Best Data CABO MP3 Player

The overall performance of the CABO was average for Best Data’s first MP3 player.  As noted in the audio testing, songs at 112kbps performed the best in terms of audio playback quality when compared to the performance of a computer.  However, the CABO has some faults. 

The manual could be better by including all necessary procedures for basic CABO usage.  Having equalizer presets (DSP modes) that actually reflect the type of music played could be improved upon.  The bass and treble performance in general is weak for all songs again reflecting the need to have a better decoder to improve the overall sound quality.  The CABO also only offers Windows 95 and Windows 98 support.  It does not support Windows NT or the new Windows 2000.  In this manner, the CABO cannot reach this audience and soon many PC manufacturers will start to make the move to Windows 2000.  The technical support is another downside since Best Data charges 7 dollars (U.S.) per incident for all of their products.  Finally, the price of the CABO is steep at a street price of $239, which is inline with most other players currently in the market.  For the average MP3 user, this can put a deep dent in the pocket.

Other MP3 players such as the Rio500 come with USB support and other handy features for approximately the same price.  In this respect, the CABO does not have a great deal to offer over some of the big name brand players in the market.  The CABO is a first generation MP3 much like the Diamond Rio PMP300 player.  For better performance, support, and versatility, a second or even third generation MP3 player is the best choice if you’re looking for a good, solid performing MP3 player.