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Product guides and documents

User Manual (PDF)

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Product information

Package Dimensions

6 x 5.6 x 2.3 inches

Item Weight

12 ounces

Manufacturer

iRiver

ASIN

B000063574

Item model number

imp-350

Batteries

2 AA batteries required. (included)

Customer Reviews

3.4 223 ratings

3.4 out of 5 stars

Is Discontinued By Manufacturer

Yes

Date First Available

October 17, 2005

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Product Description

The slimmest in the world! The iRiver Slim Design MP3/CD Player 350 has a 16.7mm profile that makes it easier and more fun to carry around. This technologically superior Player is loaded with features. 100% "Future-Proof" upgradeable firmware responds to emerging standards and enhancements. Supports ID3 tags and audio CD text, title display. Adjustable equalizer.

Amazon.com

With its beautiful sound quality, royal good looks, and simple operation, the iRiver SlimX portable MP3-CD player sets a new standard for future portable units to follow.

The SlimX is one of the most adaptable players we've encountered. It rolls upgradable firmware, eight-minute antishock protection, ASF (Advanced Streaming Format) and WMA (Windows Media Audio) compatibility, ID3 tag support, and the ability to play standard audio CDs, MP3-encoded discs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs into an ultratrim (0.6 inches thick) player. And the sound is deluxe, delivering crisp highs, discernible mids, and bass thick enough to make low-end aficionados nod their heads in approval.

Since we had yet to fully investigate WMA, we felt compelled to dig into the format. At first we were hesitant: how could WMA compress music files to half their size--at, say, 64 Kbps--and still sound good? After dumping an entire, 100-song playlist onto a single CD-R, however, we were humbled. The procedure was painless, and the sound was incredible. The iRiver SlimX completely fulfilled our demands; using the gorgeous inline remote, we easily skipped ahead 10 tracks at a time, used fast-scan to hear a particular verse, and made a customized playlist on the fly.

In fact, the remote lets you operate every function (save changing a disc) without having to dig the unit out of your backpack or its carrying case (included, but frail), and it also includes a hold switch that prevents accidental playback.

After the WMA-disc success, we switched over to an MP3 compilation made by a friend. While reading the different ID3 tags (MP3 file markers that feed song, artist, and album names to your player), we first played the songs whose titles intrigued us most, like "Nannari to Naru Deshou" by the excellent Japanese female duo Puffy. That's why ID3 tags are so cool--they allow you to search by name, not track number.

Next, we took the SlimX out on a long walk to judge its portability. Unless we made silly, Pete Townshend-style windmill movements, each disc played satisfactorily. We noticed that standard audio CDs popped more than anything we burned off the Web, which was strange. We also sampled the five equalizer presets, although we noticed only subtle differences in sound at low volumes.

While listening to any Web-audio disc, the SlimX fills up its antiskip buffer with the eight minutes of music. Essentially, this means the player doesn't have to read the disc as much, which results in prolonged battery life, and ultimately the SlimX delivered on its promise of up to 23 hours playing time. To get these results for yourself, just make sure the two flat NiMH batteries are fully charged, and pop an extra pair of AAs into the external battery pod. It's that easy.

For those new to ASF, MP3, and WMA formats, you may be disappointed by the SlimX's user's manual, which is skimpy at best. Our Guide to Making MP3 Files will familiarize you with the basics and help you turn your computer into a virtual jukebox.

For those of you who are considering upgrading to the iRiver SlimX--or are looking to pick up your first player--we highly recommend this player. In fact, we miss our test player so much, we're going to buy one of our own. --Arno Kazarian

Pros:

Upgradable firmware
Compatibility with MP3, WMA, ASF, standard audio CDs, and CD-R/RWs
Supports ID3 tags for easy search of MP3 files
Nearly skip-free performance Cons:
- Relatively useless user's manual
- Shallow-sounding earbud headphones
- Frivolous carrying case

Customer reviews

3.4 out of 5

223 global ratings

How customer reviews and ratings work

Customers say

Customers like the quality, sound quality, ease of use, appearance and weight of the audio cd player. For example, they mention that it's versatile, powerful, has all the features you need and that the sound quality is incredible. They appreciate the graphical UI and the acceptable display.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

47 customers mention35 positive12 negative

Customers like the quality of the audio cd player. They say it's versatile, powerful, and feature-rich. They also say it has all the features they need and adds new ones. Customers also mention that the remote is gorgeous and informative. They appreciate the sound quality, the ear plugs are high quality, and the sturdy construction.

"...PRO:Great features on easy to use remoteLooks sharpPlays all bit rate mp3s I put in there (8-196 and VBR), and wma..." Read more

"...Now to the little remote. It's very light plastic but very sturdy-unless you step on it, but don't try that...." Read more

"...Now I don't need to transfer files.It plays all the mp3 discs I burned and even some asf format files, not to mention the conventional CDs...." Read more

"...It is made of metal and feels very durable. Though I have not tested it yet I think it could survive quite a few ordinary falls...." Read more

23 customers mention20 positive3 negative

Customers like the sound quality of the audio cd player. They mention that the sound is incredible, high fidelity at any volume, and has distinctive bass and clear highs that don't drown out the music.

"...The volume goes quite high on the cd player and i almost never play it at full volume -which is great for those of us who travel on loud trains and..." Read more

"...Although the provided earbuds are pretty hopeless, the audio quality is superb when you use it with a decent set of headphones or hook it into a..." Read more

"...It is stylish looking and very durable. The sound quality is incredible, especially from such a slim device...." Read more

"...the formats supported (including DirectCD), and the sound quality make it a good buy, if you treat it carefully...." Read more

22 customers mention18 positive4 negative

Customers find the audio cd player easy to use. They say the controls are easy and intuitive, with well done user interface. They also say the remote is easy to read and the manual is helpful.

"...PRO:Great features on easy to use remoteLooks sharpPlays all bit rate mp3s I put in there (8-196 and VBR), and wma..." Read more

"...The manual is very helpful to help figure out how to use the remote...." Read more

"...but once you get the hang of it, it's not only simple, but someone did a little thinking and made the most commonly used..." Read more

"...because they are hard to find and expensive to buy ...Upgrading firmware is easy if you know how to burn CDs...." Read more

18 customers mention18 positive0 negative

Customers find the appearance of the audio cd player outstanding, slim, and light. They also appreciate the nice graphical UI and the visualizatoins. Customers also mention that the remote is gorgeous and informative. They say the case is cute and a nice velvet bag.

"...PRO:Great features on easy to use remoteLooks sharpPlays all bit rate mp3s I put in there (8-196 and VBR), and wma..." Read more

"...It displays just about everything! You can program your name into it and it shows whenever the CD player is on. The LCD lights up blue...." Read more

"...and though the print size on the unit is very small, it is quite clear and readable...." Read more

"...more or less worthless as a CD player case, though it is still a nice velvet bag (like you get with a Crown Royal bottle)...." Read more

18 customers mention18 positive0 negative

Customers are satisfied with the weight of the audio cd player. They mention that it is really slim and light. Some say that it's the thinnest mp3cd Player around. They also say that the plastic is very light but sturdy. Overall, most are happy with the practicality and portability of the product.

"...First let me list all the features that I find useful. The player itself is very slim-that's because the AA batteries are externally plugged in..." Read more

"If you're looking for a lightweight, portable CD player that really knows how to play MP3 files, this is it...." Read more

"...I recently bought Creative Lab's Normad IIc because it is light and small and use internal memory so it won't skip, which is ideal for jogging...." Read more

"...The lcd screen is small, though well lit, and you can adjust the font size...." Read more

14 customers mention14 positive0 negative

Customers like the remote control of the audio cd player. They say it's a cool little device with tons of functions. They also say it has a backlight and is intuitive and easy to read. Customers also mention that the remote is full of features and the upgradeable firmware offers more advanced remote options.

"...The CD console feels solid and compact. The remote control is a cool little device and have a tons of functions...." Read more

"...3. Excellent remote (as long as you don't loose it although many regular operations may be done via the main body controls)4...." Read more

"...It even includes FM radio.The remote is an invaluable asset. It may sound frivolous, but you'll come to depend on its convenience...." Read more

"...The sound quality is great, and the remote control is a great feature...." Read more

12 customers mention12 positive0 negative

Customers like the FM radio. They mention that it is a definite plus, and that it comes with a great FM radio tuner in the remote. They also say that the product is feature-rich and is very handy for audio books.

"...I can fit about 120 songs on 1 cd-depends on song length. It has an FM/AM radio, and you can preset your own stations (i think up to 20)...." Read more

"This CD Player is a great way for MP3 (and WMA) fans to carry around a decent amount of tunes without plunking down $...+ for a jukebox style player...." Read more

"...2. Pretty versatile player...several formats, radio, decent skip protection (but not as good as advertised), etc.3...." Read more

"...The SlimX also comes with a great FM radio tuner in the remote. Ahhhh.... the remote. What a great piece of engineering...." Read more

15 customers mention10 positive5 negative

Customers are mixed about the battery life of the audio cd player. Some mention that it has fantastic battery life with supplemental battery pack, while others say that the batteries get exhausted in about 3 hours.

"...Fantastic battery life with supplemental battery pack (included)!CON:..." Read more

"...NOPE, not at all it just keeps on doing what it does best. The battery life is great especially if you listen to MP3 cd's and when you run dead you..." Read more

"...The battery life I think is overstated, I expect about 5-8 hours per charge on the included batteries alone, and roughly double that with two AA..." Read more

"...Battery life is acceptable for me - it does take hours to recharge, but I do it overnight and it's not been a problem...." Read more

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Top reviews from the United States

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Troy Edwards

Buffer doesn't work well over time. Awful for audiobooks

Reviewed in the United States on May 20, 2003

Verified Purchase

I loved this player when I first picked it up. But it doesn't seem to stand the test of time.
I drive truck, so I wanted something that could hold a lot of data (at least 8 hours worth), so a flash player wouldn't cut it (unless at an unacceptable 16kbps). I decided to pick up this player based on it's reviews and 8 min buffer. I figured, just start it playing before I start up the truck.
No good. Well at least, not for long. It started to freeze after a couple of months.
example:
Mary had a litt (pause 90 sec) lamb whose (pause 45 sec/skip) white as...
I'm only guessing that's a buffer issue, but either way, it's unacceptable. Player plays fine otherwise, but has done this once while not moving.
PRO:
Great features on easy to use remote
Looks sharp
Plays all bit rate mp3s I put in there (8-196 and VBR), and wma
Fantastic battery life with supplemental battery pack (included)!
CON:
Doesn't keep it's place with very long files (audio books), and bookmarking is a pain in the tucas.
Buffer fails with vibration of truck (maybe not an issue in a regular vehicle)
Would not consider this for biking or running (If that's what you are looking for, it is a given you need a flash player)
As to be expected, the included earbuds are sub par. I use the Sony Earbud Headphones (MDR-EX70LP). I can wear those for about four hours a day and not get sore ears

5 people found this helpful

Helpful

DejaLiyah

My most prized possession!

Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2003

Verified Purchase

Bought this player a couple of months ago. Decided to test it before I write a review. First let me list all the features that I find useful. The player itself is very slim-that's because the AA batteries are externally plugged in (not shown in picture). It plays Audio and MP3 cds-even rewritables. I can fit about 120 songs on 1 cd-depends on song length. It has an FM/AM radio, and you can preset your own stations (i think up to 20). Inside the cd player there comes a pack of 2 batteries (which are flat - specially made for the cd player), that are rechargable with the AC Adapter. If you like you can attach a little tube containing 2 AA batteries (AA batteries not included)and this is for much longer use and is recommended. With the 4 batteries it lasts about 23 hours or so before the batteries die out. Then you have to change the AA batteries and recharge the other 2 in the cd player. If it sounds complicated-it's really NOT. Battery life is displayed on the little remote. Along with all this comes a cute black little carrying case in which you can carry the whole thing (which i use all the time).
Now to the little remote. It's very light plastic but very sturdy-unless you step on it, but don't try that. It has a little clip so you can clip it to your shirt or pants. It reads ID tags on your mp3's and play lists as well. You may have several folders of songs on the cd and choose what to play. Both the cd player and the little remote have a HOLD button (very useful). It displays just about everything! You can program your name into it and it shows whenever the CD player is on. The LCD lights up blue. All song names scroll (you can select speed or disable the scrolling). You can program the type of music it is, for different bass sound. The volume goes quite high on the cd player and i almost never play it at full volume -which is great for those of us who travel on loud trains and all you hear is the train moving and train annoucements while you're listening to music. Here's a great feature I never seen before: When you play a CD (Audio or MP3-doesn't matter) and if you change CD's for no matter how long, even after battery has been changed or recharged...when you put that CD back into the player-it resumes the song you last played. Of course it has shuffle and all those features, as well as just playing the first 10 seconds of each track. The manual is very helpful to help figure out how to use the remote.
BATTERY: It is recommended that you "discharge and charge" the battery inside the cd player once a month - it's supposed to make the batteries last. I do that process whenever batteries die. This takes about 6 hours (i do it overnight). Here's the most important thing. This cd player (in about 3 months since I bought it) has NOT ONCE skipped. I don't jog with it, but I've connected it into the car and drove over many pot holes and it never once skipped. Also I carry very scratched up CDs with me and it reads them perfectly.
I'm very happy that i do not have to list any flaws, because there aren't any. It's a great product and well worth the money-which is inexpensive too.

16 people found this helpful

Helpful

Patrick Shepherd

Durable, Versatile, and Human Engineered

Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2002

Verified Purchase

If you're looking for a lightweight, portable CD player that really knows how to play MP3 files, this is it. This is the only one that I've found (and I've tried several) that can handle the combination of MP3s and CD-RW media without hiccuping. As I'd already converted most of my music collection to MP3, and really wanted to able to hear it in my car without changing discs every 10 songs or so, this one filled the bill.
Although the provided earbuds are pretty hopeless, the audio quality is superb when you use it with a decent set of headphones or hook it into a good stereo system, whether listening to classical or heavy metal, with distinctive bass and clear highs that don't drown out the middle frequencies. The audio equalizer does provide a fairly wide range of presets appropriate for widely varying types of music.
The in-line remote control takes a little bit of getting used to (and the manual is not a great help in figuring out how to get to all the various menus), but once you get the hang of it, it's not only simple, but someone did a little thinking and made the most commonly used commands of Pause, Stop, Forward/Backward one track, Forward/Back 10 tracks, and Repeat Mode all available via no-sight touch control, great when I'm in the car and can't take my eyes off the road. Full navigation by directory or by search of MP3 ID is also very useful on a CD with 200 tracks, and though the print size on the unit is very small, it is quite clear and readable.
Battery consumption, however, does not live up to its advertised value of 23 hours. I find that using both the built in rechargeables and my own external rechargeable AAs I get about 8-10 hours of playing time in-between recharges. This is not really a problem, as this amount of time is more than adequate, but indicates the marketing department got a little carried away (or the engineering department didn't test it under real world conditions).
The unit itself is very rugged. I've inadvertently dropped it several times - it not only has merrily kept on playing (without skipping), it didn't even show any dents. The only operational glitch I've observed is that it sometimes can't recognize a CD_RW disc (whether burned as an audio or MP3 disc) if the disc is cold (say at about 50 degrees).
Although a little on the expensive side versus other players, this unit definitely delivers value for the price.

28 people found this helpful

Helpful