Sony's new Reader Touch Edition is intriguing

— -- Amazon's Kindles get most of the ink when it comes to e-books. But virtual bookshelves are more crowded than ever thanks to new entries from rivals. Sony, which has been at this for a while, recently unveiled three new models, including the Reader Touch Edition (PRS-600) that's the focus of this review.

Sony also dropped the price on best sellers and new releases in its eBook Store to less than $10, matching Amazon.

Too bad the most promising of Sony's latest devices, the $399 Reader Daily Edition, doesn't show up until December. It will feature a large 7-inch touch-screen, plus 3G wireless connectivity (through AT&T) that promises to let avid bookworms purchase content on the fly, just like on Kindles. The absence of wireless is why I've generally preferred Kindles to prior Sony Readers, and why I'd stick with Kindles for the moment.

Still, Sony's devices are better looking and not easily dismissed. The new 5-inch Reader Pocket Edition (PRS-300), like the Touch Edition available now, benefits from an appealing price. At $199.99 it's about $100 cheaper than the 6-inch Kindle. At $299.99 the Touch Edition matches the Kindle price and screen size.

Both require you to drag books from Sony's eBook Library software to a PC or Mac connected by USB — not difficult, just not as convenient as having titles download directly. The software is compatible for the first time with Macs.

The beauty of any of today's readers, of course, is that they let you schlep a boatload of books (and other reading materials) while you travel, without breaking your back.

Lots of companies are trying to get a read on the market. Asus is planning a hinged, dual-screen reader that may read somewhat like a real book. It's expected out before the end of the year. Upcoming devices from Plastic Logic and IREX Technologies will take on Kindle through partnerships with Barnes & Noble's eBook Store. Kindle books are currently on Amazon's own readers or the iPhone. Apple is also a potential wildcard in the e-book space.