PIONEER XMP3

To-Go Satellite Radio



Pioneer's XMp3 is the sequel to the Inno, XM Radio's laudable stab at integrating its satellite radio service into an MP3-player-size device. It was a terrific concept. and now Pioneer and XM have upped the ante with the XMp3, which is smaller, lighter, and features a microSD slot and new recording features. As its name suggests, the player also handles MP3s (and unprotected WM A files), but the screen has no video or photo capabilities—other than displaying station graphics. The XMp3 isn't without its flaws—spotty reception (especially indoors) and a jumpy control wheel, for example—but it's worth considering if you're into satellite radio.

Looking like a cell phone with a stubby, oldschool antenna, the 3.1-ounce XMp3 measures 3.6 by 2 by 0.6 inches (HWD). Its 2.2-inch screen displays still graphics only. The player conies with mediocre earbuds. a dock with an attaching antenna and a line-out-to-RCA cable, a remote control that's larger than the player itself, and a USB cable for PC file transfers. You get only 2GB of integrated storage. but there's a microSD slot on the top panel.

The controls and user interface are simple and intuitive, and the recording features are top-notch. The player can record up to five channels simultaneously and has a built -in DVR-like function to pause a live radio program and replay up to 30 minutes of it. One drawback is that you can't move recorded content from the player to your PC. Another shortcoming is that indoor reception is very poor unless you use the dock and external antenna. But for outdoor use it's an ideal choice for XM subscribers—albeitan expensive one. -Tim Gideon

PC Magazine January 2009

This article is published here, here and here.