Sarah Jane R. Hilomen
In the world of gadgets, the smaller and the handier, the better. Before, CD players were a blast! Then, it downsized into handy discmans, much like the ’90s walkmans. But now, not only did the player get handier, even the songs played got smaller with the use of MP3, WMA, and ASF files (MP3 files are standard technology and format for compression a sound sequence into a very small file (about one-twelfth the size of the original file) while preserving the original level of sound quality when it is played, while WMA files are similar to MP3, though it can compress files at a higher rate than MP3. ASF files serve as a universal format for storing and streaming media) called MP3 players which are now gaining popularity among yuppies and teenagers alike with its light and pocket-sized design. And not to mention, a vast collection of songs in just a push of a button!
Upon seeing the black and red-colored box of the MP10 FY500 MP3 player, I never thought how the box can be so huge for a lipstick-sized player. Complete with accessories like the USB 2.0 cable support, stereo earphones, armband, necklace hanger, and carrying plastic case, one can barely imagine how to fit these in that teeny-weeny aluminum-coated gadget.
Available in five soft colors (pink, light blue, silver, dark blue-black, and brown), this tube-like player weighs only 30 g. (without battery) and is powered by one AAA battery. It can reach up to 14 hours of continuous playback.
It provides a perfect grip for your hand with its half-round shape and serrated back. To complete its simple styling, MP10 gathered all the buttons into a five-way joystick in the middle of a four-control-key circle, leaving not a single button on the body of the unit for a perfect seamless look. It has a glass surface treatment to give a more sophisticated look.
Though it’s pocket-sized, it’s too cute to hide in your pocket. You can hang it around your neck or attach it on your arms with the use of an armband which is preferable for a safer carry.
The FY500 has a striking white backlight which provides you with clear and luxurious visibility and enhances readability of the four-line graphic LCD. It also has a hold function so that you can lock the control keys to avoid unintentional key pressing.
The FY500 has a large built-in memory of 256 MB (e.g. 32 MB gives you about 30 minutes of playing time). It can store approximately 75 songs (depending on its file sizes). It has high-speed data transfer with the USB 2.0 support and it is recognized by your computer USB transport as a removable drive, which means you do not need any utility installation to transfer data files and just copy and paste to download to the player. It also supports a folder function where you can create folders however you like, by artists, album, or genre and download it to the player.
The FY500 also has Philips Life Vibes 3d sound effect where it produces an optimized surrounded sound experiences, offering a concert sound ambience. It also has enhanced super level bass which provides superb sound quality. Using the all-in-one control keys, you can browse your stored files even while listening to the music. Just enter the navigation mode without stopping playback.
What is more, it has a built-in FM tuner and voice recording features which you can turn on with a push of a button. And you can also record songs directly from the radio.
The FY500 is compatible with Windows (98/98SE/2000/XP). You can also use Mac Version 9.2 and above. It also comes with a quick start guide and utility CD for more information.
With the MP10 FY500 256 MB music player, it’s like fitting your recorder, radio, and discman in a tiny lipstick-sized tube, but the music is never small!
