iPods & MP3 players

[musicboy]

I'm new to using ipods and mp3 players, so I downloaded itunes, and i just uploaded all my music to amazon cloud drive (Free 5GB storage). I noticed that amazon's cloud saves the audio files as MPEG4 audio layer files (MPEG-4 Audio layer) I can't seem to find anything that will play a file like that. Are their any mp3 players that can read/play those audio files? If so, which ones are they? If not, would it be better to just buy an ipod shuffle or nano and use itunes instead of amazon? What about the MP3 players that come with their own marketplace and such? Do I have to install those to be able to play music on the player? Or since I have itunes and amazon I can just bypass that?

    Thanks for any help/tips in advance!

                   Musicboy


[hockeycanuckjc Trusted Contributor]

From what I understand a Microsoft Zune plays MP4 files, and for MP4 audio, I think iPod has AAC audio which is very comparable to the MP4 format. 

[musicboy]

Thanks for that information!! Do I need to install the zune marketplace to be able to download the music I already have?

[hockeycanuckjc Trusted Contributor]

Well the Zune Marketplace is an integral part of the device so you can transfer your files, you will be able to import any music you wish during the process. Its quite simple and there is a wonderful Zune community online that Microsoft has setup. 

[musicboy]

So once I have the zune player, I install the marketplace and can just drag and transfer over files (or at least upload/download music) to it and then just download and or buy more songs? Does zune marketplace act like itunes? Where I buy a giftcard and redeem it for cash on the market place without having to pay some sort of monthly subscription?

[hockeycanuckjc Trusted Contributor]

Yes, it works just like XBOX Live you get Microsoft Points to spend in the Zune Marketplace. And yes it works similar to iTunes

[musicboy]

Awesome! Thanks! I'll look into zune and the zune marketplace now!!!

[Neihn Valued Contributor]

Just a FYI by going with a Zune you will be buying a discontinued device. MS killed off the Zunes back in March I think it was. And not to many brick and mortar retail stores carry them anymore.

[musicboy]

Okay, so I should I look into other brands then? Or just stick to apple since it is highly reccomended in most cases?

[Neihn Valued Contributor]

If a Zune would fit your needs better then a iPod by all means go for it. I just wanted to let oyu know finding one locally may present to be a slight problem. MS is still supporting the Zunes for now anyways so you will still have support just wont be any new versions unless you get a Windows Phone 7.