Buying MP3 Speakers - 3 Things to Consider - By: Den Williams

Personal music players have been around for many years, starting with cassettes in the late 70's, before moving to the compact disc format in the mid 1980's. These technologies have of course been largely phased out in favor of solid-state devices, allowing users to carry around thousands of songs in compressed MP3 format. Whilst portable MP3 players were initially designed for use by a single person using headphones, the ability to connect the device to external speakers is an obvious bonus. For this reason, a large number of speaker systems -- sometimes called 'docking stations' if they allow you to slot your MP3 player into the device, rather than plug a lead into the headphone socket -- have appeared on the market in recent years. These range from small, easily portable models which tend to trade sound quality for transportability; to full hi-fi quality units designed to be used in one location.

Here are our top 3 tips for choosing the best mp3 speakers for your needs.

1. Connections
MP3 speakers which come in a 'docking station' format are easy to connect (you just slot the player into the device), and mount the player in such a way that offers easy access to the controls and allows you to see which song your playing, etc. Some models may only be compatible with certain players, although many will work with any player by using the headphone connector. At the cheaper end of the market you will find speakers which simply have a cable you connect to the player. The docking station may also be able to recharge your device, make sure you choose a compatible model for this capability.

2. Transportability
Probably the most important consideration is to decide whether you are looking for a speaker system which you can easily take with you on your travels, or rather a base unit you can leave at home and plug your MP3 player into when you want to play music in your house. Since it's difficult to produce rich bass sounds from small speakers, many of the most portable options offer a below average listening experience. However, the convenience of a small battery powered unit cannot be ignored. There are some models on the market with folding speakers or clamshell designs, providing a very compact solution. Many people choose to purchase a compact unit, as well as a larger stationary model, thereby getting the best of both worlds.

3. Power Supply
The cheapest compact speakers come with standard batteries which need to be replaced quite frequently, mains adapters are often optional extras. It's a good idea to spend a little more on a model which has rechargeable batteries which you can charge from the mains or your computer by using a USB cable. You will never get room shaking sound from a battery-powered model, they simply don't provide enough power to drive high wattage speakers. However, some of the higher quality docking stations available nowadays from companies such as Bose and JBL can produce amazing results, at a price.

With sales of MP3 players increasing every year, the market for MP3 speakers will also increase. This means new, more efficient designs will appear, for example, wireless designs are already starting to become more popular.

About the Author

Find some great deals on MP3 speakers at http://www.mp3speakers.org.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Den-Williams/59813

Additional Articles From - Home | Technology & gadgets | Mp3