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Thomson's mysterious Black Diamond PMP goes public
Think your black iPod nano attracted fingerprints and got scratched too easily? Keeping the same sleek black / blue glow motif showcased on Thomson's PMP2008, the mysterious new Black Diamond PMP (a.k.a. the EH308) should truly wear your touch on its enclosure. While the flashy homepage doesn't give us a completely satisfactory look at the unit itself, we do know that it'll pack 8GB of internal capacity, rock a 1.8-inch OLED screen, and feature "tactile controls." Furthermore, it'll come with a rechargeable Li-ion cell rated for 15 hours, USB 2.0 connectivity, a 3.5-millimeter headphone jack, and the ability to display photos as well as play back audio (formats unspecified) and video (WMV / MPEG4). Curiously, Thomson also boasts about its ability to "manage podcast and web audio formats," as well as confirming its compatibility with "secure downloadable music formats" such as WMA-DRM. Expect this dark device to hit store shelves any day now, and at around $300, it's just a tad cheaper than that other Black Diamond floating around out there.
Samsung's uber-stylish NV3 digicam / PMP reviewed
While we Americans were off celebrating Independence Day, Samsung partied by throwing down a new NV lineup of stylish digicams. The value-packed flavor, dubbed NV3, took a pocket-friendly design and crammed MP3 / XviD playback into a point-and-shoot camera. The blokes over at DigicamReview got their fingers around the sexy device, and they found that while it suffered from the same issues that most 7-megapixel compacts did (introducing red-eye, high noise inclusion, and soft detail), the PMP functionality was top notch and pricing was very reasonable to boot. Reviewers were quick to point out the "lower than expected detail, lack of color, and over-processed look" seen in test shots, but did praise the super macro mode in its astounding ability to focus on objects just one centimeter away. Moreover, the camera's 720 x 480 widescreen video mode (as well as the 30fps VGA mode) were "impressive," and the MP3 / XviD functions performed comparably to the video iPod. Touted as a "complete package," the crew was mildly pleased with the 2 hours, 10 minutes of battery life while watching video clips and 3 hours, 50 minutes they realized when streaming through tunes. Overall, the NV3 was dubbed an "excellent value" at around £165 ($315), especially if you're looking to consolidate your gadgets and don't mind "just average" quality in your backup camera.
Archos 604 WiFi 30GB portable media player reviewed
If you've ever gazed at the Archos 604 and longed for wireless connectivity, you can want no longer. Reviewers at CNET got their palms on Archos' latest gig, the 604 WiFi model, and gave it the usual rundown. Mimicking the review given to the 802.11-less flavor earlier this year in a myriad of ways, reviewers felt that the "awesome video playback," removable battery, built-in kickstand / speaker, and "vibrant widescreen display" were all unsurprisingly top notch, but the web browsing itself (along with opening files and navigating around the GUI) was deemed "sluggish" due to the lackluster processor speed. Apparently, however, Archos didn't learn from the previous gripes regarding the lack of extra accessories right in the box; the WiFi unit requires additional purchases to get a power adapter, recording equipment, and plug-ins for certain types of video files. Furthermore, reviewers felt that the inability to "feed the device content in an easy way" (considering the Linux-based environment), the meager 30GB hard drive, and the "substantial hit" that enabling wireless took on the battery were all disappointments. Overall, however, the Archos 604 WiFi got dinged on details that won't matter much when you experience all the things it does well, and it was deemed the "the answer to many mobile users' idealistic dreams" if they don't mind waiting around a bit for the GUI to catch up.[Thanks, Nanatech]
Archos unveils Helmet Camcorder for Generation 4 PMPs
Apparently snapping shots on a whim to tell your life story just isn't good enough these days, as folks are writing scripts to take unplanned photos of their groggy faces and strapping head-mountable cameras to their skulls in hopes of producing the next worldwide YouTube hit. Jumping on the "record everything, everywhere" bandwagon is PMP-producer Archos, and its aptly-named Helmet Camcorder gives you on-the-go recording ability that reportedly plays nice with the company's 404, 504, 604 and 604 WiFi units. The "plug-in mini-cam" records directly to MPEG4 and sports a built-in microphone / remote to somewhat control the insanity, and can presumably be channeled instantly to your Archos PMP or transferred to your PC via USB 2.0 for future editing. The company claims "DVD quality" (640 x 480 resolution) results from the 0.25-inch Sony Super HAD CCD, and the entire webcam gets its juice from the mighty Archos device that it's plugged into. So if you still haven't gotten around to using your PMP for television recording, you can make a few comedies of your own this winter for just $149.99.[Via Tech Digest]
Ubistar unveils video-playing, Linux-based Scencio GPS
With Sanyo busting out a TV tuner-equipped navigation unit, Ubistar apparently felt the need to come out swinging, and its Scencio 4-inch unit certainly packs a punch. Sporting a car-friendly design, 4-inch 480 x 272 touchscreen display, 200MHz Intel Xscale PXA-255 processor, SiRF Star III receiver, and Linux 2.6X running the show, this Korean GPS pulls double-duty as a video viewer when not navigatin' your routes. Touting a very useful video input, you can connect any external video source to the unit, essentially providing a mobile LCD for whenever you bring that trusty gaming console along for the ride. Moreover, the device can playback MP3 files stored on your SD card, but the 0.5-watt speaker isn't likely to retain much fidelity. Oddly enough, Ubistar neglected to add a battery-powered option, requiring you to stay close to a power source to enjoy the multi-function goodness. Although pricing and availability details are unsurprisingly absent, we suspect the Linux-powered Scencio 4-inch will hit the streets of Seoul real soon.[Via NaviGadget]
Super Max MZH-801 PMP with TV tuner and capacious battery
We're not exactly sure why The Muzatch Company decided to name its latest PMP after the prison system's facilities for the most dangerous and high-profile criminals, but the Super Max MZH-801's considerable feature set and affordable price will surely allow most consumers to overlook the rather goofy moniker. Billed as "the world's most powerful player in next generation MPEG-4 technology," the 40GB device is apparently so remarkable that even Muzatch's chief executive can barely comprehend its sheer awesomeness: "It's almost unbelievable that something this small and compact can house so much audio and video technology," gushes CEO Jay Yenter. Besides the standard MP3 / MPEG-4 / DivX / JPEG file support, the 7-inch Super Max also tosses in an analog TV tuner, embedded FM transmitter, and most impressively, a 4000 mAh battery. Sure it's not the best looking player on the block, but when you're watching Gilmore Girls live while the rest of your iPod-toting friends are only rocking repeats, their jealousy will far outweigh any heat you take for the inelegant design. All you need to snatch up your own Super Max is $275 -- but the company claims that you have to place your order before December 5th, probably due to the overwhelming demand that's being anticipated.Read- Press releaseRead- Product page
RAmos joins the party with its V100 all-in-one PMP
The handheld conglomerate market must be booming in China, as RAmos is getting in on the action with its very own V100. Similar to all the renditions that came before it, this do-it-all portable renders all sorts of still photos, and plays back MP3, WMA, WAV, OGG, and FLAC on the audio side, while playing nice with MPEG3, XviD, and DivX on the video end. For a dash of retro gaming, it supports NES / SNES emulation, as well as "flash games and animations." Powering this sleek machine is a 200MHz Freescale CPU, which is surrounded by a 2.5-inch 320 x 240 resolution LCD, Philips UDA1380TT audio decoder, built-in microphone, dual headphone jacks, an SD slot, and a potent Li-ion cell that reportedly lasts "up to 10 hours." Additionally, RAmos supposedly tosses in a pair of Sennheiser MX500 earbuds to round out the package, and somehow charges just 700 CNY ($89) for the 512MB version, and 800 CNY ($102) for the 1GB edition.[Via DAPReview]
Delphi's pocket-friendly NAV200 GPS reviewed
As gadgets of all types slim down with time, the GPS market is seeing an increased flurry of shirt-pocket navigation units like Delphi's NAV200. The company's first effort at producing a PMP / NAV hybrid was a bit of a mixed bag according to PC Magazine, but still offered a respectable amount of features for under $400. It was noted that while the multimedia capability was great in theory, the inability to utilize them while in navigation mode was certainly disappointing; however, the increased amount of POIs and multi-point routing did receive suitable praise. Additionally, the unit doesn't preview turns before you embark, and the GUI was deemed unintuitive in certain scenarios. Another dig on the unit's previously promising media functions came when reviewers couldn't playback video at resolutions higher than 640 x 480, and they twiddled their thumbs for "25 seconds" while it resized a 3.5-megabyte image for on-screen viewing. Overall, the NAV200 took a lot of heat for not living up to the multi-function hype, but it was deemed a "good, basic choice" for navigating at a great price, but only if those "other features" don't matter much to you anyway.[Via NaviGadget]
Belkin announces TuneBase, TunePower, and slew of cases for Zune
While Griffin hems and haws about unleashing an expected bevy of accessories for Microsoft's forthcoming PMP, Belkin's not making any bones about its intentions to deliver a fleshed-out set of Zune-specific add-ons. Up first is the $79.99 TuneBase FM Transmitter, which doesn't stray too far from its iPod-friendly counterpart, and sports a (probably unnecessary) 3.5-millimeter line-out for times when those FM signals just aren't cutting it. It also touts a "flexible steel neck" for easy in-car positioning, large LCD display, and three memory presets. In case the 12-14 hours of audio playback isn't longevous enough for you, the TunePower will reportedly extend the playtime of your Zune "by up to six hours," and add an additional bulge on its rear as well. Additionally, the device acts as a kickstand for portable video viewing as well as a protective case, and the $59.99 pricetag also buys you a separate AC adapter for charging. Sure to be amongst the hoard of similar alternatives are a few uninspiring $29.99 case offerings, including an Acrylic flavor, "Folio Kickstand," Holster Case, Neoprene Armband / Case, Sports Jacket Armband / Case, and the obligatory $14.99 ClearScreen overlay to safeguard that scratch-prone LCD. Belkin's assortment of cases are slated to hit in "mid-November," while the FM transmitter and extended battery pack will land just before the month's end.
China produces V191 all-in-one PMP / cellphone
While there are plenty of all-in-one DAP/PMP/gaming units out in the Chinese market, the V191 takes it to another level by tossing in phone functionality and a PSP-styled enclosure to boot. A very likely candidate for Keepin' it real fake, this handheld device comes in a tad shorter than the tried and true PSP, and replaces the unmistakable "PSP" logo with "FUN." While details on this dodgy unit are far and few between, it apparently accepts any SIM card for mobile use, sports a 1.3-megapixel camera, supports MP4 / MP3 playback, and even boasts a gaming function for a bit of 8-bit reminiscing while on the go. You can store your tunes, movies, and homebrew apps on the included 256MB microSD card, or toss in a larger one for those extra lengthy trips. Assuming you can find one, the V191 is reportedly going for a whopping HK$5400 ($695) overseas.[Via Akihabara News]
Digital Cube's T-DMB-packin' Mini finally available
Digital Cube is delivering more miniaturized fun from South Korea, as the NetForce's smaller sibling -- simply dubbed Mini -- is finally available for enjoyment. This miniscule portable media player measures just 3.17- x 2.05- x 0.65-inches and weighs only three ounces, but manages to pack a potent 2.4-inch LCD, MP3 support, video playback, and the obligatory T-DMB TV tuner within its presumably cramped confines. The handheld device rocks 1/2/4GB capacities, and also doubles as an e-book reader, text / photo viewer, and a surefire conversation piece. So go on, indulge in those pocket-friendly, TV viewing PMP desires for just €165 ($209) and up.
Disney's Mix Max Player reviewed
It's not every day that your friendly neighborhood CNET editor gets to review a pink device whose backside reads "Forever a Princess" -- well, at least as far as we know -- and James Kim seems to have made the most of this opportunity. Disney's first PVP, the Mix Max Player, is surprisingly well featured for a kiddie player, with a 2.2-inch 220 x 176 display, PlaysForSure support, mass storage mounting ability and even a special Windows Media Player plug-in to analyze tracks for the Mix Max's shuffle mode. There's 512MB of included storage, which can be bumped up to 2GB via SD card, though we're guessing much of the target audience is going to be snapping up those pricey, pre-loaded SD-card MixClips albums and MaxClips movies. The screen is passable, and the interface is decent enough, though apparently the buttons are a bit hard to push. The earbuds are of the standard variety, so they'll prove too big for some kids, and the lack of a volume limiter could prove a bit dangerous for your baby Einstein. For $100, the Mix Max goes quite a bit beyond your average toy music player, but for the same price you could nab yourself a 1GB Creative Zen V Plus. However, the Disney name continues to have quite a draw with the chilluns -- Disney's Mix Sticks audio players ranks among the top 10 flash MP3 players at retail -- and it doesn't seem like most kids will mind the quirks.
Maxian goes Matrix with the D900 "Neo" PMP
We're not really sure what kind of PMP Keanu Reeves would have sported in the Matrix films had he not been so busy saving the world and stuff, but we're almost sure that he would have eschewed the Maxian D900 "Neo" in favor of a model with some internal storage capacity -- after all, we didn't see a lot of SD cards laying around Zion. For those of you with readier access to flash memory, however, the 4.3-inch Neo might be just the player you've been looking for, what with its 800 x 480 pixel resolution, 400:1 contrast ratio, and 200 cd/m² brightness. You're also getting a built-in DMB tuner, Burr Brown DAC, built-in speakers, and a kickstand; and because this device is powered by WinCE 5.0 and features an 802.11b/g radio, we assume that you can do the email / web browsing thing as well. As far as codec support goes, there's WMV, DivX, XviD, MPEG-2, and H.264 on the video side and MP3, OGG, FLAC, and APE on the audio tip. Unfortunately, there's not much chance that you'll see Neo tearing it up at your local electronics store, but if you simply must own a device named after a Matrix character, HTC's Trinity may help fill the void.[Via DAPreview]
Feature-packed Cowon D2 to hit Korean market
Hot on the heels of the substandard (in Cowon terms, that is) iAudio D1, the company best known for feature-packed portable media players is back to its old self again with the fully loaded D2. Foregoing the sleek, skinny look for a more Archos-esque appearance, Cowon's latest PMP rocks a 2.5-inch 320 x 240 resolution touchscreen, built-in DMB, support for WMV, MPEG4, MP3, OGG, WMA, and FLAC, "30fps movie playback," video output, FM radio, "voice / line-in recording" function, and a snazzy "transparent overlay" GUI. While initial reports suggest a 2GB internal capacity, the unit will sport an SD slot for your expansion needs, and those fortunate enough to reside in South Korea can pick up this properly-spec'd player in November for an undisclosed price.[Via DAPReview]
BRAINic's new JUCTOMA T-DMB/GPS unit with 7-inch and 4.3-inch screens
Here's a bit of a head scratcher: BRAINic's new JUCTOMA DMB and navigation unit features a single core unit that can be swapped between a 7-inch and 4.3-inch screen. We're sure it costs an arm and a leg for that much touchscreen action, but the upshot is that you can keep the 7-inch version in your car, and slap the core module into your 4.3-inch screen for portable use. Of course, this being Korean, the JUCTOMA doesn't skimp on other deets just because of its crazy setup: there's Windows CE 5.0, SiRF Star III GPS, MP3, WMA, DivX, AVI, ASF, WMF, JPG and BMP playback, 128MB of RAM, 2GB of NAND and 32MB of NOR. The 4.3-inch device hits 0.95-inches in thickness, while the 7-incher hits right around 1-inch thick. No word on SD, but perhaps that's pushing things a bit.
Nexx NF-810 PMP looks vaguely familiar
Yeah, we're sure you get tired of us comparing every other music player that comes down the pipe to the iPod nano, but a fresh design now and then could sure help us kick the habit. To its credit, the Nexx NF-810 bears almost as much resemblance to the Sansa as it does to Apple's eponymous player, unfortunately, it seems the NF-810's "scroll wheel" is all for show -- thus aping the Zune and completing the picture of unoriginality. Luckily, the Nexx player is pretty dang diminutive, at a mere 7mm thick, and with 10 hours of playback time and a max a capacity of 2GB, there's plenty to love here. The unit also comes in 512MB and 1GB flavors, and supports MP3, WMA and ADPCM audio codecs, along with SMV for video, with an included converter for prepping MPEG, WMV and AVI files. No word on price or availability[Via MobileWhack]
RCA's Lyra X3030 portable media player reviewed
Just a few months back we saw RCA's Lyra X3000 get some well-deserved praise, and now the folks over at CNET are putting its successor through its respective paces. The X3030 sports most of the same specs and attributes as its aging sibling, but touts 30GB of internal storage (up from 20GB) and "adds protected Windows Media Video support and DivX certification." Reviewers found a good bit to love on the PVP, as they extolled its broad range of supported formats and "Apple-esque" scroll wheel, as well as admiring the "healthy set of accessories" that made scheduling recordings a breeze. The main digs came from the "tricky interface," the lack of a widescreen display (like that found on the lower-priced, albeit less accesorized, Archos 604), and the "decent" video quality that fell short of "some competitors." It was also noted that while the 4.5-hours of realized battery life while watching video was commendable, the 8.5-hours achieved while listening solely to audio was indeed lackluster. Nevertheless, the crew found enough niceties to slap a "7 out of 10" rating on the X3030, and closed by dubbing the X3030 "a solid video playback and recording device, despite its poorly designed menu interface."
22Moo unveils HMD800 head mounted display
You'd think that wearable displays could've come a long way since the days of the Virtual Boy, but you'd be (mostly) wrong. Churning out yet another eyesore of a head mounted display is 22Moo -- the same Aussies who brought us the equally awkward VG-SD goggles -- whose $199 HMD800 touts the ability to provide a "30-inch virtual theater-like image with clear and exquisite pictures." The contraption also boasts a "2.1 Dolby surround sound experience," and compatibility with iPods, PMPs, gaming consoles, and practically anything with standard AV outputs. The device supports both NTSC and PAL, sports an 800 x 225 resolution, contrast / brightness controls, eight-hour Li-ion cell, and a comical "eye patch" in case you prefer a more one-sided viewpoint. Although the company claims it was designed by "renowned ergonomicists," we question its ability to remain comfortable (or leave our retinas unscathed) after enduring the Lord of the Rings trilogy (or bevy of Engadget commercials).[Via MobileWhack]
Ezex NAVZEN PMP/DMB/GPS with PIP
The hits just keep on coming out of the recent Korea Electronics Show, with the folks at AVING providing a belated glimpse of yet another PMP/GPS/DMB combo unit, this one from Korean manufacturer Ezex. Dubbed the NAVZEN, this device bucks the recent trend of 7-inch inch displays, opting instead for a leaner 4-inch number, though it adds some picture-in-picture functionality if you prefer your DMB TV even smaller. Complete details are a bit sketchy, with Windows CE 4.2 confirmed as the OS and SiRF Star III as the GPS chipset but not much else. It will, however, adjust the volume based on how fast you're driving, which could well make this the most dangerous PMP on earth.
Cowon iAudio D1 details emerge, to include DAB
Yes, it's been several months (ok, nearly a year) since the Cowon iAudio6 was released. Even still, Cowon isn't resting entirely on its laurels with regards to that one great player; it's been coming out with a flurry of other media players since, including the T2, F2 and most recently, the N2. Well it's time to welcome yet another member to the family: the iAudio D1. According to DAPreview, the D1 comes with a 1GB or 2GB flash drive, but the better news is that it also eatures digital audio broadcasting support. If that weren't enough, the D1 will also play back OGG and FLAC filesm and it can record voice and music via the built-in mic or line-in jack, respectively. The D1'll require that you front £150 ($282) for the 1GB version or £170 ($320) for the deuce edition when they're released next month in the UK.
