When most people think of portable MP3 players the first thing that pops into mind is an iPod, but there are many other products that offer the same or even more functionality at competitive prices. Sony obviously has quite a lot of experience with portable music players, but hasn’t been able to achieve the success of their original Walkman in the digital age. Hoping to change this, the company has introduced three new Walkman players.


Of the three the one really worth noting is the S730 which reproduces all the audio and video formats you can expect from a high end portable player, plus WMV files with DRM. It offers drag and drop transfers, a slick design with a nice size screen, noise canceling headphones, and the new SensMe function which “creates channels based on each song’s speed, mood, and rhythm.” This player will be available in two models. The first will have 4GB of internal storage and a $150 price tag, while the second 8GB of storage and will set you back $180.

The other two MP3 players are the E430 and the B130. The first will be available in black, red, pink, and blue with 4GB or 8GB of internal storage at $100 and $140, respectively. The much more basic B130 comes with 1GB or 2GB of internal storage, and is priced at $45 and $60.