9. A Must-have

Archos has really found a winner with the AV 400. Six months before Creative and Samsung's Portable Media Center is available, Archos has already leaped ahead, taking portability even further.

First of all, the device is attractive. With its metal casing, very small size and feather-lightness, it's an "object of desire" that can really be carried everywhere in your jacket pocket.

Its 20 GB capacity and excellent display makes it possible to carry videos around and watch them under excellent conditions. Of course, 3.5" makes for a small screen, but its quality is top rate.

When used with a PC, the AV400 is very practical since it recognizes all the key formats, especially DivX. Practically all the files available in this format are automatically recognized and at the worst, it's always possible to recode them. Recognition as a removable unit makes file management easy, and copying is done by simple drag and drop.

But, best of all, in buying the AV400 you are also getting a pocket digital VCR. When linked to the TV through the base station, it replaces a standard VCR with something better. If installation is a nuisance, it's no worse than with an analog VCR. Using the remote, you soon get used to using the Archos. And it means you can carry your videos or transmissions that you have just recorded around with you so you can watch them somewhere else - to say nothing of the ability to directly transfer photos from a digital camera via the memory card.

The AV400 opens up a new era in convergence. Not only does Archos combine the computer world with that of the TV, but it even adds mobility. Welcome to the future.

In view of the AV 400's large range of capabilities, the price of $550 (600 euros) is not excessive. Their policy on optional accessories is rather a pity, however. And if 20 GB is not enough for you, Archos will soon offer models with 80- and 100 GB hard drives. The expanded versions, however, will be heavier, weighing in at a hefty 10 ounces (320 grams), and they will also be thicker. On the other hand, the screen will be enlarged to 3.8". The 80 GB version will retail for $800 (900 euros).