Metal or heavy-plastic components are preferable to lightweight plastic covers that crack if tapped the wrong way. Gadget freaks know that the best portables are thin and tough. The newest portable CD players boast battery lengths of 40 hours and up . An extra, rechargeable battery pack is key for mobile users, since it extends play and saves money in the long run. Bear in mind that anti-shock technology, though useful for rugged conditions, can also drain batteries quickly.
Sound quality is an obvious consideration that's neglected by many shoppers .
The best systems should sound fine, without any need to tweak buttons and dials. If a unit has extra sound features, make sure these actually enhance music rather than distort it. The quality of your headphones determines the quality of what you hear . The best portable CD players have nifty features like shuffle and repeat track . A good player should have very little down time between tracks.