2. The Hardware

The 128 MB Neuros MP3 Digital Audio Computer. Where's the "on" button?

The 128 MB Neuros unit tested here measures 4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3" and weighs in at 5.8 oz. Its big brother, the 20 GB Neuros HD measures 5.3" x 3.1" x 1.3" and weighs 9.4 oz. The 128 MB flash memory version of Neuros is upgradeable to 20 GB by switching the base unit into a different "backpack" that holds the 20 GB hard drive. You can purchase a package that includes the 128 MB flash-based backpack and the 20 GB backpack, giving you the option of sacrificing storage for portability or vice versa. A less expensive version of the 128 MB Neuros called Neuros LT is also offered if you're not interested in listening to FM radio.

The Neuros unit detached from its "backpack." The "backpack seen here can be replaced with one that contains a 20 GB hard drive.

The front of the 128 MB Neuros unit tested here has a jog dial for navigation and volume control, five buttons for FM radio presets, a play/pause button, buttons that allow you to skip forward or back for song searches, a key lock button, and an orange button for the player's HiSi (hear it, save it) feature. The bottom of the unit has a stereo earphone jack, a line-level input connector, a power connector that serves to plug the unit in when you need to charge its built-in rechargeable NiMH batteries, an RF jack for an external antenna (not included), and a USB 1.1 connector to attach the unit to your computer (a USB 2.0 version is in the offing). In addition, there's a release button for detaching the Neuros base unit if you want to switch storage "backpacks."

The unit sports connections for a 2.5mm stereo RF jack (for an external antenna), USB, a charger for the NiMH batteries, headphones, and a line in for a microphone or line in.

Aesthetically, the Neuros doesn't really have much to offer. In other words, its looks aren't going to elicit a "wow" from your peers. However, as aficionados of automobiles and candy-flavored computers have learned, many externally attractive products turn out to be "all show and no go." In other words, looks can sometimes be deceiving.