Rating: 
Summary: don't uninstall the Rio Manager
Review: Even though you can use the MusicMatch Jukebox plugin to transfer files, don't uninstall the Rio Manager 2.1. I could not transfer files with Jukebox 5.0 if the Rio Manager was removed. I guess the plugin relies on some software code that the Rio Manager provides...
Rating: 
Summary: Almost took it back.....
Review: I bought this product two days ago and thought it was broken. The software and lack of documentation with the unit was a complete JOKE! (I am a software developer and it took ME over three hours to get the thing to work! ) Once I got rid of the software that came with the machine I used RealJukebox (which has drivers available for the Rio) and it worked FLAWLESSLY! And the nice thing about RealJukebox is that you can save your MP3's in playlists and then upload and download playlists to your RIO in a matter of seconds. Once I got it working I am quite pleased with the size and ease of use. One other thing.. I bought this unit BECAUSE of it's size. I hate working out with a bulky cassete player hanging off my shorts.
Rating:
Summary: Great alternative to portable DC and tape players
Review: Have used the 500 for about three weeks. Had to email support a few times (because of the pathetic lack of documentation online or accompanying the player); response time varied from 24 to 48 hours, and instructions were clear and solved my challenges. Why can't they print this stuff up and put it on line or include it with the player? The 500 can hold more than the 60 minutes referred to by another reviewer. You determine the copy rate from the cd, and the download copy rate to the player -- and that will determine how many songs you'll get onto the player. The controls are simple and intuitive. I agree w/ previous comment about mesh holder and thanks for the tip for 'fixing' it. I find the software easy and intuitive to use, but it's certainly possible other software programs are even better. My only two complaints are: cost of addt'l memory and lack of documentation. I highly recommend the 500 - buy it now, and upgrade in a few years.
Rating:
Summary: As usual, Diamond made a good piece of hardware, BUT...
Review: ... the software is horrible. If you get this player, use MusicMatch jukebox instead (I think that Real Jukebox also supports this thing). As Andrew Mason mentioned, the AutoDJ thing is quite handy.The mesh carrying case is kind of crappy because you can't access the volume control or USB connector, but if you modify it, it does the job. Simply cut holes in the mesh and melt the threads with a lighter to prevent them from unravelling.
Rating: 
Summary: Totally worthless in Win 2000
Review: This product doesn't work at all in Win 2000 and Diamond apparently has no plans to support Win 2000. The driver will install just fine and the software would probably run OK, but it refuses to install under Win 2000.
Rating: 
Summary: The last of the mp3 handhelds?
Review: The Diamond Rio 500 is an excellent mp3 player...for a handheld. While it certainly compares to or exceeds any other handhelds on the market, and its sound quality is excellent from my experience, I'm glad I saved my money by refraining from purchasing! The problem with these handhelds lies in two factors: 1) price, and 2) memory. At roughly $300 for a 64 MB handheld, you're stuck with about 60 minutes of CD-quality music. Respectable, but not impressive at the price. Already, companies like MamboX are creating the much-awaited portable CD/mp3 players which can read both mp3 and regular CD tracks from any CD. At 650 MB per CD, there's not much comparison with the handhelds- you can hold over 600 minutes of music, or 150+ tracks. And did I mention that these players sell for $200-$300? Don't shortchange yourself by buying a regular mp3 handheld (their one advantage is no skippable parts; but are you really going to notice any skipping with on a CD player with 45-seconds ESP?). I'd like to see Amazon carry this exceptional product soon; hopefully, they will have the foresight to do so. At best, the Rio deserves only 3 stars for being among the best of the traditional handhelds.
Rating:
Summary: Rio 500 The Best Money Can Buy!
Review: I recently purchased this MP3 player and I must say that I have never been happier! I had bought a Diamond Rio for a friend and she loved it so much I bought one for myself too. I can say so much but my main point is NO MORE CD'S! You can download your favorite songs and store them in your player, when the song becomes out of style or you just don't like it, delete it! CD's are so expensive these days, and I know that I have bought CD's for one or two songs only but those days are over thanks to the Rio 500! Another great product from Diamond!
Rating:
Summary: Rio 500 mp3
Review: Ive had my Rio 500 for 3weeks and I love it. Save your money on buying better head phones because the ones that come with it are very clear and good. It is quick to erase the memory and almost as quick to put music on. The only thing I dont like is you have to use the battery power to put music on the Rio 500 but its so fast with USB hookup that it dosent use much battery power. There also built strong. I go to the Gym and I was on the Treadmill and it fell out of my pocket hit the mat then shot off the back and on to the floor, when I picked it up it was still going. It also hays extra setting in the menu that is good. I think you should get one, alittle $$$ but very good product. Also I would like to say I am pleased with Amazon, fast delivery and super service, thanks Amazon...
Rating:
Summary: Rio 500 works as advertised
Review: Fast, light and the USB connection is great. The only real problems are the volume control doesn't go loud enough and the control knobs are not easy to "feel" in you pocket so you can control the unit while jogging without looking.
Rating:
Summary: Diamond Rio 500, Teal Works Very Well
Review: The Rio 500 (Teal) works very well in spite of no instruction book. There is a pamphlet and there is on line help, but even that takes awhile to catch on to the qwerky software. Once I caught on, I enjoy programming my days drive worth of music selections. Emailing support eventually gets a reply. The unit has many features once you learn them. I would purchase it again.
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