The Sansa Clip MP3 Player: An Affordable Alternative

Years after watching others nonchalantly thumb a dial on a music-making gadget no bigger than a deck of cards (while I clumsily fished through CDs in a Ziploc bag, my carry-all of choice), I decided to join the MP3bandwagon. As I mulled over the options, I wondered if choosing a cheaper player - one without an "i" in front of its name - would mean sacrificing quality.Two months into the commitment, it hasn't.

Years after watching others nonchalantly thumb a dial on a music-making gadget no bigger than a deck of cards (while I clumsily fished through CDs in a Ziploc bag, my carry-all of choice), I decided to join the MP3 bandwagon. As I mulled over the options, I wondered if choosing a cheaper player - one without an "i" in front of its name - would mean sacrificing quality. Two months into the commitment, it hasn't.

The Sandisk Sansa Clip 2GB MP3 player has become a savior of sorts. It is the elixir for an uninspired workout or turbulent plane ride - that is, a way to divert one's mind from the present situation to a more soothing soundtrack. Online research revealed that the Sansa Clip was a sound alternative to its more well-known competitor, the iPod Shuffle. I've used Sandisk products to upload photos from my digital camera, so I figured the company would be a reliable brand. I was able to purchase the Sansa Clip on sale at Target for just over $40, while the Shuffle typically runs in the $70-80 range. While some MP3 aficionados have noted that the iPod may provide a slightly better sound quality, others have indicated that Sansa has made great strides recently in improving the quality of its product. Besides, my ears certainly aren't concerned with maximum bass when I'm struggling through a workout or gripping the armrests in a rocking 737.

The product itself is very compact, if not as slim as the Shuffle. The Clip has proven durable for jogging and other workouts. It is very easy to use - simply install the Rhapsody software to your computer, add your songs, and transfer them to the Clip. So far, I have had no problems uploading my music. The interface is simple and to the point. Choose from songs and artists, or select a random mix. Sorry, no videos on the Sansa Clip.

2 GB is plenty of storage for my needs, and there is a 1GB model, as well as some more expensive "higher end" options with added space. The FM tuner works adequately. The ear bud-type headphones included with the player are not my preference, but that is an easy fix. The Clip advertises 15 hours of playing time before needing to be recharged via your computer's USB port. All in all, this is a good little MP3 player for those seeking a more economical alternative to the iPod variety.