MSI Mega Stick

Despite being slightly larger than Creative's Muvo NX, and of a lesser build quality, the appallingly named Mega Stick is a well-equipped MP3 player with 128MB of memory.

Like the Muvo NX (opposite) it's powered by a single AAA battery and connects to your PC via USB 1.1. MP3 and wma formats are supported, though it didn't take kindly to many of the variable bit rate (vbr) files we threw at it. Sound quality from the short headphones is OK, but they are a little uncomfortable, so you may want to invest in a better pair, with a longer cord.

The Mega Stick is easy to use in general, if a little slow to respond. The LCD screen is quite small, but still slightly larger than the Muvo NX's, and shows enough information to be useful, such as track name, play mode and battery level. There's also a keylock on the side to prevent it from accidentally turning on in your pocket.

Unlike the Muvo NX, the Mega Stick does not have a built-in microphone; instead there's a minijack input socket. Some may prefer this, particularly as built-in microphones tend not to be the best quality, but it does mean you'd have to carry the mic around should you wish to use the device as a Dictaphone.

One of the most interesting features of the Mega Stick is the FM radio. The obvious problem is the lack of antenna, which means reception is poor at the best of times. Should you be able to get a decent signal, you can record it.

Software is limited to the drivers, but a very welcome extra touch is the inclusion of a USB extension cable.

Despite the better list of features, the Mega Stick isn't the best portable MP3 player on the market - the Muvo NX deserves that crown. However, at £80 before tax, this is tremendously good value.

Contact: Micro-Star International
www.msi.com.tw

Specifications:

• USB connection
• 128MB memory
• Mic socket
• FM radio
• Keylock
• Headphones supplied