MP3 is a term that is related to a standard of digital audio processing that allows digital audio files to be compressed in size and therefore made more portable. While choosing Mp3 players certain points should be noted.

You can choose a player that has a hard disc for program storage, one that uses flash memory (memory sticks, flash cards, etc.) or one that uses standard CD format with music stored in mp3 or other compressed formats. The online music and video programming is now widely available from all manner of sources, from artist direct through to iTunes and Hard-Drive players, such as Apple's iPod.

They are available with up to 100GB of storage which are physically small. If you need to store large video programs then a Hard-Drive option might be good option. Flash memory offers some outstanding benefits. At the time of writing, flash memory goes up to 4GB, which allows about one thousand mp3 songs. Flash memory has no moving parts and so can withstand slightly rougher treatment. Portable CD players can play mp3 and other compressed audio formats as well as standard CDs.

Using this technology, you can download your music to your computer and burn it onto a CD in mp3 format, and can play it in your portable player. . A single CD will hold 700 MB of music, or around 175 songs. There are two aspects to being able to control your audio through your mp3 player.

One is its connectivity. In the first instance, you need to be able to download the music you want to hear in the format that's going to suit your player, and vice versa. So first you need to make sure you choose a player that is compatible with the source. (There are many other options, including Virgin, Napster, Sony, all of which offer different media options.)

Second, you need to have a simple connection between the computer you download your program onto and your portable mp3 player. Most players these days use USB serial interfaces. You connect your mp3 player to your physical self through earphones, or you can plug it into your computer, your hi-fi system, and even use a wireless connection in your car.

The importance of weight, physical dimensions and battery life cannot be understated. Most manufacturers promote a battery life. Devices with Hard-Drive storage weigh more. They are bulkier than devices with flash memory. Most players on the market have acceptable sound fidelity and the biggest weakness can often be found in the headsets and loudspeaker systems that they are connected to.