released in 03 japan. not yet released anywhere else in the
world. if launched in singapore, will you buy?
i wouldn't mind one.
the new models now are DESR-7700 and DESR-5700, price is 64,800円
(~S$900) and 52,800円 (~S$750) respectively.
http://www.jp.sonystyle.com/Style-e/Product/Psx/Desr-7700/index.html

The PSX is a PS2, Tivo, and DVD-R All Rolled Into One
Empowered by two key semiconductors ("EmotionEngine" and "Graphics
Synthesizer"), CPU and graphics rendering processor used for
PlayStation 2, PSX has realized a high-speed high-definition GUI
(Graphical User Interface), the likes of which have never been
experienced before. This first-of-a-kind GUI enables speedy and
easy access of various content to be enjoyed on PSX, with the same
level easiness as switching TV channels with a remote
control.
PSX is also equipped with various features as a digital media
player, providing storage and playback of a variety of
entertainment content such as high-resolution, mega-pixel images
from digital still cameras and music from various package
media.
Since PSX is designed to run various features by firmware via a
powerful hardware engine, users can upgrade or add new features
later by accessing the network.
The two PSX models of DESR-5000 and DESR-7000 are equipped with
maximum capacity HDD respectively to accommodate various features
in serving as a digital home electronics product as well as a game
device for enjoying PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games.
Sony Marketing (Japan) aims to accelerate the expansion of the DVD
recorder market by positioning PSX as the key to home entertainment
and the core for digital electronics products throughout the living
room.
Model Names Launch Dates Planned, MSRP
250GB HDD+DVD recorder [DESR-7000] December 13, 2003 99,800
yen
160GB HDD+DVD recorder[DESR-5000] December 13, 2003 79,800
yen
160GB "PSX" analog controller(DUAL SHOCK2)[DESR-10] December 13,
2003 3,500 yen
DESR-5000/7000 Main Features
1. High capacity HDD+DVD recorder
PSX, "DESR-7000" and "DESR-5000" are equipped with 250GB and 160GB
HDD respectively, largest HDD capacity*2 in each class as consumer
DVD recorder. This enables recording up to 325 hours*3 of video
content on HDD with DESR-7000 and 204 hours*3 with DESR-5000.
*2: As of October 6, 2003, surveyed by Sony Marketing
(Japan).
*3: When recorded at SLP mode.
2. High-quality GUI
By using a PS2 based real-time operation system, comfortable
operation never experienced until now, has been achieved. Advanced
GUI with full color and half transparent display.
3. Firmware upgrade
Features can later be added or upgraded via the network. (Details
to be announced on the Sony Marketing website as available.)
4. High speed dubbing from HDD to DVD
The speed of dubbing from HDD to DVD is 12 times maximum. PSX
adopts DVD-R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW*4.
*4: Subsequent upgrades via the network.
5. Various recording/playback features
PSX supports various user-friendly features, such as enabling users
to watch recorded content on the HDD without waiting for the
recording to finish, watch recorded content on the HDD while
recording another program or play games while recording programs,
etc.
6. Equipped with ghost reduction tuner
Analog terrestrial tuner is equipped with ghost reduction
tuner.
7. Progressive scan DVD video output
Progressive scan DVD video output supports high-resolution
pictures.
8. Memory Stick slot
Memory Stick slot is available on the front side of PSX. Digital
still mages stored on a Memory Stick can be transferred to the HDD
and displayed on a large TV monitor.
9. USB port
USB port is available on the front side of PSX for a connection
with digital still cameras*5 and USB game controllers.
*5: At launch, only Sony digital still cameras are supported. There
are plans to support others in the future.
10. "PlayStation"/ PlayStation 2" game software
More than 5000 PS and PS2 game titles can be played on PSX*6.
Online games can also be enjoyed through the PSX network
services.
*6: Due to the fact that there is only one USB port for PSX, some
peripheral combinations may not be supported.
11. Compact size
Simple and translucent design in line with latest digital
electronics products. Compact design (312mm width) for both
horizontal and vertical positioning.
12. Less Noise
Silent operation through heat control and temperature-actuated
cooling fan.