Although MP3 players are a relatively new technology, most generally have the same collection of features. Breaking the mold is the Philips PSA260, an innovative product for runners, whether professional racers or weekend warriors. In conjunction with Nike, Philips has created a digital audio player and training aid in an attractive, compact package.

The PSA260 is a solid MP3 player, but we'll get to those features later. What makes this product so revolutionary is the speed and distance sensor that uses Bluetooth technology to wirelessly transmit data from a shoe-mounted sensor to the main unit. An automated voice provides audible cues right into the headphones, and the PSA260 can be configured to give audible announcements of time, speed, and distance at user-determined intervals.

The PSA260 can even serve as a personal trainer, as run data can be uploaded into a PC to Nike's nikerunning.com training log. As an added bonus, this unit has a flashing strobe light to make runners more visible when out on the road.

As a traditional MP3 player, the PSA260 performs solidly. It has 256MB of Flash memory, which will hold approximately 8 hours of WMA tracks or 4 hours of MP3 songs. The PSA260 has a built-in FM tuner with ten presets, in case joggers need more listening options. A dynamic bass boost and four preset equalizer curves are available to enhance music playback.

With an assist from Nike, the Philips PSA260 is a fabulous MP3 player that is chock-full of innovations with runners in mind.

Warranty
1 year