Cowon Iaudio X5L

Advantages: Amazing sound, good codec support, small in size
Disadvantages: Lack of included accessories

...'s swings and roundabouts. Besides, if you lose it or it breaks, you can get a replacement for cheap. The battery life is excellent on the L models and I can get about 20-25 hours out of a single charge, which is fine with me (supposedly 35 hours in with the right settings!!!). Also, until recently, the X5 didn't support DRM in any form, but Cowon have released a firmware upgrade that's compatible with Windows Media DRM and it's likely they'll add more soon. My only real bugbears are: 1) Very few accessories included - no case (essential if you want to keep it safe from scratches and low impact knocks), no dock and no remote. All are available, but at hefty additional costs. 2) The buttons on the side don't feel like they could withstand a year or two of heavy use and the protruding joystick (whilst tough) could easily fall foul of various... Read review

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Advantages: Outstanding value for money and extremely slick design
Disadvantages: FM radio is not very clear

...When i decided to buy an mp3 player I immediately looked at the ipod and read many reviews about it complaining of things such as a short battery life and the cost. I searched the internet looking for a cheaper, better alternative to the ipod. I respect apple for capturing the market so completely but found with a little time looking that there are far better, cheaper options out there, and the Cowon iaudio M3 is one of them. The initial thing that drew me to this mp3 player is the sleek style and the fact that it has a remote with screen which the ipod does not have, so to change tracks you don't need to take the player out of your pocket. The battery life was also quoted as almost double that of the ipod and although I'm not sure it lasts the 13-14hours quoted it certainly has never let me down. The stylish dock makes it very... Read review

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Advantages: Ipod Killer, Looks Stunning, Light, Accessories
Disadvantages: Price, Some people may not like remote

...protectors. How often have you wanted to protect your screen but the manufacturer can’t be bothered to supply that tiny bit of sticky plastic? Well thankfully Cowon have and they’ve even given you a backup in case one comes off/gets dirty etc. It’s these little things that make it so great 5) You even get spare plugs for the connector at the bottom of the unit. I will admit this was a bit annoying as I’ve never been a fan of these. What if I lose the rubber plug? Well doesn’t matter anyway, I’m safe and even if I do lose it I’ve got a backup. Again it’s the little things 6) The USB cable is about 1-1.5 metres in length and is nice and shiny. What more can I say? It does its job lol! *****CONTROL***** The inline remote control that was supplied with the unit is quite good actually. People have complained it’s a bit plasticy. No it’s not... Read review

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