Cowon A3

What sets the player apart is the fact that you can record both video and audio from a television set. Using the S-video (included with the package) you can record videos without losing much depth. The 3.5mm composite line-in can record audio in FLAC, so you can connect a CD player or a Walkman and record content without losing too much information. I tried it, and it rocks!

A unique feature of the A3 is the USB host that allows you to connect any other media device to the player via the USB host cable, and transfer data directly. You can copy songs, pictures, and video. It’s fast, and unlike the A2, quite reliable as well.

While charging, the battery heats up the player uncomfortably. This makes charge-and-watch a bit of a turn-off. As for the price, it costs Rs 25,000 with bill and warranty. Sadly, no carry case is bundled this time, so you'll have to shell out another Rs 1,500 for a leather case, which is important if you want to prop up the player on an even surface while watching movies.

So is the A3 worth looking at? Well, if you consider the drag-and-drop options, native support for a host of video and music formats, and the video recording facility, the price seems quite justified. No other player in the market currently offers so much even at this price. That's just crazy, isn't it!!