http://www.game-science.com/news/000104.html[/URL]]Sony marketing announced the prices for the HDD-installed DVD recorder "PSX" at CEATEC JAPAN today.
Two models were announced with different HDD sizes.
Model "DESR-5000" - HDD 160GB 79,800yen (without tax)
Model "DESR-7000" - HDD 250GB 99,800yen (without tax)
Both to be released in the end of this year.
Original article from
Dengeki
Recording mode Recording space
HQ
250GB/DESR-7000 53 hrs
160GB/DESR-5000 33 hrs
HSP
250GB/DESR-7000 81 hrs
160GB/DESR-5000 51 hrs
SP
250GB/DESR-7000 107 hrs
160GB/DESR-5000 67 hrs
LP
250GB/DESR-7000 164 hrs
160GB/DESR-5000 103 hrs
EP
250GB/DESR-7000 217 hrs
160GB/DESR-5000 137 hrs
SLP
250GB/DESR-7000 325 hrs
160GB/DESR-5000 204 hrs
The original Japanese FAQ for the PSX can be found
here
GENERAL INFO/RELEASE
Q. The release date is announced as being "planned for the end of 2003" but what is the actual date?
A. We are planning to release it for the end of year sales. We will be announcing a more specific date at a later date.
Q. Is the PSX the next-gen PlayStation?
A. PSX is not positioned as the next-gen PlayStation. The PSX is a DVD recorder with a built-in hard disc drive, with the PS2 engine and realtime OS. It will provide numerous sorts of entertainment including games.
SPECIFICATIONS
Q. What is the difference between the 2 models (DESR-7000 & DESR-5000) apart from the HDD size?
A. The specs apart from the HDD size are basically the same but the DESR-7000 model has a luxurious design and the DESR-5000 a solid and functional design.
Q. Is it possible to add HDDs?
A. No
Q. Is the graphical quality when playing better than the PS2? What level will it be as a DVD player?
A. It will have the same quality as the PS2 or any other standard DVD player.
Q. Is it possible to record while playing games?
A. Yes
Q. Is it possible to record and play at the same time?
A. It is possible to play contents on the HDD while recording.
Q. How many recording modes are there? Is there a manual rate setting?
A. There are 6 levels of recording. We are still considering the manual rate setting via the network.
Q. What is the DVD format? Are there any plans for -RW or +RW?
A. Currently it is DVD-R and DVD-RW compatible. As for +RW, we are considering handling them through network upgrades.
Q. Is dubbing to DVD possible?
A. Yes
Q. What is the DVD dubbing speed?
A. Maximum 24x
Q. Is it possible to record while dubbing to the DVD?
A. No
Q. Is it CPRM compatible?
A. No. Personal contents can be recorded from the HDD to the DVD but contents "only recordable once" can only be recorded to the HDD and viewed there.
Q. Does it have high speed playback with sound?
A. We are planning this through network upgrades.
Q. What music formats are available?
A. ATRAC3 recording and playing, MP3 playing
Q. Is it network compatible?
A. Yes. Through LAN (Ethernet).
Q. What sort of usage do you expect with a LAN or network?
A. Upgrades through the network. Also, we are considering EPG in the future. Also compatible with PS2 network games.
Q. Is it compatible with EPG?
A. Yes. Which EPG services it will be compatible with has not yet been decided.
Q. Does it have the ability to automatically record programs where you have preset some keywords.
A. No, but keyword searches are possible.
Q. What kind of hardware do you expect to connect through the USB port?
A. Digital cameras like the Cyber Shot, mobile equipment, Silicon Audio etc.
Q. Is the USB version 2.0?
A. No, it is version 1.1
Q. Is there a DV port?
A. No. Analog methods like S ports will be available.
Q. Is i.LINK available?
A. No.
Q. Does it have a memory stick slot? What would it be used for?
A. The slot will be compatible with the Memory Stick PRO and the Memory Stick Duo (Via adapter). Still shots, movies and music recorded on the memory stick can be enjoyed.
Q. How are photos and music outputted? Can it be sent to the network?
A. Output is to the memory stick or a DVD. Sending to the network is a feature considered for the future.
Q. Does it have email capabilities?
A. Not in the beginning. It is being considered as a feature for the future.
Q. Is there a controller? Will there be standard remote control?
A. We plan to have a remote controller in the package. The controller will have to be purchased separately.
Q. Is it compatible with WOWOW?
A. No
Q. Is it compatible with the digital programs due to be released in Japan in December?
A. Land digital programs also include HD digital programs thus will require a conversion to normal TV signals.
Q. Can all standard PS/PS2 games be played on this?
A. Most are compatible but some with special peripherals will not be compatible. We are confirming which titles are not compatible.
Q. Can online games be played?
A. Yes
Q. Will PS/PS2 peripherals work on the PSX?
A. The memory card is usable. Most PS/PS2 peripherals will work with the PSX, however a controller for the PSX (matching color and a 4m cable) is planned to be released. (Price and details undecided)
Q. Will PSX peripherals work on the PS/PS2?
A. The PSX remote control will not be compatible with the PS2. PSX Dual Shock2 for the PSX could cause electronic wave interruptions so should not be used on anything but a PSX.
Q. If a PSX is bought to replace a PS2, can the data and services stored on the BBU be transferred?
A. Data on the memory card can be transferred but HDD data protected by DNAS can not be transferred, from a copyright/security standpoint.
Q. Will features in the "PlayStation BB Unit" be included in the PSX? Can PSBB related services be applicable to the PSX?
A. Yes. PSBB will be viewable by connecting to the network.
Q. Is recording possible while playing a game which uses the HDD?
A. Yes.
OTHERS
Q. Can this be used overseas?
A. Due to safety regulations and laws in each country, this will not be possible.