How to Choose your Perfect MP3 Player

Purchasing a MP3 player can be an intimidating task.  There are several models to choose from with various functions.  Through all of my research there seems to be three main features to examine and determine what fits your specific needs.

The first challenge is to decide what purpose this MP3 player has.  Is its primary function to provide music during a workout?  Do you need more than just a music function?  How much memory might you require?  These points are important to ask yourself before searching for your perfect MP3 player.  Once you have decided how you are going to use this technology, you can move on to examining the different devices available.  The following information will help educate you on what features you may want your MP3 player to include.

• Storage Capacity.  There seem to be two main forms of storage:  hard drive and flash memory.  The hard drive holds more memory and most devices that have multiple functions, beyond saving and playing music, have this type of memory.  Flash memory has less space but is often more sturdy and is unlikely to skip when jarred or bounced.  Another part of storage is called compression encoding bit rate.  Basically, bit rates can determine how many songs can be stored in your device.  If you have a low bit rate, songs will take less space but the sound will be lacking in quality.  Conversely, a high bit rate will take more space but the sound will be outstanding.  There is a middle ground and experts say that number is 128 kbps.
• Battery.  All of the MP3 devices need juice to run.  Some devises will take disposable batteries, other rechargeable and yet others will offer both features.  The question you need to ask yourself is how long you need your equipment to function before needing to replace or charge the battery?  Many devices have an internal battery that you will never have to touch.  You can charge your device through an electrical outlet and others will charge when connected with your computer.  If your device requires disposable batteries this choice can prove to be expensive, especially if your two AA batteries only last 10 hours.
• Size.  The size of a machine is largely dependent on its holding capacity.  Obviously, an MP3 player that is larger will usually have more memory and be able to complete more functions.  If you just need some music for work or to exercise, a small machine may be the option for you.  Remember that a large capacity MP3 player will likely have the hard drive memory which is not as durable to bouncing that may be caused while exercising.  A flash memory device can withstand this movement without skipping and will be a smaller machine.

There is so much information available about MP3 players and their functions.  Please remember that this is a very basic run through of criteria.  Look at all of your options and spend your money wisely.  This investment will “bring music to your ears” and your research will determine the quality.