daleb's Full Review: Cowon Systems iAUDIO U2 (1 GB) MP3 Player
This is an excellent player, especially since now you can get it for right around a $100 for 1GB.
That's a real bargain for a player that will deal with multiple formats, can be loaded like flash memory (UMS), has outstanding audio quality for it's class, FM tuner, FM, voice, and music recording, easy menu and file system, robust design and small case, nice display, and yes, I could go on.
It is easily charged through the USB port, or with an optional AC charger from Cowon ($9).
I found battery life short. I am getting little more than 10 hours. Cowon claims 20 hours, and most published reviews say about 15.
I do know if you use some enhanced features (and keep playing around with it instead of just listening) battery life is shortened.
For an old geezer like me, the display size is okay, with my normal reading glass. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in illumination and sharpness.
This is a great non-iPod way to go. iPod has some nice features and ergonomics, but offers nothing beyond the Apple name to really justify the higher price.
The standard phones are at least a cut above the standard offered by most. But if you are real music lover, and like to listen for extended hours, I recommend updating to Shure, Sennheiser, and a few others for your own comfort and enjoyment.
I recently picked up a Logitech 2.1 speaker system on sale for under $40. It makes an excellent casual listening system for a small room or office, when you want to share your music or give your ear canals a rest.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 107 Recommended for: Music Lovers - High Capacity Storage for an Entire Album Collection
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