Features:
- Plays MP3-encoded CDs as well as audio CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs
- Text search feature--search by subject, title, artist
- 45-second antishock system
- Full digital LCD screen, MP3 playback display
- Headphones and AC adapter included
Description:
This shiny little unit is not your garden-variety cigarette-lighter-powered portable CD player, however much it resembles one. No, this player gives you something more: the ability to listen to MP3-encoded CDs, which, when you do the math, works out to far more megabytes for the buck than you'd get in a dedicated MP3 player. Accommodating standard CDs as well as CD-Rs or CD-RWs brimming with MP3 or .WAV audio files, the Memorex MPD8505CP MP3-CD player packs high technology into a low-lying music player, giving you beck-and-call access to literally hours of music from a single MP3-encoded CD. And did we mention that it's far cheaper than any of its name-brand competition? Each of the player's multifunction control buttons is used for standard CD controls like Play, Pause, Skip, or Stop, as well as programming functions such as File/Directory, File Search, Display, and the numbers and letters of the alphabet. That's right--unlike other MP3 CD players, this one shows track and artist information, and lets you add it as well. Unfortunately, the buttons aren't clustered together for ready access, but configured in an eleven-button semi-circle to memorize. Imperceptive controls with multiple functions demand a good study of the manual to guide you through searching and programming. You'll also need to spend some time learning and remembering things like stop" also means "off", and other such hidden functions. It also seems that due to the MP3 chip, start-up time is slower than on standard CD players. After loading a CD, we had to wait at least 10 seconds to be able to play, search, or adjust any of the controls. Meanwhile, the dark LCD display screen remains blank while you wonder if the unit is on or if the CD has been loaded correctly. Then, it takes an additional 10 to 15 seconds for it to play. While not a huge inconvenience, a portable unit for car use should react quickly to minimize the time spent fiddling with it. The DBBS (Dynamic Bass Boost System) offers impressive bass reinforcement. The high end is bright and clear, although you'll hear some hiss with quieter tracks or during music featuring a soloist. A 45-second "electronic skip protection" feature lets you use the Memorex on road trips, bus rides, or brisk walks, though we did experience occasional skips even on relatively sedate bus rides. Memorex includes a complete car kit, a nice convenience. But despite its quirks (and despite its bulky and awkward design), this Memorex piece can be a good way to take music along any journey, long or short--especially when used with a good set of headphones. --Zoe Knight Pros:
- Plays MP3 CDs
- Cheaper than name-brand competition
- Car kit included
- Good bass boost
- Locked lid
- Album/Track directory
- Anti-shock protection
Cons:
- Bulky design
- Confusing control buttons
- Hard-to-read display screen
- Delayed reaction time for control functions
- Headphone jack hiss heard with quieter tracks
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