A MP3 boombox is a portable stereo system that, among other functions, will play compact disks (CDs) recorded with MP3 audio files. The MP3 boombox has a built-in decoder for recognizing the popular digital file format. There are a wide variety of boomboxes available, but not all have high quality decoders. A poor MP3 decoder might not recognize all MP3 CDs. Other factors can also impact MP3 recognition on the MP3 boombox, including the media used.
If the MP3 boombox comes with an instruction manual, it might recommend specific brand name media for burning MP3 CDs. Less expensive models might exclude rewritable CDs. This is due to different types of CDs having proprietary formatting schemes. If the decoder is not written to recognize all schemes, some media might not be recognized.
Aside from MP3 CDs, the MP3 boombox will also play standard CDs and might include a cassette player and AM/FM tuner. Standard features commonly include random play, repeat, and some form of enhanced bass. For a little more money, one can get advanced features such as an equalizer; deeper, richer bass; programmable ability; and remote control. A programmable MP3 boombox will allow you to create a custom play list. This feature is especially nice if the MP3 boombox comes with a CD carousel, or the ability to load more than a single CD at once.
If the most important factor is sound, be sure to listen to the MP3 boombox before purchasing. Prices range from less than 30 US dollars (USD) to 200 USD and more. Some models have detachable speakers for creating a better stereo effect. While more money doesn’t necessarily equal better quality, the least expensive models won’t likely please the discriminating listener. In some cases, the old adage you get what you pay for is true, and investing a little more cash can result in better sound.
Many boomboxes can run on batteries or electricity. If using the MP3 boombox in the yard, on the beach, at a picnic, or on a boat, batteries can come in handy. However, you might find they don’t last longer than a few hours and electricity is less expensive when available. In either case, a MP3 boombox is a very handy way to keep your MP3 library available, portable, and ready for any occasion.