How to Choose a CD Player
CD players are the hardest-working piece of equipment in most home music systems. When you're out shopping, look for the features you use most. Very good machines can be found for well under $300.
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Instructions
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Think about how you listen to music. Do you routinely drop in several CDs and hit Shuffle, or listen to one at a time? Do you burn your own CDs? Your habits should drive your choice.
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Check the CD connection on your current stereo. If it accepts digital optical inputs (which provide better sound quality than normal wire jacks), find a CD player with digital optical output.
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Bring some home-burned CDs when you go shopping to play on any unit you're considering. Some CD players can't play CD-RWs, and many can't play MP3s.
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Consider a CD jukebox or a carousel that holds dozens (or hundreds) of discs if you have lots of CDs and rarely take them out of the house. A cataloging feature uses disc and track names encoded on newer CDs to help you find songs.
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Serious listeners can look at high-definition compatible digital (HDCD), DVD-Audio, or super-audio CD (SACD) players. These new (but incompatible) formats provide better sound quality. All will play traditional CDs, as well, but only HDCDs will play on a regular CD player.
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Tips & Warnings
Manufacturers use the terms shuffle and random differently. If a CD player has both features, find out what they mean.
Broken CD players can sometimes be repaired, but repairs can be expensive and often don't last.
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Comments
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Nov 22, 2005
Usually, the company that produces the portable CD player gives you headphones. My suggestion is to buy better quality headphones. I know from experience that the headphones the manufactures give you fall apart easily.
