Choosing the correct MP3 Player for your Needs

As you are well aware, MP3 players are the latest thing in music technology, and are all the rage.  Everyone from your grandfather to your 6 year old probably has one by now. 

What is an MP3 player exactly?  MP3 players are small, portable devices that allow you to store, organize, and play your digital music files.  MP3 is the most common music format, thus the name.  However, when choosing one, it is very easy to get overwhelmed and confused by all of the choices available to you.  This guide is meant to help you choose an MP3 player that will best suit your needs.

First ask yourself, what will I be using this MP3 player for? Obviously, to listen to music.  But what will you be doing while you are listening? Exercising?  Doing housework?  On a long plane trip?  Just relaxing?   This is important to know so that you will know which type of MP3 player you will need, and how much memory you will require.  First, lets talk about the two types of MP3 players.

As stated, there are two types of MP3 players:    Flash memory, and hard drive memory.  Let's discuss those quickly below.

Flash memory

The flash player is perfect for a casual music fan.  The flash memory MP3 players are very small, lightweight, and can be carried easily in your pocket.  Generally, they hold several hours of music, and several models also allow you to use removable memory cards to increase the memory.    Due to their flash memory, they will never skip as they have no moving parts.  These are perfect for use while exercising.   Another benefit to flash players is that, since they are smaller, the batteries last longer.

Hard drive memory

As it's name states, these players have their own hard drive built into them.  This increases their music storage capacity greatly, and will even allow you to download video.    A larger memory MP3 player can hold your entire music collection!  However, it does result in their being a little bit larger than the the flash players, and since the hard drive must be read for it to play songs, could cause the player to skip while doing movement such as jogging.  The brand iPod is the most well-known of these. 

There are also MP3 compatible portable CD players.

How much memory will I need?   Another thing to consider when purchasing an MP3 player is how much memory you will need on it.  The more memory, the more songs you can hold.  If you plan on using your MP3 mainly for short trips or around the house, a smaller one with a couple of hours will probably suffice.  If you plan on using it for long plane trips or to listen to while you sleep, you will probably want more memory.

Most MP3's will also play files in WMA (Windows Media Audio) files as well.  The benefit to WMA files is that they are more compressed, allowing you to store more songs.  Here is a chart showing you some of the  MP3 player memory sizes, and the approximate amount of files you can hold with each.  These figures were compiled using the average song length of 4 minutes.

Besides music, what other features are available?  Currently, there are several other options that are standard with some models.  If any of these appeal to you, be sure the MP3 player you have selected is equipped with them.

Voice Recorder:   Record sound through a built-in microphone
FM Radio:  Listen to your favorite local stations
Video Storage and Playback:  Download and view video files
Wireless connection to computer:   Built in USB, no cables needed

Display Screen:  Shows title and artist, allowing you to scroll through and select particular songs
Rechargeable Battery:   Recharge through your computer, car, or home
Optional SD Memory Card Slot:   Increase your MP3 players memory by inserting SD Memory Cards

What is the difference in an iPod and an MP3 player?   An iPod is just a brand of MP3 player, much as Coke is a brand of soft drink.  It is the most popular brand of MP3 players.  

How much can I expect to spend?   Practically as much, or as little as you want.  The basic flash drive models with 256 MB of memory start for as little as $39 or below.  For the higher capacity video models that hold 20 or 30 GB, you can expect to pay $400 or more. 

Good luck with your MP3 player purchase! And remember, if you have any questions, you should ask the seller or the sales representative.