In a world where technological dreams become reality at a dizzying pace, some still can't wait for the latest gadgets. And who can blame 'em? If the technology and know-how are available, why not build your own toy? One such object of audiophile desire is the mobile in-car MP3 player.

It's no wonder that MP3s are making their way to the automobile world. The mass proliferation of MP3s has spurred an audio revolution. MP3s are easy to acquire, sound as good as CDs, and take less disk space than normal audio files. Also, since MP3 mobile devices don't require hard media (for example, CDs, MiniDiscs, or cassettes), they are more compact and portable than standard Walkmans.

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The homebrew players being made are essentially compacted computers; consisting of motherboards, hard drives, sound cards, and CPUs.

Moreover, the systems are usually fully loaded with features. The hard drive dedicated to storage can hold a ridiculous number of MP3s, and search functions make it easy to find a song or playlist. Players are commonly controlled via a numeric computer keypad or remote control. A LCD display provides track information and enables navigation. Some players even have spectrum analyzers and visualizations. Sound cards make sound manipulation more versatile via effects and various spatial configurations. The most beneficial feature of these MP3 players is that hardware and software can be upgraded to meet new needs or add more features.

Nevertheless, even with the power and flexibility, you have to wonder if it's worth the time and effort it takes to plan, build, and install a PC system in your car.

First, it takes months of dedicated planning and building to complete a system. (It took five to seven months for most people we talked to.) Often, the work doesn't stop after the system is installed. After all, everything needs maintenance, especially computer components in hot, dust-filled cars.

It also takes pockets full of cash. Granted, the cost can be decreased by using old parts that are rusting in the garage. However, it still requires hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the hardware and features that are desired. The prices we've seen range anywhere from $350 to $2,000.

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