SONY'S NEW CD WALKMAN PLAYERS ADD ATRAC3PLUS WITH MP3 PLAYBACK FOR MORE MUSIC AND BETTER SOUND ON ONE DISC
New CD Burning Software Enables Easy Burning in ATRAC3plus Format
LAS VEGAS (CES Booth N109), Jan. 8, 2003 - Sony today announced seven new CD Walkman ® players with the ability to playback MP3 and ATRAC3plus ™ encoded CD-R/RW discs, enabling users to enjoy more of their favorite music on a single disc.
ATRAC3plus format is a high-quality audio compression technology developed by Sony that effectively reduces the size of audio files while preserving more of the sound quality.
With ATRAC3plus compression, more audio files can be burned to a disc using a PC CD-ROM drive. Music can be burned and compressed to 132, 105, 66, 64 or 48 kbps (kilobits per second), allowing consumers to store more music or record at higher fidelity. By compressing at 48 kbps, users can enjoy around 490 songs on one disc.
The ATRAC3 ™/MP3 CD Walkman players are bundled with Sony's new SonicStage ™ CD Simple Burner software. Compatible with most CD burners, this application allows users to transfer MP3 music files from their PC's hard drive and tracks from their favorite CDs and burn them to a CD-R/RW disc taking advantage of ATRAC3plus compression.
"The category known as codec CD players is expected to double in growth over the next five years," said Robert Ashcroft, senior vice president for Sony Electronics' personal mobile products division. "By incorporating ATRAC3plus and MP3 playback in seven, fully integrated models, we can provide superior music compression technology and continue to lead the portable CD market.
All the new models include such advanced features as a bookmark playback function for easy programming and skip-free G-protection ™ technology for users who enjoy uninterrupted music during many active uses. They also will support CD text and ID3 tagging for organizing tracks. Additionally, Jog Dial ™ control and extended battery life are incorporated in all of the models, making this new line the most comprehensive to date.
Top of the Line D-NE1 Model
At the top of the new line, the D-NE1 model sports a slim, metallic silver design. It provides up to 80 hours of continuous playback with two, nickel metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries and two "AA" batteries. A backlit remote puts music navigation at the user's fingertips.
The D-NE1 model also comes supplied with a battery-charging stand. It will be available in May for about $200.
Entry Level D-NE510 Model
Feature-packed and only around $70, the D-NE510 model is an entry-level option for music lovers seeking the benefits of ATRAC3plus and MP3 playback. It includes Sony's popular Jog Dial control for easy folder navigation, a two-line dot matrix display and achieves up to 40 hours of continuous playback on two "AA" type batteries. The new D-NE510 model will be available in April.
Car Adaptor D-NE518CK Model
This new player incorporates all the basic functions of the D-NE510 model with the addition of car kit accessories. A new car Remote Commander ® remote control with easy skip group function allows users to access their music while on the road. The D-NE518CK model will be available in April for about $80.
D-NF610 Model with AM/FM/Weather Digital Tuner
For digital music lovers who also want to tune in to the radio, TV or check the weather, the D-NF610 model includes an AM/FM/TV/weather band digital tuner. With a 51-station preset memory, favorite programs are never more than a button away. This player also offers up to 40 hours of continuous playback on two "AA" type batteries. It will be available in May for about $100.
D-NE710, D-NE718CK Models with High-Tech Design
These two new models have a high-tech look, slim body and complete circle design. A three-line dot-matrix display makes it easy to see track/title information, while 14 playback modes let users customize their listening experience. The D-NE718CK model adds car kit accessories and the new car Remote Commander remote. The new D-NE710 and D-NE718CK players will be available in May for about $100 and $120, respectively.
Ideal for active users who like to enjoy personalized music on the run, the new S2 Sports ™ CD Walkman player incorporates all the features of the previous models with the durability and benefits of the popular S2 product line. The D-NS921F model is water resistant, impact resistant and has active control.
In addition, the D-NS921F player includes a built-in synthesized digital tuner with 54 station presets for AM, FM, TV and weather band. This new model will be available in May for about $150.
Sony Electronics' news releases and digital images with captions are available at http://www.sony.com/news. For information regarding the nearest Sony authorized dealer or service locations, your readers can call 1-800-222-SONY.
