Sony Group NWZA820 Digital Media Player User Manual NWZ A826 A828 A829
Sony Corporation Digital Media Player NWZ A826 A828 A829
Contents
- 1. Manual 1
 - 2. Manual 2
 - 3. Manual 3
 - 4. Manual 4
 - 5. Manual 5
 
Manual 1

©2008 Sony Corporation 3-289-807-11 (1)
NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
Operation Guide
NWZ-A826 / A828 / A829
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index
Please see Users Manual 4 for FCC and IC manual statements

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
2 
2 
Digital Media Player
NWZ-A826 / NWZ-A828 / NWZ-A829
About the Manuals
The following manuals are included with the player. Additionally, after 
installing software from the supplied CD-ROM, you can refer to the help 
provided within each software.
  Quick Start Guide explains set up and the basic operations, enabling you to 
import songs, videos and photos to a computer, to transfer them to the 
player, and to play them back. It also explains Bluetooth setup and basic 
operations.
  Precautions explains important notes to prevent accidents.
  Troubleshooting explains symptoms, causes and remedies when the player 
has problems.
  This Operation Guide explains standard and advanced features, enabling 
you to make full use of the player and troubleshoot problems.
 Browsing the Operation Guide
To use the buttons in the Operation Guide
Click the buttons located in the upper right of this manual to jump to “Table of 
Contents,” “Home Menu List,” or “Index.”
Jumps to the table of contents
Find what you are looking for from a list of topics in the manual.
Jumps to the home menu list
Find what you are looking for from a list of the option items in the player’s menu.
Jumps to the index
Find what you are looking for from a list of key words mentioned in the manual. 
Continued 
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
3 
3 
 Hints
 You can jump to the indicated page by clicking a page number in the table of contents, in 
the Home menu list, or in the index.
 You can jump to the indicated page by clicking a page reference indication (e.g.,  page 
4) on each page.
 To search for a reference page by keyword, click the “Edit” menu, select the “Search” 
feature of the Adobe Reader to display the navigation frame, type the keyword into the 
Search text box, and click “Search.”
 Once you jump to another page, you can jump to the previous or next page by clicking 
the   or   button located at the bottom of the Adobe Reader screen.
 Operation procedures may differ, depending on your Adobe Reader version.
To change the page layout
The buttons at the bottom of the Adobe Reader screen enable you to select how 
pages are displayed.
 Single Page
Pages are displayed one at a time.
When you scroll, the display changes 
to a previous or succeeding page.
 Continuous
Pages are displayed as a continuous 
roll of pages.
When you scroll, the previous or next 
pages scroll up or down continuously.
 Continuous - Facing
Two pages are displayed side by side 
with each pair part of a continuous 
roll of pages. When you scroll, the 
previous or next pairs of pages scroll 
up or down continuously.
 Facing
Two pages are displayed side by side.
When you scroll, the display changes 
to previous or succeeding pairs of 
pages.
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
4 
4 
Continued 
Table of Contents
Supplied Accessories ............................. 8
About the bundled soware ...........................9
Parts and Controls .............................. 10
Front ................................................................10
Rear ..................................................................12
Player Controls and Screens ............... 13
How to use the 5-way button and screen ....14
Displaying the “Now Playing” Screen .........19
Using the OPTION Button ................. 20
 Playing Music
Searching for Songs (Music Library) ....... 21
Searching for songs by song name ...............21
Searching for songs by album .......................22
Searching for songs by artist .........................23
Searching for songs by genre ........................24
Searching for songs by release year .............25
Searching for songs by folder .......................26
Searching for Songs by Initial Letter 
 .......................................................... 27
Playing a Playlist ................................. 28
Searching for Songs Based on the 
Currently Playing Song ..................... 29
Playing Songs in Random Order 
(Intelligent Shue) ................................. 30
Playing songs released in the same year in 
random order (Time Machine Shue) ............30
Playing all songs in random order ...............32
Displaying the Now Playing Screen Each 
Time the Songs Switch  
(New Song Pop Up) ................................. 33
Deleting Songs from Music Library .... 34
Displaying the Music Option Menu .... 35
   Setting the Music
Setting the Play Mode (Play Mode)......... 37
Setting the Playback Range ................. 39
Setting the Album Display Format ..... 40
Setting to Search by Folders
(/ Button Setting) ............................... 42
Setting the Sound Quality (Equalizer) ... 43
Changing the sound quality .........................43
Customizing sound quality ...........................45
Making the Sound More Vibrant 
(VPT(Surround)).................................... 46
Listening with Clear Stereo Sound  
(Clear Stereo) ........................................ 48
Correcting Sound in the High Range 
(DSEE(Sound Enhancer)) ......................... 49
Adjusting the Volume Level 
(Dynamic Normalizer) ............................. 51
 Playing Videos 
Playing a Video ................................... 52
Setting the Video Orientation ............ 54
Setting the Display of the Video Screen 
 .......................................................... 56
Setting the Zoom Function ................. 57
Playing Videos Continuously ............. 59
Setting the Video List Display Format 
 .......................................................... 60
Playing Only Video Sound .................. 61
Deleting Videos from the Video Library 
 .......................................................... 62
Displaying the Video Option Menu .... 63
 Playing Photos
Displaying a Photo .............................. 64
Setting the Photo Orientation ............ 66
Setting the Display of the Photo Screen 
 .......................................................... 68
Playing a Slide Show ........................... 69
Setting the Slide Show Play Mode ....... 70
Setting the Interval of a Slide Show .... 71
Setting the Photo List Display Format 
 .......................................................... 72
Deleting Photos from Photo Library 
 .......................................................... 73
Displaying the Photo Option Menu .... 74
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
5 
5 
Note
 Depending on the country/region in which you have purchased the player, some models 
may not be available.
 Listening to Songs through Bluetooth 
Communication
Basic Facts on Bluetooth Technology 
 .......................................................... 75
What can the player do with Bluetooth? .....75
What is Bluetooth technology? ....................76
Steps to use Bluetooth communication ......77
Preparing for Bluetooth Communication 
(Pairing) ............................................... 78
What is pairing? .............................................78
Establishing Bluetooth Connection .... 81
Establishing Bluetooth connection using the 
BLUETOOTH button (Quick Connection) ...81
Establishing Bluetooth connection from the 
Home menu .................................................83
About the Bluetooth indicator .....................85
Listening to Songs or Video Sound from 
a Bluetooth Device ............................ 86
Selecting a Device for Quick Connection 
 .......................................................... 88
Checking the Information of Bluetooth 
Devices .............................................. 89
Deleting a Paired Bluetooth Device from 
the Player .......................................... 90
Setting the Sound Quality  
(Sound Quality Mode) ............................. 91
Applying Sound Eects Setting .......... 92
Check the Bluetooth Information of the 
Player (Bluetooth Information) ................ 93
Turning o the Bluetooth Function 
(Bluetooth O) ...................................... 94
Entering Connection Standby  
(Connection Standby) .............................. 95
Precautions on Bluetooth 
communication ................................. 96
Displaying the Bluetooth Option Menu 
 .......................................................... 98
 Settings
Limiting the Volume  
(AVLS (Volume Limit)) ............................ 99
Turning O the Beep Sound ............. 100
Setting a Screensaver Type ................ 101
Setting a Screensaver Time ............... 102
Adjusting the Brightness of the Screen 
(Brightness) ........................................ 103
Setting the Current Time  
(Set Date-Time).................................... 104
Setting the Date Format .................... 106
Setting the Time Format ................... 107
Displaying the Player Information  
(Unit Information) ................................ 108
Resetting to Factory Settings  
(Reset all Settings) ................................ 109
Formatting Memory (Format) ............. 110
Selecting the Display Language ........ 112
Useful Facts
Recharging the Player ....................... 114
Maximizing Battery Life ................... 115
About Data Transferring .................. 116
What are Format and Bit Rate? ......... 120
What is audio format? ................................ 120
What is video format? ................................ 121
What is photo format? ................................ 121
Storing Data ...................................... 122
Upgrading the Player’s Firmware ..... 123
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting ................................ 124
Messages ............................................ 139
Additional Information
Precautions ....................................... 143
About Copyrights ............................. 152
Specications .................................... 154
Index ................................................. 159
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
6 
6 
Home Menu List
You can display the Home menu by pressing and holding the BACK/HOME 
button of the player. The Home menu is the starting point of each function, 
such as playing songs, videos and photos, searching for songs, Bluetooth 
communication, and changing settings.
 Intelligent Shuffle
Time Machine Shuffle ................ 30
Shuffle All ..................................... 32
 Initial Search
Artist ............................................. 27
Album ........................................... 27
Song .............................................. 27
 Bluetooth
Bluetooth Devices .......................83
Connection Standby ...................95
Bluetooth Off ............................... 94
Pairing ..........................................78
   Photo Library ......................... 64
 Music Library
All Songs .......................................21
Album ........................................... 22
Artist ............................................. 23
Genre ............................................ 24
Release Year.................................. 25
Folder ............................................ 26
   Video Library .......................... 52
Continued 
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
7 
7 
   Settings
Music Settings
Play Mode ............................... 37
Playback Range ....................... 39
Equalizer .................................. 43
VPT(Surround) ...................... 46
DSEE(Sound Enhance) ......... 49
Clear Stereo ............................. 48
Dynamic Normalizer ............. 51
Album Display Format .......... 40
New Song Pop Up .................. 33
/Button Setting ................. 42
Video Settings
Zoom Settings ......................... 57
Video Orientation .................. 54
Display ..................................... 56
Continuous Playback ............. 59
Video List Format .................. 60
On-Hold Display .................... 61
Photo Settings
Photo Orientation .................. 66
Display ..................................... 68
Slide Show Repeat .................. 70
Slide Show Interval ................ 71
Photo List Format .................. 72
Bluetooth Settings
Sound Quality Mode ............. 91
Quick Connection .................. 88
Sound Effect Preset ................ 92
Bluetooth Information .......... 93
Common Settings
Unit Information .................. 108
AVLS (Volume Limit) ............ 99
Beep Settings ......................... 100
Screensaver............................ 101
Brightness .............................. 103
Set Date-Time ....................... 104
Date Display Format ............ 106
Time Display Format ........... 107
Reset all Settings ................... 109
Format ................................... 110
Language Settings .....................112
 Playlists ................................... 28
 Now Playing ........................... 19
Table of 
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Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
8 
8 
Supplied Accessories
Please check the accessories in the package.
  Headphones (1)
  USB cable (1)
  Earbuds (Size S,L) (1)
  Attachment (1) 
Use when connecting the player to the optional cradle, etc.
  Stand (1)
  CD-ROM*1 *2 (1) 
 MP3 Conversion Tool 
 Media Manager for WALKMAN 
 Windows Media Player 11 
 Operation Guide (PDF file)
  Quick Start Guide (1)
*1  Do not attempt to play this CD-ROM in an audio CD player.
*2  Depending on the country/region in which you have purchased the player, 
the bundled software may be different.
How to install the earbuds correctly
If the earbuds do not fit your ears correctly, low bass sound may not be heard.
To enjoy better sound quality, change the size of the earbuds or adjust the 
earbud position to sit on your ears comfortably and fit your ears snugly.
At purchase, M size earbuds are installed. If the earbuds do not 
fit your ears, try one of the other supplied sizes, S or L.
When you change the earbuds, turn to install them firmly on the 
headphones to prevent the earbud from detaching and 
remaining in your ear.
About the serial number
The serial number provided for this player is required for customer 
registration. The number is shown on the rear of the player.
Continued 
L
L
Table of 
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Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
9 
9 
About the bundled software
Windows Media Player 11
Transferable files: Music (MP3, WMA), Photo (JPEG)
Windows Media Player can import audio data from CDs and transfer data to 
the player. When you use copyright protected WMA audio files, use this 
software. 
For details on operation, refer to the Help of the software or visit the following 
website.
http://www.support.microsoft.com/
 Hint
 Some computers that already have Windows Media Player 10 installed may encounter 
file limitation (AAC, video files, etc.) that can be transferred by dragging and dropping. 
If you install Windows Media Player 11 from the supplied CD-ROM, you can solve 
this problem, then you can transfer by dragging and dropping again. Before installing 
Windows Media Player 11 on your computer, make sure to check whether your software 
or service corresponds to Windows Media Player 11.
Media Manager for WALKMAN
Transferable files: Music (MP3, WMA/AAC*1, WAV), Photo (JPEG), Video 
(MPEG-4 Simple Profile, AVC (H.264/AVC) Baseline Profile), RSS feed (music, 
video)
Media Manager for WALKMAN can transfer music, photos or videos from the 
computer to the player and import audio data from CDs. Media Manager for 
WALKMAN can also subscribe to RSS feeds and transfer the music and video 
files that have been downloaded from RSS channels.
For details on operation, refer to the Help of the software. Audio files (AAC) or 
videos can be also transferred by dragging and dropping using Windows 
Explorer as well as Media Manager for WALKMAN.
*1 DRM files are not compatible.
MP3 Conversion Tool
ATRAC files need to be converted using bundled MP3 Conversion Tool. 
(Audio data purchased from a music distribution service on the Internet 
cannot be converted.)
Note that when converting ATRAC files to MP3 files, the ATRAC files are not 
deleted. You can also delete the ATRAC files by configuring the setting.
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
10 
10 
Parts and Controls
Front
BACK/HOME button*1
Press to go up one list screen level, or 
to return to the previous menu.
Press and hold the BACK/HOME 
button to display the Home menu 
( page 13).
  Headphone jack
For connecting the headphones. 
Insert the jack pin until it clicks into 
place. If the headphones are 
connected improperly, the sound 
from the headphones may not sound 
right.
WM‑PORT jack
Use this jack to connect the supplied 
USB cable, or optional peripheral 
devices, such as supported 
accessories for the WM-PORT.
5‑way button*2
Starts playback and enables 
navigation of the player’s on-screen 
menus ( page 14).
Display
The display may vary, depending on 
functions ( page 13).
Bluetooth antenna (aerial)
Bluetooth indicator
Indicates the status of the Bluetooth 
function 
( page 85)
.
VOL +*2/– button
Adjusts the volume.
BLUETOOTH button
Press and hold to turn on or off the 
Bluetooth function, and to establish 
or to end Bluetooth connection.
Continued 
Table of 
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Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
11 
11 
HOLD switch
You can protect the player against 
accidental operation by using the 
HOLD switch when carrying it. By 
sliding the HOLD switch to the 
direction of the arrow , all 
operation buttons are disabled. If you 
slide the HOLD switch to the 
opposite position, the HOLD 
function is released.
OPTION/PWR OFF button*1
Displays the option menu ( page 
20, 35, 63, 74, 98).
If you press and hold the OPTION/
PWR OFF button, screen turns off 
and the player enters standby mode. 
If you press any button while the 
player is in standby mode, the “Now 
Playing” screen, etc., appears and the 
player is ready for operation. 
Furthermore, if you leave the player 
in standby mode for about a day, the 
player turns completely off 
automatically. If you press any button 
when the player is turned off, the 
start up screen appears first, then the 
“Now Playing” screen appears.
Note
 The player consumes battery power 
very slightly even when it is in standby 
mode. Therefore, the player might 
turn completely off in a short time, 
depending on the power remaining in 
the battery.
Strap hole
Used to attach a strap (sold 
separately). You can attach the 
supplied stand and a strap at the same 
time 
( page 12)
.
*1 Functions marked with   on the 
player are activated if you press and hold 
the corresponding buttons.
*2 There are tactile dots. Use them to help 
with button operations.
Continued 
Table of 
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Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
12 
12 
Rear
RESET button
Resets the player when you press the 
RESET button with a small pin, etc. 
( page 124).
Accessory hole (type I)
Used to attach the supplied stand or 
the optional accessories.
Using the supplied stand
You can stand up the player using the 
supplied stand.
Notes
 When standing the player with the 
stand, be careful not to press down or 
knock the player.
 Stand up the player horizontally as 
shown. Do not stand it up vertically.
Table of 
Contents
Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
13 
13 
Player Controls and Screens
Use the 5-way button and the BACK/HOME button to navigate through 
screens, play songs, videos and photos, and to change the player’s settings.
The Home menu appears when you press and hold the BACK/HOME button.
The diagram below shows how the screen changes when you press various 
operation buttons. For example, the player’s screen changes as shown below 
when you select “Music Library”– “Album” from the Home menu.
Continued 
Home menu
Music Library
Album list
Song list
Now Playing screen
Select   (Music Library), and press 
the  button.
Select “Album,” and 
press the  button.
Select your desired album, and 
press the  button.
Select your desired song, and 
press the  button.
Playback begins.
Press the BACK/
HOME button.
Press the BACK/
HOME button.
Press the BACK/
HOME button.
Press the BACK/
HOME button.
Press and hold the 
BACK/HOME button.
Press and hold the 
BACK/HOME button.
Press and hold the 
BACK/HOME button.
Press and hold the 
BACK/HOME button.
Table of 
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Menu
Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
14 
14 
How to use the 5‑way button and screen
The 5-way button performs different functions on 
the list screens, on the thumbnail screens, and on 
the “Now Playing” screen.
*1 There are tactile dots. Use them to help with button 
operations.
How to use the 5‑way button on the list screen
Music
Index
The initials of song and album, etc., names in the list section appear.
List
Information area
The information of the song, icons, etc., appears ( page 18).
Buttons Description
Confirms the item of the list.
Press and hold to play back all songs in the selected item.
/Moves the cursor up or down.
Press and hold to scroll up or down faster.
/Changes screens, or, when an index is displayed, moves the cursor 
left or right to display a list of items.
Displays the previous or next screen of the list, when the index is 
not displayed.
List
Video
Buttons Description
Confirms the item of the list.
/Moves the cursor up or down.
Press and hold to scroll up or down faster.
/Displays the previous or next screen of the list.
Continued 
 (play/pause/
confirm) button*1
/ buttons
/ buttons
Table of 
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Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
15 
15 
List
Photo
Buttons Description
Confirms the item of the list.
Press and hold to play back a slide show of photos in the selected 
item.
/Moves the cursor up or down.
Press and hold to scroll up or down faster.
/Displays the previous or next screen of the list.
How to use the 5‑way button on the thumbnail*1 screen
Thumbnails
Buttons Description
Displays the song list of the selected item during music operation, 
or displays the selected item during photo operation. Starts play 
back of the selected item during video operation.
/Moves the cursor up or down.
Press and hold to scroll up or down faster.
/Move the cursor left or right.
Press and hold to move the cursor left or right faster and then 
scroll up or down through the thumbnail screens.
*1 Thumbnail refers to a reduced size image of a piece of cover art, one scene of a video, or 
a photo. To display thumbnails for albums, see  page 40; for video files, see  page 
60.
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
16 
16 
How to use the 5‑way button on the “Now Playing” screen
Music
Song name
Artist name
Album title
Genre
Playing status
Release year
Buttons Description
Starts song playback. When playback starts,  appears on the 
display, and if the  button is pressed again,  appears and 
playback pauses.*1 This pause and resume feature is available only 
on the “Now Playing” screen.
/Press the / button to display the cursor and scroll through the 
displayed items. When genre, album title, or other characteristic is 
selected by the cursor, press the  button to display a list of 
artists matching the genre of the currently playing song or the song 
lists of the album that is currently playing.
When the / button is set to “Folder +/–” ( page 42)
Starts play back from the first song of the next folder*2, the current 
folder or the previous folder. Press the  button to the skip the first 
song of the current folder or the previous folder. Press the  button 
to skip to the first song of the next folder.
/Moves playback to the beginning of the current, previous, or next 
song when pressed once or repeatedly. Press and hold to scan a 
playing song backwards or forwards quickly.
*1 If there is no operation for more than 3 minutes while a song is paused, the screen turns 
off and the player enters standby mode.
*2 The folder units that the player skips vary by the list before the song list. For example, if 
you select a song in the following order; “Artist”- album list - song list, you can search 
for songs by skipping albums.
Continued 
Table of 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
17 
17 
Playing status
Video
When you change the display orientation to horizontal, the /// button 
orientation and functions will also be changed.
Buttons Description
Starts video playback. When playback starts,  appears on the 
display, and if the  button is pressed again,  appears and 
playback pauses.*1 You can play and pause videos only from the 
“Now Playing” screen of the video.
/Press the / button to find the beginning of the next, previous or 
the currently playing video.*2
/Press the / button to scan a playing video backwards or 
forwards quickly.
During playback, the speed of fast forward/backward changes 
through 3 levels by repeatedly pressing the / button ((×10), 
(×30), (×100)). By pressing and holding, the speed increases 1 level, 
and by releasing, returns to the normal playback. 
While pausing playback, the scene moves forward or backward 
slightly by pressing the / button.
*1 If there is no operation for more than 3 minutes while a video is paused, the screen 
turns off and the player enters standby mode.
*2 If “Continuous Playback” is set to “On,” you can find the beginning of the previous or 
next video from the currently playing video ( page 53).
Continued 
Table of 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
18 
18 
Photo
Playing status
When you change the display orientation to horizontal, the /// button 
orientation and functions will also be changed.
Buttons Description
  appears on the display and a slide show starts. If the  
button is pressed again,  appears and playback pauses.*1
/Displays the previous or next photo.
*1 When playing songs while a slide show is paused, the screen goes dark if there is no 
operation for the period set in “Screensaver Timing” ( page 102). When the song 
playback and a slide show accompanying it are paused, and there is no operation for 
more than 3 minutes, the screen turns off and the player enters standby mode.
About the information area
The icons, shown in the table below, appears in the information area. The icons vary by the 
playback status, settings or the screens.
For details about the icons, see each reference pages.
Icons description
, , , , 
,  , 
,  ,  ,  , etc
The icons of the playback status
  Play back, Pause, Fast forward/backward, Move to the beginning of 
the next, current or previous song
  Go forward /backward slightly or quickly ( page 53)
,  ,  ,  The icons of the song title, the artist name, the video title or the photo 
title
,  , etc
The icons of the play mode
  The play mode is set to “Repeat” or “Shuffle” ( page 38). “Slide 
Show Repeat” is set to “On” ( page 70)
The icons of the playback range
  The playback range is set to “Selected Range” ( page 39)
, etc The icons of the sound effect setting ( page 44)
, 
The icons of the video setting
 “Continuous Playback” is set to “On” ( page 59)
 “Zoom Settings” is set to “Auto” or “Full” ( page 57) 
The icon of the remaining of the battery ( page 114)
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
19 
19 
Displaying the “Now Playing” Screen
You can quickly display “Now Playing” screen from various screens.
5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Now Playing
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Now Playing), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
Detailed information about the currently playing content file appears.
 Hints
 You can display the “Now Playing” screen by pressing the OPTION/PWR OFF button to 
select “Now Playing.”
 When playing videos or photos, you can select “Go to the song playback screen” from 
the option menu to display the song playback screen.
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
20 
20 
Using the OPTION Button
You can change various settings of each function when you press the OPTION/
PWR OFF button. The OPTION/PWR OFF button is useful since you can 
display the setting screen immediately without selecting setting items from the 
 (Settings) menu of the Home menu.
5-way button
OPTION/PWR OFF button
  Press the OPTION/PWR OFF button.
The option menu appears.
  Press the /// button to select the item, and then press the 
button to conrm.
The screen of the selected setting item appears or the selected command is 
performed. The items of the option menu differ, depending on the screen 
on which you press the OPTION/PWR OFF button.
For details, see the following pages.
“Displaying the Music Option Menu” ( page 35)
“Displaying the Video Option Menu” ( page 63)
“Displaying the Photo Option Menu” ( page 74)
“Displaying the Bluetooth Option Menu” ( page 98)
 Hint
 When there are multiple menus, display other menus by pressing the / button.
Table of 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
 Playing Music
21 
21 
Searching for Songs 
(Music Library)
Songs transferred by Windows Explorer, or another transfer capable software 
can be played back on the player.
You can search for songs by title of songs, albums, artist, and genre, etc.
Music Library
5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Searching for songs by song name
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Music Library), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The “Music Library” screen appears.
Press the /// button to select “All Songs,” and then press the 
 button to conrm.
The song list appears.
Press the /// button to select a song, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The song you selected starts to play back and the playback of songs 
continues in order.
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
22 
22 
Searching for songs by album
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Music Library), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The “Music Library” screen appears.
Press the /// button to select “Album,” and then press the  
button to conrm.
The album list appears.
Press the /// button to select an album, and then press the 
 button to conrm.
The song list for the selected album appears.
Press the /// button to select a song, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The song you selected starts to play back and the playback of songs 
continues in order.
 Hints
 You can play all songs of a list item by selecting the item from the list and pressing and 
holding the  button in step .
 You can change the display format of the album list ( page 40).
 You can select the playback range of songs ( page 39).
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
23 
23 
Searching for songs by artist
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Music Library), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The “Music Library” screen appears.
Press the /// button to select “Artist,” and then press the  
button to conrm.
The artist list appears.
Press the /// button to select an artist, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The album list for the selected artist appears.
Press the /// button to select an album, and then press the 
 button to conrm.
The song list for the selected album appears.
Press the /// button to select a song, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The song you selected starts to play back and the playback of songs 
continues in order.
 Hints
 You can play all songs of a list item by selecting the item from the list and pressing and 
holding the  button in steps  to .
 You can change the display format of the album list ( page 40).
 You can select the playback range of songs ( page 39).
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
24 
24 
Searching for songs by genre
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Music Library), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The “Music Library” screen appears.
Press the /// button to select “Genre,” and then press the  
button to conrm.
The genre list appears.
Press the /// button to select a genre, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The artist list for the selected genre appears.
Press the /// button to select an artist, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The album list for the selected artist appears.
Press the /// button to select an album, and then press the 
 button to conrm.
The song list for the selected album appears.
Press the /// button to select a song, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The song you selected starts to play back and the playback of songs 
continues in order.
 Hints
 You can play all songs of a list item by selecting the item from the list and pressing and 
holding the  button in steps  to .
 You can change the display format of the album list ( page 40).
 You can select the playback range of songs ( page 39).
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
25 
25 
Searching for songs by release year
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Music Library), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The “Music Library” screen appears.
Press the /// button to select “Release Year,” and then press 
the  button to conrm.
The list of release years appears.
Press the /// button to select a year, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The artist list for the selected release year appears.
Press the /// button to select an artist, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The song list for the artist, selected from the release year, appears.
Press the /// button to select a song, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The song you selected starts to play back and the playback of songs 
continues in order.
 Hints
 You can play all songs of a list item by selecting the item from the list and pressing and 
holding the  button in steps  to .
 You can select the playback range of songs ( page 39).
 Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
26 
26 
Searching for songs by folder
When you transfer data to the “MUSIC” folder by dragging and dropping in 
Windows Explorer, up to the 8th level under the “MUSIC” folder will appear 
and can be played back. Even if you use another transfer capable software for 
transferring songs, you can still search for songs by folder.
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Music Library), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The “Music Library” screen appears.
Press the /// button to select “Folder,” and then press the  
button to conrm.
The folder list or the song appears.
Press the /// button to select a folder or song, and then press 
the  button to conrm.
When you select a folder in step , the song or folder list(s) appear. When 
you select a song in step , the playback screen appears, then the song 
playback starts. Repeat step  if necessary until the desired song appears. 
The song you selected starts to play back and the playback of songs 
continues in order.
 Hint
 You can select the playback range of songs ( page 39).
Notes
 Up to 8 folder levels can be recognized.
 You cannot play all songs of a folder even if you select a folder from the list and press 
and hold the  button in step .
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
27 
27 
Searching for Songs by Initial Letter
You can search for songs by the initial letter of the artist name, album title, or 
song name.
Initial Search
5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Initial Search), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The list of categories you can search appears.
Press the /// button to select a category, and then press the 
 button to conrm.
A screen appears that enables you to select a character.
Press the /// button to select an initial character, and then 
press the  button to conrm.
When the search finishes, the results are displayed.
When you select “Artist” or “Album,” you can narrow the search results and 
select a specific song.
When “Artist” or “Album” is selected and you press and hold the  
button, all songs on the item are played.
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
28 
28 
Playing a Playlist
You can play lists of songs (playlists). Also, you can create playlists using the 
supplied Windows Media Player 11, or another transfer capable software. 
However, some playlists may not be recognized by the player, depending on 
software. For details on operation, refer to the Help or maker of the software.
Playlists 5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Playlists), and then press the 
 button to conrm.
The list of playlists appears.
Press the /// button to select a playlist, and then press the 
 button to conrm.
The song list appears.
Press the /// button to select a song, and then press the  
button to conrm.
The song you selected starts to play back and the playback of songs 
continues in order.
Table of 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
29 
29 
Searching for Songs Based on the Currently 
Playing Song
You can search for other songs, albums, and artists by the song information of 
the currently playing song. To use this function, the “/ Button Setting” 
needs to be set to “Direct Search” ( page 42).
5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Now Playing
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Now Playing), and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The “Now Playing” screen of the currently playing song appears.
Press the  button to display a cursor and select an item in which 
you want to search for songs, and then press the  button to 
conrm.
The following lists appear, depending on the item you selected.
 “Artist”: The album list of the currently playing artist.
 “Album”: The song list of the currently playing album.
 “Genre”: An artist list in the same genre as the currently playing artist.
 “Release Year”: An artist list from the same release year as the currently 
playing song.
Table of 
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Index

NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
30 
30 
Playing Songs in Random Order 
(Intelligent Shue)
The player offers 2 different random modes (also known as shuffle play) .
Intelligent 
Shuffle
5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Playing songs released in the same year in random order  
(Time Machine Shuffle)
The player randomly selects a release year and plays all transferred songs of 
that year in random order.
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Intelligent Shue), and 
then press the  button to conrm.
The screen used to select a shuffle mode appears.
Press the /// button to select “Time Machine Shue,” and 
then press the  button to conrm.
A release year is randomly selected, the songs of that year are shuffled, and 
playback starts.
 Hints
 When you start “Intelligent Shuffle” play, the play mode changes to “Shuffle” or 
“Shuffle&Repeat” ( page 38). Even if you cancel “Intelligent Shuffle,” the “Shuffle” or 
“Shuffle&Repeat” setting for the play mode is kept.
 When you start the “Time Machine Shuffle” play, the playback range is set to “Selected 
Range” ( page 39). Even if you cancel “Time Machine Shuffle,” the setting of the 
“Selected Range” is kept.
 “Intelligent Shuffle” play is automatically canceled by any of the following operations:
 Starting playback of a song by selecting it from the “Music Library,” etc.
 Changing the play mode.
 Changing the playback range.
 Playing a video.
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
31 
31 
Notes
 While the animation that appears when the player is selecting a release year is displayed, 
the controls of the player cannot be operated.
 Songs with no release year data are not selected in “Time Machine Shuffle” play and are 
not played.
 A shuffle play of all songs begins if none of the songs on the player have a release year 
assigned to them.
 If all the songs on the player that have a release year assigned have the same release year, 
or some of songs have the same release year and the rest of them have no release year 
assigned, the animation that appears while release year is being selected is not displayed 
and playback starts.
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
32 
32 
Playing all songs in random order
All the songs stored on the player are played in random order.
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Intelligent Shue), and 
then press the  button to conrm.
The screen used to select a shuffle mode appears.
Press the /// button to select “Shue All,” and then press the 
 button to conrm.
All songs are shuffled, and playback starts.
 Hints
 When you start “Intelligent Shuffle” play, the play mode changes to “Shuffle” or 
“Shuffle&Repeat” ( page 38). Even if you cancel “Intelligent Shuffle,” the “Shuffle” or 
“Shuffle&Repeat” setting for the play mode is kept.
 “Intelligent Shuffle” play is automatically canceled by any of the following operations:
 Starting playback of a song by selecting it from the “Music Library,” etc.
 Changing the play mode.
 Changing the playback range.
 Playing a video.
Table of 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
33 
33 
Displaying the Now Playing Screen Each Time the 
Songs Switch 
(New Song Pop Up)
If you set the screensaver to “Clock” or “Blank” ( page 101) and there is no 
operation for a while, the screen changes to the clock display or blank screen. 
However, if you set “New Song Pop Up” to “On,” the screen turns on 
automatically whenever a song changes to another song.
Settings 5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Settings), and then press 
the  button to conrm.
Press the /// button to select “Music Settings,” and then press 
the  button to conrm.
The list of “Music Settings” options appears.
Press the /// button to select “New Song Pop Up,” and then 
press the  button to conrm.
Press the /// button to select “On,” and then press the  
button to conrm.
The “Now Playing” screen appears whenever a song switches to another 
song. 
If you do not want to display the “Now Playing” screen
Select “Off ” in step . In this case, the “Now Playing” screen does not appear 
when a song switches to another song.
Note
 This function is deactivated when displaying photos during song playback.
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
34 
34 
Deleting Songs from Music Library
When you delete songs form “Music Library,” use the software you used to 
transfer the songs, or Windows Explorer.
For details about using the software, see the Help of the software.
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
35 
35 
Displaying the Music Option Menu
You can display the Music option menu by pressing the OPTION/PWR OFF 
button on a list screen (including the thumbnail screen), such as a song list, or 
on the music “Now Playing” screen. From the Music option menu, various 
settings of music are available.
The option items shown on the option menu vary, depending on the screen 
from which you display the option menu.
Option items appear on the list screen
Option items Description/reference page
Now Playing Displays the “Now Playing” screen.
Detailed Information Displays the detailed information of a song, 
such as playing time, audio format, bit rate, and 
file name.
Play Plays back all songs in the song list.
Album Display Format Selects the album list format ( page 40).
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
  Playing Music
36 
36 
Option items appear on the “Now Playing” screen
Option items Description/reference page
Play Mode Sets the play mode ( page 37).
Playback Range Sets the playback range ( page 39).
Equalizer Customizes the sound quality ( page 43).
VPT(Surround) Customizes the “VPT(Surround)” settings ( 
page 46).
Cover Art*1Displays a cover art.
Detailed Information*2Displays the detailed information of a song, 
such as playing time, audio format, bit rate, and 
file name.
/ Button Setting Sets the operation of the / button to “Direct 
Search” or “Folder +/–“ ( page 42).
Clock Display Displays the current time ( page 101).
*1 “Cover Art” screen
While the cover art screen is displayed, you can move songs to the previous or the next one by pressing the / button.
 If the songs do not have cover art information, the default picture of the player will be 
displayed.
 The cover art only appears if the cover art information is included. You can set cover art 
using the supplied Windows Media Player 11, or another transfer capable software for 
setting cover art. For details on operation, refer to the Help or maker of the software. 
The cover art may not be displayed, depending on the cover art file format.
*2 “Detailed Information” screen
When you display this screen from the “Now Playing” screen, you can move songs to the previous or the next one 
by pressing the / button.
Playback time
File format
Bit rate
Copyrighted files
While playing back variable bit rate songs, “VBR” is shown. The displayed playback time and the progress bar are approximate.
File name
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
    Setting the Music
   Setting the Music
37 
37 
Setting the 
Play Mode (Play Mode)
The player offers a variety of play modes, including random play and selected 
repeat play. 
Settings 5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears. 
Press the /// button to select   (Settings), and then press 
the  button to conrm. 
Press the /// button to select “Music Settings,” and then press 
the  button to conrm.
The list of “Music Settings” options appears.
Press the /// button to select “Play Mode,” and then press the 
 button to conrm.
The list of play modes appears.
Press the /// button to select a play mode ( page 38), and 
then press the  button to conrm.
The list of “Music Settings” options reappears.
 Hint
 You can also select the play mode from the “Now Playing” screen. Press the OPTION/
PWR OFF button, and select “Play Mode” from the option menu.
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
    Setting the Music
38 
38 
The list of play modes
The playback contents differ, depending on the setting of the playback range 
( page 39).
Play mode type/icon description
Normal/No icon The songs within the playback range are played back in the 
song list order.
Repeat/  The songs within the playback range are played back in the 
song list order and the playback repeats.
Shuffle/  The songs within the playback range are played back in random 
order.
Shuffle&Repeat/  The songs within the playback range are played back in random 
order and the playback repeats.
Repeat 1 Song/  The current song or the song selected from a song list is played 
back repeatedly.
Note
 When you start “Intelligent Shuffle” play, the play mode changes to “Shuffle” or 
“Shuffle&Repeat.”
Table of 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
    Setting the Music
39 
39 
Setting the Playback Range
You can set the playback range of songs
Settings 5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Settings), and then press 
the  button to conrm.
Press the /// button to select “Music Settings,” and then press 
the  button to conrm.
The list of “Music Settings” options appears.
Press the /// button to select “Playback Range,” and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The screen used to select the playback range appears.
Press the /// button to select the playback range, and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The player offers 2 types of playback range.
 “All Range”: Plays back all the songs in the “Music Library.” When you 
want to play back albums in the “Music Library” in the song list order, 
select this.
 “Selected Range”:   appears on the display, and plays back songs only in 
the lists from which the playback starts (album list, artist list, etc.). 
(Default setting)
 Hint
 You can select the playback range of songs from the “Now Playing” screen. Press the 
OPTION/PWR OFF button, and then select “Playback Range” from the option menu.
Note
 When “Time Machine Shuffle” play starts, the playback range is automatically set to 
“Selected Range.”
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
    Setting the Music
40 
40 
Setting the Album Display Format
The player offers 3 types of album list formats “Title Only,” “Title & Cover Art,” 
and “Cover Art Only.”
Settings 5-way button
BACK/HOME 
button
Notes
 The cover art only appears if the cover art information is included. You can set cover art 
using the supplied Windows Media Player 11, or another transfer capable software for 
setting cover art. For details on operation, refer to the Help or maker of the software.
 Some cover art is not displayed, depending on its file format.
Press and hold the BACK/HOME button until the Home menu 
appears.
Press the /// button to select   (Settings), and then press 
the  button to conrm.
Press the /// button to select “Music Settings,” and then press 
the  button to conrm.
The list of “Music Settings” options appears.
Press the /// button to select “Album Display Format,” and 
then press the  button to conrm.
The list of album display formats appears.
Press the /// button to select the display format, and then 
press the  button to conrm.
The player offers 3 types of formats.
“Title Only” “Title & Cover Art” (Default setting) “Cover Art Only”
Continued 
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NWZ-A826 / A 828 / A829.GB.3-289-807-11(1)
    Setting the Music
41 
41 
 Hint
 You can also select the album display format on the album list screen. Press the 
OPTION/PWR OFF button on the album list screen, and select “Album Display Format” 
from the option menu.
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Index