Audio Quality & Final Thoughts
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| Rio 600 with earbuds |
Because I am currently testing a set of Monsoon MH-500s on my system, I decided to see whether the file formats had significant audio quality differences on these quality speakers. I could indeed hear that the 64Kbit WMA file had a less dynamic sound, with less realistic instrument reproduction and limited range of frequencies apparent in the vocals and in the crisp piano notes. The 128Kbit file had a wider frequency coverage, while the 256Kbit file sounded the best, with an incredible soundstage that was clearly superior to all the other files once the piano kicked in. On the Rio600, the differences were not nearly so dramatic. The WMA 64Kbit file sounded nearly as good as the 128Kbit MP3 file, and though there are still differences in dynamics and sound quality, I could very well be satisfied with the WMA file, especially since it meant I could DOUBLE the total amount of music I could store in the player. It’s not the perfect quality we’re used to from 128Kbit and above MP3s, but it certainly allows for a respectable amount of music to be stored without a very large sacrifice in audio quality.
The volume control on the unit is easy to use, but I found that the volume at the lowest setting was too low. This would not have been bad except that the next step up from that is right at the regular listening level that I would use. It was either ultra soft, at volume setting 1, or listening level, at volume level 2 – there was no middle point where I could enjoy some nice background music. The only other thing that I could possibly comment on is the slightly awkward use of the D-pad controls. Because this D-pad is concave and sinks into the player a little bit, it becomes difficult to use the functions unless you position your fingers, or thumb “just so”. Not a really big problem, because I got used to using the D-pad, but definitely a consideration for people with larger hands.
One last thing worth noting is that the player only comes with a bare minimum to get you started. Obviously it has things like software and your first battery, but it lacks any sort of carrying pouch or belt clip assembly of any sort. I was hoping also that Diamond would have included a remote unit in the box, but instead, they offer the option to purchase a separate remote/radio unit that plugs into the specialized general purpose plug on the unit (this plug doubles as the connector for the special USB cable included in the box).
After having spent only 2 weeks with the product, I am clearly in love with a superb device. The Rio600 is in so far, the best all round player I have come across to date. It doesn’t have many frills, such as voice recording, or fancy playlist editing, but it contains a very solid set of features and functions that are well executed – so well executed that they are a pleasure to use. In fact, the entire product radiates charm that can only come from a product that has nearly all the angles covered. The player is fast, responsive, lightweight, easy to use, and has very good audio quality. If that doesn’t satisfy you, I’m not sure what will. I only wish it included more memory, because with a player this fun, you’re bound to chafe at the limited amount of music you can store with 32MB. I guess the final word is that if I were in the market to get a portable MP3 player, I would definitely gun straight for the Rio600, it’s just too good a player to ignore, and once I get my hands on the backpacks to expand the memory, I will be a happy man.
Overall Score: 85%
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