Sony MZ-RH1 Hi-MD Walkman MiniDisc/MP3 Digital Music Player

The MZ-RH1 builds on the success of Sony's earlier MiniDisc players but adds several new features, taking digital audio playback to the next level in the process. The sleek and slim audio player plays digital files downloaded in Linear PCM, ATRAC, ATRAC3, ATRAC3plus, and MP3 formats, but also serves as a pocket-sized MiniDisc recording studio for live concerts and other occasions. The dual functions make the MZ-RH1 extremely versatile, with unsurpassed CD-quality sound and an unlimited storage capacity (each 1 GB MiniDisc holds up to 45 hours of music). In addition, longtime MiniDisc users can now revive their classic MiniDisc audio libraries and upload them to PC using the MZ-RH1--a much anticipated feature among audiophiles.

Sony has improved the MiniDisc recording experience with several sonic enhancements, including an adjustable recording mode that adapts to the type of event that's being recorded. So whether you're capturing a live concert, a basement jam session, or even a business meeting, you'll enjoy crystal-clear sound that's custom fit to the occasion. The device also boasts several listening modes that match specific genres and acoustic atmospheres, such as "club," "jazz," and "pop." The MZ-RH1 even lets you adjust the mic sensitivity and recording level on the fly, helping you adapt to changing sound levels or audience noise during a concert.

Recognizing that professionals often record in dark environments, Sony added an easy-to-use button array and a backlit display. And thanks to Sony's Hi-MD next-generation formatting technology--which records in the uncompressed Linear PCM format to ensure the same sound quality as the original source--you'll enjoy studio-quality sound time and again. The playback quality is consistently excellent as well, with such features as a dynamic normalizer, which automatically equalizes the volume of each recorded track to a listenable level, and a high-capacity coupling condenser that accurately reproduces the bass.

Additional features include a high-speed USB 2.0 interface, Mac compatibility, an HD digital amplifier, complete PC storage for such files as text documents or JPEG photos, and a switchable headphone/line-level output. The MZ-RH1 comes with a rechargeable battery with a battery life of 19 hours, a set of high-powered headphones, and a remote control for easy listening and playback. And at 3.45 by 0.68 by 3.45 inches (W x H x D), the MZ-RH1 takes up only a tiny amount of space. Finally, the MZ-RH1 is backed by a one-year warranty on parts and a 90-day warranty on labor.

What's in the Box
MZ-RH1 MiniDisc/MP3 player, USB cable, digital optical cable, AC adapter, remote control, carrying pouch, software CD-ROM, user's manual.