Creative Zen X-Fi WiFi-Blessed PMP Gets Official

Creative have finally brought their new PMP, the Zen X-Fi, blinking into the sunlight.  The WiFi enabled media player had already been spotted surfing the FCC, but Creative's Singapore division has officially announced the new Zen.  Among its talents are wireless streaming and content sync from a PC, together with instant messaging via the onboard Yahoo! and MSN clients.

Capacity will range from 8GB, through 16GB and topping out at 32GB.  However the smallest model won't include WiFi.  All boast a 2.5-inch LCD display, SD/SDHC expansion card slot, FM radio and voice recorder.  Perhaps more interesting is that these are the first PMPs from Creative to carry the company's clever X-Fi audio enhancing technology.  In this case there are two systems; Crystalizer claims to fill in detail lost during music compression, while Expand increases range and virtual effect.  Unlike traditional sound tweak setups, X-Fi has actually impressed many reviewers.

The 8GB will launch later this month for $145.69, while the $209.31 16GB and $253.85 32GB models are available now.  There'll also be a special edition Red Cliff version, to tie in with the new John Woo film.  Obviously John isn't a fan of big storage, as the PMP – which includes a special arm-band holder, pictures of the cast and the movie trailer preloaded – will only be available in the two smaller capacities.  At least the prices will be the same.  The arm-band will be one of a number of accessories Creative offer, including a leather case, silicon skin and screen protector sheets.  A Creative TravelSound Zen X-Fi Docking Speaker System is expected at the end of September.