If you haven’t jumped on the music player bandwagon yet, here are some options:
Under $200
– A slider on the back of the 512-megabyte Apple iPod Shuffle lets you toggle between shuffle and “Playlist Repeat” modes. But the downside is there’s no display screen, FM tuner or recording capability, which usually come standard in other flash memory players.
– The 256-megabyte iRiver iFP-790 is the little red Corvette of flash memory players. Load it with MP3, OGG, AAC and WMA (sold by Wal-Mart and Napster) audio files or listen to FM radio. Best of all, it runs on AA batteries. Unfortunately you can’t upload music from your player onto your PC for extra storage.
– Press the menu button and scroll. That’s how simple it is to use the 256-megabyte JetAudio iAudio CW300. Includes extras like FM tuner and a voice recorder. The dim blue backlit screen, however, could stand to be improved.
$200 and up
– Shuffle or browse. The 20-gigabyte Apple iPod makes it easy with the “Click Wheel,” which was first introduced on the iPod Mini. Just load your favorite music (MP3, AAC and AA audio file format) onto the hard drive and listen for up to 12 hours of continuous battery life. The dock, remote control and carrying case are not included.
– The 20-gigabyte Creative Zen Touch is hot on the trail of iPod in looks, features and sound. A sensitive “Touch Pad” lets you explore your virtual library of MP3, WMA, WAV and data files for, get this, 24 hours of continuous battery play! Also features an optional FM tuner and voice-recording remote. Cons: The battery can’t be swapped out between charges.
– Another strong contender is the 20-gigabyte Dell Digital Jukebox DJ. It’s heavier than the iPod, and its scroll wheel doesn’t move as fast, but it functions similarly. Browses MP3 and WMA audio files easily. And talk about battery life: 16 hours plus. But, like the Creative Zen Touch, the battery can’t be removed.
