gr00vy0ne: I was just browsing and discovered this rather interesting site. It depicts the VAIO Pocket’s HDD. It seems like it’s upgradable. Since you have the 20GB version, it is possible for you to upgrade your Pocket’s capacity to Toshiba 1.8” MK4004GAH, 40GB or the MK6006GAH, 60GB. Looks promising. I wonder if this 1.8” 60GB HDD is viable for our TR series. In addition, we can view the VAIO Pocket’s CPU from the mentioned site.

Nice catch. In order to replace the HD, you would need to use a Toshiba single-platter drive. I don’t think the physically larger, dual-platter drives (30, 40, 60 GB) would fit, nor would Hitachi drives. Hitachis have the data connector in a different place.

Haha…I might do it but only when it makes sense. As it is, I barely have my VAIO Pocket’s 20GB filled up even though my music collection is more than 20GB. So, having 40GB or even 60GB wouldn’t help me at this point.

Of course, I really want a single transfer cable from the VAIO Pocket to my PC like my Hi-MD player has. Interestingly enough, the VAIO Pocket is conspicuously missing from Sony Japan’s site. Is it EOL so soon? If so, you have to wonder if there will be a new version. The Network Walkman NW-HD3 is an inferior product to the VAIO Pocket in my opinion but the VAIO Pocket could slim down a bit.

Well, the Toshiba 40GB should work since they are already selling a 40GB model here in the US. So, assuming the 60GB model is the same height as the 40GB then it should be possible.

Whoa… that’s news to me. I didn’t know it’s being taken off the main site. Truly wonder what’s in store.

Is anyone still using this mp3 player?  I’m thinking of getting something soon and they’re at an ok price on ebay at the moment…

I’m guessing they work as a general storage device without needing the cradle, that would be annoying :?

I still do.

Anything else to say about it :shock:

I was trying to find a pic of one next to an iPod to see size etc but couldn’t.  I’ve just been looking at the NW-HD5 but don’t really like it and the pocket screams of gadget geek :wink:

If you want a brief comparative review between the iPod and the VAIO Pocket… in my opinion, the VAIO Pocket is better in sound and build quality and it has a more vibrant screen - very detailed and bright (just got to love a sharp presentation of your album jackets).

Sound
In the sound department, the VAIO Pocket seems brighter, more detailed and fuller than the iPod.

Size and Build
The VAIO Pocket is somewhat thicker than the iPod in size. However, not significantly bigger - you will have to see it in person to appreciate its sleek industrial design and size; it is a lot smaller than pictures you have seen online. As for its build quality, all I can say is: it is really solid and you will feel that your investment was worthwhile.

Another note of interest: if you listen to certain genre of music that requires gapless playback, ATRAC3+ is really efficient and provides very good sound quality. In addition to Sony’s proprietary music format, you can also utilize Mp3s if that is your cup of tea.

Overall, I highly recommend this portable HDD device.

[quote author=“Mighty Matt”]I’m guessing they work as a general storage device without needing the cradle, that would be annoying :?

I’m still using mine too; however, it DOES require the cradle to connect to a computer. It doesn’t need a driver though.

[quote author=“gr00vy0ne”][quote author=“Mighty Matt”]I’m guessing they work as a general storage device without needing the cradle, that would be annoying :?

I’m still using mine too; however, it DOES require the cradle to connect to a computer. It doesn’t need a driver though.

As I understand from your review and other online reading you need the cradle to do ‘anything’ with it, including just charging it.  Is that right?

Having a DSC-T1 I’m obviously interested in the ability to copy pics across as I’m still on a 128 card (max my P900 can cope with!) :oops:

—> Check out my VAIO Pocket VGF-AP1L Pictorial .  :D

And for what it’s worth…Sony has dropped the price of the unit by $100. It’s now $299 MSRP from Sonystyle.

I think that is a great price! Nice pictorial btw :wink:

Thanks Stan. Look forward to your HMP-A1 impressions and pictorial.