New Portable CD/MP3 Player

Panasonic’s new SL-MP50 portable CD player also plays back MP3 files that are recorded on five-inch CD-R or CD-RW discs. Listeners can quickly access their songs by searching for albums with the Album Skip function. Other features include Random Play (file/album), Repeat Play (file/album) and 20-track random access programming.

The CD playback options include 24-track Random Access Programming, Repeat, Resume, which picks up where the unit left off when last stopped, and Skip/Search and Memory/Recall. A Hold switch is included to prevent accidental button pushing.

The unit can play up to 15 hours of MP3 or up to 30 hours of CDs using just two "AA" batteries (not included). The SL-MP50 also works with the included car power adapter or optional rechargeable batteries or optional AC adapter.

Other features include a "pop-up" disc eject mechanism, Panasonic's No Skip Anti-Skip System, auto-power off to prevent battery drainage and a heat-resistant polycarbonate body. $140. www.panasonic.com.