By RyanKamauff

The Muse is Samsung’s attempt to disrupt the iPod Shuffe, and it’s a prety good attempt

Just last week, Samsung released their Muse, an tiny 4GB MP3 player designed to directly sync with your Samsung Galaxy phone. Connected to their app, on applicable phones (the Galaxy S3, the S2, the Galaxy Note 2, and the Galaxy Note), users can directly sync MP3 and other file types (WMA, FLAC and OGG)  files to the device. The tiny “pebble” comes in blue and white, has touch sensitive top, and flip switches for hold, shuffle/repeat, and the equalizer (on/off). The clip allows you to snap it onto your waistband or more.

The tiny little device should compete directly against the iPod shuffle (and the $50 price tag shouldn’t hurt). The device has the ability to directly connect to your computer as well (with the attached USB key type plug). This device will be a killer purchase for big Samsung users, allowing them to use either their smart phones or computers to send music to their device. Currently, it will only connect with the above Samsung mobile devices, but it is possible the app will work with others in the future.

The Muse is intended for working out, running or other types of exercise. It is light and barely noticeable. The sound is pretty solid, and the included earbuds are quite loud, but awfully uncomfortable. They look as if they are mimicking the new iPhone earbuds, but without success. Now you can’t expect too much out of earphones on a $50 MP3 player, but you should know.

The Muse comes with a USB to Muse, microUSB to Muse and included earbuds (which stink!).

This tiny little MP3 is a great gift (or stocking stuff) for any big Samsung user or someone who just needs something to work out with. Check out the Samsung muse on their website, here.