So what do we know about the Karma 2 and or Chroma?

[blessingx]

Like all annoucements, guesses and especially hopes seem mixed with more reliable news. I missed the momentary Rio website update (since removed). With an iPod 40GB already ordered, but not shipped, I'm curious what do we really know about the Chroma (which may or may not be the Karma 2)? Were images posted for a short bit?

kurisu posted this link - http://engadget.com/entry/8929472158314672/.

The name obviously indicates a color screen or color faceplaces, etc. Hoping the former. The SD card slot (if true) while nice, knocks out use for nearly all professional cameras and most prosumers, as those cameras (with highest pixel counts so most in need of storage) use CF/Microdrive. Obviously there's a size issue between the two though. It may have other uses though like extending memory/loading songs. 40 GB is a nice move with continued FLAC support (think 80 GB for non-lossless support players). Hope Rio continues to support alternatives to Windoze. Also with the Carbon having Audible support, anyone hear that the Chroma will also? Audiobook listener here. Also if so, the iPod $100 Audible discount will likely apply to the Chroma too.

I hope this is a great model. Just curious what other info is out there before I sign for my iPod later this week when it arrives.

 

[Achtunghoy]

They haven't posted the Chroma again yet, but the other new players are up, and with picture:
Forge 128mb
Forge 256mb
Forge 512mb
and the beautiful 5gb Carbon

http://forums-riovolution.com/index....90&#entry83160

So it seems that the Chroma is indeed the karma 2, but Rio chose not to use "2" in the name, they just renamed them all. They ditched the RioStick, too. The Rio Carbon is a fine looking player in my book, and it just makes me brainstorm about the chroma...

Carbon

Forge 128

Forge 256

Forge 512

 

[dza]

Those look sooo sweet

 

[chicubs]

Judging by these two new models, I think that the Rio Karma will look fantastic. More professional than the last Karma which looks like it came out of a happy meal.

 

[Achtunghoy]

cmon, it ain't that bad. I'm sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for it's replacement, though.

 

[AuroraProject]

Maybe it's just me but I find the Carbon to be ugly, the Forge looks ok though.

 

[ezra2323]

This is coming from an Apple/iPod devotee who has been previously critical (although supportive) of Rio's products.

These players look great! From a style perspective, Rio finally 'gets it'. The Carbon looks like the Nitrus with an iPod Mini body. Very cool. The Forge line is simply stunning from a flash/sports player perspective. Only rivaled by the new black and silver Philips/Nike player. The Cali's with olive green and tonka truck yellow were simply UGLY.

I only hope the user interface and sound are as good as the style improvements. I would assume so, as Rio has never been lacking in those areas.

I hope the new Karma makes the same improvements as I agree with the earleier comment that the Karma looks like it came from a Happy Meal. If you even look at it wrong it scratches.

Great job Rio. I hope this keeps Apple on their toes. (Now if you would only support AAC rather than WMA.......oh well, first things first.)

 

[Ozric]

I too am eagerly following developments about the Chroma. Almost bought a Karma twice on eBay these past two days...maybe some patience will pay off handsomely

The only reason I still might get a Karma is that I figure the new player will cost over $300, while I might be able to snag a brand new Karma for around $200 if I watch and wait.

 

[Achtunghoy]

I'm just going to figure out a way to return mine w/ my warranty so I get a cool $250 towards the new Chroma at Best Buy.