Term | Explanation |
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Region | For logistical and currency reasons please make sure you select a player that is available in your region of the World. |
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SKU | A unique code used by manufacturers or wholesalers for precise identification of their product models. |
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Operating System | The operating system software which makes your computer work, Windows 95/98® or Mac OS® for example. If a player model is available for several types of system make sure your computer's operating system is compatible. |
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Buffer | Some players use Flash RAM chips in the form of Smartmedia cards which can be removed from the player and another one inserted giving effectively unlimited storage capacity. Flash RAM has the advantage of giving skip free playback which can be a problem with hard disk based memory. More details here... |
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Storage Capacity | Some players use hard disk based memory similar to the hard disk on your computer to store the MP3 files. This has the advantage of offering huge storage capacity but requires the use of a RAM buffer memory to stop skipping if the player is moved during playback. |
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Expandable Storage | Some players have the ability to utilise extra storage in the form of removable memory cards. |
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Playback | The format of files the MP3 player can play. Some players play more than just MP3s! WAV files are standard, uncompressed audio files. WMA are Window Media Audio files, an alternative sound compression format to MP3. |
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Interface | The type of connection or cable used to transfer MP3 files from your computer to your MP3 player.
 Universal Serial Bus (USB, Symbol on the left) is the fast, modern alternative to the serial port.
1394, SB1394TMIEEE-1394 is a fast external connection similar to USB but around 10 times faster. Sometimes called FirewireTM.
IR = Infra-red, usually used in wireless remote controls.
Check your computer's manual and output sockets (around the back) to see what kind of connection you have available. |
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Line In | The type of connection a player takes to receive audio input if it has that feature. |
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Line Out | The type of socket a player has to connect to other equipment, an amplifier for example. |
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Firmware Upgradeable | The ability to upgrade the internal software of the player to take advantage of new technologies and file formats. More details here... |
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Car Adapter | Powers the MP3 player via your car's cigar lighter socket. |
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Digital Tuner | Listen to the radio as well as MP3s. Automatic tuning and station pre-selection. |
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MP3 Software Supported | The software the MP3 player supports to transfer and manipulate files. |
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Remote | Is there a remote control available for this model. |
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Audio Control | Audio enhancement or manipulation that can be performed using Jukebox controls, bass boost, for example. |
