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Choosing an MP3 Player

By: Geri R Jobson

Understanding MP3 Technology

MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3, commonly referred to as MP3, is a digital audio encoding system, used for compressing sound signals, and files, without any noticeable loss of quality. MP3 divides the frequency spectrums into 576 bands and compresses each frequency band individually. However, the human ear can hear only mid-range pitches, and cannot accurately distinguish the highest or lowest pitches. The bands are compressed using perceptual coding. The quality of reproduction depends upon to the number of bits of audio or video data encoded per second. The higher the bit rate, the better the quality.

Storage Capacity

  • Flash memory players offer relatively low storage capacities, but without moving parts. They provide skip-free music. Some players use additional, compact, flash memory cards for extra storage. The Creative Zen Nano Plus is an example of this type, with memory ranging from 256 Mb to 6 Gb.
  • Hard drive players have much higher capacities and are capable of holding thousands of songs. Typical capacities range between 4 Gb and 60 Gb. The Acer MP330 model, for example comes with 10 Gb of memory.
  • Multimedia players offer maximum storage capacities and many additional functions, but are more cumbersome. They generally have larger LCD screens, for viewing photographs or videos. The Archos XS100, for example has a capacity of 3 Gb; other advance models feature a capacity of up to 100 Gb, with enhanced multimedia functions.
  • MP3 CD Players are similar in design to conventional CD players, but they have the capacity to read both standard and MP3 media. The Alpine CDA-9812RB, for example, is both a portable CD and MP3 player.

Important Features

The connectivity interface determines how quickly music can be downloaded. A USB 1.0 interface is commonly used, but, large capacity, hard drive, models support faster interfaces, such as USB 2.0 or FireWire. The iRiver T20, for example, supports USB 1.0, while the SanDisk Sansa M240 utilises USB 2.0.

Advanced MP3 players have LCD screens displays, which allow the user to see, for example, ID3 tags - files containing details of the title, artiste, album name, and other information. The Aigo A203 is an example of this type.

The majority of MP3 players play not only MP3 files, but also other formats, including WMA, WAV, and AIFF. The Cowon iAudio 4 model, for example, supports the MP3, WMA, ASF, and WAV formats.

Almost all MP3 players have accompanying software, to make life easier for the user, but some of this software is proprietary, so check on any compatibility issues before you plump for a particular player. As an example, the Goodman GPDR1 model comes is supplied with software that allows conversion to the MPEG-4 format.

Some MP3 players support an FM tuner, video recording, and an integrated microphone. Whatever advanced features the player offers, you sufficient battery power, to keep the player operating as and when you want it. Some players use either replaceable or rechargeable batteries; some are powered via a USB cable. The Sanyo DAB150M is an MP3 player with a DAB and FM tuner, offering eight station presets and battery life of 8 hours for DAB, 23 hours for FM, and 30 hours for MP3.

Conclusion

MP3 technology is continually evolving, to the extent that MP3 players are popping up in watches, cameras, and handheld computers. Manufacturers continue to unveil different models with, new, innovative features. Consider how and where you will use your selected player, before actually parting with your cash, and do your homework – there are many excellent models to choose from - you can find one that suits you perfectly.

Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

Geri R Jobson researches and writes on electronics, financial and business matters. Price comparison websites such as CompareStorePrices, now offer a guide to buying an MP3 player. You will also find exclusive offers, discount vouchers and product reviews.

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