"TonyL" wrote in message


I'm looking for comments on music
libraries....alternatives to storing hundreds of CDs next
to my player. I've seen some hardware solutions
containing an HD and sometimes complete with audio amps
and even speakers. Then there are more software oriented
solutions, often PC based with output via soundcard.
I'm currently using a vintage CD player made by Philips.
It works OK despite some mechanical problems, which is
why I'm looking for possible replacement of the player
with some sort of library system. A Pioneer amp and IPL
transmission line speakers complete this simple setup.
Some sort of HD storage seems attractive and convenient
but I don't want to sacrifice audio quality.
Comments and suggestions please ?

The Sansa Clip+ stores, indexes and plays audio libraries up to at least 24
GB (8 GB internal + 16 GB uSD card) at one time, and provides virtually
unlimited storage by means of swapping the uSD card. It supports most
popular flavors of compressed and uncompressed music files. The Clip+ also
includes a mono voice recorder with internal microphone and an analog FM
radio. It runs about 15 hours on an internal lithium cell that can be
recharged via a mini USB port. USB port power can also be used for
continuous operation. It has a 4 line multicolor organic USB display and a
touchpad control surface with two additional push buttons, one for power
on/off.

The Clip+ also has a 5 band graphic equalizer with multple groups of
settings can be associated with various types of music. Firmware can be
updated using a special loader program. Some models support a third party
open source firmware named "Rockbox" that provides additional features.

Other than power output which is appropriate for high quality headphones and
earphones, the CLIP+ has the approximately same performance as a good
quality stereo receiver and CD changer, including an onboard library of CDs.
The Clip is 2.2 x 1.4 x 0.6 inches and weighs about 1 ounce. I paid about
$30 postpaid for a 2GB Clip+, and a similar amount for a 16 GB uSD card.

If you want something that is a little larger, louder, a longer lasting
battery, with a larger display, the Sanasa Fuze is available for about a
little bit more. Other models have video and picture support.