Toshiba Gigabeat U101 and U201 Players

Toshiba has unveiled the new "U" series of their popular Gigabeat audio players, which are available in Japan. The most interesting features of the U series Gigabeat audio players are the inclusion of an FM radio tuner and transmitter, and the 1 bit DAC system, which makes it the first time this digital audio processor has been adopted by a digital audio player. The device is also capable of recording music via a direct connection to other audio equipment, thus bypassing a computer completely.

The Toshiba Gigabeat U Series audio devices also feature a long battery life, and minimal charge time. With just a 10 minute charge, the Gigabeat is capage of three continuous hours of playback, whereas a full charge will get you 20 hours of continuous playback. It can be charged with the included USB cord, or through the optional USB AC adapter.

The Gigabeat U Series is compatible with Windows ME/2000 Pro/XP/ XP Media Center/Vista. It measures 36.2 x 76.5 x 10.99, and is available in three colors: orange, white, and blue. It can be purchased with a 1GB flash memory, or a 2GB flash memory. Pricing and availability have not yet been announced.