Sony has recently announced that it plans to release four new Blu-Ray recorders into Japan's market this November. Details are still pretty sketchy (no names for the recorders yet), although reports state that the new recorders are expected to be able to record on 50 GB dual layer Blu-Ray optical discs, as well as standard DVDs.

Guys planning to get these new recorders may want to start saving. The top performer of the four  - which carries a 500 GB HDD - is expected to enter the market with a price tag of ¥ 200,000 (US$ 1,752). Pricey, but it should prove to be a good investment for those serious about keeping their video/music collections properly stored. In line with this announcement, Sony Executive Deputy President Katsumi Ihara had this to say:

With high-definition TVs spreading rapidly and more digital cameras and camcorders are becoming HD-ready, time is ripe for household recorders to move onto a next generation.