PlayStation Portable 3000 Core Pack System - Piano Black

by Sony

• Piano Black PlayStation Portable includes built-in microphone
• Listen to MP3s and watch full-length movies
• Built-in WiFi lets you access the Internet from any accessible hotspot
• Memory Stick Duo slot for storage expansion

Product Details

• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B001KMRN0M
• Item Weight: 10.2 ounces
• Media: Video Game
• Release Date: December 15, 2008
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (603 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #59 in Video Games (See Top 100 in Video Games)
  • #1 in Video Games > Sony PSP > Consoles
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes

Product Description

Amazon.com

The PSP-3000 PlayStation Portable offers a beautiful screen that is brighter than ever, giving you a multitude of entertainment options on the go. Play games, listen to music, connect to the Internet, watch movies, and do more, all in a sleek compact package that you can easily bring with you wherever you go.

The PSP features a bright 4.3-inch widescreen display. View larger.

You'll have plenty of entertainment options during a flight with the PSP. View larger.

The PlayStation Portable PSP-3000: Features a brilliant 4.3-inch widescreen color display Has a built-in microphone for use with Skype. Lets you look at photos, listen to music, and watch videos and movies on the go. Has built-in WiFi for multiplayer gaming action and connecting to the Internet.

UMD discs hold 1.8 GB for epic games and full-length movies. View larger.

Now with Included Microphone and Brighter Screen
The latest Playstation Portable revision, the PSP-3000, has everything the older PSPs had but now includes a built-in microphone, which lets you take advantage of voice features in some games as well as the PSP's built-in Skype functionality without having to use a headset. This PSP-3000 comes in a sleek black color scheme and also includes an improved anti-reflective screen that offers higher contrast and clearer visibility in well-lit places and can even be used outdoors.

A Full Entertainment System in Your Hands
The PSP was designed to handle all varieties of applications and entertainment -- music, video, communication, wireless networking, and, of course, gaming. Users will enjoy top-notch 3D games with high-quality, full-motion video, and high-fidelity audio. The 4.3-inch wide screen display is bright and beautiful, and works well under many different lighting conditions. If you prefer, you can also connect your PSP to your TV. The PSP utilizes the Universal Media Disc (UMD) for a storage medium, each of which holds 1.8 GB of data.

Hundred of Games to Choose From
The PSP gaming library is hundreds of titles strong and covers a wide variety of genres. Whether you are seeking the hard hits of football or the strategy of a puzzle game, there's sure to be many games for you. The PSP is capable of graphics quality that is comparable to the PlayStation 2, but in a pocket-sized package that you can take wherever you go.

Watch Movies and Videos On The Go
When you just want to sit back and enjoy a movie on a long plane trip, the PSP has you covered. The PSP offers two options to do this: you can either purchase full-length movies and TV shows on UMD, or you can download videos onto your computer and transfer them on a Memory Stick Duo for playing on your PSP.

You can also watch recorded television content downloaded to a Memory Stick Duo with the TiVo-To-Go service. (Please note that this requires $24.95 fee, you must have a TiVo Series2 connected to your home network.)

Listen to Your Music Collection Anywhere
With the ability to play MP3, WAV, WMA, ATRAC3+, and MP4 files, you can easily use your PSP as an audio player. Simply place your music on a Memory Stick Duo, and you can navigate your collection using the PSP's XMB (XrossMediaBar) to select your song to play.

Built-in WiFi allows for Internet Browsing and Online Gaming
With built-in WiFi, you can access the Internet from any accessible hotspot. Once connected, you can surf the Web and download exclusive demos and content for your PSP from the PlayStation Store.

The WiFi also allows you to battle other gamers, both over the Internet and in your local vicinity.

What's in the Box:
Black PSP-3000 system, AC power cord, 5V AC adapter (100 ~ 240 VAC input with 5vdc 1500ma output), battery pack, documentation.

DIMENSIONS
Approximately 6.7 in (W) x 2.7 in (H) x .7 in (D) (excludes largest projection) Approximately 189g /6.7oz (including battery pack)

Product Description

PlayStation Portable 3000 Core Pack System - Piano Black

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

343 of 358 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Simply The Best January 8, 2009

By JDP

Fun: 5.0 out of 5 stars   

The all new slimmer PSP 3000 comes in with a couple of new upgrades over the 2000 model. Primarily for the Skype functionality, a microphone is onboard along with a reduced glare 4.3" screen. Its a given that fingerprints will still be a continued issue for the PSP line. Thankfully, the age old problem of ghosting has yet to appear on my new PSP 3000.

One of the sweeter features now is an upgraded (AV) video output support. Owners can now operate their systems with regular (NON HD) TV. I suggest buyers pick up a good composite or component cable. With the usual collection of great games, improved graphics is a major plus.

As with all previous models, control buttons layout are very much like the classic Play Station. One area of concern is that load times for the UMD (Universal Media Disc) seemed to drag a bit. Its a given that purchasing the kit which includes the proprietary MS Duo Card is more cost effective in the end. Its obvious that Sony missed the boat when it went with its own proprietary format instead of the more widely used and less costly SD standard.

Even though Wi-fi capable, the unit is outfitted with possibly the slowest version (802.11b) on the planet. It powers up via a 5 volt ac adapter or USB. Video playback is great as long as you copy your favorites on the memory stick Duo Card. Going any other way is definitely a slow dragged out process. When it comes to television, Sony's own version of Slingbox allows for free tv viewing.

This PSP won't get confused with your IPOD anytime soon but music play is generally good. Another added feature is that it will even support music art. If one is going to display photos on the PSP I strongly suggest compressing your files. Photo display can be via slide show or singles....

Of note, the PSP is also a web browser. However, its hit and miss for flash. Streaming internet radio via Shoutcast is a freebie. PSP offers a regular schedule of firmware updates. As with the earlier editions, via a network or the internet the unit can pick up audio, video and photo files that are stored on a PS3. The PSP 3000 comes with the standard 1200 mAh rechargeable battery. Battery life runs almost a full 5 hours whether one is gaming or watching a movie.

Necessary accessories such as the Memory Stick Duo card, protective screen cover, headphones and a carrying case are not included. Not all PSP headphones are compatible with the PSP 3000. When purchasing headphones read the specs carefully.

Even without the included accessories, the PSP 3000 still brings it on. I would definitely recommend this model as a gift or as a personal purchase. After all, it is Play Station. Read more ›

244 of 256 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars How I Decided Between PSP GO and PSP 3000 August 15, 2010

By E. Agarwal

Fun: 5.0 out of 5 stars   

I've spent the last few weeks doing some research on which to buy, and finally caved and bought a PSP GO. I ended up returning it and buying the PSP 3000, and here's why:

1. Physical comfort.

I'll admit it, I'm a sucker for things that are new and look cool (sometimes at the cost of utility.) Plus, things that slide are undoubtedly awesome. Sony knew that when they made the GO. The problem is the "cool" and "new" factors are outweighed by the smaller screen and compressed controls. Also, I thought it would be better having the controls on the bottom wh en gaming, and have a less distracting view when watching movies since the buttons would be hidden, but I was wrong. The buttons on the side are far more comfortable, convenient, and surprisingly natural. The bigger screen actually does make a difference, and the L and R buttons just feel more natural this way.

One thing to note about the screens (both have the same resolution):

They're good, but not great. The problem is we're spoiled now. If you have a smartphone (which if you don't, I feel like I don't even know you,) you'll be disappointed when you see some things on the screen that are just so clearly pixelated. I'm going to post a video review in a bit and you'll see what I'm talking about.

2. Digital games vs. UMD (the names of the physical discs that the 3000 uses.)

For those who don't know, the PSP GO uses digital games exclusively. There are no physical discs. You download games from the Playstation Network store. It's convenient since you don't have to carry discs around, and you have immediate access to a huge selection.

The 3000 uses physical discs (UMD) as well as downloads.... Now, carrying discs around is definitely a hassle (even though they're only about 2 inches by 2 inches), but the benefit is that you can buy used discs for very cheap, an option not available with the digital only GO.

***IMPORTANT TIP***

At GameStop, you can buy used PSP UMDs for cheap, and they have a great return policy. For any reason, you can return any used game within 7 days for a full refund, to any GameStop in the country. If you don't have your receipt, you have to return it to the location where you bought it.

***/IMPORTANT TIP***

3. Price

This is often overlooked but I think very important. The retail price for the GO is $250, which is pretty crazy given that you can often find a PS3 for $250, or at worst, $300. Given that you can get a full system for 20% more, it's hard to justify spending that much for considerably less functionality.

Now on Amazon you can get the GO go for $200, plus tax and such leads to about $215. On NewEgg, you can get the PSP 3000 with Madden 11, free shipping and no tax for $170. So you'll end up paying at least $45 more, but for what?

You are really spending $45 more for no reason. And with this extra $45, comes the responsibility to spend even more on games that you buy directly from the PlayStation network as opposed to used UMDs.

4. Memory Stick

***IMPORTANT TIP***

If you do decide to get a GO, it uses something called the M2. If you buy it from Amazon, you get a 4GB for $15 and it comes with an adapter for the Memory Stick Duo:

http://www.amazon.com/Sandisk-Memory-Stick-SDMSM2-4096-Package/dp/B00107AO58/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1281896190&sr=8-1

If you buy a 3000, it uses the Memory Stick Duo, which if you buy by itself, a 4GB will run you ~$19:

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Memory-Stick-Flash-MSMT4G/dp/B0013AX2JM/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1281896267&sr=1-2

I know it's only a matter for $4, but I thought that was interesting (I need to get out more) and worth mentioning.

***/IMPORTANT TIP***

5. Fun level

They're both freaking fun. Sony knows what they're doing, the games are great, the devices are both portable and easy to take around, and keep you entertained for hours. Either way, you'll love what you bought.

6. WRAP UP

I ended up with a 3000 and I'm happy with it. I couldn't justify spending nearly as much money as I would on a full system without getting much in return. And the ability to buy used games for considerably less was also hugely attractive. Finally, the better placement of the controls really won me over.

Enjoy! Read more ›

138 of 154 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Handheld entertainment bonanza December 22, 2008

By ice grizzly VINE™ VOICE

Fun: 5.0 out of 5 stars   

With a wealth of games and movies, the new refined PSP is a big bonanza. It is slim, sleek and bright. Either if you are new to PSP or upgrading from PSP1000, this one has a lot to offer. Inbuilt microphone, bright LCD scree, better battery life, smoother inputs and more ergonomic placement of master controls. This is a very well designed machine, if you have checked the past PSP history they have very long life. Perfect for both adults and young ones. 08 had more than 10 block busters for PSP. 09 is promising to be another great one with more goods coming from Japan and EU. Most important of all Little Big planet and Resistance Retribution. All the PSP2000 accessories are compatible with PSP3000, every thing from case to car chargers. As with PSP2000 this one sport a larger RAM. With additional hardware resources it supports a wide variety of media including 720x480p H.264/MP4 DVD quality movies, wma, mp3 and more.

Now one important warning. Memory Stick Duo is one of the most pirated card in black market. Pay up and buy from trusted vendors. Cheap cards sold in ebay and other 3rd party vendors are slow and less reliable. When you put the card in any device like PSP check for magic-gate info. If it says magic-gate: unknown, return it back. You are better off buying Lexar or other cheaper card from reputable vendor than buying fake card. Dont promote fake sellers, if you find any fake seller report to Amazon and authorities.

[...]

73 of 81 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars It comes close to portable gaming perfection April 15, 2009

By A. Dent #1 HALL OF FAMETOP 10 REVIEWERVINE™ VOICE

Fun: 5.0 out of 5 stars   

We've been a PS3 household ever since the 60GB version came about so, with two pre-teens in the house, we were ripe for a PSP adoption. We actually bought the Ratchet & Clank Pack for a few dollars more because one of my kids was a fan of the game.

The Core Pack includes the following:

- The PSP 3000 itself in shiny black (a fingerprint magnet)
- Manual, promos, registration card, etc.

Given the PSP's built-in Wi-Fi and its PS3 integration you can do quite a few things out of the box if you have Wi-Fi or a PS3 but, for a better gaming experience you are going to need a memory stick and, of course, some games. Our bundle came with a 1GB Memory Stick Pro Duo card but we are planning to store a few movies when taking it on the road so we ordered an 8GB. Movies take about 0.5GB. We can still use the 1GB that came with the bundle in a camera.

First impressions:
I was surprised of how good and versatile and elegant this little console can be. It has most of the PS3 buttons, including one analog joystick, the display is large and bright, the resolution is good (480x272), and it responds quickly to controls. It appears to be solidly built. Unlike prior models, this one comes with a built-in microphone while the sound output can be either through the internal speakers headphones (not included). After charging the battery, my kid was up and running and happy in no time. But, let me proceed with a more structured discussion.

Stand alone operation (disconnected):
The PSP 3000 will play games or movies delivered on UMD discs or off a Memory Stick card. In addition, it will display photos and play music stored on the Memory card....

Networking and Internet connectivity:
The built-in Wi-Fi allows the PSP 3000 to access the Playstation Netowork and Playstation Store directly. Off the box, there is an Internet browser, a Search (the Internet) function, several Internet Radio applications and the ability to use the PSP as a Skype phone for as long as one has a Skype account and the PSP happens to be within the range of a Wi-Fi hotspot.

PS3 Integration:
After the PSP is paired with the PS3, the PS3 can 'push' video, photos, music and even PSP games downloaded from the Playstation Store when connected through a USB wire. When wireless, the PSP can basically take over the PS3 - actually display the PS3's own screen and display photos stored on the PS3, play music stored on the PS3. Movie play is not supported.
Interestingly, when playing music, it's possible to play it on the PSP's on speakers/headphones or have the PS3 play it itself, the PSP therefore acting as a remote control device.
I suspect that additional capabilities exist that I am not aware of yet.

PC integration:
Through a USB connection, the PC will see the PSP's memory card as an attached drive. This will allow for music, photo or movie files to be transferred directly to the PSP.

Room for improvement:
The PSP 3000 comes very close to being the perfect portable game-playing (and more) machine, at least in the Sony universe. Perfection would be achieved if the 'keyboard' interface were improved - it's awful now - if it had touch screen capabilities and if file transfers from the PS3 were possible wirelessly. Also on the wish list, I hope that there were more legal 'digital copy' movies available for the PSP.

Rating:
It's a 4.5 stars plus, rounded up to 5. Read more ›