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Question

Need recommendation for MP3 player/recorder

Aug 12, 2012 5:37PM PDT

I have specific preferences for an MP3 player/recorder that I am having trouble finding. Perhaps someone can help me. The player should:

1. Play MP3, WMA, and WAV files at all bit rates.
2. Record in MP3 format with decent voice quality (no discernible distortion or noise) at 32 kbps; with higher quality recording such as at 128 kbps.
3. Display folder and file names, not just reference numbers.
4. Have at least 1 GB storage (2 or 4 GB even better).
5. Connect to computer's USB port without a cable.
6. Be rechargeable through the USB, and play/record for 10 hours between charges.
7. Survive a fall if dropped.
8. Cost $100 or less.

As an example, the iriver T20 met most of these needs, but is no longer available. Any ideas?

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Never found such a thing.
Aug 15, 2012 1:38AM PDT

But quite a list so I subscribed to see if you ever find this.
Bob

PS. I own 2 recorders. Part numbers follow.
Sanyo ICR-XPS01M (My fav!)
Tascom DR-07MKII (still getting used to it. Shows great promise as a field recorder.)

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Answer
No single device meets all your specs
Aug 21, 2012 4:24AM PDT

You would have to maintain two separate devices unfortunately. It's more about what the market demands (or does not). I agree that the iRiver would (if still around) take care of much of your list.

'Survive a fall if dropped' is probably a feature I would be more realistic about. Even such 'durable' MP3 players can only be abused so much before they even crap out IME. Luckily, I can grab refurb Sansas that meet my particular needs on the cheap if one ever decides to die. For my friends who always drop their devices, I recommend quality cases to help minimize the damage.

The one that mystifies me is, 'connect to computer's USB port w/o a cable'. Other than the iRiver, I honestly can't think of _any_ player with a sliding USB port. (Our of curiosity, why do you insist on this particular functionality?)

With newer touch screen devices/slick GUIs dominating the market now, you will be hard pressed to find one which displays folder/file names any more. Some sort of Android tablet may still accommodate this, other than the Sansa line.