New Japanese Playstation 3 320GB Drops Power Consumption by 30 Watts, Drops Component Resolution to 480i

Sony is releasing a new generation of Playstation 3 consoles (CECH-3000B) in Japan. The consoles have a lower power draw than the previous models. During play, power consumption is now just 200 watts, 30 watts less than the previous mode which was rated at 230W.

Additionally, the units are said to be a pound less at just 5.7 lbs (2.6kg) even with its 320GB internal drive. The price is the same as the previous model (CECH-2500B) and means this is most likely a direct replacement for that model.

Some other changes for the console are said to include some revised buttons and some LED lamps have been removed.

CNET reports that Sony is implementing AACS copyright protection which lowers output resolution of the Blu-Ray player to 480i when using component cables (previously 1080i). If you’re planning on picking up a new console and use HDMI, don’t worry, you can still get the full resolution.

Japanese users also are getting a DVR package with a Torne DVR Module for 1,000 Yen more.

I guess if you’re looking to use this as a Blu-Ray player and are still using analog output then you might want to look into getting a pre-2011 console or a pre-2011 Blu-Ray (as all 2011 and forward Blu-Ray drives will have this AACS).

No word on when we can expect this new version in other markets, so right now, it’s safe to buy the consoles if you want that 1080i. Also, you can always check on the box itself and look for the model number CECH-2500B are the old ones and (there will most certainly be an announcement of when these hit Europe or the US) CECH-3000B are these new ones. Better power, worse component output. To save energy, just unplug it when not in use and keep your 1080i output on no-HDMI video.