Finally, here are the "MZ-EH70" and "MZ-EH50" MD players from Sony.

Sony will release two models of Hi-MD Walkman o­n November 10th that feature HD Digital Amplifiers. They are Open Price; the "MZ-EH70" that features "Virtuaphone Technology Acoustic Engine" is estimated around 19,000 yen, and the "MZ-EH50" that includes matching earphones and a pouch will cost around 17,000 yen.

Both units feature an "HD Digital Amp," giving them faithful reproduction of audio strength and subtlies. They also feature the "ATRAC/ATRAC3 DSP TYPE-S" for improved audio quality when playing MDLP discs. They do indeed support the playback of Hi-MD.

Also, for those who intend to use the units for language learning, they have an A-B Repeat function. "G-PROTECTION" also provides skip protection, "Bookmark Track Playback" that will play o­nly selected tracks, and "AVLS" that prevents audio leakage from the volume being too loud.

 

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-MZ-EH70

Besides having an HD Digital Amp, this unit is designed for low noise with its high efficiency condensor used to power the amp. It will be available in Silver, Blue, Pink, and Black colors.

Apart from a 6-band equalizer, it also features "Virtual Phone Technology Acoustic Engine" to faithfully reproduce sound fields using headphones. Users can select "Studio," "Live," "Club," and "Arena" locations. The 6-band equalizer unfortunately cannot be used whilst using Virtual Phone Technology Acoustic Engine.

Besides the previously mentioned A-B Repeat function, the tempo can be adjust from 100% to -50%. Changing the tempo won't change the pitch, according to Sony. The unit can use NiMH batteries as well as external AAs. When using both, the playback time of MD (LP4 stereo) is about 87 hours, and when playing Hi-MD, (Hi-LP mode), 82 hours.

The external dimensions are 88.1 x 75.8 x 17.1mm (H x W x T), and the weight including the battery is 110g. A backlit remote controller that can display Kana characters and recharging stand are included.

Product Information:
http://www.ecat.sony.co.jp/audio/walkman/products/index.cfm?PD=22928&KM=MZ-EH70

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-MZ-EH50

Although this unit has the same HD Digital Amp as the MZ-EH70, it has a lower grade condensor. It will be available in White, Pink, Silver, and Blue. A matching set of earphones, pouch, and recharging stand are included, and the unit features larger buttons for the commonly used functions.

It also has support for both the included NiMH battery and AAs. With both, the battery life for MD is 85 hours, and Hi-MD is at 80 hours. The external dimensions are 85 x 78.8 x 20.2mm (H x W x T), and weight with the battery is 107g. A backlit remote controller that can display Kana characters and recharging stand are included.

Product Information:
http://www.ecat.sony.co.jp/audio/walkman/products/index.cfm?PD=22927&KM=MZ-EH50

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Inspired by:
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20051013/sony.htm

Press Release:
http://www.sony.jp/CorporateCruise/Press/200510/05-1013/