How To Choose An MP3 Player
How To Choose An MP3 Player. A guide to some of the features worth considering before purchasing an MP3 player. Get the perfect tunes playing on this digital device by following these simple guidelines on MP3 player etiquette.
Step 1: What's the type for you
Your first move is to establish what type of MP3 player you need, namely memory size. Memory is measured in Gigabytes, which MP3 players have a varying amount of. 1GB will hold about 240 songs, and 40GBs 10,000.
When will you be using your device? If you travel a lot, a model that can hold your entire music collection may be for you. If it's for when exercising, then you may only need a few albums at a time.
Smaller models are great for exercise as they are more compact, and have fewer moving parts. This is called solid state, helping them to be jog proof.
There is also the option of getting an MP3 phone, which are now capable of holding hundreds of songs.
Step 2: Aesthetics
MP3 players come in a huge array of colours, shapes and sizes. Although some may be less aestheticaly pleasing, they might be better at getting the job done, so consider whether you really want style over content.
As a general rule, the physical size of the player depends on the amount of songs it can hold so if you want to carry 100's of albums with you, you may have to sacrifice how discreet the player is.
Step 3: Functions
MP3 players can have many additional functions, so be sure to get one that features those that interest you. Such features may include a Digital Radio Radio, the ability to work as a USB file storage device and voice recording.
If you decide to buy a player that can play videos and display photos, then pick one with a good screen size and resolution. Check out how clear the pictures are before you buy.
Step 4: Compatibility
Check that the device comes with the software you need to connect it to a computer. This is usually in the form of a CD.
How does the device attach to your computer when transfering songs? The usual options are USB, USB 2.0, or Firewire. USB is the slowest of these, but not all computers have USB 2.0 or Firewire. Check which sockets are on your computer before purchasing your player.
MP3 is not the only format music comes in, check what other music files are supported byu your player. In particular ask a sales person if the playe support WAV files, as this will allow you to put music from your CD collecion on to your player.
Step 5: Batteries
If you are always on the go, then battery life will be vital to you. Many smaller players can run off a normal AA or AAA battery, giving you a a reasonable listening time.
Larger players nearly all have an internal Li-Ion battery that can be charged but not changed. These batteries provide at least 10 hours of playback. Some models however can give you far more. Make sure you know how long the batteries last for each player you look at.
How do you charge the battery? Most can charge from a plug socket with the right adapter, but some may only charge via a computers USB port.
Step 6: Ease of use
When purchasing your player, make sure you are given a demonstration. Familiarise yourself with the controls. Are they spaced out well, or do you find it a cramped and fiddely ordeal?
How easy are the menus to navigate. Could you find the song you wanted swiftly, or do you find yourself going round in circles.
Ease of use is vital when purchasing technology. With a device you will potentially use everyday, it is important that it is a simple and relaxing experience.
