# RHYTHM: The Walkman the Smartphone Era Overlooked A dedicated music player designed for uninterrupted listening. - **Source:** [Yanko Design](https://brifing.si/source/41d28791-ef47-4e0b-a40a-2a5efca0c11b) - **Published:** 2026-09-12 - **Topic:** [Product Management](https://brifing.si/c/product) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1da71760-789c-4c34-b058-eea7b9a0eb88 ## Introduction to RHYTHM RHYTHM is a dedicated digital audio player designed to provide an uninterrupted music listening experience. Unlike smartphones, which fragment music with notifications, RHYTHM focuses solely on playing music. It uses high-quality audio components, including an ESS SABRE DAC and a discrete amplifier stage, ensuring superior sound quality. The device is built from scratch, emphasizing a single task: delivering music without distractions. ## Superior Audio Components RHYTHM employs an ESS SABRE DAC, commonly found in high-end hi-fi equipment, paired with a discrete amplifier stage. This setup ensures that the audio signal remains pure and uncompromised. The device uses an ESP32-S3 for file parsing and processing, while the sound reproduction is handled by dedicated hardware. This separation of tasks guarantees that the audio quality is not affected by other functions, providing a pristine listening experience. ## Dual Headphone Outputs RHYTHM features two independent, actively buffered 3.5mm headphone outputs, each driven by its own dedicated amplifier chip. This allows two people to listen simultaneously with different headphones, each receiving a full, uncompromised signal. The design eliminates the degradation that occurs when sharing a single circuit, ensuring that both listeners enjoy high-quality audio without interference. ## Power Supply Design To maintain a clean audio signal, RHYTHM separates its digital logic and high-frequency switching lines from the analog circuitry. Each side is regulated by its own ultra-low-noise power regulator. This design choice, though not visible in spec sheets, is crucial for preserving the integrity of quiet passages in recordings. It ensures that the audio remains clear and undistorted, even at low volumes. ## Physical Controls RHYTHM incorporates precision mechanical controls, including a rotary encoder and tactile buttons, providing a hands-on interface. This design allows users to operate the device by feel, without needing to look at it. Paired with a compact 2-inch color display, RHYTHM feels like a purpose-built instrument rather than a shrunken smartphone, enhancing the user experience. ## Local Storage RHYTHM includes a microSD slot for local storage of lossless audio files. This local-first approach eliminates the need for a streaming connection or app ecosystem, aligning with the device's philosophy of uninterrupted listening. Users can enjoy their music without relying on external services, ensuring a consistent and reliable experience. ## Philosophy of RHYTHM RHYTHM is designed to opt out of the convenience of smartphones, trading constant connectivity for a focused listening experience. It prioritizes uninterrupted music playback over multitasking, offering a dedicated solution for audiophiles. This philosophy extends to every aspect of the device, from its hardware design to its user interface, creating a product that truly enhances the music listening experience. ## Conclusion RHYTHM represents a return to dedicated music players in an era dominated by smartphones. By focusing on high-quality audio components, thoughtful design, and uninterrupted listening, it offers a unique solution for music enthusiasts. Its commitment to a single task sets it apart, providing a refreshing alternative to the fragmented experience of modern smartphones. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.yankodesign.com/2026/09/12/rhythm-is-the-walkman-the-smartphone-era-forgot-to-build/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rhythm-is-the-walkman-the-smartphone-era-forgot-to-build — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._