128mb iriver mp3 player

The iRiver iFP-180T offers MP3, FM tuner, and microphone functions in a compact 1.6-ounce device. The 1.1- by 3.8- by 1.0-inch player holds the standard 128MB of internal memory for storing MP3 and WMA formats but doesn't offer any way to add memory.

With a prismlike shape, the iFP-180T is a break from the boxy MP3 players on the market now. Best of all, it remains simple without sacrificing usability. Song info and device modes are shown on a clear four-line backlit display, and you can navigate through tracks with a mini joystick.

For output, iRiver includes a pair of Sennheiser MX300 earphones that are among the best we have tested and really let us appreciate the quality of the higher-bit-rate audio files (160 Kbps and 192 Kbps). The device also has five preset equalizer settings (normal, rock, jazz, classic, and ultrabass) in addition to user-adjustable bass and treble settings.

Although the device uses only one double-A battery, we got a respectable 17 hours of use. The iFP-180T comes with a USB cable and proprietary iRiver Manager software, which is easy to install and use. The lack of removable memory is the only strike against this affordable portable player. If you can get along with 128MB, the iFP-180T is a great device to carry.

Copyright ?? 2002 Ziff Davis Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Originally appearing in PC Magazine.