MP3 Players

How to Buy an MP3 Player

MP3 Players are portable music players that store songs in a digitally compressed format. Most players hold more songs than possible on a single CD or tape and can be used to store and transfer other files such as photos or business presentations. The downside of MP3 players is that to get the file on the player requires "synching" with a computer. This can be a time consuming process and difficult.

Shown above, Cowon iAudio (left), Macintosh iPod (center), and iRiver SlimX (right)

Types of MP3 Player

• Flash Memory Models- as small as a pack of matches and as large as a deck of cards, these types of player use memory chips similar to those used in digital cameras to store songs. Capacity typically ranges from 64 to 256 MB, which is enough for 1-6 hours of music. Flash memory players don't rely on moving parts to read the music -- this means they won't skip or be damaged by harsh jolts.
• Hard-Drive Models - are as small as half the size of a deck of cards and as large as a portable CD player. These types of players use a hard drive similar to those in laptop PCs to store songs. Capacity typically ranges from 4 GB to 60 GB (1,000 to 15,000 songs). 15,000 songs is about 900 hours.
• MP3 CD Players - these look just like portable CD players, but you can transfer about 150 songs (or 10 albums onto one CD). They are the least expensive types of MP3 player. However, you must burn MP3 CDs to use them, and they are susceptible to skipping if jolted.

Attributes

• Capacity - ranges from 32 MB to 60 GB
• Memory Expansion Slots - most flash memory MP3 players have slots to add additional memory.
• Playback Options - some units only play songs sequentially as stored, some allow sorting by artist and title, some allow sorting by album and some allow random (shuffled) playback.
• Battery Life - Hard Drive units typically range from 6 to 20 hours, flash memory from 2 to 16 hours, MP3 CD Players 1 to 4 hours.
• Battery Charging Time - usually rated at time to 80% charge and time to full charge (typically between 2 and 6 hours)
• Size and Weight - varies by type and model.
• Interface software - all players use software on your PC to record, store, organize and transfer files to the MP3 player. There are several software solutions in the market, most do a fairly good job.
• Connection to PC - most use USB 2.0 or Firewire (IEEE1394). Some support USB 1.1. Be aware that connecting with a USB port for large transfers can be slow.
• Ease of Use - most units use a menu system and some kind of scroll bar to select songs. Some menus and controls are harder to use and more complicated than others
• Compatible Formats - all play MP3s, some also play WMA (Windows Media Audio), WAV, OGG, and ASF files.
• Computer Platforms - most support Windows 2000/XP and MAC X OS10. Some support older versions of Windows and Macintosh.
• FM Radio - some models include a built in tuner
• Warrantees - range from none to 5 year limited warrantee

Transferring Songs to the Player

1. Several online stores exist, (Sony, iTunes , Napster) - make sure that the MP3 song you buy is compatible with your player before making the purchase
2. There are a number of services for trading songs with other individuals through online networks. There usually isn't a compatibility issue, however the sound quality may vary. In addition sharing songs in this manner may violate copyright law.
3. Recording CDs - most music management software provided with the players allow for ripping of CDs. There are no compatibility, or quality issues, however you may have to adjust the volume on tracks to come up with a consistent level across albums. There are no copyright issues as long as you own the CD and use the MP3 file for your own enjoyment.

How to Choose

1. Figure out the type of units that is best for your use. If you want to take the player jogging, consider a flash memory unit. If you plan to use your player while commuting or traveling, or as a stereo replacement, consider a hard drive unit.
2. Read product reviews online (www.cnet.com)
3. If possible, test the model you are interested, either in a store or by borrowing friends.