Philips 4GB Video MP3/MP4 Player w/ FM - Black (Vibe)

I bought this to replace my iPod (which I had apparently dropped one time too many). I have a bunch of audio books in MP3 format and I can load three or four of these and 3 GB of music -- I don't miss the larger capacity of the iPod.

Contrary to the previous review, it does not require Rhapsody; contrary to the users guide, I doubt if it even requires Windows. You attach it to a USB port and load it like a flash drive. It's that easy.

The controls are a little surprising -- you press the up arrow to go down -- but not hard to get used to. I don't need the video or picture features but to my surprise I've found the recording features useful for making notes, in particular of where I am in an audio book before I switch to music. And I'm listening to the FM as I write this. The battery won't really last 25 hours but I'm guessing that it will go 10 to 15 hours, which is a lot better than my iPod.

Three minor complaints: fast forward and...Read more

I've had the Vibe for a while. It's sole purpose is as my gym music source, but I use it more often than I thought. I bought mine at a Pharmacy type store and got it at 30% off most retail prices. I never take it out of my car unless it is to charge it, so I am never without music when working out. For what I paid, it performs fantastically and impressively. I purchased the Rhapsody to Go membership (which is only like 15 a month), and you get unlimited music as long as you maintain the subscription. I also easily added my music library of mp3's. I have and love my iPod, but keep it in the family room. I don't use the video feature, but the picture storage is great...I can show friends and acquaintenances and family recent pictures right on the device. It has frozen up a few times, but I uploaded the firmware upgrade from the Philips support site, and now it is much improved. I am interested in purchasing another Philips Rhapsody device, like the Aria, because I can enable 3...Read more

I bought this player from Walmart on Sunday. I really liked how it was easier to use than the Ipod. Besides I HATE itunes with a passion. And Rhapsody was okay. I thought it was a good buy. I've been playing with it the last couple of days. Forgot to bring it with me to use in the car a couple times but prepared for my car trip today with enthusiasm! It's a 40 minute drive there and back so I put enough music on to last. So what happened when I got to my car and plugged it into the stereo? Nothing...
It was fully charged and working before I got to the car. I had just put stuff on it! I get in the car and plug it in and like magic, it's a shiny piece of black plastic. It worked beautifully for 3 days.
I guess I can look at the bright side and reason that at least I can take it back but that doesn't change the boredom suffered by all on the car trip this morning.