Convenience is the name of the game when we’re discussing DAPs. They have to be compact and lightweight, offer decent sound quality, be intuitive to use... and, importantly, they should be easy to carry around. The Sansa Clip is a player that fits most of these parameters, so let me give you a rundown on how well it does what it purports to do – and where it fails to deliver.
Form Factor
The Sansa Clip is a lightweight player with a small OLED display in front. It has a 5-way Nav-pad and a small 'Home' key that returns you to the main menu. On one side of the device is the volume control and 3.5mm earphone socket, and the other side is where you’ll find the Power/Hold slider switch.
The USB port is located just above. What I like about the player is the clip itself, which is extremely convenient for portability. Although it may seem a bit fragile to be clipped to your clothes in a crowded train, it’s perfect if you’re working out in a gym or jogging.
Features and Performance
The Clip doesn’t really offer much more than what you’d find in other DAPs in the same range. The menu is simple but due to the small screen it may appear a wee bit cramped. It has an FM radio that takes about 20 seconds to scan and preset all available channels. Unfortunately the reception is not too great. If you’re stationary you would be able to get decent reception, but only in certain areas. While commuting you’ll hear more static than the RJs ramblings. The Clip’s voice recorder, on the other hand, works fine and has good range.
Getting to the main feature – the music player – I was impressed with the total sound output the clip is capable of dishing out. The earphones are comfortable; I even used them with other players to check their sound quality (which was not bad at all). The player itself, on the other hand, tends to be a bit sharp on the ears when it comes to high frequencies. With regard to the bass, there’s a pleasant enough thump that will keep your head bobbing.
I own one of these beauties! (The Black 2GB Model). I use that along with Creative's EP630 Earplugs. Those two go hand in hand! :)
