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Original poster

Talk to me about MP3 players!

36 replies

tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 09:02

I am looking for, what appears to be, a very niche product! I want a device to listen to podcasts on but that a) doesn't require faffing about transferring files from a computer (I would like to download podcasts, for example, when travelling) and b) isn't a smartphone in all but name (like the Ipod). The whole point is to leave my phone behind and just listen to podcasts without the distractions or temptations of my phone. Incidentally I think there is a massive gap in the market for a simple podcast device for older people but I digress.
I have done a fair bit of research but it is hard to find out which devices will meet my criteria as the product info tends to focus on the music aspect..or they rave about running on Android and having Whatsapp etc which is exactly what I don't want.
The only device I have found which might fit the bill is an Astel and Kearn one for a wopping 650 quid. Apparently it has only music apps on it. If I really have to I will invest but would love more info. Does anyone have one? Does anyone else have a non-smartphone solution to listening to podcasts on the go?

OP posts:
sirfredfredgeorge · 22/03/2021 09:15

Have you considered a Kindle, or a fitness watch with music?

Neither are likely ideal for you (first one bulky and a bit rubbish for getting the podcast on to, and the second one may not have the battery life for you and it depends if you want to wear a fitness tracker)

Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 09:19

I am a bit awkward. I did have a Fitbit but am pretty anti Facebook these days (and giving away data unnecessarily). In any case the Fitbit wasn't that user friendly as (from memory) I still had to transfer MP3s and I found it quite buggy.

I do have a Kindle which has Audible on it so that isn't a bad suggestion for situations such as being on the train but maybe not ideal for just nipping out for a walk. I think Audible only has its own podcasts on but will have a play and double check. Thanks! Good suggestions.

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peridito · 22/03/2021 09:25

oooh watching with interest ,not because I need a break from a smart phone but because there is a massive gap in the market for a simple podcast device for older people. I'm an older person and have only recently (a few weeks ) started using a Smartphone .My partner is an even older person and he is reliant on an i pod .

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Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 09:27

@peridito

oooh watching with interest ,not because I need a break from a smart phone but because there is a massive gap in the market for a simple podcast device for older people. I'm an older person and have only recently (a few weeks ) started using a Smartphone .My partner is an even older person and he is reliant on an i pod .
It drives me nuts. My uncle would love podcasts but the only option i have found is to get an old Iphone and use that. Why not a simple device that is literally just 'browse, play, stop'. I think I am swimming against the tide as the purpose of these devices is to harvest data rather than meeting the user's needs
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peridito · 22/03/2021 09:40

I'm afraid I don't understand about moving stuff from computers to devices but the RNIB have some simple devices which work with USB sticks and might be of interest to someone ?

shop.rnib.org.uk/technology/tv-and-audio/usb-and-daisy-players

RedGoldAndGreene · 22/03/2021 09:44

"Not needing a computer/not a smartphone" is driving up the price and limiting choice. If you don't use a computer to download podcasts then you need an Internet connection to the AppStore or equivalent.
If you can compromise on that requirement then I'd buy a refurbished iPod Nano or I'd get a cheap second phone and use it without a SIM so there's no Internet and apps. If you have an old smartphone then even cheaper. You could download podcasts via wifi then use it out of the house without a SIM

idontlikealdi · 22/03/2021 09:47

My kids have ipods from CEX, they download stuff on wifi to use out of the house with no SIM

CMOTDibbler · 22/03/2021 09:51

I have a teeny MP3 player that I use for running as I like to leave my phone at home, but it does need the files moving on a PC - but is super easy to use, non faffy, and the battery lasts for ages

Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 09:55

@CMOTDibbler

I have a teeny MP3 player that I use for running as I like to leave my phone at home, but it does need the files moving on a PC - but is super easy to use, non faffy, and the battery lasts for ages
Can I ask is there some kind of app or software for the transfer (like Itunes) or do you drag and drop individual files? None of the stuff I see online makes that clear. Thanks!
OP posts:
CMOTDibbler · 22/03/2021 10:45

You can drag and drop or use Windows Media

MyDcAreMarvel · 22/03/2021 10:48

Just buy a cheap iPhone 6s from eBay don’t put a sim in it just download the podcasts using home WIFI. When out listen to your podcasts.

ShirleyPhallus · 22/03/2021 10:49

@RedGoldAndGreene

"Not needing a computer/not a smartphone" is driving up the price and limiting choice. If you don't use a computer to download podcasts then you need an Internet connection to the AppStore or equivalent. If you can compromise on that requirement then I'd buy a refurbished iPod Nano or I'd get a cheap second phone and use it without a SIM so there's no Internet and apps. If you have an old smartphone then even cheaper. You could download podcasts via wifi then use it out of the house without a SIM
This would be my suggestion too
MyDcAreMarvel · 22/03/2021 10:50

Or get a cellular Apple Watch and leave your phone at home.

dontsaveusername · 22/03/2021 10:55

My iPhone has bbc sounds on it and p,entry of podcasts, also plays amazon music for me. (Think I'm missing the point of the OP)

Talipesmum · 22/03/2021 11:14

Yes I know exactly what you mean. We had the same issue for the kids. Something v easy to use with audiobooks / music, but not a tempting phone with games on that they’ll faff around on.
Ultimately, you either have to have something simple but you need to connect it to computer to download content (we have sandisk clipjams) or you need a smartphone type thing. Getting an old iPhone or similar and setting it up in a controlled way without games, social media etc, but only with eg Audible, spotify, sonos, podcast app etc would probably be the best thing. You’d just have to resist adding extra stuff on it.

Talipesmum · 22/03/2021 11:17

In fact I found yesterday when messing around with an old kindle fire, that you can set up a kids profile and literally only enable specific audiobooks, books and any other app on there. That’s all they see when they turn it on.
We also unearthed an old iPod classic. It has all our old MP3 collection on it, and can put on loads of audiobooks etc as well - you just have to preload it all rather than expecting you can add as you go.

Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 16:39

Thanks everyone for your tips. I have used an old phone in the past but I work at home (even in non Covid times) so this would still involve some willpower (eg not looking up Mumsnet!).
I do have an Ipod classic which I use for music but it isn't as good for podcasts (sometimes struggles to play them in order even when I adjust the settings which can be an issue). And obviously still need to synch with computer.
I think Kindle looks like it could be good in some circumstances but the size makes it less practical in others.
It is good to confirm that I am not missing anything and there really is only one solution for an MP3 player that allows me to download directly to the device but doesn't have smartphone capabilities - the high-end audiophile one. I guess I now need to choose between carrying on my dogmatic quest for a non smartphone solution and spending a bit more OR accepting the old smartphone route and relying on my willpower to not faff about on the internet while I listen. I know it sounds pathetic but I do find that hard. Phones are designed to be addictive after all.

OP posts:
Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 16:44

I know I sound really awkward!

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Talipesmum · 22/03/2021 17:59

Could you take your old phone and literally remove everything that aren’t the music / audiobook / podcast apps? So all you have on your home screen are these 3 things? No safari browser etc? Totally stripped back?

Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 18:14

@Talipesmum

Could you take your old phone and literally remove everything that aren’t the music / audiobook / podcast apps? So all you have on your home screen are these 3 things? No safari browser etc? Totally stripped back?
I have an android phone. I didn't think it was possible to remove the browser (my biggest temptation due to bloomin' Mumsnet) but maybe I need to look into it. I know a good phone repair guy locally. I wonder of he would be able to create what I want out of an old phone. I will ask! thanks
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chipsandpeas · 22/03/2021 18:17

but if you dont have a sim in the old phone you wont get online unless you are on wifi and just dont connect to wifi unless you are downloading the podcasts

Talipesmum · 22/03/2021 19:28

I too have appalling will power and would totally just turn wifi on and browse mumsnet. Asking in phone shop is a good idea!

Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 19:59

@Talipesmum

I too have appalling will power and would totally just turn wifi on and browse mumsnet. Asking in phone shop is a good idea!
I am starting to wonder whether I should just make do with the Ipod Classic. It is a bit faffy and imperfect but there is no danger of being distracted with the internet and it won't cost me any money!
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QuattroFormaggi · 22/03/2021 21:04

I have a Creative Zen MP3 player which has a memory card slot. I have filled a 64gb card with most of my music collection. I use it in my car (which has a slot supposed to be for the sat nav card), and then in the MP3 player when travelling so I don't use up the battery in my phone. You could download podcasts on your pc and drop them into the memory card. The MP3 player just works like a storage device that also plays music (you could also use the card to store photos or videos on and show them on the screen of the player).

It has a long battery life and charges via a micro USB cable and is the same size as a credit card. Mine is 11 yrs old and still working perfectly. Should be able to source one for £20 ish

Talk to me about MP3 players!
Original poster
tellmetologoffIamaMNaddict · 22/03/2021 21:24

@QuattroFormaggi

I have a Creative Zen MP3 player which has a memory card slot. I have filled a 64gb card with most of my music collection. I use it in my car (which has a slot supposed to be for the sat nav card), and then in the MP3 player when travelling so I don't use up the battery in my phone. You could download podcasts on your pc and drop them into the memory card. The MP3 player just works like a storage device that also plays music (you could also use the card to store photos or videos on and show them on the screen of the player).

It has a long battery life and charges via a micro USB cable and is the same size as a credit card. Mine is 11 yrs old and still working perfectly. Should be able to source one for £20 ish

Thank you! I think I am a bit clueless about how MP3 players work. Maybe I could buy a cheap one to start with and have a play
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