Toshiba's stylish jukebox
challenges Apple's iPod Photo
Toshiba Gigabeat MEG-F60 Digital Audio Player
The product: Originally released in Japan in November 2004, the Toshiba Gigabeat MEG-F60 Digital Audio Player is finally set to arrive on U.S. shores. Competing directly with Apple's innovative iPod Photo music device, the Gigabeat plays both digital audio and JPEG picture files. Notably, the MEG-F60 sports a vibrant 2.2-inch, QVGA color LCD, is outfitted with a big 60GB hard drive, and uses USB 2.0 for file transfers. The Gigabeat also supports most popular music formats, including MP3, WAV, WMA, and secure WMA, and its rechargeable battery is rated to last 12 hours. Interestingly, the MEG-F60 uses a unique, cross-shaped touch pad for menu navigation.

The price: $549

The prospects: There's no denying that the Apple iPod Photo has created a big buzz. However, Toshiba's Gigabeat MEG-F60 is nicely styled, has a gorgeous display, and costs $50 less than Apple's similarly equipped 60GB photo player. That said, it remains to be seen if the Gigabeat?s distinctive interface is as user-friendly as iPodders are used to.

By Brian Bennett, staff editor, Computer Shopper