The Archos Gmini 402 is an intriguing digital audio/video player that has abilities you won't find on other portables. This player has some shortcomings, but the multifunctional Gmini 402's extras might make up for that.

First and foremost, the Gmini 402 features a built-in camcorder and 1.2-megapixel digital stills camera. Indeed, the rear panel looks very similar to a digital camera, including a sharp 2-1/5-inch LCD screen that can display up to 262,000 colors. Video is recorded in AVI (MPEG4) format at up to VGA resolutions (640X480), and there is a TV output to show your home movies on a bigger screen.

The Gmini 402 is compatible with AVI, MPEG and WMV video formats, as well as JPEG and BMP picture formats. Of course, the Gmini 402 can also play music files like any other MP3 player, including MP3, WMA (both protected and unprotected) and WAV. This unit even supports basic games that run on the popular Morphun engine, and a large selection are available for purchase at www.archos.com.

A very handy feature is the Gmini 402's USB Host Port, which allows you to directly transfer content from other USB storage devices, including digital cameras and memory card readers. The Gmini 402 also has a stereo line input, so you can make direct recordings that are saved as WAV files. There is even a microphone for voice recordings.

Considering all the Gmini 402 can do, the 20GB storage capacity will likely be insufficient for many users. The player can hold 13 hours of VGA video or up to 50 hours at the lowest-quality setting, but this assumes you don't have any digital images or music files already in the memory. At 10 hours for music, 4 hours for video playback and 2 hours for video recording, the battery life is less than stellar. The Gmini 402 can't charge via a USB connection with a computer, so you must bring the included AC adapter with you.

This player comes with the player, the AC power adapter, audio/video and USB cables, the USB Host adapter, a Quick Start guide, a carrying pouch and a set of earphones, although you'll probably want to upgrade the earphones at the first opportunity. For a portable digital audio/video player with some welcome surprises, take a look at the Archos Gmini 402.

Pros: Built-in camcorder and digital camera, USB Host Port, Morphun games
Cons: Small memory, limited video format compatibility, short battery life

Warranty
1 year parts and labor