Philips GoGear 8 GB Aria MP3 Video Player with 2-Inch Color Screen

The Philips GoGear 8 GB Aria MP3 Video Player offers a lot of features for its price: large storage, 25-hour battery life, high quality earphones, FM radio, voice recorder, etc. However, it seems to be poorly received by most reviewers so far. Frankly, my first impression was not entirely positive. But after most initial problems and confusions were resolved, this device(*) turns out to be a very good value as a MP3 player.

(*)Note: The device I bought is the 16GB version, which I feel is a better value given the minor difference in prices.

Some problems and how to resolve them:

1. Documentation:
The enclosed "Quick Start Guide" is quite useless. It is...Read more

I am a big fan of portable music devices; from mp3 players to iPods, and everything in between, I am the type of enthusiast who could never live with just 'one.' Well, my recent acquisition of the Philips Go Gear Aria is no exception to this rule. I was so pleased with my 2GB Vibe, I decided to try the Aria and give the Vibe to my brother. The Aria is an 8GB, larger screen, larger footprint, thinner, and made of a slightly higher quality plastic/material, and of course has the convenience of Rhapsody To Go, which I love. Rhapsody To Go is a monthly subscription service that is worth the money and definitely worth investigating. I use the Aria not only for music, but also to store pictures, which are clear and large enough to share with friends and coworkers when out and about. Though slightly larger than the Vibe, the Aria is still very portable, stylish, sleek, and fits comfortably in your pocket! I highly recommend this product. Oh, and I have read some reviews where people...Read more

I purchased this MP3 player from a reputable warehouse store for a great price. Didn't think I needed to do full research on this product...afterall PHILIPS is a well-known brand. Had no problem with Rhapsody on my "Vista" computer, songs downloaded quickly, tricky in setting music tabs however....one thing....dont expect the battery life to last. I did exactly what I was supposed to do....charge the battery in full before use.....used it maybe less than a hour after I charged it and went to go use it the next day and the battery is completely drained. Yes, the plaer was turned off after use.....so of course I thought it was a fluke....so I again fully recharged it overnight....used it one more time for less than an hour....and again the next day DEAD! Of course I returned it for a full refund. The return clerk said I was the fourth person that day to return one. Gee I wonder why. Dont waste your time on the good deal.....and make sure to do your research.