We all have our own opinions about which MP3 players are essential for grownups, but kids’ MP3 needs can usually be met by something way less than a pricey player with a lowercase “i” in its name. And when the budget-friendly player is as kid-appealing as this 1GB Ribbit from Nextar — now headed into Toys “R” Us as part of a bigger Easter promotion — we’re, um, hoppy all over about the news.
Though it’s super-simple to use, the Ribbit includes some generous features for its $19.99 sticker price: five play modes, an eight-mode equalizer, high-speed USB 2.0 interface (cable included), and support for seven languages as well as both MP3 and WMA formats. (If you’re wondering, 1GB of storage = around 250 MP3s.)
Kids can see exactly what they’re doing via the large, bright OLED screen, and the Ribbit’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery keeps the tunes going for up to six hours of continuous playback. Earphones are included, but as with just about any MP3 player’s stock earphones, you’ll probably want to upgrade (see a few of our favorites for kids here and here).
If you won’t be headed into Toys “R” Us before Easter, no sweat: Both the pink and green Ribbits shown here are also available online.