Another feature that the Rio Karma won't have (initially) is nested playlists like the Empeg. However, there has been some hinting (has there really? Am I being wishful?) that it may get them in the future. This will really set it apart from the pack, I believe, but I suppose we'll just have to see.

For me, I don't need a portable yet. But if I do buy one it'll be from these guys. I have never been as impressed with anything I've ever purchased as much as the Empeg an it's software, so they've earned quite a bit of goodwill from me.