeteJanuary 01, 2022

    Can I install this firmware via a Mac computer?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The installers only run on Windows, so you'd need a virtual machine with Windows on your Mac.

      Delete
    2. GeordiepeteJanuary 01, 2022

      OK, thanks. I'm installing a free trial of Parallels.

      Delete
  41. GeordiepeteJanuary 01, 2022

    I couldn't find this info above or elsewhere. Does Walkman One retain NFC connectivity?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, I would've mentioned this as "Missing features" or "Known issues", so A50 will retain NFC with the Walkman One firmware.

      Delete
  42. GeordiepeteJanuary 04, 2022

    Great to have Walkman One, much appreciated. Query: does leaving NFC checked drain the battery more than turning it off? Funny it's even an option. Also, do you know why it's listed in Settings under Receiver Playback Quality? Surely it's a connection methods rather than related to playback quality.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, I'm not sure it matters too much if you leave it on. I also don't necessarily think there's a connection between having NFC on and the playback quality while in the BT Receiver mode.

      Now I'm not an expert, maybe NFC off could lead to a small improvement of the BT connection stability or something. I never thought of that too much, though I don't really use NFC anyway, so I keep it off at all times.

      Delete
  43. I am a bit confused. I read help several times, but still not clear. You have such description in settings fo the SIG parameter
    # 0 for Neutral - between Warm (Midnight) and Bright (Dawn)
    # 1 for Warm - Midnight v2
    # 2 for Bright - Dawn v2.1
    # 3 for WM1Z - the WM1Z stock sound signature

    After changing the SIG in settings i need then to install appropriate External_tunings. Nut here are 3 tunings folder, not 4. Here they are:
    - Bright_external_tuning
    - Neutral_&_Warm_external_tuning
    - WM1Z_external_tuning

    SIG3 is for the WM1Z_external_tuning by default, correct?
    SIG2 is for the Bright_external_tuning, correct?
    So what about SIG0 and SIG1, it is look like they both using the same Neutral_&_Warm_external_tuning? If so - what the difference between SIG0 and SIG1?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, "Neutral" is a combination of "Warm" and "Bright". While the tuning is the same one, there are some other different changes being done internally when you switch to the "Warm" or "Neutral" sound signatures.

      Delete
    2. Ok, thank you for the clarification !

      Delete
  44. Hi, thanks for the great firmware. The installation is very easy and well documented! I have a question for You: I have bought a cable WM-Port to mini-jack 3.5mm with line-out. From the reviews on Amazon I see it should work with NW-A55L (my model). But I don't get any signal from it. Should I do/set something in the walkman to get this line-out signal from WM-Port ?
    Thanks
    Maciek

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, it's mentioned above that line-out doesn't work with this firmware (as the WM1A/Z firmware doesn't have this function).

      You could give a try to the 3.5 port of the player.

      Delete
  45. You mentioned in a previous answer to a comment that if someone wants the improved sound but wants to keep the stock features, they can just use the DMP-A50 FE firmware, but I can't find that on the site. Did you remove it, or is it still available somewhere?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That is no longer available - it doesn't sound nearly as good, and it's not as stable.

      Delete
  46. Is there a way for you to please email me a link to a settings.txt file that I can download that’s set to the warm tuning and has the gain settings set to allow me to have a high sound gain and use balanced sound jack or whatever they’re called. I am asking because I don’t know how to do it or have the correct software to do that. Also I thought if you did this, I could cut & paste and allow it to replace it with one that was already set up it would still work. Please help me if you can.

    ReplyDelete
  47. FrozendiaryJanuary 22, 2022

    Just installed walkman one firmware today and did everything as instructed. It shows everything in the unit information. But I'm not sure if I've noticed much difference, rather I'm really missing the clear audio+ in the stock firmware.

    One more thing I want to mention is that the lineout/usb dac is working perfectly even though it was mentioned in the missing feature section.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Audio transport using the WMC-NHW10 adapter is working, but pure analog line-out from the WM port is not working.

      I'm surprised that you don't notice much difference, when this difference is not really subtle.

      Make sure you also applied the corresponding external tuning - if the tuning would not be installed, you will see a "External tuning not applied" message in the Unit Information menu.

      Delete
    2. I tried ClearAudio+. It really sounds like a very artificial boosting of elements in a song, which I don't personally like.

      It's not really possible to bring it back, as it just doesn't exist in the WM1A/Z firmware, which this mod is based on.

      Delete
    3. FrozendiaryJanuary 22, 2022

      Thank you for the quick response. After I reverted back to the stock I noticed the difference and decided to go back to WM1Z firmware. Pretty great work you did there!

      Delete
    4. Oh, got it. I understand how sometimes we can basically notice/appreciate things when we don't have them anymore.

      I'm glad that you worked it out. I hope you enjoy the sound!

      Delete
    5. Thanks for the updated firmware. When I use my walkman as a bluetooth receiver, ClearAudio+ makes a big difference if I plug my speaker in to it. For headphone or iem usage, I agree that ClearAudio+ makes artificial boosting. But it's okay, combining several settings maybe will improve my crappy speaker :)

      Delete
    6. ClearAudio+ is a combination of different settings/EQ but it needs VPT set to Studio and this custom firmware doesn't have VPT compared to stock firmware.

      See this video where the guy shows how to recreate ClearAudio+ by modifying other settings :
      https://youtu.be/_glw8ZTcAmw?t=901

      Delete
  48. Any different in sound about "normal dac" and *different one" ? Do i just have to change it in the settings file and just reboot to make it work?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. "Different" DAC initialization removes a filter that is normally applied with the "Normal" mode.

      Delete
  49. Hi there, kind of off topic question:
    Is there any specific wall charger you would recommend for charging the nw-a55? Most of the time i don't have a computer available to plug it in and i'm worried connecting the player to any wall charger will do some kind of permanent damage to the battery itself.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, in a device charging scenario, it's the device that regulates how much current it's drawing from a charger, and not the charger "forcing" current into the device.

      Having said that, you can use any 5v charger, even fast charging ones, as those chargers will switch to 9v or 12v charging only if the device knows how to negociaite that with the charger. In these players' case, they have no fast charging capabilities, so they can't switch to 9v or 12 charging or anything like that.

      Delete
  50. Hello, you mention 4 tones, i saw one that says neutral and warm, the midnight, i install that one because its only 1 file with both name warn and neutral, but then i can only see normal in the player nw55 device info, shoudl not say warn or midnight>\?

    ReplyDelete
  51. i only see 3 on the folder, one is together warm and neutral, i want warm, but not neutral, i like a bit bass and the mids a bit elevated and the highs neutral. so its one file,?

    ReplyDelete
  52. i notice that when i click the balance mode that does not exist the tone changed for better, the voices become more thicker.

    ReplyDelete
  53. What is "Line-out functionality"?
    Is there a way I can use your CFW but with the ClearAudio+ feature included? I use it sometimes on some songs.

    ReplyDelete
  54. I am using this firmware for a few weeks now, and all works fine on my A50, apart from one small thing: When used as bluetooth source, the walkman doesn't seem to remember its volume settings. Everytime you disconnect from the receiver, the volume resets. I tried switching from Plus V2 to normal mode, but that didn't help.

    I also have a A40 series walkman with DMP-A40 software, it works fine on this one.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Hello, Mr.Walkman. I would like to ask this question.

    Will there be any firmware in the future that not only keep the CFW file, but will also retain out missing features that we lost with this firmware such as:

    - FM Radio
    - VPT Surround
    - Language Study
    - ClearAudio+
    - Noise cancelling
    - Line-out functionality

    If any of this is possible (which I hope it can) I think that will be amazing.

    I don't know how software works, however I know this is based on the WMZ1 model. I think it would be cool to make a hybrid of the NW-A55 software and the WMZ1 software

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's not possible to add those functions to the WM1A/Z firmware, and also it's not possible to get the WM1A/Z sound on the A55 firmware, so it's either missing functions or sound quality.

      I chose sound quality in this case.

      Delete
  56. I think it would be good to add a button to make the lyrics easier to see.
    Because it has to press the button twice to see the lyrics.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Hi, wm1z sound is very good 👍
    By the way, wm1zm2 has appeared, but are there any plans to develop its sound signature ?
    I expect a good job !!

    ReplyDelete
  58. AnonymousMay 16, 2022

    Hi, I just updated from A50Z, and I seem to be missing the eq presets. Is there a way to add them back? And if not, what were the specific settings for the "exciting" preset?

    ReplyDelete
  59. AnonymousMay 16, 2022

    Is there a chance that we can get a firmware for the A50 that just fixes the album art? I ask because even in Normal mode, the bluetooth connection is unreliable compared to the stock firmware.

    I recently bought some LinkBuds, and on the Walkman One firmware, movement causes disconnections whether the screen is on, or off. But in stock firmware, I cannot reproduce the connectivity drops.

    ReplyDelete
  60. LichtgestaltizeJune 16, 2022

    Hi Mr. Walkman!
    Just one question: Does the StockRevert package works even if my device has japanese firmware? I mean, If I use it, it will revert my device to the japanese firmware again, right?
    Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  61. Is this working whit IOS?

    ReplyDelete
  62. AnonymousJuly 21, 2022

    Can this or another cfw be implemented for BT equalization? To go along hard-wired, tethered headphones, I also have Bluetooth headphones. And the sound signatures I've used when wearing BT headphones are lacking in bass and bottom punch; they lack depth, sounding thin and flat. For me, custom equalization over BT would help a lot.

    ReplyDelete
  63. AnonymousJuly 25, 2022

    Would it be possible to implement a left/right channel balance adjustment option? I’m slightly deaf in my right ear and like the option to re-balance the audio that you get in things like iOS.

    ReplyDelete
  64. Excuse me ,sir. Would you please provide a 1.0 system for A50 Japan Area? My device is A50 International version lack of many functions.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Still having issues with image files? Using album art scraper and mostly grabbing images from Itunes. probably 75/25 show up on walkman

    ReplyDelete
  66. Hi, Mr. Walkman,
    Thanks for your customized firmware, it offeres much more option on settings and visual effects, I like it so much, it works much better than stock firmware. Even I'm not sure will there be update firmware in future, but I have two ideas which i'd like to share with you:
    1. Add "Delete song" option on the right bottom menu, becasue sometimes there are always few songs in album which you don't like.
    2. Show lyric with one botton press. Remove "show lyric" option from menu.
    Please do consider if it makes any sense.
    Thanks again from China, take care!

    ReplyDelete
  67. Hello Mr.Walkman, after reading the FAQ and readme file, I still don't get the difference between normal mode and plus v2 mode. Can you explain for me further? Hope to hear from you soon, thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Is plus v2 mode a alternative of an own saved custom preset?

      Delete
  68. Hi, i think there is a problem with the Bright tuning. I tried installing it but it said that usb cable not detected. No problem with the other tuning tho

    ReplyDelete
  69. ok, simple question. neutral , with bright and warm is just one tuning, or i can switch from bright to warm, i like warm tone, and how to switch between both, is that with power key? and whats the difference in tone with the 1z tuning? thanks

    ReplyDelete
  70. The WM1Z is a mighty powerful one (especially for the Etymotic ER3SE) and really brings out the details in a very prominent manner characterized by specifically more volume as well. I've once used a portable amp with the aforementioned IEM and although it's advertised these in-ears don't necessarily need one, boy do they sound incredibly more detailed once amped (like a ~300$ increase). I feel these tunings bring more volume to the table and, remakably, a much wider soundstage. I've experimented with widening the soundstage on a Sony NW-A105 using JetAudio (amazing app btw) and this tuning does EXACTLY the same yet somewhat more refined and clearer. The overall sound is more...spatial, and the imaging is pretty perfect. I am excited to see what more improvements one can bring to the table, because these sound tunings exceed the walkman's initial price class by far.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Does this firmware support connections for Bluetooth keyboards? I have Chubby Buttons for controlling my audio devices, and would love to be able to use it with my Walkman

    ReplyDelete
  72. Hi, i think there is problem with Bright Tunning, i'm try out WM1Z and Warm Tunning works but when want to install bright tunning it says "Please Plugging to the USB"

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Please read the instructions included in the external tunings folder.

      Delete
  73. How do I get my laptop to download the link? Nothing happens when I try either option. Do I need to make a MEGA account?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. its ok, i tried another browser and it worked, Edge failed me.

      Delete
  74. Hola bueno
    Lo que si me fije es que con los audifonos originales
    Pierde mucha calidad a compracion con el stock original.
    Pero se gana con el bluetooth, tiene una mejora casi como la de cables.
    Pero con los audifonos la pierde

    ReplyDelete
  75. Jumbosinbad360April 23, 2023

    Hi Mr Walkman,
    I just wanted to thank you so much for your hard work on this custom firmware. I only bought a A55L a few hours ago and after installing your firmware ( I went with the WM1Z profile) I'm elated with the sound quality while using my Sony 1000xm4's.

    ReplyDelete
  76. I would be super thankful if you could manage to make the time (and optionally date) display on the screen. My device would be virtually complete this way except for not being able to connect an adaptor to the NW-A50 for usage of an external AMP/DAC. Huge thanks and keep up the good work!

    ReplyDelete
  77. AnonymousJuly 07, 2023

    Any possibility to implement the functionality that the player does not refresh database at every single reboot? With a 512gb uSD this takes several minutes :(

    ReplyDelete
  78. Hi, I maybe be missing something as I can't revert to original stock to install. This shoudn't be hard (I've done it before) but I must be missing something. So I have a NW-A55L with previous DMP-A50 FE firmware. I'm trying to revert to install this more recent, but when i run the first file / step it just reboots the device, seems it starts to update, but just shows the bar barelly rising and then restarts. And it stays on the same firmware. I tried the files that comes with this mod and the old ones. What am I missing here? I've read the instructions and the FAQ, but regarding this step it's basically just run the file. thanks

    ReplyDelete
  79. Hi, I just bought a Japanese model NW-A55 with tuner. After reading a recommendation I installed your A50 firmware but after doing so I coudn't locate the tuner selection button on my screen. If I do Stockrevert the Tuner button appears but then disappears again when I re-install Walkman One A50. Am I doing something wrong or can you not have both?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As it says in bright orange letters at the very top of this page, the FM Tuner is not featured in this firmware.

      Delete
  80. I found some issues. This firmware does not play DSD files. By using NW-A55 as a DAC is insert noises and distord the sound. I return to the original firmare and those issues are not there...

    Rafa

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I read the FAQ, sorry on DSD and MAQ...but the noise and the distortion are there...

      Delete
  81. Hello all!
    1. I am having no luck with 'composer', 'disc number', and 'album artist'. Do these firmware's help with tags on WAV files?

    2. Is it possible for anybody to please share with me the package for 'DMP A50FE' and / or 'DMP A50FEv2'?

    Please advise.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. buy music tag for the pc, its cheap and fixs all

      Delete
  82. Thank you. After 5 years, my walkman is finally in english. Sounds great, BUT it wont play DSD when direct source is selected

    ReplyDelete
  83. Hi, not sure if this is still being updated but would it be possible to display the time on home screen in a future version?

    ReplyDelete