The Rio Volt can play both ordinary audio CDs and CD-R or CD-RW discs containing MP3 or WMA (Windows Media Audio) files. The advantage is that you can cram several hours worth of MP3 files onto a CD-R/CD-RW, whereas most commercial audio CDs generally store just 45-60 minutes of tunes. Of course, you will need your own CD writer to create personalised CDs.

There are a number of similar CD players available, so Rio has been a little slow jumping on the bandwagon. However, the Volt is a well-designed unit and its neatly laid out controls are easy to use.

The control panel is nice and simple, with a petite screen that shows track information, and a small group of buttons to adjust the volume and navigate through the menus. There's a small remote control you can clip on your shirt while you're jogging or at the gym, and a carrying case with a belt loop, so the unit is completely portable.

You can run the Volt with two AA batteries or use the supplied mains adaptor. The player has a two-minute 'shock buffer', which means it stores up to 120 seconds of music in memory so playback isn't affected if you bump or jog the player when you're on the move.

Our only reservation is that it's made out of rather lightweight plastic and doesn't seem terribly robust. But at £169 it's quite reasonably priced, so it's worth considering if you like the idea of a combined CD/MP3 player.

Specifications:

Minimum requirements: Windows 9x, Me, 2000 or Mac OS 8.6 to install bundled MP3 software.

Contact: Rio Digital Audio
0118 944 4477
www.riohome.com.