SanDisk Sansa e130 (512MB)

Summary: From reading other reviews and comparing to the CNET editors review, there seems to be a huge gap in reality. That gap seems to exist due to a bias towards "high end" (read: iPod or other well-branded names) vs "budget buy" players. Case in point: the editor rates the e130 at 5.7, but users rate it at 7.8; the iRiver T10, on the other hand, gets an editor rating of 7.3, while actual users rate it at 6.7. No need to get into testing methodology here, but we should wonder who's benefitting from editor reviews(?)

This little player is perfect for a much larger chunk of the MP3-buying population than the editor gives credit. For a street price getting down to $49 these days, let's call a spade a spade. Does the e130 have some drawbacks? Sure it does. But compared to my son's iRiver T10, the e130 wins in a walkoff, and it's a shame to try to draw consumers to the T10. The e130 is feature-loaded, and sound quality is acceptable. For me, I don't expect to hear tight, deep base down to 20Hz or fingers plucking on acoustic guitar strings. But the bass on the e130, while not overwhelming, is clean and strong (with an eq boost). Expecting to get "digitalitis" on the high end, I was surprised to hear a crisp, clear response on cymbals.

I'm fine with the provided earbuds. My listening environment is mostly a commuter train, so sizing the plugs (3 sizes provided) was important. I know listening devices are a highly personalized choice, and I see everything from micro-earbuds to home system headphones on the train. But for portability and everyday real life, the supplied earbuds do the job.

Like any MP3 player, there are a lot of features on the e130 that require some discovery. While some buyers might want out-of-the-package operation, I suspect many consumers of MP3 players are actually looking for the opportunity to do "feature mining". The instructions that come with the e130 require you to explore a little.

This is a strong performer that will satisfy a big niche of the MP3 consuming public. Don't be influenced by the fact that it happens to be inexpensive.