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Blending music and storage into a single handheld device, Creative Labs announced Tuesday the Nomad MuVo (for Music Voyage). The company plans to ship a $130, 64MB MuVo this month; a $170, 128MB version will ship in August.

Small enough to fit on a keychain (according to Creative Labs), the MuVo even has a loop so you can attach it to one. However, at 2.87 by 1.38 by 0.63 inches, you might not want to put a MuVo into a tight pants pocket. It is lightweight, however, weighing in at less than one ounce.

Pulling It to Pieces

The MuVo is a two-piece device; you have to pull it apart before you connect it to your PC. The piece you attach to your computer contains the flash RAM memory, the system logic, the buttons for playing music, and a plug that goes directly into your USB port--no cables necessary. Windows ME, 2000, and XP PCs need no additional software; Windows 98 drivers come with the unit.

Once you've connected the device, it appears to Windows as just another drive. This makes it simple to change the MuVo's music collection, drag and drop files from Explorer, edit or view data, and so on.

The other piece is simply the battery case that holds a single AAA battery for playing music. According to Creative Labs, one alkaline battery offers up to 12 hours of music.

Multiple Files

The Nomad MuVo supports both Windows Media Audio files and MP3 music files.

It comes bundled with earphones, as well as a neck cord so you can wear the device as a necklace.

Creative Labs has several additional accessories on the drawing board, including a rubber protective sleeve that you can clip to your belt or wear as an armband, offering convenient ways to carry music while jogging or working out at the gym. Also on the way are various colored battery packs for those who accessorize their electronics with their outfits.

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