Benchmarking

For this test, we decided to pitch the Gecko MP3 against two of the biggest MP3 players; the Creative Nomad Jukebox and the Rome II. We also threw it against two of the biggest Sound Cards; the Creative SB:Live 5.1 and the Turtle Beach. Lets see how they fared.

Results - Background Noise Level (Less is better)

From this we see that the Gecko lags behing the big name sound cards, but we didn't expect it to win. What did shock us was that the Gecko came in 1st against the other MP3 Players. For something this small, it packs quite a punch.

Results - File Transfer Time From PC to Unit (Less is better)

This test shows the default Gecko setup without the LTP to USB converter cable or USB reader. It is very slow at transfering files, and this is due to the reliance on the Parallel port. With the switch to USB transfer times decreased remarkably. We used a 1MB test file for comparisons.

Results - Max Smaple Rate (Higher is better)

The Gecko MP3 is capable of an extremly high sample rate; over 150bit and 48hz. This is higher than even CD Quality. Trying to play files with higher rates resulted in the track being skipped.

Conclusion

Digital Media at the moment is at a high. With the big names asking quite a lot for MP3 players, it's nice to see a cheaper alternative, and the Gecko MP3 is definatly an alternative to be looked at. For a retail price of just over AU$250, the Gecko MP3 is the ultimate PDA player for the person on the go.

We are also pleased to announce that Frontier Images (the retailer for the Gecko MP3 Player) is offering TweakTown readers a discount on the Gecko MP3 Limited Edition Platinum for just $199 + GST. This is a real find! Just head on over to Frontier Images and order yourself one. Mention TweakTown and you will get the unit for just $199 + GST.

- Pros

Cheap

Light

Supports large media cards

- Cons

No LCD screen (to see what track you are on

Bit power hungry

Relies on LPT technology for file transfer

Rating - 8.5/10