Gone are the days when MP3 players served a single purpose of playing music. Nowadays, consumers expect more than just a player that can handle MP3 files. Video capabilities, games, and WiFi are just a few of the additional features that MP3 players are expected to offer now. This makes selecting the best MP3 player for review a challenging task.
Four music players are the focus of this review: Apple iPod touch, Sony X-Series, Creative Zen X-Fi 2, and Sandisk Sansa Clip+. These players were chosen among others because they excel in their respective categories. The iPod touch stands out for its consumer experience, the Sony X-Series for its music experience, the Creative Zen X-Fi for its innovative design, and the Sandisk Sansa Clip+ for its affordable price.
The Sandisk Sansa Clip+ is known for its affordability despite its edge over other higher-priced devices. This player can be purchased for less than $60. It offers several features that other players lack. One notable feature is its support for Free Lossless Audio Codec (FLAC), which ensures undisturbed audio quality even with high compression. It also has a micro SD slot for memory expansion and the ability to record voices. The dedicated controls on its side make it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts.
The Creative Zen X-Fi 2 is a resistive touchscreen device and the latest offering from Creative. Unfortunately, a resistive touchscreen is not as sensitive to light touches. However, it supports most audio and video formats, making it a worthwhile purchase. It is available at an affordable price of $140. Its X-Fi crystallizer enhances the treble and bass, making it a great gift option.
The Apple iPod touch 4th Generation now comes equipped with a camera, completing its multimedia features. This player essentially offers everything one would expect from a player. If it could do anything more, it would be making phone calls. The iPod touch is a fantastic companion that not only provides excellent audio quality but also allows for great gaming experiences. The only downside is its subpar earphones. This best-selling player is priced at $270 for the 32GB version.
For music enthusiasts, the Sony X-Series is the best choice due to its exceptional music experience. It features sound cancellation technology and comes with a good pair of earphones. The X-Series also supports WiFi and offers a great touch interface. Although the player may have a higher price tag, it is justified by the outstanding music experience it delivers. It truly fulfills all the expectations of a music player and stands as the best in the industry.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME