What Hi-Fi? Verdict
An attractive device that compliments Sony Ericsson's extensive range of Walkman-branded music mobiles
Pros
- +
Simple connection and easy to use
- +
wireless music
- +
good compatibility
- +
remote control
Cons
- -
Sound lacks dynamics and top-end control
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If you're a mobile phone with a penchant for playing music, then comparisons with the iPhone are inevitable. But Apple's device isn't on everyone's wish list, and Sony Ericsson has a broad range of music mobiles to choose from, all stamped with the Walkman brand.
The W705 is one such phone. This 3G handset is a stylish 'slider' model, with a 2.4in screen. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity feature, as does DLNA compliancy.
A 4GB Memory Stick Micro comes bundled with the phone and compatibility includes unprotected AAC, MP3 music fomats and MPEG4 video files.
The Media Manager software creates these files and you can either use it to transfer them from your PC or drag and drop.
Colourful, simple menus
As a phone, the W705 is easy to use. The menus are colourful and self-explanatory, while the Shake Control function allows you to change volume or track with a flick of the wrist.
The bundled headphones sound quite bright and bass-heavy, but using a decent pair of buds, the phone sounds rhythmic, detailed and expressive.
Even though you don't enjoy the same level of refinement or tonal balance that you do through the iPhone, the W704 is still a neat mobile handset.
