If you have had nothing by way of an eReader device thus far; then I'd say
be ahead of the curve and buy into newer technology and a faster processor.
This will ensure you will have longer usage of your device. Go for the 7series!
You will love the speed and touch panel not to mention iconized
book organization. The search is a huge plus if you carry lots of pdf's that
are research related. As for the contrast, use proper lighting (day or florescent)
or just switch on the internal lights.
If you have borowed or used (extensively) an older reader
without a touchpanel, then
I'd recommend you stick with the downgrade model as it appears
many on these boards feel they can't adjust or cope with the change.
If you head over to a Sony Store and attempt to direct compare the two, you will
frustrate yourself because you will long for the speed and search and additional features
not found on the 5Series yet the 5 will seem to have more 'contrast'.
Its like you walk into a used car dealership, and start testing out two cars,
a Mercedes S class vs. a Honda Civic... they both do the same thing but
are they really comparible side by side? I'll let you answer that for yourself.
If you put TWO touchpanel readers side by side then you can say you are now
comparing apples with apple and not apple with artichokes....
