Toshiba unveils new Gigabeat digital audio players

Toshiba has unveiled a new line of Gigabeat MP3 players at CEDIA. Thenew lineup features a 2.2-inch QVGA LCD display with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels and is available in capacities of 10GB, 20GB, 40GB and 60GB.

Gigabeat will download and play MP3, WMA or WAV files. For consumers with large CD collections, gigabeat offers the ultimate in convenience - CD RipRec. Designed with simplicity in mind, CD RipRec can transfer the contents of an entire CD to the gigabeat in as little as five minutes which ensures that consumers can still enjoy their valuable CD collection. Simply place the CD in the PC tray, press the "CD RipRec" button on the supplied gigabeat cradle and copy the content from the CD directly onto the gigabeat device.

In order to offer consumers the greatest flexibility and download options, Toshiba worked with both Microsoft and Napster to provide Windows Media PlaysForSureTM and Napster To GoTM compatibility. In addition to the supplied gigabeat roomTM management software, gigabeat is able to download music via Windows Media Player 10 and windows based subscription services.

Covering all of the bases, gigabeat is available in four capacities and seven distinct colors - 10GB in silver, blue and black acrylic priced at $259 (MEG-F10), 20GB in silver and black brushed aluminum finish at $299 (MEG-F20), 40GB in a brushed aluminum champagne finish (MEG-F40) at $349 with in-line remote control and the 60GB model in a "steel" brushed aluminum finish at $399 (MEG-F60) with in-line remote control. Every gigabeat comes with an up to 16-hour, rechargeable battery that can be charged via the supplied docking cradle or via a USB cable from any PC.