Review of the Durabrand Model CD-565 Programmable CD Player

I received this CD player as a gift for my birthday. It has a basic silver-coated front highlighted with purple. In addition to the usual track search buttons, it has a programming and a repeat track feature. While I use this CD player often, it does not compare to the SONY model that I bought in 1999. Of course, my previous model cost $89.00 and this one is probably a $30 model. This is definitely one of those instances where you get what you pay for.

My main problem with this Durabrand CD player is that it lacks an anti-skip feature. I can’t use it when I work out or when I’m traveling. You have to stay stationary in order to use the player successfully. This is inconvenient for me as I like to listen to a CD while I am on the bus (I am one of the few who does not have an Ipod to take to work with me). This was the first time I’d ever seen or owned a CD player that did not have anti-skip protection.

The headphones are also somewhat mediocre. You’ll need to invest in a second set for long term use as the foam started wearing out after several months. They also weren’t comfortable for long-term sitting. If you primarily use the CD player while studying, you’ll definitely want to get a comfortable headset or earplug phones to replace the existing ones. If you’re only using the player every now and again or if you have a small head, then it’s not a big deal.

I will say that the machine has survived for two years with little wear (other than the headphones). It also has a hidden bass booster at the bottom which you can turn on and off to improve the sound quality. For most of my needs, the Durabrand Model CD-565 CD player is serviceable and convenient. And, because it was a low investment, I’m not so attached that I worry about breaking it when I take it with me to work, coffee shops, or the library.

This is the most basic CD player that you can get. The sound quality is good and it is programmable so that you loop the CD without hearing any songs that you don’t like, but you have to handle the player very carefully or it will skip. On a budget, it’s great or as a gift to a child who you know might be rough with it anyway. If I were to rate it on a scale of 1-5, I would give it a 3. And the good news is, that if you buy the newer model of this CD player (Durabrand Model CD-916), it comes with anti-skip!