Plextor PX-MPM320U media drive
£133 www.plextor-europe.com
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.
SHOULD I BUY ONE?It is expensive for a hard disk of this capacity - a computer expert could assemble suitable equipment and download similar freeware for perhaps half the price. But for those among us who aren’t propellerheads, the Plextor is definitely a useful and very usable addition to the multimedia home.

Anton Gliders skis
From $1,850 (£1,038) www.antongliders.com
WHAT ARE THEY?A new design of ski for the hard-packed, icy snow of most “groomed” slopes. The traditional ski design is best with soft snow, into which the skis sink. They also bend on it, distributing your weight along their length. But as soft snow is rarely found at busy resorts, it’s usually only the bit of ski directly under your foot that makes proper contact, so the skis can be hard to control. The maker says the Gliders’ front and rear flex adjusters and the use of special materials redistribute your weight to the skis’ ends, the result, apparently, being perfection for tight turns and racing.
SHOULD I BUY SOME?Not if you ski off-piste, where snow is better suited to regular skis. Because they are custom-made in Colorado, you’ll need patience when placing an order, as well as a healthy bank balance.

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