[Fredreck]

It can play MP3 and other formats, you just need to convert it. In fact it covers more formats than ipod.

Before you trash Sony on their decision to stick with ATRAC3, let me tell you some reasons why they decided to do it.

First of all songs encoded in ATRAC3 produces much better sound quality than songs encoded in the MP3 format. Listen to a song encoded at ATRAC3 256kps, and compare it to a song encoded at MP3 256kps. The ATRAC3 format sounds phenomenal (truely digital) whereas the MP3 format simply sounds louder...

The ATRAC3 format also results in a significantly smaller file than the MP3 format which in turn allows the player to fit in more songs. Additionally the ATRAC3 format is less draining on the battery than the MP3 format which is why all modern Sony players have such superior playback life.

People complain about the the time it takes to convert songs/MP3s into ATRAC3 and then onto the player. However programs such as Simple Burner allows for the simultaneous conversion and burning to happen at the same time. It's incredibly quick.

The verdict is that ATRAC3 allows for better sound quality but at the same time a smaller file than the MP3 format.

Sure it takes time to convert and transfer the files. BUT the extended playback battery life means you'll have to charge your player less often, which in turn balances everything out. In fact the new Sony NW-HD1 has a battery life that lasts 3.75 times longer than the iPods.

You'll basically find that most MP3 players have tedious battery durations. I HATE the fact that my ipod needs charging every two days! and the fact that it won't even last me half way on my flight from L.A to Sydney!

On another note my Sony Hi-MD player (yes I'm a gadget freak) has an astounding 100 hours playback and I only need to charge it about once a month. All due respect to the ATRAC3 format.