Digital Playback Devices

Bruce with a Plextor digital playback device

Extremely portable and powerful - a digital playback device used for reading the DAISY format.

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Additional Information:

What are digital playback devices like?

There are players designed for desktop reading, portable players for reading on the go, and software programs that allow you to read DAISY books on a computer or laptop.
Each model of player and software has different functions and features.
Some have a pre-installed battery that is charged by plugging the machine into an electrical outlet. Others may use removable batteries (regular or rechargeable). Some players give you the ability to use both removable batteries and an electrical outlet for power.
All of the players have a headphone output. Most have an in built speaker, except for some of the small portable units.
People with a digital playback device will be able to also use it to listen to music CDs and books on audio CD.

No. Because DAISY is a special format, it cannot be played back on an ordinary CD player.
A digital playback device is fully accessible, providing audio descriptions of the function of each button. All features of the player make it easier for clients to listen to any form of CD, so you can play your standard CD's on a digital playback device.

No - every digital playback device will be useful for a long time, even though new models of players are being introduced. DAISY books and players are based on industry standards.
All digital playback devices are upgradeable simply by installing new software. This is a simple process.
If upgrades become available for a player, you can download them and install them yourself or return your player to the place of purchase or manufacturer.

Vision Australia are loaning players to Library members, free of charge. Please call 1300 65 46 56 to enquire about receiving a player.
Alternatively, players can be purchased from Vision Australia - call 1300 84 74 66 and ask for Vistech.
For a complete list of vendors and playback options visit www.daisy.org.

Generally, digital playback devices cost between $350 and $550. There are also high-end digital playback devices that have a recording feature and can cost up to $1500.
Software ranges from free to over $100.

The free software is a good option if you are a proficient computer user and do not require any manufacturer's support. The options available in a free software program may differ from a dedicated digital playback device.
Purchased Software packages are supported by the manufacturers.

Digital playback devices are easy to learn and use.
Materials provided with the player, such as the "Getting Started" CD, will also help you learn how to use your player.
The Library provides training for all clients via the telephone. This ranges from basic introductory training through to advanced features and troubleshooting. Face to Face training may be possible depending on where you live. If you purchased your player from Vistech, they will offer free advice.
Basic introductory sessions are available at a range of Vision Australia locations. Call the Library for details on 1300 654 656.
Basic training guides, additional features guides and troubleshooting guides are available on our website.

All CDs have a raised groove on one side, near the hole at the centre of the disk. You should insert your CDs with the raised groove down.
If you insert the disk in the wrong way, the player will simply eject it or give you an audible error message so you know you need to turn it over.

If you have purchased a digital playback device, you are responsible for all repairs for your digital playback device.
Most digital playback devices come with a one-year warranty.
Your digital playback device will need to go back to the place of purchase or manufacturer for repair.