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MP3 players with variable playback speeds

As its title may suggest, an MP3 player's primary duty is to play MP3s, which are more often than not music files. But audiobooks, podcasts, and other spoken-word content enjoy plenty of face time on portable audio devices, and why not? They offer an informative and entertaining way to pass the time. But for those of us who prefer our information and entertainment in condensed form, time is of the essence. Spoken-word content is one type of audio that (generally) doesn't sound completely absurd when sped up, and doing so gives the listener a way to get through … Read more

Samsung PNB450 series Quick Take

The Samsung PNB450 series of plasma HDTVs was introduced in the spring of 2009. It consists of the 42-inch PN42B450 and the 50-inch PN50B450.

CNET did not review either of these models, but we did review the Samsung PN50B650, which offers some features similar to the PNB450. The PNB450 is Samsung's entry-level plasma series and lacks some of the step-up features found on the PNB650 series. The step-down features of the PNB450 include a 720p native resolution, only three HDMI inputs, and it lacks both a USB port and networking capabilities. For more information, refer to the full review … Read more

Samsung LNB550 Series Quick Take

The Samsung LNB550 series of LCD HDTVs was introduced in spring 2009. It consists of the 32-inch LN32B550, the 37-inch LN37B550, the 40-inch LN40B550, the 46-inch LN46B550, and the 52-inch LN52B550.

CNET did not review any of these models, but we did review a similar product, the Samsung LN40B650, which may give you an idea of how the LNB550 will perform. The LNB550 series has a significantly lower contrast ratio (100,000:1 vs. 70,000:1) than the LNB650, so it will probably display brighter black levels. The series also has one less USB input and lacks picture-in-picture, networking … Read more

Walkman versus the rest--Ask the Editors

Q: I am finally ready to cross that bridge and get me a touch-screen player. I wanted to know your expert opinion on the Samsung P3 and the Sony Walkman X-Series. I purchase all my music from Napster, Amazon and some from Rhapsody. I use Window Media Player 11, so I need a player that is compatible with that. Please let me know what you think. -- bensworld411, via e-mail

A: Although I've only used a preproduction sample of the X-Series Walkman, I can tell you that I favor it over the Samsung P3. Granted, the X-Series is quite a bit pricier, but I personally prefer the onscreen interface and touch-screen implementation (though the P3's is certainly flashy). I also straight-up love the fact that the Walkman has tactile buttons on the top for controlling playback (say, while you have the player in your pocket). Both devices will work equally well with the system you use for music, and both offer excellent sound quality.

Really, I would narrow it down to two things: price and whether you prefer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. If you want a cheaper device that includes the ability to sync up Bluetooth headphones, go with the P3. If you want something with a slicker interface that has Wi-Fi and built-in Slacker capability (free music!), go with the Walkman. Better yet, if you can hold off a few more days, I'm expecting a retail unit of the X-Series to be delivered to my desk tomorrow, which means we'll have a full review up for you very soon.… Read more

Samsung Omnia photo gallery

Though we can always count on Samsung to keep us busy, the company in recent months has made its Omnia line a priority. Since the first Omnia landed in our hands late last year, Samsung has continued to expand the family. First, we had the Omnia HD in February and just last month we saw new models unveiled in New York. Though all Omnia models offer touch screens and multimedia features, some handsets make an effort to appeal to specific audiences. To see them all, check out our Samsung Omnia photo gallery.

Dear Sprint, Please Add Text Forwarding!!

Dear Sprint,

While I have been a faithful customer for almost 6 years and have been pretty happy with your services, I am now forced to make a complaint.

You see, I was chosen for this amazing promotion where I received a free Palm Pre in exchange for blogging about it and my experience with the Sprint Now Network, on CNET. I'm very grateful for th 3 months of free service you have provided those of us participating in this test-drive, but here's the deal... … Read more

Prizefight: iPod Touch vs. Samsung P3

Apple's iPod Touch is one of highest-rated MP3 players on CNET, but it's also one of the most expensive, starting at $230. That's a lot of money to drop on an MP3 player, especially when a touch-screen competitor like the Samsung P3 delivers many of the same features as the Touch for about $80 less. The price difference is dramatic, but it's unclear whether the Touch is suffering from an inflated ego, or if the P3's price is too good to be true.

To determine which of these touch-screen, music- and video-playing portable beauties is … Read more