What Sells: MP3 Players
An MP3 player is an electronic device that can play digital audio files. The term “MP3 player” is actually a misnomer, as most players play more than the MP3 file format. MP3 players are, in fact, Digital Audio Players.
Popular brands include:
- Apple iPod (including iPod Nano, iPod Mini and iPod Shuffle)
- Archos Jukebox
- Creative Nomad
- iRiver
- Rio Karma
- Samsung YH-999
Some early model MP3 players that come with all accessories and manuals also do well.
If you don’t know all of the specifications, check the manufacturer’s website; they often have product catalogs online that list detailed specifications.
Visit the website at http://reviews.cnet.com/ for product reviews for MP3 players that are not more than one or two years old.
Look for these signs of wear and tear:
- Scratches and scuffs (especially on the display)
- Cracks in the case
- Malfunctioning display
- Poor audio quality
- Missing earphones, cables, manuals, software, etc.
Things to test:
- Powers on/off
- Display lights up
- All controls and features work
- Audio quality is good
Include these details in your listing:
- Brand
- Model name/number
- Hard drive size (amount of memory/hours or number of songs it will hold)
- Battery life
- Color
- Other features (photos, etc.)
- Accessories (docks, armbands, belt clips, etc.)
- Packaging (e.g., New in Box)
MP3 players should be stored in a well-ventilated room, away from children, pets and smoke. Don’t place an item next to heating vents or air conditioners either, since temperature/humidity changes can cause damage. Cigarette smoke can damage sensitive electronics, so ask the owner if the item came from a smoke-free environment.
Use the original packaging whenever possible. If it’s not available, wrap the item in bubble wrap and cushion it with packing peanuts.
If shipping more than one player in a box, ensure that they do not touch, and that they are each cushioned individually. Remove all accessories, including cables and ear phones, wrap them separately and place them in the box away from the player.
Before shipping, all songs should be deleted from the unit; selling an MP3 player that contains music might constitute copyright violation.
