Features:
- MP3 Audio
- 128 MB of built-in memory--over 4 hours of music
- Includes Intel Audio Accessory Kit, with docking station, car cassette adapter, carrying case, and rechargeable batteries
- Digital FM radio with 10 presets
- Supports MP3 and WMA; upgradeable to support future digital standards
- USB connectivity; compatible with Windows 98, 2000, and Me
Description:
The Intel name may not immediately spark the interest of music aficionados, but with the introduction of its Pocket Concert portable MP3 player, that's sure to change. The Pocket Concert's 128 MB of memory doubles the capacity of most players without costing any more money. Combine that value with excellent sound quality and a well-designed, easy-to-use interface, and you've got a formidable contender. We ran a simple setup program to install all the Pocket Concert's drivers and software applications. The player connects to the PC's USB port for a fast transfer of files, and it is compatible with Windows 98, Windows ME, and Windows 2000. We appreciated the Intel Audio Manager's simple interface for transferring files to the player, as well as the powerful MusicMatch Jukebox Plus software that let us rip music from CDs and create playlists as well as transfer files. With a sleek, rounded, polished-aluminum body, this lightweight player fit comfortably in our hand or fastened onto our belt or bag with the removable clip. The player's solid-state flash memory makes it impervious to shocks and jolts, so it's ideal for using while you're jogging or working out at the gym. We had no trouble reading the large, backlit LCD, which shows song titles and playback options, including the status of the unit's two AA batteries. The scroll wheel on the side of the unit made it easy to select tracks and set bookmarks, as well as control random and repeat modes, bass, and treble. Simply press the button on the other side of the unit to turn on the built-in FM radio, and then use the scroll wheel to tune to your favorite station or manage the 10 preset stations. The unit's 128 MB of flash memory storage translates into two to four hours of music, depending on the compression ratio and file type. (The Concert supports both MP3 and the more highly compressed WMA files.) The unit's memory capacity isn't upgradable, but to anyone who's used 64 MB or 32 MB players, 128 MB will feel like decadent luxury. The Pocket Concert plays its crystal-clear digital audio through a pair of "neckphone" headphones, which have a dark blue headband that clips over your ears and swings around the back of your head. Though they're considerably bulkier than the earbud headphones found with most MP3 players, we were impressed by the full, rich sound and found the secure fit good for exercising. (Note: This version of the Pocket Concert also includes the Intel Audio Accessory Kit, which features a docking station, car cassette adapter, carrying case, and rechargeable batteries.) Intel got practically everything right with the Pocket Concert Player. A large display and well-designed controls make it a pleasure to use; the neckphone headphones provide excellent sound; and the included software is easy to use and powerful. Most important, they've broken the memory barrier, offering a 128 MB unit for the same price as comparable 64 MB units. --Ken Feinstein Pros: - 128 MB of memory translates to 2 hours of near-CD-quality audio
- Easy-to-use design with clear display
- Excellent sound quality
Cons: - No AC adapter included
- Memory not expandable
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