Unfortunately for beginners though, there's a lot of variation in the features and prices of these portable music marvels. Like many high-tech consumer devices, new products seem to come out every week!

MP3, by the way, stands for MPEG Audio Layer 3 - and without getting needlessly technical - is one way of compressing audio data to a small size. Depending on quality and file format settings, one minute of near CD-quality music will use around 1MB of memory. This means a 5GB player can hold roughly 1000 five-minute songs.

This buying guide will take you through key considerations and options to help determine the best MP3 player for your needs. No post-purchase regrets for you, but first you'll have to read on!

Pros and cons of MP3 players

Pros

• Can usually support playlists created on your PC

   

• Some are compact and light

   

• Flash memory players have no moving parts (unlike CD or hard disk models) - reducing the chance of skipping and increasing battery life

   

• Many models have excellent audio quality

   

• Most players are upgradeable and some are expandable

Cons

• Generally more expensive than alternatives such as portable CD or cassette players

   

• Additional storage media can be expensive

   

• Some storage formats (such as MP3) could be superseded

   

• Encoding files and transferring data can be time consuming

Stop the press!

Do you own a Palm or Pocket PC handheld or even a top-range mobile phone? If so, then you likely already own some form of MP3 player. Check the features of your device, you may be surprised!

Additionally, recent gadgets such as Sony's PlayStation Portable, portable video players, portable DVD players and even some watches, memo recorders and digital cameras will also let you carry your favourite MP3 music files with you.

Types of MP3 players
 

There are four basic types of MP3 players, each with their own pros and cons and method for storing/accessing MP3s. Price per megabyte (ie the cost of the device compared to its storage size) is probably your main concern, followed closely by size.

CD-based players

You'll be hard pressed to find a portable CD player these days that doesn't support the MP3 format.

CD-based MP3 players are often a cheaper alternative to other devices for the amount of storage you get, but they are more bulky and can be prone to skipping. For this reason, test out a player before you buy it. Give it a gentle shake to simulate walking or jogging with it.

Also check the amount of anti-shock protection a CD MP3 player has. Anti-shock protection works by sending the music you hear through a memory buffer (temporary storage area) so if the CD skips, the music shouldn't be interrupted. The minimum shock memory buffer size you'll want is at least 120 seconds (some models have anti-shock of 32 minutes or more!)

Evaluate compatibility. Can you use rewritable CDs (CD-RW)? Check whether multi-session discs are supported as well, so you can keep writing new MP3s to your CDs.

If you use Windows, see if the player supports the Joliet file system (for long file names) as well as ordinary data CDs.

There are also smaller CD-based MP3 players that use 8cm mini-CDs (but blanks are hard to find).

CD-based MP3 players were one of the first kinds of portable MP3 player but these days a few nice touches have been introduced. Some models feature 4-line LCD displays and some support overburn CDs (750MB put onto 700MB or 800MB put onto 800MB) using special settings in your PC's burning software. Other players can even support MP3s burnt on DVD-R or RW discs. Others can function as a CD-burner when attached to your computer. Players range from 150g light weight "discman" style models to 300g or more mini ghetto blasters with built-in speakers.

Consider the price of the storage media:

The battery life of CD-based players could prove a deciding factor in your buying decision. One set of batteries will commonly give you 40 to 50 hours of playback. While you might view batteries as an added expense, that's a lot longer playback than any other player type will give you

Solid state players

Solid state players were actually the original form of portable MP3 player and contain no moving parts (such as CD or hard drive mechanisms).

Solid state players use flash memory or onboard RAM to store files. Some are expandable via a variety of media cards (if you own a digital camera, you might have one already). See the table below for average media card pricing but check to see if your player supports high capacity cards.

There is a wide array of solid state players - from 32MB ultra-small players to expandable players that can hold up to 8GB or more courtesy of optional media card expansion.

Because they contain no moving parts and are highly compact, solid state players are durable and perfect for use when exercising. That's why Oakley's Thump! MP3 sunglasses and other models have sporty features like a stop-watch, heart rate monitor, and arm clip.

Solid state players weigh anywhere between 15 and 150 grams and usually have the highest cost per megabyte of all the players - so choose your initial capacity and expandability options carefully.

Consider the price of the media:

Mini hard drive-based players

In terms of price and size, MP3 players using 1-inch micro hard disks sit comfortably between high-end solid state players and low-end hard disk players. Miniature hard disk models range in size from 1GB right up to 20GB!

Mini hard drive-based players are the newest type of MP3 player and examples in this area include Apple's iPod mini, Creative's Zen Micro, iRiver's H10, Rio's Carbon, and Archos' Gmini range.

They're useful because at between 100 and 150g, they're not quite as big as a full-sized hard disk player, but can also act as a medium-capacity external storage drive. Arguably, they can also have some of the best battery life available.

Although you'll want to get a bit of extra capacity for your MP3 collection to grow in the future, try and make sure that you don't pay for an extreme amount of extra space you're never likely to use.

Regular hard drive-based players
 

Then there are the full blown portable jukeboxes. As already mentioned, these compete with portable video players (Buying Guide here), because as well as storing between 10GB and 100GB or more of MP3 files, newer hard disk players feature large colour screens that make navigation easier and can even display photos.

Hard disk players offer the best bang for buck when it comes to the amount you pay per-megabyte. They can also act as portable/external hard disks for general files.

However, there are some drawbacks. As they're physically larger and heavier (roughly between 150 and 250 grams), they may not be suited to some forms of exercise.

There are battery considerations, too. Generally, hard drive-based players have less battery life than solid state players, and some models use internal (rechargeable) batteries. This poses the potential drawback of battery degradation after a couple of years, with shorter total playback time the possible result. This may be a minor concern, but ask yourself, how long do you want your investment to last?

If you're a digital camera buff, you may want to look out for hard drive-based players that support USB2Go. This new standard allows a USB mass storage device (like a digital camera or USB thumb drive) to copy data to and from your player directly. Cool, eh?

The big issues

Price

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest issues when hunting down the right player is price.

This can vary from el-cheapo CD and solid-state models to nearly $1000 for a full-featured hard disk-based player. The majority occupy a place well inside these extremes, with most hovering between $100 to $500.

Design, size and weight

Let's face it, aesthetics go a long way. Just like mobile phones have become fashion accessories, so to have MP3 players - the iPod's sleek design and eye-catching white earbuds are a good example.

Appearance aside, a player's design also goes hand in hand with its size and weight. This can vary a lot between devices, the lightest weighing around 20g. Most players are more like 150 to 200g, but sometimes a more rugged casing will up the price, which is worth it if you're not the kid gloves type.

Also affecting weight are the batteries and any removable storage (media cards) a player might use. All things to keep in mind when choosing a player, whether making a personal statement or just having a functional device is your primary concern.
 

Design Memory capacity

Unless you are a budget buyer, you should probably forget about players with only 32MB or less of onboard memory. With an average of one minute of near CD-quality music per megabyte, at least 64MB is recommended - even for the most compact player.

Of course, you always have the option of increasing the amount of music you can fit per megabyte by upping the compression, but bear in mind this may involve time consuming re-encoding of your MP3 files as well as loss of quality.
 

Interface and navigation

Some ultra-portables keep the size and weight down by omitting a display altogether - the iPod Shuffle is a good example of this. This is fine if you're not too fussy about navigating around your files but can be an outright pain if you're picky.

Some models make a good compromise by incorporating flashing LED lights that give you some feedback on play mode, battery life and other basic settings. Some players have a backlit LCD that can be great in low light, but they use a little extra battery power.

If you want to know all the details of each track, the file's bit-rate, the playback position, battery usage and equaliser settings, then you'll need a multi-line display. Otherwise, a single-line LCD will probably do.

Small, multi-line LCD displays can sometimes display scrolling text based on an MP3 file's ID3 tags (information about which song, artist, album etc is playing). It's worth noting however, that some smaller players don't scroll text and can only show 32 characters - this may or may not be a concern for you.

It's also worth noting that some MP3 players have wired remote controls (often with LCD displays) that go between the player itself and the headphones. Either way, always try and have a tinker with a prospective player to see how intuitive its interface is.

Generally, the bigger the display on your MP3 player, the easier it will be to navigate. That said one common complaint is that it's usually a challenge to search through gigabytes of songs. Try to create a track playlist within the device (which isn't always possible) and check to see if there's smart (automatic) playlist creation. This might or might not be based on songs you haven't listened to in a while - or on certain music genres.

Pay really close attention to the interface - you're going to be using it, so you may as well choose a player with a navigation method you not only understand but actually like!
 

Supported file formats

While MP3 is by far the most popular file format for digital music, some players also support AAC (Advanced Audio Coding, compression technology part of the MPEG-2 standard) and WMA (Windows Media Audio) formats. Keep in mind that if your player doesn't support WMA, you won't be able to take full advantage of the many commercial music download services that use this format.

AAC and WMA offer better compression than MP3, which means better sound quality and smaller files. This is also the case for formats such as MP3 Pro or the open-source OGG (Vorbis) - both of which have yet to gain much support in the portable music player market.

Until recently, all Sony MP3 players came with software that you had to use to convert MP3s to its proprietary ATRAC standard. Although this may not still be an issue going forward, it's worth checking for.

Aside from that, make sure your player can handle files encoded with Variable bit-rate (VBR) and ID3 version 2 tags. Many MP3s also use an ID3v2 tag, which is used to store information about the song, such as artist name, album details and genre.

Some devices will fall over if they encounter MP3 files with this feature, so check that ID3v2 tags are supported by your player. Check also that you can play low bit-rates such as 56Kbps, as well as high bit-rates such as 192Kbps, 256Kbps and 320Kbps.

The best place to do all this checking is the manufacturer's Web site.

There are some portable digital audio devices that don't play MP3 files. If you are interested in any of these, make sure they come with software that can convert your MP3 files to the proprietary format.

 

Supported Digital Rights Management (DRM)

If you're using a commercial music download service, DRM is something you should know about. Most Australian music download services use Microsoft's WMA format and a standard license permitting a music file to be downloaded once and copied an unlimited number of times on up to two hardware-based players.

Microsoft's 'Plays for sure' program: Website (www.playsforsure.com) and associated logo will help you to choose from a large selection of players that are guaranteed to support WMA and its associated DRM technologies. Not every player that supports WMA will be listed, so you might also want to double check that the player you have your eye on has WMA playback.

NOTE: Apple's own DRM technologies work to 'encourage' users to buy an iPod. Ipod owners can only play DRM songs purchased from Apple's iTunes music store. Likewise, non-iPod players can't play songs purchased from iTunes.

Upgradeable firmware

This goes hand in hand with the file format issue. Firmware is basically the operating system of the device.

If a player doesn't support some MP3 features or other audio formats, find out whether its firmware can be updated for future compatibility.

You can usually upgrade the firmware via your computer, but confirm this with the vendor; otherwise, you might have to return it to the factory to have a chip replaced.

Other considerations

Sound quality

Never has the adage "Try before you buy" been more important. Not all MP3 players have equal sound quality, so do yourself a favour and pay attention to how a device 'sings'. As you'll read further on, quality can also be aided with better headphones than the standard supplied ones, but also look for the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) specification. You'll want a device with a SNR of at least 85 -- but a figure in the high 90's or more is even more desirable.
 

Batteries and external power

Solid state players often use a single AA battery, but devices that use two AAA batteries usually play longer. Some players come with custom-shape rechargeable batteries that can only be recharged in the device - similar to the way you charge your mobile phone battery. In any case, look for something that will last for at least six to eight hours. If battery life isn't listed in the specifications, ask the vendor.

An external power supply can be an excellent feature, as you won't have to run the batteries down when you're listening at home. Some players can also be powered or recharged from car cigarette lighters.

Particularly with hard disk MP3 players, you'll want to check if the player you are buying has a replaceable, rechargeable battery. If it doesn't it means that as your model gets a few years old and the time between charges gradually shortens, you'll need to buy a new player or pay to have the battery replaced.
 

Bundled software

Unless you're comfortable with scavenging the Net for the latest software to hack for your new gadget - and possibly forking out extra cash for it - make sure you get some decent software with your player.

At the very minimum you'll need something that can send files to and delete files from the device.

Bonus features might include playlist creation, file management and cataloguing, encoding and 'transcoding' (conversion between formats or compression settings), and the ability to download files from the player.

Some players are designed to be used with iTunes and some use MusicMatch Jukebox; others like Creative's are bundled with special software for transferring files. Many simply work with Media Player 10 or just let you use the Windows explorer to drag and drop files about in a directory structure on the player as though it was a standard external storage device.
 

Headphones

There's not much point having a high fidelity digital audio device if you're listening to it with tinny headphones or earphones. Bundled headphones are often lousy, in which case you might add the cost of a good pair to your budget.

Some headphones come with remote controls built into the cable. If this is the case, make sure the sound quality is up to your standards or else you may be stuck without a remote if you have to buy a new pair.

If you are prone to getting tangled up in cables, you might also want to check out players that come embedded in a pair of headphones, so you can have "spaghetti-free" MP3!

Noise cancellation headphones (that block out ambient noise) have come down in price a fair bit recently and may also be worth considering - but maybe not if you're jogging about the city and need to listen out for your safety.

Expandable memory

In addition to support for media cards, some players give you the option to upgrade their hardware to larger capacity flash memory chips. This is something to keep in mind if you're looking at a 32 or 64MB device, but would ultimately like to have more - either when prices come down or your savings go up! This option really isn't very common these days - but it's worth being aware of. As always, check whether you can perform the operation yourself, or if the player needs to go back to the factory for an upgrade.

File storage

Some devices will allow you to store any kind of data files - not just music. This means you can use them to transfer your documents between computers.

To do this, the device list support for two-way file transfer, and you need software that can (or the ability to use Windows Explorer to) upload and download non-audio files.

Usually, all you need to do is drag and drop your data files onto the MP3 player just as if you were uploading MP3 files. Of course, you won't be able to listen to them - but you will be able to plug the device into another computer and copy the files from it.

Bear in mind that if you do need to use software, it will have to be installed on each computer beforehand.

Computer connection

With the exception of CD-based players, most devices require you to download files from your PC using a USB cable.

Keep an eye out for MP3 players that support high-speed USB 2.0 transfers. These allow file transfers at a much less frustrating speed than USB 1.1. Make sure your computer has a USB 2.0 port and you'll never have to wait an eternity to transfer files again!

A select few high-end devices offer FireWire connections, but make sure your computer supports it first, or else add at least $100 to your budget for a FireWire card and cable.

Older models may have parallel or serial port connections, but these are too slow to consider.

With many removable media formats, you have the option to manage files on the memory cards/discs by using an adapter. These are always an optional extra, though, and are usually priced around $100 or more.

Believe it or not, MP3 player manufacturers are still looking to make your life easier and are investigating wireless file transfers between your player and PC - through standards such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and the emerging wireless USB 2.0 protocol.
 

Platform issues

Whichever player you get, make sure software is available for your operating system. Some players or the bundled software will not work under Linux, Windows 95 or NT. Also, earlier versions of Windows 95 don't have USB support built in.

Just be sure to clarify that your player will work with the operating system you use, or plan to use in the near future.
 

Radio tuner

Some players have built-in FM radio tuners so you can listen to (and record) the radio as well as MP3s. Sorry AM talk-back fans, but you generally only get FM.

Note that a built-in FM radio tuner is different to an FM transmitter accessory. These transmitters allow you to wirelessly play your MP3s through your car or home stereo!

MP3 players outfitted with recording capabilities sometimes even let you record the radio to the flash memory - as MP3 or sometimes even as uncompressed WAV files.

If you are looking at a player with a built-in radio tuner, look for memory presets so you're not left manually channel surfing all the time.

FM tuners are great when you're traveling to get a feel for the local area in addition to having new, fresh content when you've heard your playlist ten times already.
 

Recording: line-in and microphone

A great feature of some players is the ability to record audio straight to memory. This is great for recording live performances, or for making verbal notes to yourself.

Some devices include built-in microphones, which is far more convenient than something that requires an external one.

Additionally, a line-in jack will allow you to dub from another audio device - be it a PC sound card, CD player, cassette deck or whatever.

A few MP3 players have software extras such as text readers, to-do lists, clocks, alarms, calendars, address books and other "personal information management" (PIM) utilities.

An MP3 player with PIM functions may not be a replacement for a PDA, but it is a cheaper alternative if you only want the basics.

In addition to music and radio playback plus PIM features, some players also include some form of game functionality. Two of the best examples of this are Archo's Gmini 400 (with Mophun game support - think newer mobile style games) and the iPod's built in brick and puzzle games.
 

Equalisers and bass boost

If you want complete control over the sound playback, you'll need an equaliser function. These can range from a simple bass boost to three- or five-band controls right up to presets like rock, jazz, concert hall.

Some players also include audio effects that enable automatic cross fading of tracks (DJ style) and automatic volume leveling (so you don't have to keep adjusting the volume).

Warranty

Nearly every MP3 portable on the market comes with a one-year warranty. Just ensure that you are getting a warranty, and that it's applicable inside Australia.

Furthermore, try and make sure it isn't going to cost you courier or other charges should you need to exercise it.
 

The complete package

It may work out cheaper to buy a memory card at the same time you buy your player rather than separately - unless, of course, you're prepared to wait in case prices drop. Meanwhile, make sure you know what is and isn't included in the quoted price.

Also be aware that bundled software can range from nasty bug-infested crashware to top-notch audiophile applications, so checking it out in detail beforehand can pay off. Always keep an eye out for what accessories are bundled in the box.

Accessories

If accessorising is your thing, here are some other add-ons you might want to check to see if are included or consider purchasing:

• Cassette adapter
• Remote control
• RCA cable to connect to hi-fi system
• Car power adapter
• Carry pouch
• Belt clip
• Arm strap
• Memory card adapter for your PC
• Extra batteries and/or recharger
• Power supply
• FM transmitter (allowing you to wirelessly tune your MP3s through your car stereo!)

User profiles: Weighing up the options

What you want from an MP3 player will determine the features to look for, and the price you should expect to pay for them. With this in mind, pick the profile that best describes what you're after.
 

Profile 1 - Bargain hunter

You want a basic player that does the job without lots of special features.

Profile Profile 2 - Hi-fi fanatic

Your MP3 player must have top features, fast data transfer, lots of memory, and long battery life.

Profile 3 - Utilitarian

You want something inexpensive, small, with simple software and a straightforward interface.

Profile 4 - Professional

You require voice recording, a radio tuner, PIM features, and durability.

Profile 5 - Gadget freak

You want it all - versatility, expandability, multi-functionality and lots of storage space.

Profile 6 - Exercise machine

You should prefer thin, light-weight flash players that come with a strap.