Best 5 MP3 players

Posted by Donald Bell updated Nov 29, 2007 from:http://reviews.cnet.com/

There's no one-size-fits-all MP3 player that's perfect for everybody. Some people need a small MP3 player for the gym, while others need tablet-size players with wide-screen video playback. Whatever your interests are, these five MP3 players broadly represent our current favorite portable music gadgets. If you're looking for your first MP3 player and you want to start at square one, then take a look at CNET's MP3 player buying guide.

Zune (second generation, 80GB, black)
	The second-generation, 80GB Zune from Microsoft offers tremendous value for the money, as well as innovative features such as wireless sync, RBDS FM radio information, Wi-Fi music sharing, and subscription music support (Zune Pass). We know the Zune name was dragged through the mud last year, but the second-generation Zune 80 does not disappoint. Price: $237.49 - $249.99 Filed in: Best 5 MP3 players
Apple iPod Nano (third generation, 8GB, red)
	The latest version of the Nano is no longer the feature-crippled cousin to the iPod. Now in its third generation, the iPod Nano delivers every feature found on the iPod Classic, only in an exceptionally smaller and thinner format. The Nano's best assets are its crisp screen, attractive interface, sturdy and lightweight design, as well as a rechargeable battery that can play music continuously for as many as 24 hours. Price: $199.00 - $199.00 Filed in: Best 5 MP3 players
Archos 605 WiFi (30GB)
	If you're looking for an MP3 player that also makes for a fantastic portable video player, the Archos 605 WiFi is one of the most advanced gadgets around. With it's touch screen interface, gorgeous high-resolution screen, and integrated wireless video and music downloads, the Archos 605 WiFi is one of the best portable distractions money can buy. If you frequently find yourself on the road or in the air with nothing to do, consider the 605 a must-have. Price:$259.00 - $299.99 Filed in: Best 5 MP3 players
Creative Zen V Plus (4GB, black)
	One of the first flash-memory players to break into the 16GB range, the Creative Zen V Plus packs a monster wallop into an ultracompact space, and the vivid OLED display is viewable from any angle. Features include an FM radio, voice and line-in recording, photo and video playback, and compatibility with subscription WMA tracks. Price: $99.99 - $149.77 Filed in: Best 5 MP3 players
iRiver Clix (4GB, second generation)
	The iRiver Clix is the perfect slim and sleek MP3 player for those who find the iPod Nano too stifling, but the Toshiba Gigabeat too bulky. This player comes packed with extras such as an FM radio; a voice recorder; an alarm clock; support for subscription content as well as OGG and Audible files; and photo, video, and text viewing. The Clix includes SRS Wow sound effects, it has good battery life, and it's priced competitively. Price: $150.95 - $168.99 Filed in: Best 5 MP3 players
MP3 Players Reviews Reviewed
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CNet.com's landing page for MP3 players lists the personal favorites of senior editor Donald Bell, with links to lists of top-rated MP3 players in a number of categories. All MP3 players receive numerical ratings, so they can be compared to others of the same type, and the very best MP3 players get an Editors' Choice rating. One negative is that these lists include several discontinued models, despite a relatively recent update. Among flash-based players, the iRiver Clix (4 GB, second generation) is called a "perfect blend of hot design, desirable features, and stellar sound quality." The Creative Zen V Plus lacks the style of the Clix, but it's compact, feature rich and has great sound quality. Highly rated ultra-compact MP3 players include the latest refresh of the Apple iPod Nano and the Cowon iAudio7. All are Editors' Choice winners. The new second-generation Microsoft Zune is the top pick among hard drive players, surpassing scores for the iPod Classic