1993 Sony WM-FX28

The Sony WM-FX28 was a portable cassette player that came in a black color and boasted AM/FM radio capabilities, which was manufactured by the well-known company Sony and officially came into existence in 1993.

Background

The WM-FX28 made its entrance during a transitional phase for personal audio devices, when cassette players were still widely regarded as common but compact discs had started making significant inroads into the market. Sony, which had already established itself as a heavyweight in the Walkman lineup since the late 1970s, strategically positioned this particular model as a mid-tier option—not the absolute cheapest available, but certainly far from being the priciest option on the market. It was produced in Japan during the time period that spanned from 1993 to 1994, a timeframe when the company’s focus was gradually shifting toward newer formats, which might provide some explanation as to why the FX28 lacked certain high-end features that were present in its more advanced siblings.

With a price tag hovering around 139 DM (Deutsche Mark), which was roughly equivalent to $85 USD at that particular time, it aimed to attract budget-conscious buyers who still desired dual functionality. Unlike the earlier Walkman models, which primarily prioritized cassette playback alone, the inclusion of radio tuning in the FX28 catered to listeners who wanted a bit of variety in their audio experience without the need to carry multiple devices. It shared various design cues with models such as the WM-FX23 and WM-FX32, although those models often featured incremental upgrades—such as better battery life and sleeker profiles—that effectively set them apart from the FX28.

Features

The most notable feature of the FX28 was its hybrid design, which combined a cassette player-recorder with the capabilities of AM/FM radio. It operated on two AA batteries, which provided approximately 10 to 12 hours of playback time, depending on the specific usage patterns. The unit’s black plastic casing was durable but, at the same time, not particularly flashy, featuring a rectangular shape that fit comfortably within most pockets. A few details stood out in the design: the bright orange headphones included in the packaging added a pop of color, while the sliding volume and tuning knobs had a tactile, albeit slightly stiff, feel that some users may have appreciated.

• Dual cassette functionality: capable of both play and record
• AM band: 522–1611 kHz, FM band: 87.5–108 MHz
• 3.5mm headphone jack compatible with standard audio accessories
• Battery indicator light to provide a warning of low power

One quirky aspect of the device was the absence of a built-in speaker, meaning that the use of headphones was mandatory for private listening experiences. The radio antenna, which was a thin wire that extended from the headphones, sometimes struggled to pick up signals in low-signal areas—a common complaint associated with portable radios of that era. In comparison to pricier models, the FX28 did not include Dolby noise reduction features, which meant that tapes could occasionally sound a bit hissy; however, this was not necessarily a dealbreaker for casual users who were simply looking for a functional audio device.

Popularity and Legacy

The FX28 found a specific niche among teenagers and commuters who genuinely appreciated its no-frills approach to personal audio. Although it was not a flagship model in the lineup, its affordability made it a familiar sight in school backpacks and on public transit systems. Parents, however, occasionally expressed hesitation regarding the cost—139 DM was indeed enough to purchase several cassettes or perhaps even a video game—and some opted to go for cheaper, radio-only alternatives that were available. Nonetheless, Sony’s reputation for reliability helped the FX28 sell steadily, if not spectacularly, throughout its two-year production run.

By the late 1990s, the rapid rise of portable CD players, such as the Discman, overshadowed cassette-based devices, relegating the FX28 to closeout sales and secondhand bins that were often overlooked. Today, it is remembered less for its innovation and more for being a dependable workhorse in the realm of personal audio. Online forums occasionally mention it as a “starter” Walkman for collectors, although it does not possess the cult status enjoyed by models like the WM-DD or WM-EX series. One could say that it is the Honda Civic of personal stereos: unglamorous, yet it effectively gets the job done.

Video Reviews and Commercials

The video demonstrates how to replace belts on a Sony WM FX Walkman. The presenter explains the disassembly process, pointing out the location of tabs on the device’s interior. He guides viewers through carefully removing the back cover by identifying and releasing specific tabs, noting some are marked with arrows to indicate their position.

Availability and Collectability

As of 2025, the FX28 circulates primarily in online marketplaces such as eBay and Etsy, where sellers typically list it at prices ranging between $40 and $90 USD, depending on the condition of the unit. Refurbished units often include new belts—a commonly recognized failure point—and cleaned tape heads to enhance functionality. “B-grade” models, which are noted for cosmetic flaws such as scratches or faded buttons, sell at a discounted price. The bright orange headphones are rarely included with the units, as many were lost or broken over the years, making complete sets significantly rarer in the marketplace.

Collectors tend to gravitate toward units that still possess their original packaging or documentation, which can effectively double the price of the item. Shipping costs from the UK, Germany, or Japan can add to the overall expense, especially for buyers located in regions like India or Finland, where vintage electronics may face additional import taxes. Replacement parts, such as belts or battery covers, remain accessible thanks to third-party suppliers, although original components are gradually dwindling in availability. Unlike some other Walkman models, the FX28 has not experienced a price surge similar to that of retro gaming consoles, but its steady availability suggests that it is holding its own within the nostalgia market.

The collectability of the device hinges on its inherent simplicity. There exists no Bluetooth connectivity, no streaming applications—just basic playback and tuning capabilities. For those who lived through the 1990s, it serves as a tactile reminder of the days of mixtapes and radio dedications, while younger buyers often treat it as an intriguing curiosity. In either case, its lasting appeal lies in its uncomplicated design, a trait that feels almost rebellious in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.