ZDNet Music's Audio Fantasies brings you dangerously close to the future of digital audio. Take an opportunistic glimpse at what the coming months may hold - for some, a portable player might catch the eye, and others will stand enthralled by the promise of an in-dash MP3 player. Whatever weakness you claim, feel free to indulge yourself with reckless abandon. ZDNet Music always has the latest technology on display for your perusal. Remember though, please enjoy only as you deem appropriate!

Stereo Component MP3 Player
AudioTron

The AudioTron is an audio component that links your stereo system to the MP3s on your PC. This unit can organize and play an unlimited number of digital music files both from your hard drive and off the Web. In doing so, your PC becomes a huge music jukebox, delivering music to any room in which the AudioTron resides. For instance, an AudioTron in the living room can play WMA and MP3 files saved on a PC located in another part of the house. Using either the included remote control or buttons on the AudioTron base unit, you can play all the digital music stored on your computer, creating custom playlists, randomizing song playback, and more. Finally, the album and song titles - if stored as part of the digital music file - will be shown on the base unit's lighted LCD display. If you're a frenetic audiophile (or even a modest listener), the AudioTron is a stereo essential.

Available: Fall 2000
URL: http://www.audiotron.net/
Price: less than $500

MP3 and Audio CD Player
Genica Portable Audio/MP3 CD player
The Genica portable player has been cleverly designed to play both MP3 files and CD audio files from CD, CD-R, and CD-RW media. Further, a 50-second anti-shock protection allows for uninterrupted MP3 playback. This unit includes a Dynamic Bass Boost System (DBBS) for enhanced low frequencies. For those unsure of new MP3 player designs, the Genica looks and feels like a standard CD player. The familiar interface features a rapid song search feature so you can quickly skip tracks. For those who crave MP3s on the road, the Genica has an optional accessory pack featuring cassette and lighter adapters, and a free CD wallet to store your precious discs. Be warned though, at just under $100 the Genica is a tough product to locate - many stores have it on back order indefinitely.

Available: NOW
URL: http://www.genica.com/
Price: $99

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