As a handheld gaming device, the PSP remains extraordinary, freeing console-quality games from the confines of the living room. But who can deny the significance of adding MP3 and WMA music playback plus support for Hollywood feature films? The quality rivals portable DVD players, only in a more convenient package. It is with this video performance in mind especially that the improvements inherent to the new PSP-3000 ultimately prove so impressive, albeit with a couple of caveats.

The PSP-3000 arrives running the version 4.20 firmware, which has since been updated to 5.01, so we immediately set about grabbing it. We needed only a few seconds to configure the device to work with a home WiFi network, a minute-and-a-half to download the patch and another two minutes to install, all wirelessly. (And not even plugged into AC power at that, instead using just the juice that was included on the battery right out of the box.) Since the prior model’s debut, intervening updates have wonderfully exploited the hardware’s many abilities with welcome features like free internet radio powered by SHOUTcast, LocationFree video watching from select Sony electronics, plus Remote Play access to and control of a registered PlayStation 3.

The PSP 3000 has the same slim dimensions (2.81 inches high by 6.63 inches wide by 0.63 inch deep) and lighter weight (just over 7 ounces–or 200 grams–with the battery, game disc, and Memory Stick on board) as its predecessor.

The 4.3-inch LCD wide screen remains, and it’s been tweaked. Sony says the new screen now delivers better color reproduction, reduced glare, and reduced “ghosting” on high-motion scenes. When compared with the 2000, the PSP 3000 does, indeed, deliver better color vibrancy (you can toggle between “wide” and “standard” color in the options to see the difference). As for glare reduction: we didn’t find there to be a huge difference. Don’t expect to play in direct sunlight, for instance. But you might have better luck with fewer distractions from indoor light sources.