Conclusion
So, all in all, how does the player perform?Remarkably.
The audio quality, even with the same MP3 input, is far better than my old Archos could manage, or even my PC. The sound quality is superb, for a small portable player. It doesn't have some of the gimmicks of its competitors such as FM Radio or recording, but what you get is a masterful music playback device. The player retails for £270-£280, and is available from outlets such as Amazon.co.uk or AdvancedMP3Players.co.uk.
Is there anything I'd change? Always, no device is absolutely perfect. MSC support would be nice - though this is already under way, and other than that... well actually there's not much I'd change other than that. A bigger hard disk? Perhaps. RMM could do with a slightly better layout, with features such as the ability to view the contents of playlists. The web interface needs more than a "download the java client here" button, but all in all, this is a fantastic device.
The irreplaceable battery is a cause for slight concern, but Riô command in Japan have begun a battery replacement scheme, and I suspect Riô Europe will offer similar when it becomes necessary.
Score
Pros
Lossless audio supportSupports gapless playback
Small
Simple to use
Cons
The lack of in-line remote is really annoyingUnjustifiably high UK price
Note: The 1.68 firmware was released very late in the review process, so has not been extensively tested. The main advances in the 1.68 firmware are a bucketful of bug fixes. The final score given is for the 1.41 firmware, not the improved 1.68 firmware.
