Features:
- High-resolution reflective color display includes front lights for excellent visibility indoors and outdoors
- Built-in MP3 audio player; includes stylish headphones and remote control
- 16 MB total memory: 8 MB internal memory, plus 8 MB Memory Stick
- Jog Dial navigator allows you to access phone numbers, notes, and more while keeping your other hand free
- What's in the box: Clie Handheld, Headphones, Audio Remote Controller, USB HotSync Cradle, Detachable AC Adapter, Memory Stick (8MB), Stylus, Installation CD-ROM, Application Guide, Graffiti Sticker, Protective Cover
Description:
Sony's Clié N760C combines the best of a Palm OS handheld computer and an MP3 player. Bulkier than your average audio player, it still manages to be sleek enough that you'd consider taking it out just for music-listening purposes. And you'll have all your typical Palm applications at the tip of your stylus, including your address book, to-do list, and e-mail. Rather than CompactFlash or SmartMedia, the Clié N760C uses Sony's own Memory Stick cards for expanding memory. While more expensive than other forms of media, they can be used in a variety of Sony devices, from MP3 players to digital cameras. If you're a Sony aficionado and already have other Sony peripherals, it won't be a tough transition to the Clié. Unfortunately, while the costs of SmartMedia and CompactFlash cards have dropped recently, proprietary Sony Memory Sticks have stayed much higher. Although the N760C ships with only a total 16 MB memory (8 MB internal memory and 8 MB via a Memory Stick), it can be upgraded as high as you're willing to spend for additional sticks. The N760C treats the inserted Memory Stick as a removable drive, making it an easy way to transfer data from your PC and other peripherals, such as digital cameras or camcorders. The interface on the base of the N760C, used to connect to the AC adapter or the USB docking station, can also be used to connect a Clié modem. The thin gray and silver unit weighs less than six ounces and fits snugly in the palm of your hand. The nifty Jog Dial scroll wheel sits right under your thumb, letting you switch between applications, move from one audio track to another, and even fast-forward or reverse during video playback. A removable leather face cover protects the N760C while it's in a pocket and flips up out of the way easily. Sony includes an extensive software bundle with the N760C, from games like Acid Solitaire and Race Fever to interactive maps in Rand McNally's StreetFinder Express and Amy Reiley's Pocket Gourmet and Pocket Vineyard, with tips on tipping and sipping. The 16-bit color, high-resolution screen works well for gaming as well as watching small video clips (again, you'll need to beef up the Memory Stick to take advantage of the media player). The audio software on the Clié can play MP3 files, and the attachable in-line remote control (which features a shirt clip and also doubles as a stylus) handles playback functions and volume control. The headphones can plug into the Clié or pass through the remote control. The lithium-ion rechargeable battery juices up in less than four hours initially and will last up to 15 days for normal use (although if you're playing a lot of audio files it will drain much faster). You'll need to spend at least another $75 to $120 to get a large-enough Memory Stick to make it worthwhile as a full MP3 player. But even with that additional cost, the Clié N760C offers enough functionality and entertainment value to make it worth consideration. --J. Curtis Pros: - Bright, 16-bit color display
- Built-in MP3 audio player
- Headphones and remote control
- Compatible with thousands of Palm OS programs
Cons:
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