MPMan plays MP3 music files downloaded from the Internet or copied from your favorite audio CDs. Typically, an MP3 file contains about one minute of audio per megabyte of information at CD-quality compression rates (128 kilobits per second). The MPMan comes with 32 MB of built-in storage space. However, you can upgrade to 64 MB or store additional music content on separate SmartMedia Flash cards (sold separately). In addition to music files, this unit also supports nonmusic-data files such as .doc, .gif, .txt, and .bmp formats.

The provided MPMan Manager software was a snap to use. Once we installed it on our computer, we simply selected the MP3 files that we wanted to transfer from our PC to the MPMan. The files were transferred to the MPMan via the PC parallel port, using the supplied 25-to-18 pin printer cable. (While some other MP3 players require that the player be firmly placed in a docking station, that's not the case with the MPMan.) We were a bit disappointed that we were unable to upload MP3 files stored on our SmartMedia card back to our computer. However, this is because of a copyright protection that is built into the SmartMedia card format, and it's not a flaw in the MPMan.

This portable unit is about the size of a pager and comes in its own snug carrying case; we found it to be pleasantly lightweight and compact. Unlike many other MP3 players, the MPMan contains a bass-boost feature that offers 20 decibels of bass enhancement. We were particularly impressed with the crisp, clear sound of the MPMan's earbud-style headphones. In addition, we found that the cushioned headphones fit comfortably in our ears.

With advanced features and good sound quality, the MPMan is a good value for anyone looking for an inexpensive, entry-level digital music player.

Pros:

• Topnotch accessories included (comfortable headphones, snug carrying case)
• No-skip playback

Cons:

• Additional memory cards are expensive