Sony MZ-N707 Silver Net MiniDisc Walkman

The MZ-N707 recordable Network MiniDisc Walkman is one of a new range of products from Sony that allow you to playback digital audio files such as MP3, WMA and WAV as well as standard MiniDiscs. Using the included MG Jukebox software, digital audio files (eg: MP3) stored on your computer are converted into ATRAC 3 and then transferred to the unit via the supplied USB cable. The software also allows you to record direct from audio CDs and create playlists of your favourite tunes.

One of the best features, now seen on most MiniDisc recorders, is MDLP--a long play mode that will record up to five hours of material on a single 80 minute MiniDisc, when using the MDLP 4 option. Sound quality is top-notch, even in MDLP4 mode. We recorded one track using different MDLP modes and audio sources and the difference in quality was hardly noticeable. Those worried about battery life will be pleased to know that the MZ-N707 will run for up to 56 hours on one AA battery--the included rechargeable battery runs for up to 20 hours. The MZ-N707 is supplied with a charger/cradle, rechargeable battery, USB and optical cables, in-ear headphones, stick-type remote controller, MG Jukebox software and a carry case with belt clip.

Our only criticism is the unstable software; it had a tendency to crash on our PC running Windows 2000 when we tried to drag multiple files into a playlist. But software gripes aside, the MZ-N707 is a top-quality MiniDisc recorder that sounds great. If you're thinking of getting a bog-standard MP3 player, think again and take a look at this. --Martin Snelling

The breakthrough with Net MD products is high-speed transfer from your PC to MD, providing up to 32x speed transfer directly to the recorder. The title/track information you create in the jukebox automatically will be transferred to the Net MD Recorder. This information can be seen on the 2-line Dot Matrix LCD display on the main unit. An additional remote control with editing functions is included which provides direct access to the player's functions and has a stereo mini-jack for headphones.

The MZ-N707 has the ability to record from multiple sources including PC, portable CD player, home CD unit, cassette player and radio, making this a most versatile system. The software is compatible with the following PC systems: Windows 98/98SE/2000/Me/XP. The bundled software includes Music Management Software Supplied to manage and store your digital music files (MP3s and your CDs), make custom playlists, and transfer music directly to your NetMD Walkman.

This Net MD Walkman also includes all the great features of MiniDisc that you've come to expect from the Sony range. MDLP long-time stereo recording and playback (up to 320 minutes/over 5 hours of music) on one 80-minute disc lets you record 2X (LP2) or 4X (LP4) longer on an 80-minute MiniDisc to provide as much as 320 minutes (over 5 hours) of music with excellent sound quality. Ultimate Skip-Free G-Protection technology makes this Walkman an ideal on-the-go companion, with greatly advanced digital-based system that provides 10-times faster shock recovery compared to conventional systems, and ensures perfect playing performance without skipping even during such active uses as jogging.

The MZ-N707 is supplied with battery charging stand, Open MG Jukebox software, USB cable, optical cable, Fontopia headphones, rechargeable battery, AC adaptor and carrying case (belt clip type).