Editors' choice audio players

  • 8.7 8.8

    Apple iPod Touch (3rd generation, 32GB)

    24 Sep 2009 5:53 PM

    Though the updates are subtle, the third-generation iPod Touch still leaves its competitors in the dust.

    Specs: Flash , 32GB, 480 x 320 pixels, Yes , No , No

  • 8.6 8.7

    Sony NWZ-S738 Walkman

    11 Nov 2008 3:55 PM

    An excellent player equipped with noise-cancelling and a wealth of customisation options, the S738 is poised to take on the iPod Nano.

    Specs: 8GB, 320 x 240 pixels, Yes , Yes , FM radio

  • 8.8 8.3

    Apple iPod Touch (2nd generation)

    17 Sep 2008 4:18 PM

    If you've been holding back, now is the time: the second-gen Touch is an excellent media player, and the addition of third-party apps extends the fun for everyone, no matter where your interests lie.

    Specs: Flash , 8GB, 480 x 320 pixels, Yes , No

  • 8.7 9.3

    iRiver Clix (2nd generation)

    13 Nov 2007 3:03 PM

    The 2nd gen iRiver Clix offers the perfect blend of hot design, desirable features, and stellar sound quality. If you're looking for an alternative to the iPod Nano, this device should top the list.

    Specs: Yes , Yes , Voice, FM radio

  • 8.7 7.8

    Archos 605

    08 Nov 2007 2:34 PM

    The Archos 605 Wi-Fi portable video player is one of the best mobile distractions money can buy.

    Specs: 800 x 400 pixels

  • 8.6 6.3

    Samsung YP-U3

    17 Sep 2007 11:47 AM

    With its sound quality and industrial chic look the YP-U3 stakes its claim to being the king of USB key MP3 players.

    Specs: Flash , 2GB, No , Yes , Voice, FM radio

  • 8.6 8.1

    iRiver Clix

    13 Nov 2006 3:56 PM

    Think of pop queen Pink's unique combo of sass, good looks and smarts. The iRiver Clix is the portable audio equivalent.

    Specs: Flash , 2GB, 320 x 240 pixels, Yes , Yes , Voice, Line-in

  • 9

    Apple iPod Nano (2GB)

    14 Sep 2005 2:13 PM

    Thanks to its limited capacity, the gorgeous Apple iPod Nano isn't for everybody, but it sets the standard for MP3 players to come.

    Specs: Flash , 2GB, No , No , No

  • 10

    Apple iPod (60GB, colour)

    29 Mar 2005 4:20 PM

    Though it no longer comes with such extras as a dock or an A/V cable, the photo-enabled iPod (née iPod Photo) is, pound for pound, the best iPod available.

    Specs: Hard disk , 60GB, 220 x 176 pixels, No , No , No

  • 9

    Apple iPod Mini (6GB)

    21 Mar 2005 6:59 PM

    Apple comes through again with a near-perfect MP3 player.

    Specs: Flash , 6GB, No , No , No

The Explain Series

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Articles

  • Set up an Apple iPod Touch

    Learn how to configure an iPod Touch using Apple's iTunes software, and get tips on using the Touch's email, Wi-Fi and parental controls.

  • Fake iPod versus the real thing

    CNET Australia's Shanghai correspondent heads down to the market and buys a fake iPod. To see how they compare, we not only give them a run, but also measure and take them apart.

  • Sony Vaio, Walkman, Reader get OLED treatment

    In lieu of OLED TVs, Sony shows off OLED-based Vaio, Reader and Walkman prototypes at the CEATEC show in Japan.