Insignia 4GB Video MP3 Player: An affordable, lightweight and easy-to-use gadget for runners
Posted April 20th, 2007 at 10:00 AM by Christopher Jack
Section: Gear & Apparel, Gadgets & Acces., Motivation, Music, Product Reviews
I heard good things about Best Buy’s Insignia MP3 players, but being an Apple junkie, I was reluctant to stray from my good ‘ol iPod. However, I got hooked on the 4GB Video MP3 Player in no time and was impressed by the built-in Bluetooth, FM Radio, Video Playback and easy-to use-interface.
Although a bit larger than its predecessors (the Sport 1GB and Sport 2GB), Insignia’s new 4GB Video MP3 Player still weighs a mere 2.4 oz. and is only 0.6′’ thick; making it a perfect tag along for your next run and allowing it to fit easily in most pockets. The 2.2” LCD color screen takes up about two-thirds of it’s face; creating a sufficient viewing screen for watching movies and/or browsing pictures when you are done with your workout.
Unlike an iPod, which lacks radio capabilities, the Insignia provides a built in FM radio, from which you can even record songs, and has the capacity for 20 programmable preset slots. The player supports MP3, WMA, and DRM 10 audio formats and is compatible with Rhapsody, Napster, Yahoo and Urge music services, along with Best Buy’s own Digital Music Store, which can be installed with the included disk. It also rises above the iPod nano, which is otherwise one of our favorites, by including a micsoSD expansion slot; enabling you to enjoy even more music during the Insignia’s nearly 20 hours of battery life.
The player’s Bluetooth capabilities also help to keep you safe by allowing you to listen hands-free and without a pesky (and often dangerous) headphone cord. Unfortunately, you’ll have to shell out some additional cash for a pair of Bluetooth enabled, wireless head -phones to take advantage of the technology.
The most attractive characteristic of Insignia’s player is the intuitive design. Although not as sleek looking as the iPod, Insignia’s wheel and two button navigation system proves to be extremely practical. This ease-of-use makes it an appealing choice for even the most inexperienced gadgeteer.
The Insignia also has flash memory, like the iPod nano, a feature that really won me over. Why is this so important? Because unlike the Video iPod, which can be detrimentally affected by the constant and often intense shaking that occurs when a user goes for a run, the Insignia’s flash memory will not be damaged.
In addition, the extremely lightweight build makes it almost undetectable during your workouts (especially if you clip it on your waistband). I also found both the video and sound quality to be acceptable and enjoyed using the customizable equalizer.
It also won major points in my book as a result of it’s value. It will run you about $130 (compared to about $200 for a 4GB iPod nano) and offers video and other features not found among it’s competitors. If, like me, you are looking for a motivating workout accessory, or even just a new gadget to satisfy your audiophile cravings, I would highly recommend the Insignia’s 4GB Video MP3 Player.
For more information, please visit: www.insignia-products.com
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Tags: apple, flash player, gadget, gadgets, insignia, insignia 4GB video mp3 player, ipod, ipod nano, mp3, mp3 player, music, nano
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The Final Sprint
how do you put videos with out the cd
May 30th, 2007 at 9:09 pm