In terms of functionality, this MP3 player is comparable to the Mega Player 521. Like the 521, the 522 handles bitrates from 16 to 320 kbits/s as well as variable bitrates and WMA. The display also shows the ID3 tag of the audio file being played back, or the file name if there is no ID3 tag.

On the downside, the 522 weighs 2.5 ounces (75 g), about 25% more than the 521. More importantly, we found that navigating up to 2 GB of MP3 files without being able to switch between folders got old pretty fast. This is something that should be fixed.

The unit only features 2.5 mm jack plugs, meaning standard headphones require an adapter. While the player does come with an adapter jack for 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm, it's a plug-to-plug (male-to-male) solution. The adapter lets you connect the player to the input ports of numerous devices, although a standard adapter is generally required for connecting it to most computer speakers or headphones.

The Mega Player 522's built-in equalizer only works when the quality-boosting SRS mode is deactivated, in which case it features the same EQ modes as the 521. Unlike the 521, however, this player does not come with a stopwatch and pedometer.

The standard display can be changed.