Sony WM-FX473

The WM-FX473 and WM-FX475 were AM/FM stereo radio cassette player Walkmans manufactured in 1998 by the Sony Corporation. Both units were identical except the FX475 model had Dolby noise reduction function. This multi-page article looks into the features and specifications of the FX473 model.

• Auto Reverse with direction control
• Mega Bass
• Normal and Cr02/Metal selector switch
• AM/FM tuner
• FM Mono/Stereo switch
• 20 radio presets
• LCD panel
• Clock
• Automatic Volume Limiter System (AVLS)
• Dimensions: 112.5 mm × 87.3 mm × 35.2 mm
• Mass: 235 g (including batteries and cassette)

Review

This was a much cheaper and basic version without Dolby noise reduction. The case is all plastic and the back panel is secured by the use of claws. The tape transport mechanism has a metal chassis, but it is much smaller and lighter with minimal screws and metal parts. The main flywheel pulleys are plastic together with a plethora of plastic cogwheels driven by a disc motor. The pushbutton mechanism consists of metal parts which at least gives it a more robust feel when using the tape control buttons.

The electronic engineering consists of the LA4582C audio amplifier IC by the Sanyo Corporation. It provides the pre and power amplification functionality including built-in channel switching. The LB1979 IC is the driver for a 3-phase disc motor, whilst the TA8122AF is an AM/FM tuner IC and one of the best single chip radio solutions manufactured by the Toshiba Corporation. The sound quality and radio reception are good but it all depends upon the quality of your headphones. Providing you can get the back cover off without breaking any plastic claws, the drive belt is fairly simple to replace by an engineer or an experienced hobbyist.

Price/eBay

This Walkman sometimes comes up for sale, and it is worth keeping in mind that it is a very basic player from the late 90s. A broken unit on its own with scratches will not be worth much, however one in mint condition with its headphones, box and accessories, is collectable and worth some money on a good day. The one I managed to find had extensive PCB damage caused by battery electrolyte, and hence it was only good for spare parts.

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