The first impression of Sony's latest mp3 is of how small and well built the unit is. It measures about the same as a pack of matches and is just over 50g in weight.
The software was easy to install and very clear and simple to follow. Only when the software was up and running did the problems begin...
First off Sony uses its own ATRAC file system and although you can use mp3 and WMA files you have to go through an unnecessary and complicated conversion program.
Once you have your files stored within the software's library you can then transfer them to the player which sits in the neat little cradle. Unfortunately the transfer continually cut out and it would take several attempts to get all the files across.
Worse still is the fact that you can only check in/out each file a maximum of three times and only to the computer they originate from. This means you have to re-rip your CD's if you want to listen to them more than 3 times. I can understand Sony wanting to protect the copyright of artists but this is quite simply ridiculous.
When you consider that the cost of the unit with additional memory is over £300 then it would be fair to assume that buyers could afford the cost of CD's and most would use legitimate files and that Sony has adopted a big brother attitude towards copyright and taken away the shine on what could have been an excellent player.
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Great op! This looks like a very "space age" MP3 player. I have a Sony mini-disc recorder and agree with you about Sony Software. They make quality products but when it comes to software, it's a real let down. Ciao for now - J.
SueMagee 04.09.2003 07:35
Thank you - I found what you had to say about re-ripping CDs very interesting. Sue.
Sep 3rd, 2003
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