Recent price drops for MP3 players have created new opportunities for marketing. The portable MP3 players can be imprinted with your company's logo and because they are reusable and long lasting, your business's name stays in circulation longer than with some short-lived promotions.

Customized mp3 players are available from 128 MB to 32 GB and priced accordingly. They come in a variety of sizes from jump-drive size to iPods with video screens. Custom MP3 players and accessories are readily available through a number of online sources and most will work with you to truly customize your order.

Of course, the cost is more than many promotional items, so save the customized MP3 players for special clients and events. Look for seasonal promotions and bulk prices to make it a cost-effective investment.

1. Research the latest MP3 player information.

2. Shop around for the best bulk bargain in custom MP3 players.

3. Set a firm per piece budget and stick to it.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Research MP3 players for quality

Quality is a major factor. You won't promote your product for long if the custom MP3 player breaks soon after distributing it. Look for the best buy in your price range, but shop for players with good reviews.

I recommend: CBS News reviews has up-to-date reviews of MP3 players and is easily searched. Shop Compare will give you current price comparisons along with customer reviews.

Shop with wholesale vendors who specialize in MP3 players

Not every outlet will be bulk-friendly, and some offer better bulk prices than others. Consider your situation and who you are marketing to. The cost-per-item can vary as much as 1/3 between buying 25 or 500 MP3 players but if you don't need 500, it's not money well spent.

I recommend: Custom USB and Memory Suppliers carry a large variety of customized MP3 players. However, iPromo specializes in all types promotional items if you are in the market for more than just MP3 players.

Use your custom MP3 player budget wisely

With the dizzying array of MP3 players and accessories, it's easy to let your budget get away from you. Remember that the goal is promotion, and if the cost exceeds the amount of business returned, it's not a good investment. Refurbished MP3 players may be an option, but ask about warranties and guarantees.

I recommend: Check out Reseller Ratings for discount MP3 player outlets. ThomasNet will lead you to links directly to manufacturers and distributors of customized MP3 players.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Although the least expensive custom MP3 player may seem like the best buy, they sometimes don't come with display screens. If the player is hard to use, it will sit in the back of a drawer along with your logo.