MP3 Players - Why to Buy and What to Look For

Gone are the days of the tape cassette and Walkman, and numbered are the days of the portable CD player. Look out world, MP3's are taking the audio world by storm leaving old portable devices collecting this trail blazers dust. MP3 players are an excellent way to take entire music collections anywhere you want to be with out the hassle of a CD case. Not sold yet? Since MP3 players are more or less small computers, there is no need to worry about a CD skipping, scratching, or becoming warn out. Your music is kept in compressed files that can accompany you to the gym, work, for road trips, or even in the privacy of your own home. Think this new audio device is just what you need? Here are some great tips to help you purchase this musical wonder.

What is an MP3?

In a nut shell, a MP3 is a condensed music file. Music files tend to be extremely large and therefore take up a lot of memory. MP3 files were designed to maximize space by minimizing file size all the while maintaining the quality of sound. For example, a few years ago, downloading a song off the internet would have been a lengthy process due to the sound file's size. Now, with an MP3 file, the once large file is condensed into a file that can be downloaded in minutes or even seconds. Likewise, a CD which can only hold around 10 to 20 songs depending on their length, can now hold hundreds of MP3 files.

What does that mean for me?


Since MP3's are smaller, it's now more feasible too store a large amount of music on your computer, CD, or an MP3 player.

It's no longer necessary to lug a book of CD's around, instead, you can put a large part of, if not all, of your music collection on a MP3 player.

You can listen to your music without interruption (no skipping CD's) while walking, jogging, exercising,or just relaxing.

MP3's make it easy to share music and other sound bites with friends and family.

What should I look for in a MP3 Player?


Memory:

The amount of memory you have on your MP3 player determines how many song you can load onto the device. If you have an extremely large collection of music, you will want to get a device with a large memory.

Some, but not all, MP3 players offer the ability to upgrade the memory, meaning, you can use memory cards to increase the amount of songs you can store. If your considering buying a MP3 player with a smaller memory capacity, you should check to see if this option is available.

(HINT: MP3 players come with memory from 32 megabytes (MB) all the way up to players with 1 or more gigabytes (GB). Individuals who wish to store a lot of music on their device should look for players with 1 GB or more.)


Usability:


Since an MP3 player means you no longer need to carry around a case of CD's, you should make sure that the device you are purchasing is compatible with your car stereo, home audio system. Look for adapters that allow you to play MP3's from your player to your car stereo.

Since your load music onto your MP3 player via computer, it's important that your MP3 player is compatible with your computer. Be sure to read all available information concerning your players compatibility. If your still not sure, check with a sales rep before you make your purchase.



Extras:


Are you a runner? If so, MP3 players that offer stop watches and other athletic features may be best for you. For example, the Niki/IPod combo allow the the IPod to monitors your performance by working with a specific shoe.

Do you plan on using your MP3 player for all your audio needs? Look for an MP3 player with a built in equalizer to help you maintain the best possible sound no matter where you are.

Do you want the option to listen to MP3s and the radio? If so, look for an MP3 player that doubles as a digital radio that will pick up FM stations anywhere.

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