iriver SlimX iMP-400 CD / MP3 Player (Silver)

The iMP-400 comes with quality iRiver wrap-around headphones, offering far superior quality to standard CD player headphones. The player offers eight preset equalization curves and one user-defined curve (choose from normal, pop, rock, jazz, dance, classic, metal, U-Bass, and user EQ). Auto EQ changes automatically according to ID3 tag information, and a battery indicator lets you know when you're low. The player also performs perfectly in the face of external shocks because of iRiver's unique anti-shock algorithm, iRiverShockFree. This feature maintains supreme control over the server, so it can accurately read data even in the face of extreme vibrations, letting you listen to continuous music.

An easy-to-read, four-line LCD shows every bit of information needed, and an FM tuner comes in handy when you're traveling by tracking the frequencies to maintain reception as you move. The iMP-400 uses 16 MB Flash memory to support the display of Chinese characters (traditional/simplified)--37 languages are supported. The player also recognizes discs in Packet Write format, which enables you to use CD-RW discs like PC hard disks, offering the ease of using discs and of saving and deleting songs. Finally, the player prevents its rechargeable batteries from overcharging, and a discharge function fully discharges batteries before recharging, thereby preventing the diminishing of rechargeable battery capacity.

On the upside, I have loved all the features about this player, with the ability to play mp3's, audio CD's, AND have the radio function to be the most prominent features. The svelte styling of the player has impressed many people, along with the slim size of it. I also have defiantly put it through its paces by taking it camping/hiking along with my everyday use. The layout of the remote control, although somewhat tough to learn at first, provides instant access to all of the important functions. Also impressive is the inclusion of many minor features such as the inclusion of an audio-out port to connect the player to a sound system (I have also used it to connect a second set of headphones to share music with a friend). Another is the ability to select the next track to be played with out interrupting the current song; this ability is still available during random mode. The fact that the player uses firmware has allowed updates to include new modes and features, and even a snake-style game!

On to the bashing section of my review:
One of the faults previously touched on by other reviewers is the time that this system takes to power up. When I want music, I want it NOW, not 30 seconds from now.
Recently, the remote control's center button stopped responding. By taking apart the control (and probably voiding its warranty) I determined that the cause of the problem was that the pin attached to the backside of the button to depress the capacitor had inadvertently snapped. Although annoying, the problem was easily solved with the use of some gel-like super glue.
The player turns off when it is connected to, or detached from, the AC adaptor, which means that I have to go through the long boot process again.
My final grudge (although not too much the companies fault) is that only non-protected WMA's can be played (something I only found out after I had encoded most of my music library with the protection on)

All in all, if you want a mp3 player that also plays your CDs, the iRiver series is as good as they come. But if you don't plan to use its ability to play standard CD's too often, you may be better off with a hard drive player.


solid player   May 12, 2004
Bokonon (Orono, Me United States)
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

I've had the imp 400 for 3 months now, and it has performed very well. I like
sound
volume
controls
solid feel
accessories
anti skip
car adapter
pouch

I don't care for the fit of the headphones. I had to sand down sharp edges over the ears before I could comfortably wear them. The imp 400 is slightly expensive but if you need all the accessories coming with it, which I do, it is actually a great deal. I've dropped it with no consequences. I would recommend it.


Perfect for the "spouse"   April 7, 2004
Robert Allan Cross (North Kingstown, RI USA)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

My wife isn't interesting in ripping CDs, creating mixes, MP3s, etc. Her goal was a unit that would play her large CD collection and would accept the crazy disks that her crazy husband generates.

Given that sort of anecdotal background: this is the perfect player. Interface is easy to use (passes the "spouse" test once again), music quality is good and it is very tolerant of shake, rattle and rolls.

I only rate it as 4 out of 5 because I personally don't like the disk form factor. If that's your thing, though, this is the player for you.