[NTLUG:Discuss] mp3/video players

[Stuart Johnston]

On 08/23/2010 08:08 PM, lesa goats wrote:
> I am using kubuntu Linux and want to use mp3 and mpg video player and am tired of proprietary windows and apple products.
>
> I have a Sansa Fuze that does not work consistently with the video.  I also have an  ipod that won't work with Linux.  What would do you use or recommend and how is it working for you?

There are two main issues you are going to run into with Portable Media 
Players (PMPs).

1.  Connection.  You need a way to get your media files onto the player. 
  The easiest way is using the standard USB Mass Storage mode (MSC). 
This allows you to simply plug the device into pretty much any modern 
computer and browse files without installing any drivers.  Just like you 
would with a USB flash drive.

Brands to avoid: Apple, Microsoft and probably Creative.

Good brands: Sansa, Cowon, Archos and pretty much everyone else.

2.  File format:  Audio is easy.  If you are happy with MP3, everything 
will play that.  Video is tricky.  PMPs tend to be very picky about what 
video files they will play: codec, framerate, resolution, etc.  I'm not 
aware of any players that are specifically better than another in this 
regard.  On Windows, you would use the provided software to convert your 
files into the appropriate format.  I don't think any players provide 
software for Linux.  I highly recommend the program handbrake for this 
purpose on Linux.


Other options:
- Install the Rockbox open source firmware on one of your existing 
players if supported.

- Expand your search to include cell phones and hand-held tablets that 
run Maemo (Nokia n900/n800) or Android.  Although Android is not really 
great for video out of the box you can buy the 3rd party app RockPlayer 
which solves problem #2.