Microsoft Windows Media Player 7.0
Less comprehensive though more streamlined than players such as MusicMatch and RealJukebox,
Microsoft's Windows Media Player 7.0 (WMP, download now) has some useful features. Unfortunately, it lacks support for
a common open standard: It won't record MP3 files. Most users will probably opt for a more
well-rounded product.
WMP's core functionality is also limited. You won't find as many search options as in RealJukebox. You can edit track info, but just the proprietary metadata Windows Media Player stores in its internal database, not ID3 tags. A powerful tag editor is crucial when you have a large music library to search. The program doesn't use the omni present Grace note (née CDDB) service to obtain track information, relying instead on AMG -- but that's a reasonable alternative.
Here's what Microsoft Windows Media Player 7 does have to offer: It plays video files (in many popular formats), so it can manage all your media files. It includes a ten-band equaliser and SRS WOW technology, which provides deep bass and a wide dynamic range. Also, an integrated radio tuner is prominently placed in the left-hand panel. And there are tons of skins and eye-catching visualisations. The player could be a versatile companion to another player.
Company: Microsoft
Price: Free download
Rating: 3 Star
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