eStarlab Monolith II MX-7010

The eStarlab Monolith II MX-7010 is a great mp3 player, the best I've ever had. Wouldn't trade them in for anything else. If you can find one buy one with out hesitating.

I've had my Monolith II for about a month now and I think it's a player well worth considering.

You'll immediately notice the solid (1.5mm brushed aluminium) x-protect casing and lovely mirror finished 2-colour OLED screen. This is what makes it a little heavier - the casing, that is. 65g v a 40g average but not that most would notice. I prefer a metal casing as a lot of similar spec players are let down by flimsy plastic construction IMO. Apparently, a promo vid shows one being run over by a car and still playing afterwards! If you have a tendency to drop things...consider the Monolith!

Button functions are good although I find the Record button slightly awkward right opposite the play/pause button. Moving the vol + and - takes a few more turns on the scroll wheel than I'd like, but that's a personal choice. Navigation is simple after a few minutes of familiarisation and the font is crisp and clear, oh and the screen is not too cluttered, like some.

2hrs charge gives about 19hrs play by makers standards but I think this is with the 'running' display off - fine, I guess, cos it's in your pocket mostly :) Charging is by PC USB or by optional AC charger.

Earphones aren't great as they are quite large for in-ear types and tend to fall out. Seems to be a general feeling with other reviews I've read also. Most people tend to buy aftermarket anyway. I think sound quality is great with a decent set of 'phones!

Supports WMA and MP3 formats but not ogg vorbis, atrac3 or wav and this may put some people off. Decent firmware support and the European website is coming along grand!