XM Canada’s XMp3 Player – The Dad Test
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After reviewing hundreds of gadgets over the past few years, I’m pretty sure that I can figure out how most of them work. For me, the true test is when I pass a tech toy off to my Dad to see how it works for him.
XM Canada recently sent 25 Canadian bloggers their new XMp3 player (built by Pioneer) to test out. While I initially got the device working at my home in Toronto, I brought it down to Florida this past week to send it on a journey with my father. (FYI – my brother Jeff also reviewed this gadget on a recent episode of commandN).
THE PROS
- The 100+ channels offer up good variety for all listeners, whether you like Elvis or sports programming or public radio
- The device is quite small, so it fits well in the palm of your hand (only 3.1 ounces)
- One-touch record option is very handy (I recorded hours of Elvis tunes for my folks)
- Setting up the radio service (which costs approx. $160/year) is a cinch
THE CONS
- Reception is not always solid when you’re on the go (back home in Toronto, it became pretty apparent that you don’t want to do a lot of walking with the player – unless you’re listening to recorded radio)
- Device needs a hold button, so that you don’t hit the stubby controls (my Dad took the gadget, with some recorded music, for a walk, but putting it in a pocket is a recipe for disaster)
- Software is Windows-only (our family is full of Mac-only users, so this was one downside)
The way the XMp3 player is working best is when it’s sitting in its home adaptor (kit is $69.99) and acting as a home radio. But unlike your average home radio, you can bring this gadget anywhere you go (in the car, to the cottage, on business travel, etc.).
For Canadians who want to buy one of these devices, XM is offering a FREE 2GB SD Card and a $50 service credit (until January 31st, 2009). If you love satellite radio (and can afford the “start-up” costs), I’d definitely recommend the XMp3 Player.
