How Cool is this?
Written: Sep 17 '04
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Pros: Great remote, so much storage, very cool
Cons: Cost, a lot of wires
The Bottom Line: This has all the bells and whistles, at a price, but worth it.
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| rookshark's Full Review: Sony Walkman D-NE518CK Personal CD Player |
Why did I buy this? I have a SUV that came with a tape player. I have pretty much only CDs, but occasionally do want to play a tape or two, so I did not want to go to the trouble to replace the unit. I am also not sure if I will have this car for more than a year or so (already owned it three years), so that was an additional reason not to change it out. I had an older personal CD player that I was using, but changing CDs every few days or so in the car from the house was a hassle. So I went to Best Buy, and checked things out, something that would play Mp3 and came with a car kit. This was the only model really that I found. I listen to CDs in the car about 7 hours a week.
Pricey? You bet. Around $85. Sure I had second thoughts. But after using it, I am very happy with my purchase. At first the price was a little daunting, but I got over it quickly with the quality and how much this became easily blended in to be a part of the car. Plus, in my short time looking at Best Buy and Wal Mart, I did not really find anything cheaper that did the same thing.
I wanted to use Mp3, and have a dedicated Mp3 player for running, so using Sony's funky software is not an issue for me, but I can definitely see where if you were not a huge Sony fan, using their software would be a hassle. For me, the process was relatively painless, after getting it all done. I converted about 200 CDs, down to 5 I believe. Nice to have every CD I own in my car now.
On the use of the unit, I could not be more pleased. I did decide to use the included wired remote, as I can keep the unit easily in my console, where it attracts less attention (I live in a higher than normal break in rate). Plus, the remote for me is a breeze to use. No taking my eyes off the road, once you figure it out, you can use it so quickly, many guests in my car are confused as to what is going on....especially after breezing through several CDs without changing anything. I like the different little sounds that the unit uses after using the remote to let you know what you have just done...in case you were not sure. Hit the play button twice accidentally (or on purpose) instead of once, and the pause kicks in...beeping every second so you know what is going on, that sort of thing. Same thing for when you want to switch between folders, uh I mean CDs, it makes a slightly different sound.
If you are looking at the unit, it sure does display all the information, the CD name, artist, and song name. I don't need it much, since I know my CDs, but it is nice to have when you need it. Only lift the console, and there it is.
I have several rechargeable batteries, so I always have a pair in the unit, so I get to enjoy the fact that with those, I never lose my place when I turn the car off, it starts right back up at the same place as when I start it up again. I think in eight months I have maybe changed the batteries once. Without the batteries, you start from scratch every time you start up the unit. Plan on putting batteries in...trust me.
Since I change CDs rarely, it is not much of an issue, but when inserting a new disc, it takes quite a while for the unit to actually start playing. Maybe 15 seconds or more...whatever it is, it feels like an eternity after being used to hitting play and getting instant results.
The shock protection works great...I have not experienced a skip yet, and that is saying something with the roads we have here. It truly is one of those things I have almost forgotten about because it is so good.
Accessory speaking, no problems with the cassette unit or the power adapter, both have worked since I started using this unit 8 months ago. No cleaning or maintenance necessary. The remote works great as well, although I did have to replace the Velcro to adhere it to my console...the original fell off in a day under the sun. Without Velcro or sticking the remote to something, using it can be a hassle.
Downside? Well the cost I suppose, but like I said, I was able to justify it with the performance I have. Using the cassette adapter and the remote also leaves you with quite a bit of wire excess, but depending on your car setup, most of it can be neatly tucked away. I only see the wire to the cassette deck, which really does not bother me. I mean, that is nit picking.
So, why buy this unit? If you want/need a tape deck, don't want to replace your tape deck in a junked car or one you plan to sell soon, or have to switch cars with a spouse every so often, and want to listen to CDs a lot this is for you.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 85
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Epinions.com ID:
rookshark
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Location: Honduras
Reviews written: 54
Trusted by: 3 members
About Me:
missionary living in Honduras
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