Lean in to nostalgia with these reliable, versatile options
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We researched available options, and these are our favorite retro and more contemporary players.
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Note: Prices are subject to change.
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And you might program this player to focus on your favorite tracks and skip others.
PHOTO: Amazon
Amazon purchasers give the Monodeal 4.4 out of 5 stars.
The Gueray CD Discman looks classic, with a familiar circular shape and easy-to-find control buttons on top.
Amazon purchasers give the Gueray 4.2 out of 5 stars.
PHOTO: Amazon
you’re free to play standard CD formats, plus MP3 and WMA format discs.
The screen isn’t remarkable, but it’s backlit and bigger than you’ll find on other players.
The Arafuna also includes added options like speed controls, A/B repeats, and skip control.
PHOTO: Amazon
Amazon purchasers give the Arafuna 4.3 out of 5 stars.
The Craig Electronics CD2808 gives the aesthetic impression that it’s straight out of 1999.
That isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
PHOTO: Amazon
And the price point is just right for that use case.
Most modern CD players can play CDs with MP3s as stored files rather than traditionally formatted playback CDs.
While many portable players feature this option by default, not all do.
Opting for a CD player with these functions will add more bang for your buck.
Look for a CD player with built-in speakers if you’d prefer all-in-one playback.
Luckily, most modern CD players offer solid 100-second skip protection.
Skipping can still happen, but this safeguard will make the CD player largely listenable even with light workouts.
A lower second count on the skip protection will yield less reliability during more vigorous activities.