Review of the IRiver Clix

There are a few things that can be called perfect, but the iRiver Clix comes close to being called the perfect media player. Capable of running all sorts of media, and many more formats than most other players, the iRiver Clix is also priced very competitively. More than just an ordinary audio player, the tiny iRiver Clix serves in many other roles including an alarm clock and video player. Designed to look like a mini-TV, the iRiver Clix is all screen (which seems to be in love with fingerprints by the way), and looks much better than any other player today, yes, even the iPod.

The iRiver Clix offers SRS Wow sound effects, which is a first for a player this small. The iRiver Clix supports OGG files and subscription content in addition to the normal formats. Closely integrated with the Microsoft Windows Media Player 11 and MTV Urge, the iRiver Clix is hanging with all the right people to present the perfect combination of software, hardware, and service. However, other than just audio, the iRiver Clix can also be used as video player or for text viewing.

The tiny iRiver Clix measures 2.7 by 1.8 by 0.6 inches, and offer 2.2 inches of display space with 320x240 pixel resolution. The iRiver Clix offers a refreshing method of navigate. Although there are buttons lining the sides of the player, the navigation is performed by pressing the four sides of the display screen. Easy to operate, and actually quite logical, this is a new and enjoyable way of navigation. The only downside is that one handed operation results in smudges across the screen unless you're very careful.

The best part about the iRiver Clix is the way it is integrated with both WMP 11 and MTV Urge. Not only can you just select the songs from a limitless library and listen to a preview, you can also buy it instantly by just clicking the Buy Now option. Syncing with the WMP and Urge is great and easy, and a bar on the side lets you know how much space is still available. Unfortunately, the iRiver Clix offers only 2GB of space, which is pretty good for a player this size, but limits how much you can store in it.

Optionally, you can also get the cradle for $69.99 and the iRiver Clix accessory kit for another $29.99. Even with all these costs added, the iRiver Clix is pretty affordable as you can get it for under $150 at many stores. The cradle allows you to set the iRiver Clix in a cool and useful plastic holder that makes it look like a little TV. The kit includes a plastic case, an armband, a screen cloth, and stick on film to protect the LCD screen. The screen cloth and and the stick on film are especially useful given the all-screen design of the iRiver Clix.

All in all, the iRiver Clix is full of features and an excellent buy. It costs the same as a 2GB iPod, but is loaded with extras, looks much better, and is overall a much better choice than anything in the similar price range.