Electronics giant Sony has introduced its latest range of colourful digital voice recorders, flaunting MP3-playing abilities and USB storage.

Specially designed for consumers and students, the slimline ICD-UX200, ICD-UX300 and ICD-UX300F offer voice recording, file storage and music playback via the built-in speakers or the supplied in-ear headphones.

Voice recordings are captured in stereo as MP3 files with a background noise filter helping to keep them clear, while 21-step digital playback speed control claims to help when listening back.

The lightweight 3-in-1 gadgets also feature a slide-out USB connector, folder options and a LCD screen with easy-to-read 5-line display.

The devices are compatible with PCs and Macs and sport the drag-and-drop file support technique. While the battery back-up stays for up to 15 hours in LP mode, playback extends to 83 hours, presumably less if via the speakers.

Scheduled to hit stores next month, the 2GB ICD-UX200 will flaunt colours including black, silver, pink and red, together with the 4GB ICD-UX300 which will be available in black or red finishes. The 4GB ICD-UX300F, complete with an FM tuner, will be sold only in black.

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