How Does a CD Player Work

Today there is a wide range of CD players available for the consumer and choosing the right CD player can feel like an arduous task. Style, quality, design och technical solutions vary greatly between the different players. Some players are portable; others are included in larger sound systems. Some players can only handle one disc at the time; others can easily skip between 50 discs or more. Some CD players are very cheap, others are highly expensive. The list goes on and on. Regardless of which CD player you choose it will however consist of three basic parts that are found in all moderns CD players: a drive motor, a tracking device and a laser and lens system. Another thing that all CD players have in common is that they interpret data that has been stored in the form of elongated bumps on a CD (compact disc).

The drive motor in your CD player is the part that makes the disc spin round and round at a correct pace. The drive motor will gradually adjust the speed, since the correct pace depends on which part of the disc that is currently being interpreted. At some spots, the pace will be no higher than 200 rpm, while at other spots the pace needs to be increased up to 500 rpm. As the disc is rotated round and round by the drive motor, the tracking mechanism will adjust the laser assembly and make it possible for the laser and lens system to focus on the miniscule bumps where data has been stored. The laser is constantly being pushed from the centre and outward over the disc by the tracking mechanism.

The data interpreted by the laser and lens system has been stored in the form of elongated bumps on the surface of the CD. One single bump is very small and no wider than 0.5 microns. The height is greater than 125 nanometres and the length is 0.83 microns or slightly more. All these bumps are very neatly organised at the surface of the CD in the form of a 5 kilometre (3.5 miles) long spiral.

The CD itself is made up by several different layers, including a polycarbonate layer and an aluminium layer. When the laser tries to interpret data that has been stored on the CD, it will first penetrate the polycarbonate layer. The aluminium layer will then reflect the laser beam, and the light alterations will be detected by a special optoelectronic mechanism in the CD player. Since the bumps in which data has been stored reflects light in a different way compared to the areas between the bumps (commonly referred to as “lands”), the CD player can determine exactly which parts of the disc that is made up by bumps and which parts that are not.

If a CD is scratched or injured in any other way, it can be impossible for the CD player to interpret it. Sometimes only a minor part of the data will be skipped, but larger damages can render the entire CD useless. Always store your CD’s in a protective casing to decrease the risk of scratches. When you clean your CD’s, carefully move your hand from the centre and outwards to the edge rather than just swabbing around. Scratches that occur from a radial movement tend to be less damaging than other scratches.

The information you just read about CD players can be applied to most types of optic drives and can not only help you pick out a CD player for you home but also other types of optic drives such as car CD players and car DVD players.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Berg

Troubleshooting: In-Dash CD or MP3 Player

Here are steps to follow if your in-dash CD or MP3 player will not play discs or if they skip.

1) First of all, ensure that your discs are clean and not damaged and have been inserted into the in-dash player the correct way up. Try other discs, especially original CD's, to see if they will play. This is especially necessary if you are using CD-R or CD/RW (copied discs). The problem could arise if a cheap CD-R is used. It could also arise if a disc is burned at too fast a speed or if the copier hadn't finalized the disc completely.

2) Use a CD laser cleaner disc. These are available from any music store. When these are played in your CD player, they will clean the laser. This will take care of problems related to a dirty CD laser: Discs not playing or playing but skipping.

3) Ensure that the fascia contacts/connections aren't worn and that the fascia is making good, solid contact. Because the fascia is removable, over time, the contacts can become dirty or worn. To find out how to clean your contacts, consult your radio handbook.

4) Press the 'Reset' button if your radio has one, and then check for correct operation. Consult your radio hand book for details.

5) If your radio doesn't have a ‘Reset’ button, release your radio from your dash and physically disconnect the power connector and then reconnect and test for correct operation.

If the problem is still present after following the above, please, consult a car audio expert.

Go to this site: car-audio-products-and-accessories.com and read the articles. They cover much on car audio. They will help you do a better job of your car audio.

However, if you choose to use the pros, go here for a professional installer if you're in the UK.

Chimezirim Odimba writes for CarAudioPlus. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chimezirim_Chinecherem_Odimba

Downloading MP3s Made Easy

The MP3 movement started out with a huge audience of music enthusiasts on the internet. The MP3 digital music format has had, and will continue to have, a huge impart on how people, gather, listen to and share music.

The MP3 format is a compression system for digital music that helps reduce the size of a digitized song without disturbing the sound quality. Digital music is converted to MP3 format and made available for use, usually via the web. MP3 files can be downloaded onto your computer from the internet and special software, either commercial or freeware. Using your computer and software you can convert digital music from a CD into MP3 format.

MP3 files can be played in three different ways:

1. They can be played directly onto your computer.

2. They can be decompressed and recorded onto a CD.

3. These files can be played on a portable MP3 player.

The advantage of MP3 players is that they are small, lightweight and rugged. They are a great way to carry your MP3 files with you!

With a portable MP3 player, a personal computer, and the appropriate software, you can do the following:

1. Obtain free or low-cost music from the web.

2. Create your own mix of music by downloading MP3 files from the web and converting the tracks from CDs.

3. Listen to near-CD quality music wherever you go.

4. Listen to more music (up to 10 hours' worth).

If you want to convert your songs from your CDs into MP3 files, you can use ripper and encoder software. A ripper copies a song's file from the CD onto your hard disk. The encoder compresses the song into the MP3 format. By encoding songs, you can play them on your computer or take them with you on your MP3 player. The ripper and encoder software may come with your MP3 player.

The specific instructions will vary with the individual software programs, but the following steps will definitely take place:

1. Place the CD from which you want to convert songs into your drive.

2. Select the track(s) that you want to convert to MP3 format.

3. Convert the selected track(s).

4. Copy the new MP3 files on to your computer's hard disk.

Now you are ready to download these MP3 files into your portable MP3 player.

Once you have MP3 files on your computer, you can use the software that came with your MP3 player to download the files into your MP3 player. Again, the specific instructions will vary depending upon your software program and player, but you will:

1. Create a playlist from your MP3 files.

2. Plug the player into your computer's parallel of USB port.

3. Transfer the MP3 files according to the instructions.

Once you have downloaded the MP3 files into your portable MP3 player, you are ready to take your music anywhere. Most MP3 players are small, lightweight, and solid-state. Because most players are solid-state, there are no moving parts to break down or skip, so the sound quality is uninterrupted regardless of your physical activity. MP3 players are equipped with various types of headphones or earpieces.

Portable MP3 players can play music longer than a portable CD player. The length of play for a CD player is about 74 minutes, the length of one CD. However, the length of play for an MP3 player depends upon its memory capacity, which can be upgraded on some models. A standard MP3 player can play for about half an hour (32 MB) to a few weeks (40 GB)! Some models can be upgraded with additional memory devices.

Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher, offering information on downloading mp3's such as Eminem MP3 and finding free internet radio stations

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Kingston

Start To Download Audio Books - Why Have They Become So Popular

Sure, we have heard of audio books, but how much do we really know about them? They have been around for a very long time, whether we have used them or not. However, it seems only lately, thanks to the MP3 player and the busy lives we lead that they have seen a surge in popularity.

Today, your questions are answered. Everything you have ever wanted to know about how to download audio books and get the most from them is right here. We have compiled this FAQ based on the most asked questions.

What are audio books?

To put it simply, an audio book is any book in the form of book that you listen to, in which the words are spoken and heard, instead of printed and read. To listen to these books you would need a listening device such as a portable CD player, MP3 Players, or tape player.

What types of books come in audio format?

You can find a wide variety of books in audio format, including for example all Harry Potter books. The formats in which the books are released are entirely up to the author and their team. Many are unabridged audio books, while some are specially abridged versions for listening. Some other types of books you might find include the newest novels, best sellers, self-help books, business books, and even the Bible. Learn a foreign language, improve your health or listen to a radio or TV show. There are so many categories from which to choose.

In which formats can I find audio books?

All audio books come in several different formats, which allow you to cater to your own needs. For those with cassette players, you can purchase books in cassette audio form, which is the second most popular form of books today. However, the most popular and easy way is to download audio books in MP3 format for your MP3 player. Lastly, you can find these books in CD format as well for use on CD players.

Where can I find audio books?

You can find books in audio format at a variety of different stores and shops. The internet has become the best source as of late. The internet allows you to simply download audio books and transfer them to the listening device of your choice. This is the cheapest way to obtain them. Bookstores often offer an entire section devoted specifically to audio books as well.

Who should use an audio book?

Anyone who is on the go and wants the benefit of a book should use an audio book. For example, when you download audio books, professionals and business owners can take advantage of learning new skills and information while on the way to meetings, getting their exercise, eating lunch, or really during any activity. Audio books are perfect for those who simply do not have the time needed to devote to sitting down and reading a book page by page. Homemakers, children, teenagers, athletes, and so many other people make use of books in audio format on a daily basis.

Audio books are providing a great opportunity for people to gain new skills and information, or to just relax without the extra time and effort needed to read a book from cover to cover. Join the audio book rush!

Helen Wall is the author of this article. Visit http://www.AudioBooksBonanza.com to download audio books from an extensive range of titles from top publishers. Join the free newsletter now and get to know about the latest hot off the press titles, receive time limited special offers and discounts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Helen_Wall

Pioneer Car CD Players Reviewed - DEH-P3800MP

Pioneer is one of the most recognized brands in the car audio industry. They make car cd players, subwoofers, and amplifiers. The Pioneer car CD player DEH-P3800MP is an entry level car cd player manufactered with the casual car audio enthusiast in mind. Being moderately priced this Pioneer car CD player is a great buy.

The DEH-P3800MP comes with several features that make it a great deal as they can be had anywhere from $90 to $130. These features are MP3/WMA support, XM or Sirius satellite radio capability, and a large 16 character display. Lets go into to futher detail about each of these awesome features.

• 1) MP3/WMA support - This Pioneer car CD player has the capability to support CD-R discs burned with MP3's or WMA's. A 700 megabyte CD-R can hold up to 10 full MP3 albums or nearly 20 WMA albums. This feature is great for those of us who have a large collection of music on our computers.
• 2) XM or Sirius satellite radio - The Pioneer car CD player DEH-P3800MP is manufactured with support for these two formats of satellite radio. This means if you already subscribe to either one of these services than you do not have to purchase another radio receiver. Satellite radio is the "next big thing" in the media industry, with thousands of stations, high definition sound playback, and limited commercial interruption. This feature in and of itself makes this Pioneer car CD player a great buy.
• 3) 16 Character Display - This Pioneer car CD player supports ID-3 tags, which allow you to burn the artist name, album name, and track names, onto the disc itself. The large 16 character display allows you to see this information right on your car CD player. You will also be able to see the FM radio stations frequency and station name with this technology.

All and all the DEH-3800MP Pioneer car CD player is an awesome buy. I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking to upgrade their stock car CD player.

The author Garland Robinson is a serious car audio enthusiast. He has installed systems in multiple cars and attended sound competitions and car shows.

His extreme passion for this hobby has driven him to create a website based solely on car audio.

Check it out @ http://www.onlinecaraudio.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garland_Robinson

Consumer Reports - Receivers

The receiver is the brain of an audio/video system. It provides AM and FM tuners, amplifiers, surround sound, and switching capabilities. It’s also the heart of the setup--most of the devices in a home-entertainment system connect to it, including audio components such as speakers, a CD player, cassette deck, and turntable, as well as video sources such as a TV, DVD player, VCR, and cable and satellite boxes. Even as receivers take on a bigger role in home entertainment, they’re losing some audio-related features that were common years back, such as tape monitors and phono inputs. Manufacturers say they must eliminate those less-used features to make room for others.

WHAT'S AVAILABLE

Sony is by far the biggest-selling brand. Other top-selling brands include Denon, JVC, Kenwood, Onkyo, Panasonic, Pioneer, RCA, and Yamaha. Most models now are digital, designed for the six-channel surround-sound formats encoded in most DVDs and some TV fare, such as high-definition (HD) programming. Here are the types you’ll see, from least to most expensive:

Stereo. Basic receivers accept the analog stereo signals from a tape deck, CD player, or turntable. They provide two channels that power a pair of stereo speakers. For a simple music setup, add a DVD or CD player to play CDs, or a cassette deck for tapes. For rudimentary home theater, add a TV and DVD player or VCR. Power typically runs 50 to 100 watts per channel.

Price range: $125 to $250.

Dolby Pro Logic. Dolby Pro Logic, Pro Logic II, and Pro Logic IIx are the analog home-theater surround-sound standard. Receivers that support it can take a Dolby-encoded two-channel stereo source from your TV, DVD player, or hi-fi VCR and output them to four to six speakers--three in front, and one to three in back. Power for Dolby Pro Logic models is typically 60 to 150 watts per channel.

Price range: $150 to $300 or more.

Dolby Digital. Currently the prevailing digital surround-sound standard, a Dolby Digital 5.1 receiver has a built-in decoder for six-channel audio capability--front left and right, front center, two rear with discrete wide-band signals, and a powered subwoofer for low-frequency, or bass, effects (that’s where the “.1” comes in). Dolby Digital is the sound format for most DVDs, HDTV, digital cable TV, and some satellite-TV broadcast systems. Newer versions of Dolby Digital, 6.1 and 7.1, add one or two back surround channels for a total of seven-channel and eight-channel sound, respectively. To take advantage of true surround-sound capability, you’ll need speakers that do a good job of reproducing full-spectrum sound. Receivers with digital decoding capability can also accept a signal that has been digitized, or sampled, at a given rate per second and converted to digital form. Dolby Digital is backward-compatible and supports earlier versions of Dolby such as Pro Logic. Power for Dolby Digital receivers is typically 75 to 150 watts per channel.

Price range: $200 to $500 or more.

DTS. A rival to Dolby Digital 5.1, Digital Theater Systems also offers six channels. It’s a less common form of digital surround sound that is used in some movie tracks. Both DTS and Dolby Digital are often found on the same receivers. Power for DTS models is typically 75 to 150 watts per channel.

Price range: $200 to $500 or more.

THX-certified. The high-end receivers that meet this quality standard include full support for Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital, and DTS. THX Select is the standard for components designed for small and average-sized rooms; THX Ultra is for larger rooms. Power for THX models is typically 100 to 170 watts per channel.

Price range: $500 to $2,500 and up.

IMPORTANT FEATURES

Controls should be easy to use. Look for a front panel with displays and controls clearly labeled and grouped by function. Onscreen display lets you control the receiver via a TV screen, a squint-free alternative to using the receiver’s tiny LED or LCD display. Switched AC outlets (expect one or two) let you plug in other components and turn the whole system on and off with one button.

Remote controls are most useful when they have clear labels and buttons that light up for use in dim rooms. It’s best if the buttons have different shapes and are color-coded and grouped by function--a goal seldom achieved in receiver remotes. A learning remote can receive programming data for other devices via their remotes’ infrared signal; on some remotes, the necessary codes for other manufacturers’ devices are built-in.

Input/output jacks matter more on a receiver than on any other component of your home theater. Clear labeling, color-coding, and logical groupings of the many jacks on the rear panel can help avert glitches during setup such as reversed speaker polarities and mixed-up inputs and outputs. Input jacks situated on the front panel make for easy connections to camcorders, video games, MP3 players, digital cameras, MiniDisc players, and PDAs.

A stereo receiver will give you a few audio inputs and no video jacks. Digital-ready receivers with Dolby Pro Logic will have several types of video inputs, including composite and S-video and sometimes component-video. S-video and component-video jacks allow you to route signals from DVD players and other high-quality video sources through the receiver to the TV. Digital-ready receivers also have analog 5.1 audio inputs. These accept input from a DVD player with its own built-in Dolby Digital decoder, an outboard decoder, or other components with multichannel analog signals, such as a DVD-Audio or SACD player. This enables the receiver to convey up to six channels of sound or music to your speakers. Dolby Digital and DTS receivers have the most complete array of audio and video inputs, often with several of a given type to accommodate multiple components.

Tone controls adjust bass and treble, allowing you to correct room acoustics and satisfy your personal preferences. A graphic equalizer breaks the sound spectrum into three or more sections, giving you slightly more control over the full audio spectrum. Instead of tone controls, some receivers come with tone presets such as Jazz, Classical, or Rock, each accentuating a different frequency pattern; often you can craft your own styles.

DSP (digital signal processor) modes use a computer chip to duplicate the sound characteristics of a concert hall and other listening environments. A bass-boost switch amplifies the deepest sounds, and midnight mode reduces loud sounds and amplifies quiet ones in music or soundtracks.

Sometimes called “one touch,” a settings memory lets you store settings for each source to minimize differences in volume, tone, and other settings when switching between sources. A similar feature, loudness memory, is limited to volume settings alone.

Tape monitor lets you either listen to one source as you record a second on a tape deck or listen to the recording as it’s being made. Automatic radio tuning includes such features as seek (automatic searching for the next in-range station) and 20 to 40 presets to call up your favorite stations.

To catch stations too weak for the seek mode, most receivers also have a manual stepping knob or buttons, best in one-channel increments. But most models creep in half- or quarter-steps, meaning unnecessary button tapping to find the frequency you want. Direct tuning of frequencies lets you tune a radio station by entering its frequency on a keypad.

HOW TO CHOOSE

First, don’t assume that pricey brands outperform less costly ones. We’ve found fine performers at all prices. Points to consider:

How many devices do you want to connect? Even low-end receivers generally have enough video and audio inputs for a CD or DVD player, a VCR, and a cable box or satellite receiver. Mid- and high-priced models usually have more inputs, so you can connect additional devices, such as a camcorder, a personal video recorder, or a game system.

The number of inputs isn’t the only issue; the type also matters. Composite-video inputs, the most basic type, can be used with everything from an older VCR to a new DVD player. S-video and component-video inputs are used mostly by digital devices such as DVD players and satellite receivers. If you have such digital devices or may add them, get a receiver with a few S-video and/or component-video inputs. Both can provide better video quality than composite-video.

All these video inputs require a companion audio input. The basic left/right audio inputs can be used with almost any device to provide stereo sound. A turntable requires a phono input, which is available on fewer models than in years past.

To get multichannel sound from DVD players, digital-cable boxes, and satellite receivers, you generally use a digital-audio input. With this input, encoded multichannel sound is relayed on one cable to the receiver, which decodes it into separate channels. The input on the receiver must be the same type--either optical, the more common type, or coaxial--as the output on the other device. You usually must buy cables, about $10 and up, for digital-audio, S-video, and component-video connections.

What kind of sound do you want from movies? All new digital receivers support Dolby Digital and DTS, the surround-sound formats used on most movies. Both provide 5.1 channels. Most receivers also support Dolby Pro Logic, Pro Logic II, and sometimes Pro Logic IIx. If you want the latest type of surround sound, look for a receiver that supports Dolby Digital EX and DTS-ES. These offer 6.1 or 7.1 channels, subtly enhancing the rear surround. Fairly few movies using these formats are available, but offerings should increase.

What kind of music do you like? Any receiver can reproduce stereo from regular CDs. Most models have digital signal processing (DSP) modes that process a CD’s two channels to simulate a sound environment such as a concert hall. DSP modes feed a stereo signal through all the speakers to simulate surround. For multichannel music from SACD or DVD-Audio discs, get a receiver with 5.1 analog inputs.

How big is your room? Make sure a receiver has the oomph to provide adequate volume: at least 50 watts per channel in a typical 12-by-20-foot living room, or 85 watts for a 15-by-25-foot space. A huge room, plush furnishings, or a noisy setting all call for more power.

Is the receiver compatible with your speakers? If you like to blast music for hours on end, get a receiver rated to handle your front speakers’ impedance. Most receivers are rated for 6-ohm and 8-ohm speakers. If used with 4-ohm speakers, such a receiver could overheat and shut down.

Is it easy to use? Most receivers have legible displays and well-labeled function buttons. Some add an onscreen menu, which displays settings on your TV screen. An auto-calibration feature adjusts sound levels and balance to improve the surround effect. Models with a test-tone function for setting speaker levels help you balance the sound yourself.

Two tips: When deciding where to place your receiver, allow 4 inches or so of space behind it for cables and at least 2 inches on top for venting to prevent overheating. If setting up a home theater is more than you want to tackle, consider calling in a professional installer. Retailers often offer an installation service or can refer you to one.

Copyright © 2002-2006 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

For the latest information on this and many other products and services, visit http://www.ConsumerReports.org

How Does a CD Player Work

Today there is a wide range of CD players available for the consumer and choosing the right CD player can feel like an arduous task. Style, quality, design och technical solutions vary greatly between the different players. Some players are portable; others are included in larger sound systems. Some players can only handle one disc at the time; others can easily skip between 50 discs or more. Some CD players are very cheap, others are highly expensive. The list goes on and on. Regardless of which CD player you choose it will however consist of three basic parts that are found in all moderns CD players: a drive motor, a tracking device and a laser and lens system. Another thing that all CD players have in common is that they interpret data that has been stored in the form of elongated bumps on a CD (compact disc).

The drive motor in your CD player is the part that makes the disc spin round and round at a correct pace. The drive motor will gradually adjust the speed, since the correct pace depends on which part of the disc that is currently being interpreted. At some spots, the pace will be no higher than 200 rpm, while at other spots the pace needs to be increased up to 500 rpm. As the disc is rotated round and round by the drive motor, the tracking mechanism will adjust the laser assembly and make it possible for the laser and lens system to focus on the miniscule bumps where data has been stored. The laser is constantly being pushed from the centre and outward over the disc by the tracking mechanism.

The data interpreted by the laser and lens system has been stored in the form of elongated bumps on the surface of the CD. One single bump is very small and no wider than 0.5 microns. The height is greater than 125 nanometres and the length is 0.83 microns or slightly more. All these bumps are very neatly organised at the surface of the CD in the form of a 5 kilometre (3.5 miles) long spiral.

The CD itself is made up by several different layers, including a polycarbonate layer and an aluminium layer. When the laser tries to interpret data that has been stored on the CD, it will first penetrate the polycarbonate layer. The aluminium layer will then reflect the laser beam, and the light alterations will be detected by a special optoelectronic mechanism in the CD player. Since the bumps in which data has been stored reflects light in a different way compared to the areas between the bumps (commonly referred to as “lands”), the CD player can determine exactly which parts of the disc that is made up by bumps and which parts that are not.

If a CD is scratched or injured in any other way, it can be impossible for the CD player to interpret it. Sometimes only a minor part of the data will be skipped, but larger damages can render the entire CD useless. Always store your CD’s in a protective casing to decrease the risk of scratches. When you clean your CD’s, carefully move your hand from the centre and outwards to the edge rather than just swabbing around. Scratches that occur from a radial movement tend to be less damaging than other scratches.

The information you just read about CD players can be applied to most types of optic drives and can not only help you pick out a CD player for you home but also other types of optic drives such as car CD players and car DVD players.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Berg

The iPod Guide for Newbies and Not-so-Newbies

Unless you've been living under a rock you've at least heard the following terms: "iPod", "iPod Nano", "iPod Shuffle", "mp3 player", "iTunes", "podcast", "ripping".

While you may have heard the terms, you may not be 100% clear as to what these terms actually mean. Or, you may have seen people carrying around these small devices with headphones and wondered what exactly they were and what the big deal is.

So what are these devices and why are they so popular? This article is an overview of the mp3 player device, it's evolution, glossary of related terminology and options you have when buying an mp3 player, specifically an iPod.

Specifically, this article covers:

* Glossary of commonly-used terms (what is an iPod, iPod Nano, mp3 player, etc.)
* Comparison of the iPod to other audio-listening devices
* Other major brands of mp3 players on the market
* How can I use an iPod?
* The iPod's Battery and Battery life

Glossary of commonly-used terms (iPod, iPod Nano, mp3 player, etc.)

iPod a brandname of a portable media player that was created by a company called "Apple Computer".

The iPod was first launched in 1991.

The term iPod is also referred to as a digital audio player, which is basically a device that stores, organizes and plays digital music files (ex: mp3 files). It is more commonly referred to as an "MP3 player". The iPod can

The iPod can serve also as an external data storage device (i.e., files other than audio and video) but Apple has made a strategic decision to focus it's development and marketing on the iPod's simple UI (user interface) and ease of use rather than on it's technical capability.

CD players are one of the well-known precursors to digital audio players.

By far, the iPod is the best-selling digital audio player in the world and has gone mainstream which makes it one of the most popular consumer brands. I've seen a wide demographic use these things, from 8-year old kids to 80- year old grandmothers.

Digital Audio Player (DAP)

a name for a device that stores, organizes and plays digital music files (ex: mp3 files). It is more commonly referred to as an "MP3 player".

For the most part, DAPs are portable and use internal or replaceable batteries and headphones. Accessories are available that allow users to connect players to both car and home stereos. Some DAPs include features such as FM radio and microphones for voice recording. This technology continues to evolve at an ever-increasing rate. There are now DAPs that are available on sunglasses (Oakley's "Thump" model offers introduces the world’s first digital audio eyewear for a mere $229).

Portable Media Player (PMP)

a name for a versatile device which can store and play files that are in one or more media formats, such as video, audio and digital images / photos. Some models are capable of video and audio recording.

The best part is that it's portable, as it's name suggests.

mp3

a name for a type of 'audio file'. According to Wikipedia (which is a free online encyclopedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/), it's a digital audio format.

To get more info on this and to view the history of mp3 files, view the full Wikipedia definition by clicking on the following link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mp3

mp3 player

another way to describe a DAP (see dap for definition).

Ripping

a termed used to describe the process of copying audio and/or video data from one media form, such as DVD (i.e., digital versatile disk) or CD (compact disk), to a hard disk.

Ripping can also refer to copying other media (referred to as "analog" media) such as VHS video or vinyl records to a digital format.

To conserve storage space, the copied data is usually encoded in a compressed format such as MP3, WMA or Ogg Vorbis for audio, or MPEG-2, MPEG-4, DivX, XviD or Ogg Theora for video.

When dealing with digital content, ripping has numerous uses and purposes, which includes:

Because digital camcorders can now write directly to a DVD, you then "rip" (i.e., extract) that content onto a computer where you store it and can edit, duplicate or back it up. You can rip (extract) songs from various CD's, albums, DVD's, etc. to your computer or DAP. You can then take all of that music and create your own playlists where you can organize your songs in many different ways (ex: rock / jazz / hip hop, etc.).

You can also rip those songs onto a DAP (PMP).

You use CD ripping software / programs to rip files from one device to another.

CD Ripping Programs / Software

also referred to as "CD ripper", "CD grabber" or "CD extractor". Basically, CD ripping is a software program that's designed to extract digital audio from a CD to a file or other output.

Examples include:

MS Windows Operating System:

o Exact Audio Copy: Free for private use. Many enthusiasts choose this CD ripping program because of its features and extraction quality in comparison to most other digital audio extraction programs.
o Amazing CD Ripper: (Windows XP and Vista). A powerful and user-friendly software for ripping audio CD tracks and saving them into audio formats (MP3 ,WAV ,WMA, etc. Priced from $19.95 USD.
o iTunes (Mac OS or Windows): iTunes is a digital media player application used to play and organize digital audio (music) and video files. iTunes also manages the content on iPods. In addition, Tunes can connect to Apple Computer's online iTunes Store where you can purchase digital music, music videos, TV shows, iPod games and even feature-length films

Linux Operating System:

o ABCDE (A Better CD Encoder): a CD ripper that's operated entirely from the command line.
o Grip: a cd player and cd ripping program. Free (a GNOME project).
o Sound Juicer: extracts audio from CDs and converts it into audio files that PCs or DAPs can play.

Podcast

a multimedia file that is distributed (paid or unpaid) over the Internet for playback on mobile devices and PC's. Podcasting is a way to listen to or watch radio-like programs or TV-like video feeds. You basically download a podcast feed into a DAP or PC and play it at your convenience.

It's important to repeat that you don't need a DAP to view / listen to a podcast. Your PC will work fine.

Many hours of podcasts can be stored on even low-capacity DAPs.

Flash Memory

a form of non-volatile computer memory that can be electrically erased and re-programmed. Non-volatile memory is computer memory that can retain the stored information even when not powered, like hard disks and floppy disks.

In addition to its use in DAPs, flash memory is also used in digital cameras (memory cards), mobile phones and USB flash drives (which are used for general storage and transfer of data between computers). It has also gained some popularity in the gaming mark

How the iPod (and DAPs in general) compare to other audio-listening devices:

Basically, the iPod is superior to all of the items listed below for the following reasons:

* CDs (Compact Discs):
o CDs can get scratched and skip, mp3 files don't
o mp3 players consume less power
o small size and, therefore, ease of portability - the smallest digital audio player is about 1/20th the size of a portable cd player.
o user interface - with CD's you must know what songs are on each track if trying to select a specific song whereas on some mp3 players you see the song title, artist and even album title on a list.
o higher storage capacity - you can store thousands of audio files on an mp3 player. CD players typically play 1 CD at a time.

* Cassette Tape (anyone still using these??):
o tapes get old and brittle
o tapes can jam in a cassette player

* Radio:
o No static
o Listen to only the songs you want to hear
o No commercials

Major brands of DAPs on the market: Even though the iPod is the most popular DAP on the market today, other brands do actually exist, such as:

* Apple Computer: iPod **
* Creative Technology: Creative NOMAD, MuVo, Creative Zen **
* Sony: Walkman, PlayStation Portable
* Toshiba: Gigabeat
* Microsoft: Zune **
* Samsung: Yepp
* Sandisk: Sansa
* Cowon: iAudio

** - Indicates that this DAP brand requires unique software in order to load content onto it.

How can I use an iPod? As time passes, new uses of DAPs can be found. You can now purchase iPods that allow you to:

* Listen to Music
* Listen to / View podcasts
* Play games
* View feature-length movies
* Watch home videos
* Image and other file storage
* Audio and video recording

The iPod's Battery and Battery Life The battery in all iPods is non-replaceable and is not designed to be removed or replaced by the user. Some users have been able to pry the case open to replace the battery, as some online stores sell them. Initially, Apple would not replace worn-out batteries. Their official policy was that the customer should buy a refurbished replacement iPod, at a cost almost equivalent to a brand new one. All lithium-ion batteries eventually lose capacity during their lifetime and this situation led to a small market for third-party battery replacement kits.

In 2003, Apple announced a battery replacement program. The initial cost was US$99, but it was eventually lowered to US$59 in 2005. One week later Apple offered an extended iPod warranty for US$59.

Third-party companies offer cheaper battery replacement kits that often use higher capacity batteries (ex: www.iPodBatteryDepot.com). For the iPod nano, soldering tools are needed because the battery is soldered onto the main board. On the fifth generation iPod, the battery is held onto the backplate with adhesive.

Apple states that their 30GB 5G iPod provides up to 14 hours of audio playback. This gives you can idea of how long your device will play tunes on a single charge...in the best-case scenario. However, for real-world use, many users report battery lives of less than 8 hours with the 30 GB video iPod.

If you've been wondering if you should take the leap and get one. I say the time is now!

Paula Wozniak is an IT Consultant and entrepreneur. Visit http://iPod.TopInfo4All.com for more information on iPod Models and comparisons.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paula_Wozniak

CD Car Stereos

CD Car stereos have now become an indispensable accessory in cars. CD car stereos can play your favorite CDs, and these players are provided with a radio. Some of the CD car stereos are capable of playing MP3s. A CD car stereo system may consist of a stereo, a pair of speakers, satellite radios, subwoofers, amplifiers and navigation units. CD car stereos have many advantages. They allow you to access travel information such as congested areas easily and offer latest news and favorite sporting events.

There are several aspects to consider while buying a CD car stereo. One of the important features one should look for is the power of the stereo. The power output of the stereo is stated in watts, which decides the number of speakers it can run. For example, a car stereo listed as 4 x 52W can produce 52 watts of power and drive four speakers. Another important feature one should look for is a detachable front panel. This is an anti-theft device provided to ensure the security of your CD player. Nowadays, the detachable front panels come in stunning designs.

The main part of a CD Car stereo is the CD player. CD players should be compatible with both CD-R and CD-RW discs. CD changers are also important. They facilitate the user to hear up to 120 discs or more in whatever order they wish to program them or to skip from one track to another, or from one disc to another. The other audio products that you can buy to support your car stereo are in-built radio, speakers and subwoofer.

Car Stereos provides detailed information on Car Stereos, Car Stereo Systems, Car Stereo Installations, Car Stereo Speakers and more. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Gluckman

How To Buy An MP3 Player

Are you looking for an MP3 player but am not sure which type and model to buy? There is a wide variety of MP3 players out there, from flash memory based players to hard drive based players. Choosing a good player from the market is no easy task. What features should you look for? What are the key considerations? This article aims to answer those questions and more. Now, let’s see how we can pick the perfect MP3 player.

Types of MP3 player

There are essentially four types of MP3 players in the market today. These include flash-based players, hard-drive based players and MP3 CD players. Let’s look at them in turn.

Flash-based MP3 players

Flash-based MP3 players have a flash memory chip built-in. They tend to be very tiny, ultra-portable and have no moving parts. As a user, you can do all your sports activities without worrying about your music skipping a beat. The downside to flash players is their high cost per megabyte. These players range from 32MB to 2GB, and the most popular models tend to be those from the Creative Muvo line, the iRiver iFP series and more recently, the Apple iPod Shuffle.

Hard-drive based MP3 players

Hard-drive based MP3 players use a 1.8-inch hard disk drive to store your music. The hard disk can hold large amounts of music – we’re talking about 10GB and above. If you have a large music library and want to store tons of music, a hard-drive based MP3 player is the way to go. The cost per megabyte is very low. The downside? Well, due to the hard disk drive, which has moving parts, these players are not suited for rough physical activity or extreme sports. One of the most popular MP3 players in this category is the Apple iPod, which is selling like hot cakes out there.

Micro hard-drive based MP3 players

More recently, manufacturers have come up with micro hard-drive based MP3 players like the Apple iPod Mini, Creative Zen Micro and Rio Carbon. Featuring a smaller hard drive (which still gives ample storage space of about 4 to 5 GB), they have a much more compact design compared to full fledged hard disk players. The few models mentioned above are selling like crazy too.

MP3 CD players

MP3 CD players are another type of MP3 player. These units look and feel like regular CD players. You can burn up to 150 MP3 songs to fill one CD-R disc, then play it on the unit. The disadvantage of such players is their large size and their tendency to skip if jostled.

Key Features of MP3 Players

Having looked at the different types of MP3 players, let’s look at the key features of an MP3 player.

Size and weight: If you’re looking to bring your MP3 player on trips or on sporting activities, a small compact design is very important. In such cases, you should go for a small flash based player or one of the micro hard drive players.

Storage capacity: This is an important factor too. If you need to store your whole music library into the MP3 player, then you probably need a hard drive based player with 10GB of storage or above. If you only want a few select songs to listen to on the subway, then a flash based player would suffice. Do take note that some players offer expansion slots in the form of CompactFlash or SD cards.

Battery Life: This is often overlooked. Battery life is a very important consideration, especially if you’re out with your player and have no way to recharge. Hard disk players tend to have lithium-ion rechargeable batteries while some flash players offer AAA battery support. I personally own a Creative MuVo Micro N200 which uses AAA batteries. This is great for me because once it runs out, I can just pop in a new one – no hassles about finding some electrical socket to recharge.

Connectivity Options: The way the MP3 player connects to your computer is also an important factor. The latest models tend to support high-speed USB 2.0 transfers. The better ones like the Apple iPod also give Firewire support.

File Format Support: You will most likely be wanting to play MP3 songs on your player. However, if you want to listen to a wider variety of music files, like WMA or OGG Vorbis, then make sure you see it in the player specs.

Other Considerations

Many of the latest players also include features I’ve not covered in the above. For example, some players come with a built-in FM tuner, which is very useful if you get tired of your MP3 music. Other have a built-in voice recorder which allows you to record audio as WAV files.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many considerations to think about when purchasing an MP3 player. To get the most suitable player, you want to think about how you will use the player. Usage should drive your purchase decision. The other thing to take note of is to shop around, both online and offline – compare prices before shelling out the cash. Good luck hunting for that MP3 player!

Gary Hendricks runs a hobby site on digital photography. Visit his website at http://www.digital-music-guide.com for tips and tricks on selecting MP3 players, music services and music software.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Hendricks

Why Not Enjoy Unlimited Music Downloads

Downloading music online may be on the lips of many music enthusiasts nowadays but to the uninitiated, it can be pretty confusing and sometimes difficult for the individual. Let us look at what the whole idea of downloading music online at membership sites that offer unlimited music downloads is all about.

Listening to music on CDs is now passé. It is not meant to sound offending but this is especially true amongst the younger generation today. Teens and young adults born after the 80s are now turning to digital music in MP3 format rather than playing music CDs on the portable CD player, which some of us affectionately remembered as the CD Walkman.

The reasons for choosing online music are obvious. Technology is so advanced that you do not have to carry a whole CD rack anywhere you go just to enjoy all your favorite songs. If that sounds exaggerating, a CD player packed with your favorite CD can at most offer you 20 of your compiled songs at max in exchange for you lugging the 6 inch gadget around in a bag. Contrast this with a small little gadget with the size of a matchbox or cigarette box that stores hundreds of songs, it becomes blatant why flocks of people are downloading music online.

It is affordable for most folks to download music files at iTunes if you are looking for one or two of your favorite hits. Though the selection is marvelous, with tons of songs, music and music videos and seemingly unlimited music downloads, however, it soon became clear to music enthusiasts that buying music to beef up their collection is denting their pockets. Now the juicy news is that there are new download sites that have sprung up, offering unlimited music downloads, including the latest soundtracks, music videos etc to members at incredibly low one-time prices. Imagine being able to download unlimited music files for the price cheaper than 2 DVDs. Isn’t that awesome?

Human beings are creatures of dilemma. When the choices are few, we grumble about the lack of choices. But when the download sites are numerous, we complain about the difficulty to select the right membership download site. Fret not, as there are a few quick tips to select an ideal site for unlimited music downloads.

1. Selection of Music

Be sure to search through the catalogue and stick with the one that offers you the right songs you wish to download.

2. Ensure Format Compatibility

The format of music files offered must be compatible with your portable media player, ie MP3 player. Look for sites that offer MP3 ready music files to save you the headache of converting the music files into playable format ie MP3.

3. Compare Pricings

Look at the pricing of each download site. All sites offer millions of files, and it is not wrong to say that they provide access to unlimited music downloads. As a smart consumer, paying the same price for 20 million songs at Site A rather than for 10 million songs at Site B sounds like a better deal isn’t it? However, be sure to check the selection.

I believe that this article has given you a brief introduction to the online world of unlimited music downloads. You can pick up more detailed tips on how to select a great music download site that suits your preference and read a review of the most popular sites at my blog.

This article may be freely reprinted or distributed in its entirety in any ezine, newsletter, blog or website. The author's name, bio and website links must remain intact and be included with every reproduction.

Davion is a successful webmaster and author. Learn where you can have instant access to unlimited music downloads - all your favorite hits, latest music videos.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Davion_Wong

Free Movie Player Downloads

Communication technology is making fast strides and a lot of software can be downloaded from the Internet rather than purchased from physical stores. Music, movies, and news can all be downloaded from the Internet.

We are witnessing a critical stage in motion picture history when movies can be freely downloaded from the net. There are three types of movie player downloads. They are Quick Time from Apple Computers, Real Players from Real Networks and Windows Media Player.

Of these, Quick Time is most popular. It is a free movie player download that is available for both Windows and Mac. Quick Time 6 was downloaded more than 350 million times and more than 250 digital devices ship Quick Time as their standard media player. Around 25, 000 websites refer customers to Quick time downloads.

Quick Time 7 offers a rich multimedia experience. It can figuratively take you on a trip to the moon or the premier of the latest movie. It makes use of the latest video compression technology called H.264. This technology represents the next generation of video for all applications from mobile multimedia to High definition playback. The video is compressed into small files without affecting quality and delivers clear, crisp pictures. Audio quality is amazing and provides 24 channels of audio and supports a wide range of industry standard audio formats.

Real Player and Windows Media Player are suitable for some movies only. Most computers have any of these three movie players installed on their hard drive. Real Player10 comes with a 14-day free trial and features pause and fast forward live streams uninterrupted, excellent audio and video quality, supports portable devices and plays every media format. It also gives access to best program in media, and a 10- band graphic equalizer that gives high quality image and sound.

Windows Media Player 7.1 consists of seven features in a single application, including a CD player, an audio and video player, a media jukebox, a media guide, an Internet radio tuner, a portable device you can transfer music files to, and an audio CD burner. These software programs are combined in one easy-to-use application designed to make playing digital media a wonderful experience. The player also allows one to play streaming or download digital audio or video Internet content. Version 7.1 adds a facility called Windows Media Audio 8 encoding and decoding for use in portable devices.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Marlborough

How to Burn a Downloadable Audio Book to CD

When it comes to burning (or copying/writing) a downloadable audio book to CD, you must be sure that it isn't for commercial purpose, but strictly for personal use. Violating this law can get you into serious copyright infringement problems.

Yes, the downloadable audio books are still under copyright, even after paying to download them.

The only instance where they are no longer under copyright is when the authors or translators have died over 70 years ago. There are certain publications by government that are not under copyright.

But the rule of "only for personal use" is still ultimate when it comes to burning any downloadable audio book to CD or any other such formats.

You won't believe it, but there are even certain audio book publishers that won't allow their audio books to be copied to CD. Audio book publishers can easily disable the ability to burn the files to CD.

To be sure that your audio book publishers allows this, do check it out before going ahead to buy.

It will not be beneficial for you to buy it with the primary purpose of burning it to CD to listen with your CD player, only to find that you can't burn it to CD.

Also, when it comes to burning audio books to CD, you might certainly need more than one CD for an audio book. For example, an audio book of about 10 hours can take as many as 7 CDs.

That being said, below are the steps to take to burn (or copy) any downloadable audio book into CD:

NOTE that the below instructions are based on Windows Media Player Version 10. If you are using an older version, you can download the latest version from Microsoft's website. Here's the exact link =>http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/download

First, the computer you want to use to burn the audio book to CD must be equipped with a recordable CD drive and CD-burning software.

In other words, it is this CD-burning software that can burn the audio book to the CD. And it is the recordable CD drive that can be used for this purpose.

Second, play the audio book on Windows Media Player. Ensure that you choose "Full Mode" when doing this, not "Skin Mode".

Third, you will notice the "now playing" information displayed on the right-hand side of your Windows Media Player. If it isn't displayed, you should click the "Restore the Video and Visualization Pane" button to display it.

Fourth, you can now click the "Library" tab. You will notice the "Start Burn" button displayed.

Fifth, at this point, insert the blank CD into the recordable CD drive.

Sixth, click the "Start Burn" button. Your Windows Media Player will begin burning the audio book to the CD you have inserted.

Lastly, if the audio book is larger than the CD (most always are), Windows Media Player will prompt you that it requires a new CD. You can remove the one inside and insert another blank CD.

When the entire burning process is finished, it will display the status as "Complete".

***Visit OdioMall.com for over 5,000 Downloadable Audios.***

For the Affiliate Program please visit ===> odiozon.com

*Please feel free to copy, send, or distribute this article at anytime as long as the article is not changed, and the entire author resource box is included with the article as written.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lily_S.

Do not Forget Yourself When Caring for Someone with a Mood Disorder

When you care about someone suffering from a mood disorder, taking care of yourself can be a challenge. Mood disorders run the gamut from chronic and clinical depression to panic disorders and bi-polar disorder. In addition to the stress of caregiving, family members have the added burden of trying to avoid the "isolation factor" that is part and parcel of mental illness. It's easy to see how this happens. Caregivers often believe nobody knows how they feel, or that things will never be ok. When you do have a morsel of time, you may be too down, feeling unsocial, or even tired to do the things you enjoy. Sometimes your only option is socializing with the person affected by mental illness, which may not feel like much of a restful break.

Since mental illnesses can be both chronic and cyclical, it is important to be kind to yourself, as the caring family member. You need to take care of yourself whenever you can – and even when you think you can't. "Self Care" is a phrase widely used by personal coaches and refers to making your "self" a priority. This can be challenging for caregivers who frequently forget themselves as they care for the ill person. Caregivers especially, are prone to thinking of themselves as an afterthought, if at all. Neglecting yourself over time can result in adverse consequences for the caregiver, including burnout, shame, increased stress, and anger, in addition to isolation. Being proactive to stay well is important to avoiding these consequences – even if the ways you express self care are minimal, they add up to keep you healthy. Here are some ideas for taking time for your "self," to help you to keep on giving.

1. Relax your mind. For some people it might be listening to music, or meditation tapes, or even a book on tape (since reading may take more energy). You may want to purchase an MP3 player that allows you to manage the tapes easier than a traditional CD player. One of my favorite artists is Steve Halpern, who puts together some wonderfully relaxing music that I play from my computer or pop into the MP3 or CD player.

2. Relax your body. Massage, Reiki, facials, hot stone treatments -- the list is endless. Try something new or go with an old stand-by. While it may feel like an overwhelming task, the simple act of making and keeping the appointment that's just about you will be well worth the effort. If you just can't get away, simple breathing meditations can bring deep relaxation.

3. Seek out your (funniest) friends. Staying connected with your friends is an essential form of self care. Friends know and accept our story, and help keep us going. Even if it is an effort, stay in touch and make plans to get together. It's no secret how therapeutic laughing can be -- so pick your funniest friends!! Or take in a funny movie together even if you don't feel like laughing. It can be wonderfully contagious.

4. Take a break. "Respite" from your caregiving commitment can be invaluable. If money is not an extreme issue, try to get away even if only for a complete day and overnight retreat. There are wonderful places that cater to soulful restoration. Go alone or with a friend. But make a plan and stick by it. If you're like me, once I "get there" I'm so glad I did!

Mary Logan is a professional life coach specializing in support for the caregiver. Inspiring audios and her free: "Are you an effective caregiver?"

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Logan

Playing Your MP3 Player in Your Car-Using The Video iPod Car Kit

Listening to music is everybody's favorite past-time anymore - no matter where you go, people have headphones attached and are either listening to the cell phone or music. But what about when we are driving? Some of the more popular ways to listen to music in the automobile is through the car's FM/AM radio with a CD player. The cassette is pretty well on its way out, and with the new MP3 players - the CD is almost on its way out also, slowly being replaced by DVDs. But how does the MP3 player - say, the iPod - hook into the car for listening?

With most of the online reviews about MP3 players referring to iPods, it would be good to look at the Neo iON, the nano iPod and Apple iPod car adapters, which provide a direct connection to the car stereos - both factory and aftermarket. The Neo iON is considered the best iPod car adapter kit that is available to the public because when it is connected, the auto's stereo buttons will control the iPod - the iPod batter will charge - and the sound will play from the auto's stereo speakers. Pretty simple. They can be purchased at Mp3YourCar.com for about $100, depending on the car, the make, the iPod, etc. which is filled out online.

This kit is compatible with the Apple iPod 3rd and 4th generation, iPod Photo, iPod Mini, and the nano iPod MP3 players. The kit is supposed to work with all vehicles - OR - most vehicles as it plugs directly into the CD changer port. The requirement for the car is to have a CD player in it, for the Video iPod car kit to attach its 11.5" cable directly into the iPod or nano. The cable's other end will plug into the CD changer port on the back of the car stereo, with no FM modulation. The BMW offers a similar car kit, for about $149 plus $150 installation, at their local dealership. This can be found at their website.

There are a few other options for playing your MP3 player in your car. First, if the car is old enough to still have a cassette player, then we have the best option right there. In almost every retail store that sells electronics goods, there will be a cassette adapter. The adapter plugs into the player and a mock cassette goes into the player, giving a great sound and music selection received from the digital audio player.

Next, a person could go with an FM transmitter that wirelessly plays the MP3 player through a local FM station. There are a few very important things to remember when considering an FM transmitter. Most FM transmitters transmit the signal through a few specific frequencies. The less expensive ones deal exclusively with the 88 to 89 frequencies. If there is a major station in a local area on one of these frequencies, another transmitter should be considered as the signal will no doubt have interference. Other transmitters offer the freedom to choose what frequency is the clearest. Another option would be to go the route of having a factory radio adapter installed, using the audio to its fullest extent. These adaptors tend to be much more expensive and could require some installation that may need to be done professionally. They can be found at most of the major electronics retail outlets, but they may need to be ordered online, where they are more readily available.

Check out http://www.mp3playertop.com/ for more articles on philips mp3 player and apple ipod accessories.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Singh

Stereo Systems

Stereo systems are electronic devices designed to reproduce high quality sound on speakers. Stereo systems can be as small as a personal CD player, or as large as a night club system. Nowadays, using a stereo system is the latest to amplify your taste in music quality, as well as jazz up the aura of your domicile. However, before deciding to buy a stereo, it is recommended that you give consideration to the specific things that you want.

Stereo systems offer an all-in-one music package composed of stereo speakers, CD player, equalizer, amplifier and a receiver. Picking out the type of system you desire depends solely on your preference and on the type of room where it will be stationed.

Generally, there are three aspects you need to consider when shopping for stereo systems: the sound capturing quality, appearance and affordability. The size and appearance of the stereo is important, because its appearance can greatly affect overall sound quality. Affordability is another factor that you should take into account. Most quality systems are expensive, so you need to take the time to make sure that you are buying the right system to fully enjoy the money you risked.

Furthermore, reading reviews posted in audio magazines and on the Internet will be very helpful in choosing the best stereo systems. You can compare the prices of the stereos available. You can also go to a consumer electronics warehouse, if you are looking for a bargain. However, if you need a high-end stereo then you should visit any specialty audio shops.

Stereos provides detailed information on Stereos, Car Stereos, Stereo Speakers, Stereo Systems and more. Stereos is affiliated with Digital Video Recorders. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Marlborough

Planning a Car Audio System Installation

With such a wide range of components and gadget on the market for car audio systems, the big question is "Where do I start?"

First you must decide what exactly you wish to do. If you are wanting to build a car audio system for a daily driver (the car you drive back and forth to work) with good sounds, but you are not interested in competing, a system can easily be put together for under $1000. However, if you are looking for the all-out bass monster, be prepared to drop in some big bucks into your system.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when building a car audio system is planning. Get an idea of where you are going to place components, subwoofers, amplifiers, and power distribution. A lot of headache can be avoided with the proper planning!!

For the basic system, lets look at some of the components needed.

Let's first start with the head unit (CD player). Obviously you are going to want a nice head unit. If you start with a good quality cd player, and choose to upgrade your sound system in the future, purchase a head unit that will grow with you. Some of the features you may want to keep in mind are:

1. CD changer controls

2. XM / Sirius controls (if you decide to add Satellite radio in the future)

3. Dual RCA outputs (carries signal to the amplifiers)

4. Pause button (important for competing)

5. Detachable face, or other security devices

6. High voltage line driver - this will send the sound signal at a higher voltage to your amplifier/s reducing noise and improving overall sound quality.

After you have chosen your head unit, you will want to make a decision on amplifiers and subwoofers. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for. A $30 subwoofer will be as big as a $300 subwoofer, but the capacities of each will differ greatly. Look at the power handling of each subwoofer and decide accordingly. You will want subwoofers will work with your amplifier/s (see compatibility).

You must also keep in mind the available space in your vehicle. Are you willing to give up your entire cargo area? How many subwoofers will fit? Decide on the size. Sizes will vary from 8" up to 18", some are square (Kicker), but most are round. Also keep in mind the resistance (ohms) of the subwoofer and make sure they are compatible with your amplifier/s (see compatibility). The subwoofer decision will also have an effect on the enclosure you decide to build or buy. For the basic system, I would recommend purchasing a pre-fabricated subwoofer enclosure. This will save you a bit of money and headache (especially if you end up building it two or three times!!). Make sure you take accurate measurement of your cargo area before building or buying an enclosure!!

Other components may be needed depending on the type of system you are building and how elaborate you want your sound to be. For the competition vehicle, figure on upgrading your alternator, adding a battery to your system (maybe more), running high quality RCA cables, power cables, ground cables, and speaker cable. You may need to add a capacitor to provide your amplifier with a reservoir of power for bigger hits from the subs. You may need an electronic crossover, an equalizer, replacement factory speakers, an amplifier for your mid-range and tweeters, additional speakers within your vehicle for staging, etc.

For the next step, visit us online at www.maximumspl.com Warning: This is an addictive hobby!!

I have been involved in the car audio arena for several years, and have competed locally in the Kansas City are with USACi. You may find me online at http://www.maximumspl.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Will_Reece

Car CD Player -- What To Look For

Car audio cd players are on the rock. To get the best in the world of music and sound, you need to have a cd player. There are many manufacturers of car audio cd players. They are . . .

• Kenwood

• Pioneer

• Goodmans

• Sony

• Boss

Most decent CD players have a detachable faceplate. I will not recommend buying one that does not have this (They are usually the lowest models offered by any company). The last major item to consider is whether the unit will fit in your dash.

Look for a control layout that you are comfortable with. Generally a simple layout is better for finding buttons quickly. A crowded and busy display looks great in the showroom but can be confusing and dangerous when driving at highway speeds. Beyond these basics, you need only worry about which features you wish to have to in your cd player.

Since the head unit is the most noticeable part of your system, most CD player manufacturers have designed several ways for you to express yourself in the dash. Many receivers or players feature motorized and fully detachable drop-down front panels. They also come with wireless remote controls, front and rear RCA outputs and a dedicated sub woofer output as well.

Features that are usual in a CD player . . .

1. ISO DIN mounting.

2. Multicolor vacuum fluorescent display

3. Fully detachable front panel motorized, slide-down, for easy access.

4. PLL synthesized tuner

5. Station presets

6. Illuminated control buttons

7. Quartz digital clock for you

8. CD changer controls

9. CD Mute and track repeat

10. CD-R and CD-RW compatibility

11. Subwoofer output

12. Anti-skip mechanism

13. Balance and fader controls

14. Dual RCA outputs with loudness control

There are more. You can look around if you need other features. Car audio product manufacturers are going overboard these days. Who knows, you may even find one that allows you to read your emails.

Chimezirim Odimba writes for CarAudioPlus.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chimezirim_Chinecherem_Odimba