WHAT IS IT?A portable 320GB hard drive with the ability to copy and play back movies, photos and music over all manner of hardware. To that end, it comes not only with the expected PC USB connectivity, but also with audiovisual outputs and a Scart adaptor, making it compatible with standard televisions and hi-fi sets. Waiting on the disk is software able to handle just about any audio or video format imaginable, and capable of upscaling the latter to 720p HD if you choose. The software is accessed via dedicated playback keys or the supplied remote control. Particularly noteworthy is the unit’s ability to cope with DVDs, though only as long as they’re copyright-free. Transfer a film to the Plextor using your computer, and the drive will store not just the video, but all the associated extras, such as menus and chapters – previously only possible if you manually converted each audio or video format.

If you’ve got the money, the Plextor PX-MPM320U Media Drive might just get the job done for you.