Courtesy of U.S. Navy Officer and former FINIS employee, David Seiler.  

I am fortunate to have tried the new Duo underwater MP3 player, and I am very impressed with the results. The device feels a lot sleeker and easier to navigate than the previous model (the Neptune V2); I really appreciated the simplified four-button interface. While the high-contrast LED of the Neptune V2 made it easy to navigate through playlists of my music, I much prefer the new design found on the Duo for a few reasons.

First, more time shuffling through music meant, for me, more time on the wall not swimming. Although there is something to be said for having exactly the right song for your next 200m IM, I think that those who swim for fitness will appreciate a more streamlined process toward accessing 1,000 of your favorite songs.

Most importantly, doing away with the screen brought something very special to my time in the water. No longer does the rear interface become something in the back of my mind as I push off of the wall or swim at high speeds. I know that this smaller device will remain in place and I never have to adjust for it during my swim. There are no ear buds to become dislodged while training, as FINIS’ bone conduction audio is transmitted through my cheekbones directly to the inner ear. While wearing the Duo MP3, I feel fluid and natural. It is a great privilege to add such clear music to this wonderful sport and not worry about where it’s coming from.

The reliability and performance of this new model are also a great add. As with the Neptune, the Duo MP3 holds 4GB of audio and uses a Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery, which is now rated for up to 7 hours of use. The Duo also retails for about $40.00 USD less than the Neptune did, and to me, gives a more enjoyable and relaxing experience during my swim. Overall, I was very impressed with what the Duo underwater MP3 player accomplished and the way that it made me feel in the water. I hope that others can enjoy adding music to their training soon, as well.