3. Audio Features

Archos' Jukebox Multimedia plays audio as well as video files. It only recognizes the MP3 format, but it does recognize the format in all its variations - constant bitrate (CBR) from 32 through 320 kbps, and variable bitrate (VBR). The more recent formats, such as WMA and AAC, are not supported. File transfer is performed under Windows via Explorer, and an infinite number of directories can be created for each album. Once a CD is loaded, you just need to select the "Music" tab on start-up to access the albums. The sound quality through the mini-jack output is very good, as is it through the headphones supplied with it. The volume can be turned up quite high, and this is practical in noisy environments. It is unfortunate, however, that the headset doesn't have a longer cable (you can't put your Jukebox in the bottom of a backpack, for instance), and the remote controls are far too basic (only the volume is adjustable by remote). During continuous play of audio files, battery life was observed to be 7 hours and 47 minutes, which is close to the 8 hours claimed by the manufacturer. The Jukebox Multimedia's greatest drawback with regards to playing MP3 is that it does not have a built-in search engine. This makes it quite inconvenient to use if you have a large number of albums. Fortunately, it is possible to store playlists, but that is not necessarily enough.

The Jukebox Multimedia does make up for this slight drawback, thanks to its recording function. It can record and encode directly into MP3 via its line input in mini-jack format or through the built-in microphone on the front of the box. The mini-jack input can be configured in either analog or digital mode, but you will need to buy a coaxial adapter for the mini-jack separately because it isn't included in the package. Sound is recorded in variable bitrate MP3, and the user can choose the quality, which ranges from 0 to 5. The result is relatively satisfactory in mode 4 or 5, especially if you use the digital entry mode from a digital source. The mike input turns the Jukebox Multimedia into a dictation machine with a very large capacity, but the quality is just good enough to record a conversation for later transcription, for instance.

Tuning

All the adjustments to Jukebox Multimedia should be made via pull-down menus on the LCD screen or TV monitor, depending on how the device is running. Access to the various options is via three function keys, which are located below the screen. These change their attributes depending on whether video or music is being played or the menus are being consulted. The dedicated navigation keys on a PC keypad can also be used for playing audio and video.

The dedicated sound menu is very complete and as good as that of a small hi-fi system. The overall volume can be adjusted (volume can also be regulated through the up/ down directional keys during playing), as can the bases and sharps, balance, and pitch.

The "Config" menu offers access to the display parameters and the video output. The "Standard TV" tab offers a choice between PAL and NTSC formats. The "Brilliance" tab displays a pattern and a graduated scale that enables you to fine-tune the sound. You can also adjust the video image vertically and horizontally. The following options concern the general operation of the Jukebox Multimedia: back-lighting; automatic stop; software version; hard disk maintenance; and, updating the operating system.