Intel Pocket Concert 128MB Digital Audio Player

Intel Pocket Concert 128MB Digital Audio Player

Product Description
Amazon.com Review
The Intel name may not immediately spark the interest of music aficionados, but with the introduction of its Pocket Concert portable MP3 player, that's sure to change. The Pocket Concert's 128 MB of memory doubles the capacity of most players without costing any more money. Combine that value with excellent sound quality and a well-designed, easy-to-use interface, and you've got a formidable contender.

We ran a simple setup program to install all of the Pocket Concert's drivers and software applications. The player connects to the PC's USB port for a fast transfer of files, and it is compatible with Windows 98, Windows ME, and Windows 2000. We appreciated the Intel Audio Manager's simple interface for transferring files to the player, as well as the powerful MusicMatch Jukebox Plus software that let us rip music from CDs and create playlists as well as transfer files.

With a sleek, rounded, polished-aluminum body, this lightweight player fit comfortably in our hand or fastened onto our belt or bag with the removable clip. The player's solid-state flash memory makes it completely impervious to shocks and jolts, so it's ideal for using while jogging or working out at the gym.

We had no trouble reading the large, backlit LCD, which shows song titles and playback options, including the status of the unit's two AA batteries. The scroll wheel on the side of the unit made it easy to select tracks and set bookmarks as well as control random and repeat modes, bass, and treble. Simply press the button on the other side of the unit to turn on the built-in FM radio, and then use the scroll wheel to tune to your favorite station or manage the 10 preset stations.

The unit's 128 MB of flash memory storage translates into two to four hours of music, depending on the compression ratio and file type. (The Concert supports both MP3 and the more highly compressed WMA files.) The unit's memory capacity isn't upgradable, but to anyone who's used 64 or 32 MB players, 128 MB will feel like decadent luxury.

The Pocket Concert plays its crystal-clear digital audio through a pair of "neckphone" headphones, which have a dark blue headband that clips over your ears and swings around the back of your head. Though they're considerably bulkier than the ear-bud style headphones found with most MP3 players, we were impressed by the full, rich sound and found the secure fit good for exercising.

Intel got practically everything right with the Pocket Concert Player. A large display and well-designed controls make it a pleasure to use, the neckphone headphones provide excellent sound, and the included software is easy-to-use and powerful. And, most important, they've broken the memory barrier, offering a 128 MB unit for the same price as comparable 64 MB units. --Ken Feinstein

Pros:

128 MB of memory translates to 2 hours of near-CD-quality audio

Easy-to-use design with clear display

Excellent sound quality

Cons:

No AC adapter included

Memory not expandable

Special Note: The optional Intel Pocket Concert Audio Accessory Kit comes with two rechargeable NiMH batteries and a docking station for recharging the batteries as well as for hooking the unit up to your stereo system. It also includes a carrying case and car cassette adapter.

Product Description:
Amp up your favorite music with the Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player. It combines Intel performance and intuitive software to deliver big, crystal-clear, totally skip-proof sound for listening at your PC, on your home stereo, in your car, and on the go. The Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player supports MP3, WMA and future audio standards. The Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player is engineered for your ears - and designed to fit right in your pocket.

Intel Pocket Concert 128MB Digital Audio Player

Average customer rating:

The first (real) mp3 player.

The good...the bad...and the Mp3 player

Really bummed!

Great product with a fatal flaw

So sad to see it go.

Intel Pocket Concert 128MB Digital Audio Player

Manufacturer: Intel
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

CD Players & Recorders | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | CD Players | CD Recorders | DJ CD Players | Portable CD Players
128 MB to 512 MB | Flash Drive-Based | MP3 Players | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics
Intel | Computers Brands | Computers Features | Electronics | Desktops | Notebooks | Other Intel Products
MP3 Players | Portable Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
Accessories:

Energizer NH12BP-2 AAA Nickel Rechargeable Battery (2-Pack)

Energizer CHM4FC Battery Charger High Energy

Koss KTX-Pro Portable Stereophone

Koss SportaPro Stereo Headphones

Monster Cable IP400-1.5M Interlink Portable 400 4.92-Foot MkII Balanced Stereo RCA to 1/8 Mini, Pair

Product Features:

128 MB of built-in memory--over 4 hours of music

Digital FM radio with 10 presets

Supports MP3 and WMA; upgradeable to support future digital standards

USB connection for fast transfer from your desktop PC

Compatible with Windows 98, 2000, and Me

ASIN: B000059ZYA

Product Description

Amp up your favorite music with the Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player. It combines Intel performance and intuitive software to deliver big, crystal-clear, totally skip-proof sound for listening at your PC, on your home stereo, in your car, and on the go. The Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player supports MP3, WMA and future audio standards. The Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player is engineered for your ears - and designed to fit right in your pocket.

Amazon.com Review

The Intel name may not immediately spark the interest of music aficionados, but with the introduction of its Pocket Concert portable MP3 player, that's sure to change. The Pocket Concert's 128 MB of memory doubles the capacity of most players without costing any more money. Combine that value with excellent sound quality and a well-designed, easy-to-use interface, and you've got a formidable contender.

Pros:

128 MB of memory translates to 2 hours of near-CD-quality audio
Easy-to-use design with clear display
Excellent sound quality

Cons:

No AC adapter included
Memory not expandable

Amazon.com Product Description

Amp up your favorite music with the Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player. This compact unit combines Intel performance and intuitive software to deliver big, crystal-clear, skip-proof MP3 playback. It includes 128 MB of built-in memory--for more than two hours of MP3 music encoded at 128 kbps or four hours of WMA audio--and a digital FM tuner with 10 station presets.

The Pocket Concert supports both MP3 and Windows Media Audio (WMA) out of the box, and is firmware-upgradeable to support future digital audio standards. Firmware is the program code within the player that instructs the microprocessor how to interact with the controls and the digital audio files. Upgrading the firmware makes it possible to add new music formats, security protection software, and other operating features that enhance the player.

The player features such functions as equalizer presets, bookmarking, and a large LCD screen that displays title, artist, and track-list information. Jump from track to track, or move forward or backward within a song.

The Pocket Concert comes with software for your desktop PC to help you create, organize, and enjoy your own digital audio library. The Intel Audio Manager quickly and easily transfers audio files from your PC to the Pocket Concert. The Intel Audio Sampler software offers a diverse collection of digital audio files that can be loaded onto your computer. The Plus Version of MusicMatch Jukebox is also included (with upgrade key number), enabling you to rip and encode your personal CD collection for use on the Pocket Concert, as well as to burn CDs with a CD-R drive.

The Pocket Concert is designed for use with alkaline or NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries. The use of other battery types is not recommended and may damage the player or cause risk of overheating. When the USB cable is attached to the computer and portable player, either directly or through the optional Audio Stereo Dock, the player will receive power through the USB connection. This power will operate the player but will not recharge the batteries.

The Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player also comes with a belt clip, neckphones, two AAA alkaline batteries, and a USB cable. With the optional Intel Audio Accessory Kit, you can use rechargeable NiMH batteries, which are charged via an Audio Stereo Dock cradle. The accessory kit includes a car cassette adapter and a carrying case.

Customer Reviews:

The first (real) mp3 player........2007-01-01

I bought this in 2001/2002 as a Christmas present for my wife. I included a pair of Sony MDR-EX70 earbuds which, I thought at the time, were some of the best sounding and rugged earbuds available.

My wife has used the Intel Pocket Concert since purchase--running, internet surfing, etc. and would not trade it for anything (even the new iPod). It is a great, solid-state, rugged player that has survived the worst to-date. I am sure it will continue to survive; the most we will ever have to do is replace the rechargeable batteries when they wear out (try THAT, iPod!). Oh--if we ever need to, we can go with standard (non-rechargable) batteries (again, try THAT, iPod).

This is a great little player that does exactly what it is supposed to: Play music well. That we still use it and enjoy it stands as a testament to Intel making a quality product. We love it and wish Intel still was "in the business" of making and supporting this fine device. My only regret is that I didn't buy two.

The good...the bad...and the Mp3 player.......2004-07-31

Let's first say that while I'm a music lover, I'm not an audiophile. I don't really care about sound quality and stuff like that. I just want to listen to music. My music.

The Good: It's this tiny Mp3 player, and it holds up to 4 hours of songs! (that's about how long my batteries lasted too)

The player is hard to scratch. I've bumped it and jogged it and dropped it, and it still looks a lot like new.

The controls are easy to learn, and relativly easy to use.

(just to note from the other reviews: I've had mine for 3+ years now, and haven't had any problems with the headphone jack. And it's been dropped, trust me.)

The Bad: The on-hold-off switch is a bit tricky at times. Sometimes I would have my player "off" and it would still be playing!

It only holds 128megs of memory. That's nickels and dimes compared to comparably priced Mp3 players that can hold 20-40 GIGABITES of memory. The difference? I think it's flash memory vs. hard drive. Something to do with skip protection.

Mine tended to get stuck with the backlight on - meaning my batteries would drain in 3-4 hours. Not too great. That's one of the reasons why I'm upgrading.

The other reason. THIS Mp3 PLAYER DOES NOT WORK WITH WINDOWS XP. I upgraded from ME to XP almost six months ago and every time I want to change songs I have to uninstall and reinstall the software, the drivers, and all the new upgrades from the internet. It's too much of a hassle. If you have XP, be warned. This Mp3 player does not work without this specific software.

Also, as was mentioned somewhere else, the jogging clip doesn't work the greatest. Mine usually ended up in a pocket. It's small enough.

The Mp3 player: It's a nice little Mp3 player for the money. I'd recommend it to new users, and people who like just a few songs and want to listen to them over a nd over.

It's getting 4 out of 5 stars for the Windows XP deal. Otherwise, it's wonderful.

Have fun with your new Mp3 player!

Really bummed!.......2003-06-28

I had this player for a couple of months (4) when the headphone jack went out on me. Intel gladly returned it. One year later, the exact same thing happened. Even tho the warranty had expired, I felt this was a major "flaw" and they should help me out. I called customer support and because they no longer make these, there is no support. I LOVED the thing while it worked...

Great product with a fatal flaw.......2003-04-19

In every regard but one this is the best player on the market. Sound quality and volume, product design, firmware and software are all excellent.

The flimsy earphone jack has broken on 2 units I have owned - rendering the player completely useless. The sealed case makes repair impossible.

So sad to see it go........2003-03-26

I had the Intel Pocket Concert for about a year, and I think that it has honestly spoiled me for any other player. The price really can't be beat for what you get. The sound quality is excellent - though the headphones it comes with are terrible. It's light enough for jogging, though the belt clip doesn't work well with shorts. FM reception is fine for any strong stations in your area. For me, the best part was how durable it was. I really didn't take very good care of it, and it held up to all kinds of abuse.

Finally, I dropped it out of my gym locker, and the headphone jack came loose (which seems to be a common issue). Although Intel has discontinued the product, they were quick to offer me a full refund (full refund!). If I hadn't already thrown away the recharging cradle, I would pick up another one in a heartbeat. I haven't yet seen a player that can match it on both features and price. My only serious gripe might be that the power switch has three settings, and it is very hard to switch from HOLD to ON without jumping straight to OFF.

Intel Pocket Concert 128MB Digital Audio Player & Accessory Kit
Average customer rating:

TERRIBLE!!!!

"Volume increase" button failed-- no support

Warranty= 12 months / Life expectancy= 14 months

Disappointing

Great Mp3 player

Intel Pocket Concert 128MB Digital Audio Player & Accessory Kit

Manufacturer: Intel
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

CD Players & Recorders | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | CD Players | CD Recorders | DJ CD Players | Portable CD Players
128 MB to 512 MB | Flash Drive-Based | MP3 Players | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics
Intel | Computers Brands | Computers Features | Electronics | Desktops | Notebooks | Other Intel Products
Home Audio & Video | Sunday Specials | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
MP3 Players | Portable Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
Intel | Brands | Electronics Features | Electronics
Accessories:

NETGEAR Wireless Digital Music Player

Targus PAUH212U 7 Port USB 2.0 Hub

Targus PAUH217U 4 Port Ultra Mini USB 2.0 Hub

Energizer NH12BP-2 AAA Nickel Rechargeable Battery (2-Pack)

Energizer CHM4FC Battery Charger High Energy

Product Features:

128 MB of built-in memory--over 4 hours of music

Includes Intel Audio Accessory Kit, with docking station, car cassette adapter, carrying case, and rechargeable batteries

Digital FM radio with 10 presets

Supports MP3 and WMA; upgradeable to support future digital standards

USB connectivity; compatible with Windows 98, 2000, and Me

ASIN: B000059ZYB

Product Description

Amazon.com Review

We ran a simple setup program to install all the Pocket Concert's drivers and software applications. The player connects to the PC's USB port for a fast transfer of files, and it is compatible with Windows 98, Windows ME, and Windows 2000. We appreciated the Intel Audio Manager's simple interface for transferring files to the player, as well as the powerful MusicMatch Jukebox Plus software that let us rip music from CDs and create playlists as well as transfer files.

With a sleek, rounded, polished-aluminum body, this lightweight player fit comfortably in our hand or fastened onto our belt or bag with the removable clip. The player's solid-state flash memory makes it impervious to shocks and jolts, so it's ideal for using while you're jogging or working out at the gym.

We had no trouble reading the large, backlit LCD, which shows song titles and playback options, including the status of the unit's two AA batteries. The scroll wheel on the side of the unit made it easy to select tracks and set bookmarks, as well as control random and repeat modes, bass, and treble. Simply press the button on the other side of the unit to turn on the built-in FM radio, and then use the scroll wheel to tune to your favorite station or manage the 10 preset stations.

The unit's 128 MB of flash memory storage translates into two to four hours of music, depending on the compression ratio and file type. (The Concert supports both MP3 and the more highly compressed WMA files.) The unit's memory capacity isn't upgradable, but to anyone who's used 64 MB or 32 MB players, 128 MB will feel like decadent luxury.

The Pocket Concert plays its crystal-clear digital audio through a pair of "neckphone" headphones, which have a dark blue headband that clips over your ears and swings around the back of your head. Though they're considerably bulkier than the earbud headphones found with most MP3 players, we were impressed by the full, rich sound and found the secure fit good for exercising.

(Note: This version of the Pocket Concert also includes the Intel Audio Accessory Kit, which features a docking station, car cassette adapter, carrying case, and rechargeable batteries.)

Intel got practically everything right with the Pocket Concert Player. A large display and well-designed controls make it a pleasure to use; the neckphone headphones provide excellent sound; and the included software is easy to use and powerful. Most important, they've broken the memory barrier, offering a 128 MB unit for the same price as comparable 64 MB units. --Ken Feinstein

Pros:

128 MB of memory translates to 2 hours of near-CD-quality audio
Easy-to-use design with clear display
Excellent sound quality

Cons:

No AC adapter included
Memory not expandable

Amazon.com Product Description

This bundle also includes Intel's Audio Accessory Kit, which can help increase the power and flexibility of the Pocket Concert. The stereo dock easily connects to your computer with the included USB cable. Additionally, you can connect the Pocket Concert via the stereo dock to a home stereo system (with the included set of RCA cables) or play music directly through powered speakers. You can also charge NiMH rechargeable batteries, which are included with the kit. The kit also includes a car cassette adapter and a neoprene carrying case.

In addition to the accessory kit, the Pocket Concert Audio Player comes with a belt clip, neckphones, and a USB cable.

Customer Reviews:

TERRIBLE!!!!.......2003-01-23

I bought this product a year and a half ago and so far have had to cash in on the warranty 3 times to get a replacement player. This was not after hard use- more like taking it to the gym 3 or 4 times. This product is a lemon- no wonder Intel is getting out of the business!

"Volume increase" button failed-- no support.......2002-11-08

As others have mentioned in their reviews of this product, the buttons fail; mine was the "volume increase" button. I contacted support and was immediately told this problem required replacement; Intel is well aware of the problem. However, when we determined I bought the unit 14 months ago (12 month warranty), I was refused support beyond instructions on how to take the unit apart and fix it myself. After experiencing their level of support, and reading others' comments in support of my experience, I strongly recommend against buying this item.

Warranty= 12 months / Life expectancy= 14 months.......2002-11-06

I bought this relatively expensive toy for my sons birthday, only to have it completely fail after fourteen months. Intel's support tells me "unfortunately we do not offer an extended warranty on this product. If you would like to try to fix it yourself...." Prior to this I was told there was no way to fix it and it would have to be replaced. I recommend against buying their product.

Disappointing.......2002-10-09

I have had it replaced under warranty, and now another button has broken. I am very careful -- have never dropped it, and yet it has issues. DO NOT buy it. I wish I had waited for the IPOD for windows. It is definately a superior product.

Great Mp3 player.......2002-07-17

The pocket concert is so cool it is so reliable and easy to use. It has a very nice menu setup so are able to find any song quickly. I fit about 30 songs on my pocket concert. The radio is not clear at all tough. It is great if your lookin for an mp3 player get this one.

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