Gadgets galore: Tune in to the latest MP3 players
(CNN) --Music you can take with you. That seems to be one of the biggest priorities for today's music lover.
And whether you're on the bus, waiting in line, jogging around the park or sitting by the pool, portable MP3 players are fast becoming the most popular way to listen to tunes.
Since the prickly debate over downloading music on the Internet hasn't stopped companies from making them, there's a huge range of players designed to suit your music needs (Of course, manufacturers do expect users to get their tunes from the array of record industry-friendly Web sites available).
Here are some of the hottest MP3 players to hit the streets.
Apple iPod
Apple released its next generation iPod in August. The MP3 player is available in three different sizes. It supports 5 and 10 gigabyte hard drives (like Apple's original model) but the company has now added a 20 gigabyte iPod capable of storing up to 4,000 songs. And to keep envious PC-users happy, all three models are available to run on both Apple and Microsoft Corp.'s Windows operating system. Critics point out that the iPod is fairly pricey, however, it does offer plenty of features:
Slim, lightweight design.
Operates intuitively, much like a miniature computer. A touch sensitive scroll wheel allows users to adjust the volume and scroll through the iPod's menu options.
Firewire connection allows users to transfer a 4,000-song library from a Macintosh to the iPod in a little more than 30 minutes.
iTunes 3 software included has an auto-sync function, which means any songs added or changes made to playlists automatically transfer to the iPod when it's plugged into the computer.
Stores addresses, phone numbers and calendar events.
Accessories include a remote, carrying case and headphones.
Cost: 5 GB (1, 000 songs) for $299, 305 euros, ¥35,959; 10 GB (2, 000 songs) for $399, 407 euros, ¥47,912; 20 GB (4, 000 songs) for $499, 509 euros, ¥59,937.
For more information on the iPod visit Apple's Web site.
Sony Net MD MZ-N707
Remember Sony's clunky cassette Walkman that was really popular with aerobics enthusiasts in the 1980's? Well, now Sony has released a Walkman for the digital age that fuses MP3 technology with a MiniDisc player.
The MZ-N707 allows you to transfer up to 5 hours of MP3 files on a MiniDisc, so storage capacity for the player doesn't come close to the iPod. Other features of the gadget include:
Light, compact design.
Can make recordings from multiple sources, including PC's, CD players, home stereos and microphones.
Car adaptor included so users can listen while driving.
Comes with over-the-ear headphones and a stick remote control.
Cost: $229, 234 euros, ¥27,549.
Click here for an official Sony product demonstration. Select MZ-N707.
MTV256
No doubt you associate "MTV" with a TV channel that pumps out endless music videos and interviews. Now you can associate it with gadgets. The company has teemed with Evolution Technologies to offer a range of MP3 players, like the MTV256. Features of the device include:
Lightweight, small design.
Compatible with both Macintosh and Windows.
Slide apart case protects controls and makes the unit easy to hold in one hand when it's shut (the case doesn't open very smoothly, though).
Allows you to adjust the in-built equalizer to emphasize your favorite sound: Rock, pop, techno, hip-hop or flat.
Has up to 384 megabytes of memory using two expansion slots for memory cards.
Cost: $219, 233 euros, ¥26,340.
See the complete range of MTV players.
SONICblue RioRiot
With a 20 GB drive that holds about 400 albums, the RioRiot's storage space rivals that of the iPod. The device allows you to sort songs by artist, title or genre and it has a built-in Rio DJ function that creates playlists based on your most or least-played tracks, your most recently added music, songs from a certain decade or random play. Other features include:
Built in digital FM tuner (in case you get tired of 4, 000 tracks!)
Mac and PC-compatible.
Scroll wheel and large backlit liquid crystal display for browsing songs and menu functions.
Comes in a carrier case with a clip for wearing it on a belt (however, you might want to think twice before taking the Riot jogging, since it's kind of bulky). Also includes over-the-ear headphones.
Cost: $399, 407 euros, ¥47,912
Visit SONICblue's Web site for more information.
Flipster
Can't get enough of all things multimedia? Try Flipster on for size. Made by PoGo Products, this device plays MP3 files, video, voice recordings and video games and shows digital images. Keep in mind, though, that video might fight for space with your MP3's. Flipsters other features include:
2.5-inch color screen.
Comes in two versions: one with 64MB of internal flash memory, and one with 128MB. Both include expansion slots for memory cards to increase storage space.
Personal address book.
Compact, lightweight design that folds out like a cell phone.
Cost: from $399, 407 euros, ¥47,912.
You can find out more about this product on PoGo Product's official site.
Dion DMX
The Dion DMX offers users a range of functions, but one of its unique features is its size. Measuring 2.2 inches across, the digital audio player is so small you can wear it around your neck with the cord provided. You might want to avoid purchasing this one If you're the type of person who loses small objects! Some of the player's features include:
Available in 2 formats: 128MB or 256MB.
Allows users to edit images on a color screen.
Voice recording function.
Built-in alarm clock.
Mac and PC-compatible.
Cost: from $169, 172 euros, ¥20,308.
More information on the Dion DMX ca be found at the official site for Digital Global Network.
Creative Labs NOMAD Jukebox 3
Like the RioRiot and the iPod, the Jukebox is up there with a big memory capacity at 20GB or 40GB. It's a similar size and shape to a portable CD player, so it's not the player of choice for the athlete who likes to listen while working out, but it does make a big noise with its EAX sound capabilities. More of the Jukebox's features include:
Well set out and easy to use controls and a large LCD screen.
Search option helps users get straight to their song of choice.
Can convert music straight from albums and cassettes to the player.
Comes with stereo headphones and a carrying pouch.
Cost: 20GB: $399, 407 euros, ¥47,912. 40GB: $499, 509 euros, ¥59,937.
Find out more about the Jukebox at Creative's official site.
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