This 6-inch e-reader touts a bodacious 1024 x 768 resolution, which contributes to an even better contrast ratio than on Amazon's E Ink slate, while software optimizations between now and release are expected to make the Story HD the fastest-refreshing device of its kind.

ENGADGET: iriver Story HD e-reader preview (video) HD

What's really important about this iteration of the Kindle DX is what's going on inside: or, more specifically, its new Pearl E Ink display that's purported to boast a 50 percent improved contrast ratio than its predecessor.

ENGADGET: Amazon Kindle DX Graphite review