MP3 Players
Click
Here for Recommended MP3 Player Suppliers
According to TheOfficeGuide.com
The MP3 (MPEG Audio Layer 3) audio format is a compressed file (usually ripped/copied from a CD) that effectively reduces the size of the file without dampening the quality of the original. An MP3 player is simply a device that plays the MP3 audio format.
Purchasing Decisions
When deciding on the type of MP3 player to purchase, your biggest concerns will be memory format, price, memory capacity, memory type, and accessories.
Memory Format
There are two types of devices (2 formats) marketed as MP3 players
- Devices that play purely digital MP3 files.
- Devices that have the capability of playing CD's with burned MP3 files.
Digital MP3 Players
|
|
CD Based MP3 Players |
 |
 |
|
| Have become the most popular type of mp3 player due to their compact size, large memory, and lack of moving parts. Most portable digital mp3 players have the ability to hold from 128mb - 60gb of digital music. Also the most expensive. | CD based MP3 players are relatively inexpensive compared to their digital counterparts. A CD based player can only play MP3 audio burnt onto a disk. Since it doesn't utilize an internal hard drive you're limited to the size of the CD you use (usually 700mb-800mb). |
Price - Memory Capacity
In most cases the price of your MP3 player will go hand in hand with the memory capacity. In the last year prices have dropped significantly for most MP3 players. You can purchase a decent digital 256mb (60 song capacity) MP3 player for about $75. A top of the line 40gb-60gb (10k song capacity) IPod will probably go anywhere from $300-$500. A CD based MP3 player, if you can find one (they're prehistoric), will sell anywhere from $40-$75.
Memory Types
- Flash memory MP3 players - If you only need your player to have a few hours of music, an MP3 player with 128, 256, or 512 megabytes of memory may be your best bet.
- Expandable memory MP3 players - Some players have the ability to expand their memory so you can work your way up as you start your music collection. These types of MP3 players allow you to create music on multiple cards which will allow you to mix and match your music.
- Hard drive MP3 players - If you already have a library of MP3's you may want to invest in an MP3 with a large hard drive. It's doubtful many people have enough music to fill 60 gigs of space but the latest MP3 players have the ability to view and store Images as well as movies. The Apple® iPod® dominates this category, but there are others of similar quality that usually sell at a discount.
Additional Features
Different MP3 players offer a range of extra features. Here are a few options that will invariably alter the final price tag.
- Color LCD display: View photos and movies stored in your MP3 player.
- Voice recording: Some MP3 players have a voice recording option built-in, so you can record class lectures or meetings and then email the files.
- Digital tuner: Listen to the radio with a digital tuner. Some models all you to record.
- Upgradeable Firmware - Firmware is basically the operating system of your MP3 player. If your player doesn't support present or future audio formats, the operating system can be upgraded for future compatibility.
- Software - The ability to convert your files from WAV to MP3 should be a consideration if you don't have internet access. There are many free software programs online that can convert your CD's to MP3's but if you can't get online you may want to make sure that software is included with your purchase.
- Rechargeable Batteries vs. External Power - Most of today's players have rechargeable battery packs included or run on a few AA batteries.
- USB Cables, Firewire Cables - Make sure that you have the correct cables necessary to transfer files from your computer to your player.
- Other Extras - There are additional features added to some MP3 players like clocks, alarms, calendars, address books and other management utilities.
Music Quality
- Wav - Highest
- MP3 - Medium
- WMA - Lowest
The MP3 Cycle |
||
|
|
||
| Mp3 files can be transferred from one computer to a another via the internet. | Once the mp3 files are downloaded or copied to your computer they can be burned to a CD or uploaded to an mp3 player. | The CD and MP3 files can then be ripped or copied back to your computer which allows the cycle to continue. |
Office Supplies - Office Equipment Main
© 2001-2008 Guide Marketing, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Frequent Questions...
