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THIS WEEK: MP3 PLAYERS: LOUD, RUGGED, AND SMALL RULES
By Matthew Sweer (March 24, 2004)
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Looking for an MP3 player that will work at the gym? You aren't alone:
roughly 50 percent of CNET users say they want to purchase a player for use
when they're working out. But what does that mean, exactly? What kinds of
features should gym rats look for? For a clue, you can find out how
experienced users who are upgrading their current MP3 players differ from
first timers.
Those upgraders tend to be pickier about specific features than first-time
buyers. For example, 40 percent of upgraders say they're looking for a
small player; 23 percent want a rugged design. Only 11 percent of upgraders
are looking for an FM tuner, compared to 23 percent of first-time buyers.
Only 2 percent of upgraders want recording features, but they're almost
three times as likely as first timers to care about loud volume. So the
lesson for first-time buyers is: if you're buying for the gym, skip the
radio and recording features and go for a small, rugged player
that can blast tunes over the clanging weights.
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Each month, we take the pulse of our most tech-passionate readers, then we create Personal Tech Radar (PTR), a 360-degree snapshot that provides up-to-the minute insight into real-life product interests and buying motivations. Track the trends. Learn about hot must-haves. Tell us what's on your radar. And be sure to check back regularly for new PTR info.
 November 17, 2003 -- Age is Key Factor in Personal Technology Product Buying Preferences, Finds CNET Survey
October 31, 2003 -- Gender Differences Influence Consumer Electronics Purchasing, Finds CNET Study
October 1, 2003 -- CNET Announces "Personal Tech Radar," Capturing Insights and Trends on Digital Electronics Buying Preferences
December 18, 2003 -- Gifts for all--or just for kids? (Chicago Tribune) (free registration required)
November 24, 2003 -- Got gadgets? Gift ideas for the already well-equipped (SFGate.com)
October 31, 2003 -- Mars-Venus split in product survey (SFGate.com)
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