Cowon has 2 PMPs in store. The Q5W is an all-in-one device whereas the A3 we test here is a more compact product.

Handling

There is plenty in the box here. USB cable, USB Host cable, audio/composite cable, S-Video cables…. adaptor, instructions, CD, (bad quality) earphones ...but no transport pouch.

This player is not a looker like those by Archos but it has the advantage of being matte, so you avoid the traditionnal collection of fingerprints. The interface is good and navigation with the joystick and the right side buttons is easy. You can personalize the options but this may be a bit tricky if you are a newbie.

Sound quality

Cowon does not put the A3 in the iAudio series, but it could easily be part of it. A large number of formats are supported, sound quality, equalizer modes… everything is good. The speakers are not anything to rave about, but then again chances are you will listen to this device mainly through a headset.


Video and multimedia

Cowon has never failed us in this area. The A3 has a DaVinci chip, will play videos up to 720p easily and supports plenty of digital formats. Sadly the glossy display does not make the viewing experience that pleasant at times.

Video outs are good and we appreciate the S-Video + Component for HD. For picture plyaback and storage, the USB Host comes in handy. There is FM radio -recorder; the TNT tuner is optional (and works rather well).

Battery life is 6hours for video and 9h30 for audio; the DaVinci chip is greedy.

Nice product by Cowon: for those who want something with more features than an Archos 5, the A3 will do just fine, even though it is less user-friendly.