This is the second Sony Walkman product I have owned. The first was an analog device which I lost recently; and now this one, with a digital tuner. In both cases, I found the reception to be poor. The headphone cord seems to serve as part of the tuner and must be fully outstretched to optimize (and I use the term loosely) the reception. Needless to say it is never in this condition. Even rotating the headphone jack in its socket will change the reception (it will alternate between bad and really bad).
There is excessive static and noise through which you must try to discern the program. I tried it at the YMCA, in the exercise room where there are three TVs which you can watch. You listen to each TV by tuning in the FM signal which is being broadcast from the TV you wish to watch. In all three cases, the radio found the signal but delivered more static than program. And this at a distance of only a few yards. Local FM stations which I can easily listen to in my car sound like they are coming from two states away on the Sony. Luckily, the store allowed me to return it for a refund. Whew! I will be more careful next time (and I am making a mental note to avoid Sony personal audio products).