Goodmans X-Pro GPDR1

Most of us have a collection of photos, videos and music residing on our PCs these days. Taking this content with us on a portable device is the next step on the digital ladder, encouraged by products such as the Goodmans X-Pro GPDR1.

Slightly bigger than a pack of cards, this self-titled 'personal entertainment system' can store and play MP3s and JPEG video files. Using its video-in socket, it can also record video from a TV or DVD player. Everything is stored on the player's internal 32Mb memory and the supplied 256Mb memory card.

So far so good, but that's not the full picture. The 2.5in screen isn't the best and, although pictures and video are viewable, it can be hard to distinguish detail. The navigation system is fickle - it left us clueless as to which button would return us to the main menu or adjust the volume - and the unit feels cheap and fragile.

Like many devices of its kind, the GPDR1 is a good idea that's poorly executed. We'll wait to see what Creative's Portable Media Center can offer when it's launched next month.

Contact: Goodmans 0870 873 0080
www.goodmans.co.uk