How to buy a MP3 Player

If you are considering buying an MP3 player, there are a number of factors you need to consider before making a purchase. If you’re not even sure exactly what an MP3 player does, the basic premise is that MP3 files are digital audio files that are much more compressed than CDs for example, and can be downloaded, stored and played on the portable MP3 player.

Although MP3 players are so prevalent today that it seems as though everyone has one (except you), they are by no means all the same and different brands have differing capabilities and compatibilities. The most popular MP3 player in history is the Apple iPod, which has sold over 110 million worldwide since its appearance in 2001.

The best way to decide which player is right for you is to determine your specific needs and preferences.

For example, who is going to be using the player? Is it simply for you or is it a gift for someone else? How electronic-savvy is the user? Do you need a basic simple model or one with all the latest bells and whistles?

There are basically two types of MP3 players—flash and hard-drive or digital. The flash players are generally smaller, lighter and more resistant to shocks and movement, as they are solid-state with no moving parts. They are usually cheaper also. However, the hard-drive players can have a much larger memory thus allowing for storage of many more songs. Some issues to consider before buying a player include:

* Where and how are you planning to use the player? If you are planning to use the player while you jog or exercise, you may want to look at the flash models as their smaller size and minimal weight (as low as 1.2 oz.) enable you to tuck them easily in a pocket. They cannot skip in response to movement as they are solid state. If you primarily want a player for long-distance travel or extended use, the hard-drive versions will hold more songs and may have additional options.
* How much memory do you need? The flash players generally can hold from a few hundred up to 1,000 songs depending on model. Roughly, a 512MB flash player can store around 120 songs while a 1GB model will hold around 250. If you want to store an entire music collection or library, you will need to look into hard drive players which are available in up to 80GB models which can hold up to 20,000 songs.
* Which music service do you use? If you plan to use services such as Napster , Musicmatch or Rhapsody, check to be sure the player is compatible with their file format. Apple’s iPod, for example, does not work with these services but only with Apple’s iTunes. The iTunes library is probably the largest collection of audio files online, but they may not have every song you want. iPods use an Apple proprietary format called AAC, while many other brands utilize WMA (Windows Media Audio) or other systems. If you’re hooked on audiobooks, be sure the site you download audiobooks from is compatible with the player you choose.
* How easy is it to replace batteries? Does the player use common AA or AAA batteries or does it use a battery pack or block? In some cases rechargeable battery packs can only be replaced by returning the player to the manufacturer for service. Also check into battery life. Some players have a relatively short battery life (as low as 6-8 hours) before recharging or replacing batteries.
* How much do you want to spend? MP3 players are available from less than $50 for a 512MB flash model, up to more than $500 for a latest generation 80GB model. If you want to add additional accessories such as external speakers, docking stations or alarm clocks, these will all be extra.
* Do you need additional features? MP3 Players are available with video capabilities, FM radio tuners, voice recorders, photo viewers, calendars, wireless capability and games. Generally, these features are included in the more sophisticated (and expensive) players, but if you shop around, you may be able to find all the features you want in an affordable MP3 player.

Whether you need a simple straightforward flash player to motivate you at the gym or you want to organize and store an extensive music collection with a high-end hard-drive player, you will find dozens of choices available to you. It is a good idea to do some research, compare ratings and reviews of various models before making a final choice. Some good sources of information and comparison are Cnet, Consumer Reports and PC Magazine.

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