Zune 16 GB Video MP3 Player (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Before I start talking about the Zune I have to say that I've had several mp3 players in the past, from flash-based to HD-based. My newest one is this 8GB Zune. I got my Zune about a week ago, after getting rid of my 3G 8GB Nano, that I was not happy with. So this is why I'm more satisfied with the Zune vs. the Nano...
Hardware
-Shape is easier to hold and use than WS Nano
-LCD is glass, more durable and sharper than plastic on Nano
-Zune Touch Pad is more responsive and precise vs. click wheel
-Wireless sharing/syncing option
-Built-in FM Tuner
-Better sound quality even without EQ...I just hated how bad the Nano sounds even with Shure headphonesSoftware
-Very simple and easy
-Asthetically better than iTunes
User Interface
-No Coverflow but interface is more organized and intuitive
-Customizable background, not an option on Nano
-Easier to read
I have not tested the battery life but it's rated close to the Nano so I'll live with whatever it really is. One thing I haven't checked on but someone else wrote about was the Zune not being a UMS Device when plugged in. Hopefully that's something Microsoft can/will change so that you can store other files on it. Overall, I'm must more satisfied with this player than the Nano.

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Zune starts with a digital media player and adds a twist. You can wirelessly share selected full-length sample tracks, playlists, pictures or your homegrown tracks directly from Zune to Zune. You can listen to the full-length songs that you receive up to three times in three days, flag the ones you like and easily buy them the next time you sync up. You can discover new music in the Zune Marketplace, and show off your favorite pictures and videos on the big, bright screen. Zune has all that and a built in FM tuner, too. Let your inner DJ run wild.

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igig MP3-MP4 Player - Preloaded with 500 Persian songs Review

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(More customer reviews)Great item, you can't beat 500 Persian songs...except maybe if you had 300 Spartan songs.

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YOUR FIRST ALL TIME FAVORITE PERSIAN MP3 PLAYER.First MP3 player with 500 preloaded songs from the biggest Persia stars and with capacity of more than 1000 songs.

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Zune Car Pack Review

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(More customer reviews)*TAKE NOTE: Don't turn your radio on UNTIL you have found a clear FM station with the Zune Car Pack 2. Turning your radio on FIRST seems to prevent the device from finding any clear FM station.
*Some people have had luck tuning with the radio on. The important thing to remember is you are tuning a radio and just like a real radio it may take a little effort to tune it.
None of the harsh negative reviews are accurate IMHO and with respect to these people. It really makes me wonder of their validity in every single claim. The reviews greatly differ from the excellent and flawless product I just received and used. It could be that these well meaning people simply missing something on how to use this very simple and EXTREMELY effective device. My experience was a 100% POSITIVE with ZERO trouble! The Zune Car Pack 2 actually shocked the hell out of me because of the negative above reviews (I was already prepared to send it back). Like most everyone I read the user comments before I buy anything. I called Amazon to verify I could send this product back before I bought because of the horrid reviews above. Sometimes I will gamble anyway with a product purchase like this and this time and it paid off BIG. I got exactly what was advertised and what I wanted in my car.
1) I live in a VERY URBAN area. Nearly every single radio frequency is occupied. I plugged in the adapter hooked up the Zune used the auto-tune to find a clear station. Turned on the radio, tuned it to match the clear frequency and the sound was flawless. I honestly could not tell any significant difference from direct input. No kidding it works that well and that easy. There are also online resources that can locate some good clear FM frequencies by zip code if you should need extra help. The Zune Car Pack 2 finds the clearest stations for me everytime.
2) No static at all! Believe me I tried to get it. I shook my Zune like a nut, I shook the transmitter like an ape, I even placed metal objects on the cord and put the transmitter in every weird place I could think of. Perfect no static. I could not make static no matter how I tried (Man, I forgot to wrap everything in aluminum foil...now that may have a chance)! I tried my hardest to make this accessory sound bad and hear the static claims in the previous posted reviews. But the Zune Car Park v2 remained superb.
3) The Zune pad the is designed to hold the Zune on the dash or somewhere flat. Now I had my doubts about this set-up because I drive rather aggressively. I dusted off my dash and place the Zune on the pad. The thing is rock solid and I would trust it in almost all driving circumstances with confidence except for a hard hitting accident. A fender bender won't move that Zune a bit.
Try it out for yourself. You can always send it back to Amazon if you do not like the way it functions.
Plug in the adapter in the cigarette lighter, plug in the Zune, use auto-tune to find a clear station, turn on the radio, tune it to match the clear fequency and WOW!
The Zune Car Pack 2 is easy, static free, and movement DOES NOT effect the sound at all. As I said before I TRIED my hardest to get static but could not (with the exception of wrapping everything in aluminum foil).
The Zune Car Pack 2 is an excellent product in every respect.
That is what my real-world URBAN experience PROVED to me. I also learned you cannot always trust the reviews you read. Though I would not like to shop without them.
Give it a try as there is really nothing to loose----
I think that the problem is the device is so simple that people are not following the correct process for the device work properly (and the instructions could be better).
Remember to get the clear station tuned with the Zune Car Pack 1st and then turn on your radio and tune to the clear frequency.

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If you're taking a road trip, the Zune Car Pack gives you everything you need to be your own DJ, listening to your music through your car stereo while keeping your Zune charged. This device transmits music from your Zune into an FM frequency that can be picked up by your radio tuner. You can automatically select an optimal station for broadcast using the auto-tuning Zune FM Transmitter. It often takes more than one station to stay tuned in if you drive between different regions with different stations, that's why the Zune FM Transmitter has two presets so you can easily swap back and forth between your most commonly used broadcast stations. To keep up with a long road trip, you can charge your Zune while listening to music in the car. The magnetic storage clip allows you to keep wires out of your way, and the dashboard grip pad provides a great place to rest your device in the car. It is compatible with all Zunes.
What's in the Box: FM transmitter/charger, dashboard grip pad, product quick start guide, product manual.

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Zune HD 16 GB Video MP3 Player (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Between me and my husband we've owned more MP3 players over the years than I can count, including Sansas, iRivers, iPods (classic & touch), the Ibiza Rhapsody, etc. But, the last few years I've settled down to one line of players. Why? Because I was happy to discover how well-designed and fun to use the underappreciated (and widely mocked) Zunes are.
I'll gear this review to 2 types of people: current Zune owners who are considering an upgrade, and people trying to decide between a Zune and an iPod. (There are other players worth considering out there, like the Sony Walkman X, but I hope this gives you enough info to make an informed decision of the Zune vs players other than the iPod line as well.)
Zune and iPod: Most people compare the Zune to the Touch, but after seeing how slim and surprisingly small and light it is, I consider it to be a rather unique hybrid that combines qualities of both the Touch and the Nano. It's very colorful and lovely OLED screen is slightly smaller than the touch screen, but the player itself feels quite a bit smaller and lighter. It weighs about 2/3 as much, and is noticeably smaller in width and height, while being just a hair thicker.
Points of comparison:
- Brighter OLED screen with more vivid color and better contrast
OLED screens can wash out in direct sunlight more than others, but in almost any other situation they are clearly preferable, and have a marvelous eye-catching picture that needs to be seen to be appreciated. The screen has slighly lower resolution than the iPod Touch, but is also slightly smaller, so in the end video looks a little less pixellated when viewed closely, and very vivid.
- HD Radio
If you live within the reception area of some HD radio stations this can be a surprisingly nice feature. For me it's not so much the slightly better sound quality as it is the additional streams of content that make this fun. For example, if you tune into an FM station, then it's playing what you here, and if you don't like it too bad. With an HD station, you may tune in and it will be shown with up to three signals to chose from labeled HD1, HD2, and HD3. HD1 may have whatever is playing on the FM version, HD2 may be news, and HD3 might be some alternative music w/ a different theme. For example one of our oldies station in the Boston area broadcasts a love-song themed selection on HD3. One caveat: if you don't have a strong enough signal, these HD versions can cut in and out, making them frustrating to listen to. But, when the signal is strong enough it's very enjoyable.
- 720p video output via (an over-priced) dock. When transferring video content to the Zune you can specify if it should be sized appropriately for playback on the Zune or TV, so if you do plan to just watch on your Zune you won't have the video taking up huge amounts of storage.
- Zune Pass subscription service
This is my favorite feature that will keep me using a Zune until it's pried from my my desperate grasp. For $15 a month I get 10 DRM-free MP3 songs to keep, and unlimited access to millions of songs. As long as you would have bought at least 10 songs anyways that means you're paying only $5 for that access. It's better than Pandora, Slacker, LastFM or other services because you can listen to full CDs, specify playlists and tracks in the exact order you want, AND can either stream this music or store it on your Zune to listen to later, even if out of wifi range. Lots of people present subscription services as something you do INSTEAD of owning music, but at this cheap a price there's no reason you can't use this as a supplement to whatever purchases you make. It's not either/or, it's a wonderful "AND", especially if you're the type who likes to explore and enjoy a broad range of music.
Apple now has Rhapsody as an app, which is a great start, but it is currently hampered by the inability to store locally on your iPod, and has a dismal 64kbps bit rate. If this changes, then it will somewhat negate this advantage for the Zune, but the 10 songs per month will still be a big plus in Zune Pass' favor.
- Wireless sync
In addition to wireless net access, you can sync your Zune to your PC wirelessly, which can be quite convenient on occasion. The new Zune HD seems to have better wireless reception than my prior Zunes.
- Smart DJ
Rhapsody first popularized a playlist construction service with its 'Channels' feature, and Apple followed with its 'Genius' feature. The idea is that you specify a song or artist, and the service will construct a playlist of similar music of both familiar and new artists for you to enjoy. The prior Zunes had a 'Channel' feature too, but I found it lacking in sophistication and accuracy. The 4.0 Zune Marketplace upgrade (the Zune equivalent of iTunes) now has a 'Smart DJ' feature that is a much improved version of the old Channels. I actually find it very useful now, and what's even better is that if you have Zune Pass you can specify whether it should pull music exclusive from your collection, from the Zune Pass selection, or from a combination of both. It's wonderfully flexible and lots of fun.
- Web Browsing
The new Zune browser is surprisingly good, but not as good as the iPod's. It works well, but isn't as fast as Safari, and has a clunkier interface. If you occasionally plan on using the web browser that's not an issue, but if you're planning to browse the web alot from your PMP then the iPod's larger screen and better browser may be important.
- App Store
Hands down, Apple's app store wins by a mile. It's a huge selection of all sorts of apps vs a rather sad selection of a handful for Zune. Microsoft has plans, especially in the realm of games, but I'm not sure I'd want to bet on the future if this aspect is important to you. The iPod is a much better choice in that case.
- Zune Marketplace and iTunes
This is getting a bit more subjective, but I much prefer the Zune Marketplace. The interface is colorful, has more flair, and some cool features like 'Mixview' that let you quickly see related albums, songs, or other users related to what you're listening to. Clicking on one of those will center on that item, and another set of "neighbors" will come into view, allowing you to navigate around exploring by similar artists, songs, or users. Speaking of users, the Zune "Social" is also great fun, letting you find others with shared tastes and becoming friends with them. You then can listen to a playlist created based on an amalgamation of what all your friends are listening to, which is also enjoyable. Those concerned with privacy will be relieved to know you can prevent the public from seeing your personal listening habits if you so choose.
- UI
The HD's UI was a bold move that paid off. It may look cluttered and overly busy in screenshots, but to see it in action is to appreciate the design. It isn't always obvious, and the provided documentation is sparse, but a little experimentation will show you a UI with lots of flexibility, like a menu of favorites, newly added music, and a user-definable set of shortcuts to your favorite playlists, artists, HD Radio stations, etc. One quibble: it takes one too many clicks and touches to bring up the now playing screen after the display has 'gone to sleep' while you're listening to it. Other than that, the UI is delightful.
- Summary
The Zune concentrates on being a Portable Media Player. Not a web browser. Not a game machine. Maybe in the future it'll do even better in those areas, but for now it's a fantastic way to organize and listen to your music and videos, and is without peer in that regard. The iPod's strengths are its web browsing and apps. If those sound more compelling, perhaps it is your best choice.
If you're still on the fence: grab your favorite earphones, head down to a Best Buy and ask to plug them into a Zune then an iPod and see which one sounds better to you, and which interface makes you smile more. Then you'll know which is right for you.
- Current Zune Owners
(See, I didn't forget you!) I think owners of any of the older flash players will be delighted at the upgrade, as long as money isn't an issue. Don't hesitate. Those who value the higher capacity of the 80gb or a 120gb will have a tougher choice. If you can't afford both, then you'll have to weigh the ability to be able to have all (or at least most) of your music stored on the device vs the HD radio, better display, and sleeker than a seal UI. As I said before, this new Zune is surprisingly small and light, and you should find one to get a feel for in person too, because then you can really evaluate how compelling those new features are to you. Oh, and don't forget it has an Equalizer if that matters!
Keep in mind: Microsoft has made it clear that the HD line is the future. They were great about giving new features to the older models in the past, but we're seeing a clear signal with the 4.0 Marketplace. Most of the cool new stuff is only going to the new kid on the block, and I think that will continue to be the case. They won't cut you out entirely, but if they're going to concentrate on making the HD succeed, then I suspect that is where most if not all of their future focus and effort will go.
Sorry for the huge review, but I'm really loving the new Zune, and hope this, as well as the excellent reviews some other people have written, will help you decide if it's the right choice for you.

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Zune is the premium digital experience that gives you access to the latest in entertainment and technology, allowing you to enjoy, connect, and discover content in a whole new way--the way you like it. Browse, stream, buy, and play all you want, including music, HD video, podcasts, games, and much more. Gain the freedom to enjoy your entertainment. Zune brings your content up front, so you're always in control.




Instant Entertainment that You Control
HD Radio Technology: More Stations, better sound, no fees
HD-compatible Video: High-quality video on the go or on your HDTV
Internet Browsing: News, email, traffic? It's all in your pocket.
OLED Touchscreen: Wide view with a special touch
Games: More games, more fun



Zune HD
Portable perfection The new Zune HD wireless media player takes you closer and connects you to a whole new world of entertainment. With a built-in HD Radio receiver, HD-compatible video, multi-touch navigation, OLED screen, and games, Zune HD delivers the next level in music and video experiences.

Zune HD 16 GB: holds up to 5 hours of high-definition video; 24 hours of standard definition video; 4,000 songs; or 25,000 pictures. Available in black.

HD Radio Technology

The new Zune HD gives you access to many local HD Radio stations with crystal-clear digital sound at no extra cost. Receive additional channels from your local stations and get more of the content you love, including sports, news, and music, in various genres and formats.
Like something you hear on HD Radio? Song tagging technology allows you to buy the song if you are connected to a Wi-Fi network or to tag it for later purchase.
Click here for more information about HD Radio.

HD-compatible Video

Watch HD movies, TV shows, and more on your HDTV directly from your Zune HD. Just connect via the Zune HD & AV Dock to your HDTV (both sold separately) to watch 720p HD video. The Zune HD also will play your videos on the go in its sharp, brilliant OLED screen. Videos on the player are downscaled to fit the screen at 480 x 272--not HD resolution.

Quickplay

Get instant access to your stuff with shortcuts to favorites, recently downloaded or played music, videos, and more. Quickplay cuts through the clutter and brings up front the content that you care about most.

Games

Loaded with multi-touch and accelerometer, the Zune HD player makes portable gaming even more exciting. Download from Zune's catalog of free games and popular titles--play them all to the sound of your favorite music.

OLED Touchscreen

Get instant access to your content with multi-touch navigation. With a 3.3-inch size and vivid 16:9 display (480 x 272 resolution), truer and brighter entertainment is at your fingertips.

Wireless

Zune HD allows you to buy, stream, and update your music--and download free games--wirelessly via a Wi-Fi connection. Feeling entangled? Wirelessly sync your Zune HD to your home PC via your home network. You also can stream millions of songs over Wi-Fi directly to your Zune HD and turn it into a portable digital jukebox.

Internet Browsing

Surf the web anytime, anywhere you have a Wi-Fi connection. Enjoy your favorite websites with a well-featured web browser, including tap-to-zoom technology, built-in accelerometer, and touchscreen QWERTY keyboard.

Zune Marketplace

Download free Zune software to access Zune Marketplace from your PC. Download or stream new music, rent the latest movies, buy TV shows, and watch free trailers and previews--plus thousands of audio and video podcasts. You also can download from our catalog of free games including classic and other popular titles.

Expand Your Entertainment with Xbox 360

Zune features movies, TV shows, and more in both high and standard definition. Browse and watch from thousands of titles for rent, or purchase available instantly through Microsoft's Smooth Streaming technology. Buy videos once and watch on multiple screens: on your Xbox 360, Zune player, and PC. See www.xbox.com/live for system requirements. The convenience of on-demand, only on Xbox 360.



Accessories (Sold Separately)
Zune HD AV Dock This all-in-one package enables Zune HD players to charge, sync, and play supported 720p HD videos on HDTVs. Send music to your home audio systems and control it all via a wireless remote.

Zune Premium Car Pack Charge and play music, podcasts, and HD Radio stations from your Zune HD while you drive. The FM transmitter/car charger auto-seeks the best available frequency on your car stereo. A USB port located on the transmitter/car charger allows you to charge a second Zune player simultaneously.

Zune Sync Cable Charge your Zune player and sync with your collection on your PC.

Zune Charge Pack The Zune AC Adapter fast-charges your Zune player up to 70% within an hour. Folding blades make it easy to travel with. Use the included USB cable to sync with a PC.

Zune Power Pack Connect your AV cable to your docked Zune HD to play music, HD Radio broadcasts, and audio podcasts through your home audio system. The HDMI cable connects your docked Zune HD to HDTVs to view movies and videos. Also includes Zune AC Adapter; Zune HD player and Zune HD AV Dock sold separately.

Zune Sync Dock Connect to your PC and sync your collection while you charge your Zune in style. Control from a distance with the included wireless remote, which gives you full access to your Zune player from anywhere in the room.

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Kicker ZK500 Zune Speaker Dock (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I just purchased the zkicker 500 and have had it for a week. It is an amazing product. The sound is extremely clear and crisp, better than anything else I own. Don't worry about turning this one up. At volume level 16/40 It shakes the pictures on my wall. Even at higher volumes there is no distortion. Bass is clean, it puts outs out a lot of bass. Not as much as your 15" sub in your car, but enough. I have never seen a boombox so small that puts out this much sound. It has +-9 on the base and treble settings to make it do what you want with your music. The remote fully controls the zune very accurately. It connects to your entertainment system through componant video. It displays movies great and adds to your sound system. When I watch movies I hook it up to get a larger range of sound. I recomend this product. I would even recomend this product even if you don't have a zune, it has auxillary input for any sound device. It is worth every penny!
High Range: 8/10 produces high range sound well, few sounds missing in movies
Mid Range: 10/10 Very crisp and clear
Low Range: 9/10 Great sounding bass(There is a lot), some people might want a little more
Functionality: 10/10
Price: 10/10 worth the money

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From the indisputable leader in car audio comes its loudest and most innovative stereo system available for your Zune media player: the KICKER ZK500--designed to be the loudest digital portable system available. For nearly 30 years, KICKER has set the standard in its industry as the dominant car audio brand by producing high-performance equipment that guarantees unbeatable sound quality and hard-hitting bass. Now, KICKER busts out of the car and into the home with the bumping KICKER ZK500 Stereo System for Zune.
More Power One of KICKER's most powerful MP3 docking stations on the market, the zK500 lets you get more out of your Zune than ever before. Bass and treble adjustment allow users to enjoy their music the way they want. The big, bumping speakers, 5-inch woofers, and 40-watt stereo amplifiers deliver the kind of crisp, powerful sound you expect from a KICKER product. KICKER's patent-pending 6-inch square reflex subwoofer delivers a dynamic bass response unmatched by other MP3 docking stations.
Full-Featured Remote Equipped for any setting, the ZK500 includes a credit-card-size infrared remote, allowing you to navigate with ease through the stereo system menu. The innovative remote lets you adjust the stereo system's bass, treble, and auxiliary-in options, as well as the Zune menu directories. Select standby mode to continue charging your MP3 player even when it's powered down.
Auxiliary Input: A mini-jack input also lets you connect additional media to the stereo system, including other MP3 and compact-disc players, as well as desktop and laptop computers, or satellite radio. With adapters fit for all Zune models, the ZK500 delivers a complete entertainment experience.
What's in the Box KICKER ZK500 iPod Speaker Dock (Black), remote control, Zune adapters, manual.

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Zune Car Pack Review

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(More customer reviews)Wasn't really planning on buying one of these, but found one at a decent price and thought I'd give it a try.
First thing, this is a quality, well made product. Unlike a lot of car power adapters, this provides a clean, shielded source of power that doesn't put off a lot of interference. The FM transmitter, like most FM transmitters, isn't overpowering, but does an ok job when you aren't in an area crowded with FM signals.
Any FM transmitter is going to get buried in the middle of a city. These things work best in lesser populated areas where there are empty frequencies. Belkin's website has a tool for their FM transmitters, that can give you an estimate of the best FM frequencies to try in any given Zip code.
This transmitter has a great display and worked well in my local area and in several of the surrounding areas.
A couple things I really liked about this. First, while the power adapter is engaged, the Zune will display the LCD so you can see cover art and song information while keeping the Zune charged. Secondly the FM transmitter has a great digital display that is clearly visible during the day and night.
Only thing I didn't like is that the FM Transmitter just inserts into the player without actually locking. It stays put ok, but not if you have your Zune in a case. (At least not in the Silicone case I was using).
Folks, if you live in a city, your not going to be happy with any FM transmitter. Also, different FM transmitters work differently in various cars. I've tested several, there is no rhyme or reason. Try one out, if it doesn't work ok, return it and try a different one. If you live in a big city, get an adapter to run directly into your stereo. No FM transmitter is going to work. FCC doesn't allow them to have enough signal to drown out the local stations crowding your local airwaves.


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The Zune Car Pack includes everything needed to keep the music rolling loud and clear through you car's speaker system. Perfect for use in multiple vehicles, when you buy the Zune car pack, you'll get the FM Transmitter with Autoseek and the Zune Car Charger. Designed to wirelessly stream music from the Zune via the car's FM radio, the included FM transmitter ensures clean and crisp Zune playback without the hassle of complicated and messy wires. Complete with an autoseek feature, the FM transmitter automatically finds an optimally clear radio station to use for streaming.
Just turn it on, wait for the signal to connect, and you're ready to rock and roll. So you can leave battery life worries back at home, the car pack includes a handy cigarette lighter charger for the Zune, allowing you to enjoy music on the move and charge the Zune at the same time. An integrated status indicator on the car charger helps prevent any negative impact on the car's battery--an ideal feature for those times when you might be tempted to jam out through the car's stereo while the engine is off. It even comes complete with a coiled cable for easier storage. The car pack comes backed by a limited 1-year warranty.
What's in the Box FM transmitter with autoseek function and 12-volt cigarette lighter adapter.

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Zune 30 GB Digital Media Player (Pink) Review

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(More customer reviews)I recently received this for Mothers Day from my children and one of them installed a program to convert any dvd movie to play on my ZUNE, so this is much better than an Video Ipod, as the screen size makes it very enjoyable to watch movies on ! How smart of Microsoft to introduce this color before a major 'Holiday'! Be sure to purchase a screen cover ; a small square of thin plastic that protects it from scratches but will not be noticeable during movie or photo playback. A case with a kickstand to hold the Zune horizontaly is nice as well as keeping it covered when not in use. All in all ,I am very pleased with my gift,no matter what the color!

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Entertainment and sharing to go. That's the Zune 30 GB Digital Media Player. The Zune plays music and videos, displays images, and unlike the iPod, it even receives FM radio so you can stay on top of local news or sports. Designed around the principles of sharing, discovery, and community, Zune connects people and empowers them with the tools needed to share entertainment experiences. The Zune experience is centered around connection--connection to your library, friends, community, and other Zunes. It's powered by software that allows users to manage files on the player, rip audio CDs, and buy from a wide selection of music and videos at the Zune Marketplace.
The Zune is a 30 GB digital media player, but there's a twist. You can wirelessly share selected full-length sample tracks, playlists, pictures, or your own home-grown tunes directly from Zune to Zune (within 30 feet). You can listen to the full-length songs that you receive up to three times in three days, flag the ones you love, and easily buy them the next time you sync up--its like test-driving songs before you purchase an album.
The Zune's navigation is simple and intuitive with a scroll wheel and basic buttons, and the big, bright screen makes it easy to browse music and show off your favorite pictures and videos. This attractive, smart device stores up to 7,500 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 100 hours of video. Get creative. Make playlists on the go and watch slide shows while you're listening. And if you're watching video on the Zune, you'll be pleased with the landscape mode that allows you to get the most out of the vivid display.
Zune-to-Zune Sharing Don't forget the primary principle of the Zune: sharing. With this device in hand you're holding an opportunity to share music and photos wirelessly from one Zune to another. Send your favorite tracks or images to your friends, or just about anyone with a Zune that's within your reach.
Whether you're walking down the street, in a room with a bunch of friends, at a concert, at the airport, or on the bus, you can whip out your Zune and see all the other Zune devices that surround you. In the blink of an eye you're connected to your best friend and you can send over your band's newest song. Another friend might get the hilarious podcast your little brother made at school, plus that hot new song you just downloaded from the Zune Marketplace. And, of course, there's all the good stuff that your friends want to send back your way. The connections are made and the Zune community grows.
Best of all, the song you sent (or received) isn't a short 30-second preview--it's the whole song. Your friend can sample the song up to three times in three days, flag it on their device and then buy it from the Zune Marketplace. You can send pictures, too. If you loved the photo of your dog at the park and you just have to share it with your buddies, shoot it off to whoever is around. And any pictures that are sent or received can be kept and viewed indefinitely.
Sometimes you don't want to be noticed, and the Zune allows you to fly under the radar. All you need to do is turn the wireless function off, or adjust the privacy settings to control whether people can see you are online. And if you want to keep your Zune private while studying in the library or reading the newspaper on the bus, you can also block Zune devices in wireless range from sending you a song.
Zune Marketplace Zune makes it easy to find music you love--whether it's songs in your existing library or new music from the Zune Marketplace. You can easily import your existing music, pictures, and videos in many popular formats from your PC and browse millions of songs at the Zune Marketplace where you can purchase individual tracks or buy a Zune Pass subscription to download as many songs as you want for a flat fee. Plus, you can apply Microsoft Points towards the purchase of music so you can buy online without a credit card for added security. At the Zune Marketplace you can read over 100,000 artist biographies and features from leading magazines including XLR8R, NME, and FADED, and you'll have easy access to Billboard Charts, including Billboard 200, Hot 100 Songs, and more. You'll even be able to browse what people in the Zune community are listening to by checking out the Zune Charts.
Pre-Loaded Content Zune is a vehicle to explore new sounds and share entertainment experiences. With that in mind, the Zune comes pre-loaded with a variety of songs and videos from hot, new artists, as well as some fun films and images. With something for everyone, the pre-loaded Zune content may help you discover your new favorite band, but at the very least you'll have some entertainment at your fingertips so you can start connecting and sharing. Zune pre-loaded content includes loads of audio tracks, music videos, and film shorts, plus 12 classic rock posters from "Art of Modern Rock: The Poster Explosion."
Zune Accessories You can choose from a full line of accessories to outfit your Zune. These three Zune Accessory Packs provide complete solutions for Zune in your car, in your home or while you travel. Individual accessories are also available.

The Zune Car Pack includes everything needed to hit the road with a Zune device, such as the built-in FM tuner with AutoSeek and the Zune Car Charger.
The Zune Home A/V Pack enhances your experience in the home through five products that integrate Zune with the TV and music speakers: Zune AV Output Cable, Zune Dock, Zune Sync Cable, Zune AC Adapter and the Zune Wireless Remote for Zune Dock.
The Zune Travel Pack is a set of five products designed to keep friends and family entertained on the road: Zune Premium Earphones, Zune Dual Connect Remote, Zune Gear Bag, Zune Sync Cable and the Zune AC Adapter.
What's in the Box Zune 30 GB Digital Media Player, earphones, USB cable, and sleeve.

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Zune 120 GB Video MP3 Player (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)No matter your opinion on Microsoft, the amazing fact remains that every time they update a Zune they include a free software update for all past Zunes making them nearly identical as the new Zunes. I am sure one day this may stop due to the fact that the new hardware will require a different type of OS that won't work on the old Zunes (i.e. a Zune Touch or something). Until then, I am have been a very happy past/present Zune owner for this reason.
I owned a Zune 30 for 2 1/2 years prior to buying the Zune 120. My old Zune worked perfectly and was not a factor in my decision to upgrade. Did I need the extra space? Not really... but I wanted to try out the touch/click "squircle" before the new Zune games were launched. I read that some games may not work (or work as intended) with the Zune 30 since it does not have the touch sensitive pad. We'll see how true that is when games are put on to the Marketplace.
My opinion after owning the Zune 120 for a couple weeks:
The Good:
-I am a rabid/avid fan of the Zune Pass. I don't mind renting music, in fact I LOVE it. It really opens me up to new bands without wasting $10-20 on an album I may hate. For $14.99 a month [for unlimited downloads on up to 3 Zunes and 3 Computers] I can download from more songs than I can fathom and not be upset if I pick a few tone-deaf artists along the way. If I love an album enough to keep it I can buy it from Zune or Amazon or whomever. If you think about it, the Zune Pass could save you money by allowing you to test out bands before committing to a purchase. Also, if throwing a house party or having guests over, you can download music for your guests that you might never consider buying for yourself.
-Audible support now available. Not sure how much I will use this feature yet but for now I like it and am happy I am not closed off from this option.
-WiFi: the options are now amazingly more advanced and now having WiFi on the Zune makes sense. Being able to download songs over a WiFi connection is huge. McDonald's is teaming up with Zune and will be offering their WiFi connection to Zune owners in the near future. While iPod does this with Starbucks, there are many more McDonalds than Starbucks in the U.S. Though not sure if this is a good thing ;)
-Channels!!!: I love the new channels built into the software. As a Zune Pass subscriber I love taking advantage of this. The software makes a "channel" once a week of songs it thinks I will like based on a genre (I have a "My Classic Rock" channel, "My Rock" channel, and since I share my Zune Pass with family members a "My R&B" channel). I choose which, if any, channels I want to subscribe to (so I can skip the R&B one if I desire) and it downloads a playlist of sorts that changes every week. Also, I can subscribe to other generic channels (i.e. "Rock" Channel, "Punk/Ska" Channel etc.) not tailored directly to me if I so desire. This has been a great way to sample new bands/music that have relevance to my music style. Of course if you love a song/artist you can always permanently download the songs. If you are an avid gym buff or runner there are some very cool channels titled "Walk" "Jog" and "Run" that have songs which consist of the same range of beats per minute to keep you moving at a constant speed. Very cool.
-Mixview: Much better looking than "Genius" on iTunes since Mixview uses album art and artists pictures rather than plain old text and Mixview's suggestions seem more relevant to me than Apple's "Genius." This can always change in the future as each product develops and I am excited that there is competition in this arena since it can only make this better and better. If you don't know what Mixview is, it is Zune's way of gathering data based on your music preferences (and the preferences of others) to recommend new music to you. Pandora (the Internet Radio website) does a BEAUTIFUL job at this. It's free and I would check it out if you have never used it before. Amazing.
-Battery Life: Much better than the Zune 30 which is a nice surprise. Leave WiFi off for a longer battery life.
-Accessory Compatibility: the charger, dock, remote, car charger, etc. from the Zune 30/80/120 all work together wonderfully. If you have the version 1 dock you will need to remove the plastic insert in order to have the 80/120 fit. It only takes a few seconds and is very painless. I would add a link to websites that show video/pictures on how to do this but Amazon removed two posts in the Zune forum where I did this. Do a search, it's out there. The cases for the Zune 30 do not work with the 120 but the 80 is the same size and both use the same cases. Heard there are problems with older FM transmitters working with the newer Zunes. Not sure how prevalent this problem is as I use an AUX jack in the car.
-The Squircle: This is the only "big" difference between the Zune 30 and the 80/120. It did not take long for me to get used to using this but my learning curve may be shorter than others as I am used to swiping on my iPhone and now clicking seems more difficult for me. (You can turn this feature off if you just want to use the squircle as a click pad.) When I went to buy a case I found that most cases covered the squircle and was concerned it would mess with functionality. I want to report that it did not take away the ability of the Zune to notice my movements. However, the case makes it not as smooth of an action as the bare squircle (I have a silicone cover that makes my finger "stickier" against the case so the glide isn't as smooth). Something to think about when purchasing a case (which I would recommend.. see "The Bad")The Bad:
-I LOVED the Zune 30 casing. That was one beautiful thing that the Zune had over the iPod. The iPods scratched and showed wear very quickly and the Zune 30's casing was virtually indestructible. With the new casing (party in the front/business in the back... the reverse mullet) it seems that the possibility for scratching is now higher. The shiny front is a fingerprint magnet and the matte black back has a silver/gold metal underneath (as evidenced by Microsoft's Zune Originals website where you can have your Zune engraved professionally.. they "scratch" [engrave] a design and the gold/silver color appears). Not sure how deep you would have to scratch to get to that color and I won't volunteer to be a guinea pig. Sorry!
I highly recommend getting a case and I am a sucker for buying a screen protector as the Zune is nearly all screen on the front and should remain beautiful and scratch-free.The "I don't care"/ "No opinion":
-The Clock: There is a clock now.. and I don't care. Many did so they will be happy. No alarm built-in, so beware clock lovers. (Microsoft updates the firmware and software quite a bit so you never know if this could be added soon.)
-Buy from FM: I hate the radio in my smallish town. There are only a couple decent stations but they aren't good enough for me to stop listening to MP3s and tune in. For those who have better stations and are in to Top 40 or what is new on the charts this may be an amazing option for you. Getting artist and album info over Zune's FM radio could be helpful if your DJ never states the name of an artist (like so many don't) and, if you really like the song, you can download it immediately or tag it for download later (depending if you are in a WiFi hotspot or at home with plug in hand).
-Headphones: the Zune 30 came with "run of the mill" headphones, the Zune 80 came with "premium" headphones and the Zune 120 went back to the "run of the mill" headphones. I use third-party headphones ($100+) so I don't care what comes in the package. Others might so here it is.
-Games: as of today's date, there are no games available for download on the Zune Marketplace. This is supposed to change soon and I sure hope it does. However, there are two games that come loaded on the Zune when you plug it in to the computer and update (Hexic and Texas Hold 'Em). Apple has the upper hand here and has done wonders with the App store. I hope Microsoft takes note and does something like it with the Zune. Heck, I hope the do something even better so then Apple steps up their game even more... and around and around we go. Competition is great for consumers.
I think here is a good place to mention that I love my iPhone 3G AND my Zune and I need to have both in my life to be happy (in the materialistic sense). I don't listen to music on my iPhone due to limited space (after adding apps, photos, podcasts, etc. there isn't much room for music) and also because Apple does not have a subscription music "rental" service. Ideally I would like to see Zune make a phone similar to the iPhone or the iPhone to have a subscription based music service (both phones would need a large capacity drive) so I could carry around just one device (either iPhone or ZunePhone depending on the offerings). Until that day I live in harmony with my Zune 120 and my iPhone 3G.

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Philips HDD6330 30 GB MP3 Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Philips HDD line looks sleek and has some cool features, but all of that is wasted when you find out that the battery was factory installed and must be replaced by the factory at a cost of $143.73. Their customer service is neither apologetic or concerned about the cost or retaining a customer.
My advise is to avoid the Philips HDD line like the plague!

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Take a large chunk of your music library with you wherever you go with the nicely compact and incredibly stylish Philips HDD1630 GoGear digital audio player, which has an integrated 30 GB hard drive that can store up to 15,000 MP3 and WMA files (including DRM protected Plays For Sure WMA files from online stores and subscriber services). You can also show off your favorite photos to family and friends on the 2-inch backlit color LCD (220 x 220 pixels, 65 thousand colors, 8 lines of text) with the built-in photo viewer (compatible with JPEG image files). You can choose to see your pictures in thumbnail, full screen or slideshow mode and you can listen to music while browsing through your pictures.
It's easy to find files with Philips' SuperScroll navigation. The double action search keys allow easy speed control when scrolling through large libraries. You can choose to move through your playlist one song at a time or just press and hold down a little harder to scroll more swiftly to your desired track. This GoGear player also features a voice recorder via the mono microphone (files saved in WAV format), an FM tuner (with FM radio recording functionality), 5-band customizable equalizer with numerous presets (including classic, jazz, hip-hop, electronica, lounge, and more), 64 MB buffer memory, and SRS WOW bass enhancement.
It connects to PCs with Windows XP (SP1 and above) via ultra-fast USB 2.0 (not compatible with Mac OS). It's powered by an internal lithium-ion battery that provides up to 17 hours of continuous play when fully charged. It has a 1-hour fast charge time (charging the battery up to a 70 percent capacity), or a 4-hour full charge time.
The PlaysForSure designation ensures compatibility with Windows Media Player 10 and Windows XP. Using the Windows Media player, you can easily manage music on your GoGear digital audio player and auto-synchronize your PC music collection. Also, you'll enjoy the widest online shopping selection by simply looking for the PlaysForSure logo at your choice of online store or subscription service.
What's in the Box Philips HDD6330 30 GB digital audio player, protective rubber pouch, earphones, AC adapter, USB cable, CD-ROM with software and drivers

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Zune HD 64 GB Video MP3 Player (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Well, I've own my Zune HD for a year now and I absolutely LOVE IT!!!!
ITS A GREAT AND CHEAP ALTERNATIVE FROM THE IPOD PROS
Great Video, Audio Quality
Great user-friendly design
Attractive exterior design
Smaller than past Zune Generations
CHEAPER THAN iPod Touch and comes in 2ND when compared to iPod Touch
Zune Marketplace is a MILLION TIMES easier to use than iTunes Software
Zune Unlimited Monthly Music Pass (1 month of Unlimited Downloads) 14.99 a month - If you get this I advise to renew your Zune Pass every 2 months because once your Zune Pass Expires the first 30/31 days, it allows you a additional 30/31 days to listen to your "rented" music.
YOU CAN LISTEN TO AUDIO BOOKS ON IT
FM RADIOCONS
If your into apps, then you will be disappointed because Zune HD had less than 30 apps in its market and it DOES NOT allow 3rd Party app developers as of YET
Zune Marketplace itself still lacks tons of music that iTunes has (but YOU CAN BUY MUSIC FROM ITUNES AND PUT ON YOUR ZUNE IF NEEDED).
Zune Marketplace takes its time to update when new songs/movies, tv shows, music videos arrive
You can NOT play videos from iTunes or other sources without removing the DRM
Lacks new features that the new ipod has such as the camera

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Zune is the premium digital experience that gives you access to the latest in entertainment and technology, allowing you to enjoy, connect, and discover content in a whole new way--the way you like it. Browse, stream, buy, and play all you want, including music, HD video, podcasts, games, and much more. Gain the freedom to enjoy your entertainment. Zune brings your content up front, so you're always in control.




Instant Entertainment that You Control
HD Radio Technology: More Stations, better sound, no fees
HD-compatible Video: High-quality video on the go or on your HDTV
Internet Browsing: News, email, traffic? It's all in your pocket.
OLED Touchscreen: Wide view with a special touch
Games: More games, more fun



Zune HD
Portable perfection The new Zune HD wireless media player takes you closer and connects you to a whole new world of entertainment. With a built-in HD Radio receiver, HD-compatible video,1 multi-touch navigation, OLED screen, and games, Zune HD delivers the next level in music and video experiences.

Zune HD 64 GB: holds up to 20 hours of high-definition video; 96 hours of standard definition video; 16,000 songs; or 25,000 pictures.2 Available in black.

4.5 Firmware Release

Your Zune HD can now create custom Smart DJ playlists based on your favorite music. Just choose one artist or song in our collection, and Smart DJ will generate a pool of songs from other artists or albums alike. With Smart DJ, you'll discoverold favorites you might have forgotton about, or if you're a new Zune Pass subscriber, you can connect via Wi-Fi and stream new songs from Zune Marketplace.5
Plus, when you connect your Zune HD to your TV, you'll now be able to navigate the Zune Marketplace remotely and buy or stream3 songs and play directly into your big screen. (Zune HD AV Dock required; sold separately.)

Massive Capacity

The 64 GB Zune HD player can hold your HD movies and TV shows and still leave enough space for an immense music collection to carry in your pocket. Take with you a full season of your favorite TV show and plug into your HDTV.1 Or listen to its integrated HD Radio tuner and tag songs for later purchase. With this much space, you always have room for more!

HD Radio Technology

The new Zune HD gives you access to many local HD Radio stations with crystal-clear digital sound at no extra cost. Receive additional channels from your local stations and get more of the content you love, including sports, news, and music, in various genres and formats.
Like something you hear on HD Radio? Song tagging technology allows you to buy the song if you are connected to a Wi-Fi network or to tag it for later purchase.
Click here for more information about HD Radio.

HD-Compatible Video

Watch HD movies, TV shows, and more on your HDTV directly from your Zune HD. Just connect via the Zune HD & AV Dock to your HDTV (both sold separately)1 to watch 720p HD video. The Zune HD also will play your videos on the go in its sharp, brilliant OLED screen. Videos on the player are downscaled to fit the screen at 480 x 272--not HD resolution.

Quickplay

Get instant access to your stuff with shortcuts to favorites, recently downloaded or played music, videos, and more. Quickplay cuts through the clutter and brings up front the content that you care about most.

Smart DJ

Smart DJ creates custom playlists based on your favorite music. Simply choose an artist or track, and Smart DJ will generate a pool of songs from your own collection or--when connected to a Wi-Fi network--from Zune Marketplace.

Games

Loaded with multi-touch and accelerometer, the Zune HD player makes portable gaming even more exciting--and you can play them to the sound of your favorite music. Download from Zune's catalog of free games, including 3D, classic, and other popular titles like PGR: Ferrari Edition and Autiosurf Tilt.

OLED Touchscreen

Get instant access to your content with multi-touch navigation. With a 3.3-inch size and vivid 16:9 display (480 x 272 resolution), truer and brighter entertainment is at your fingertips.

Wireless

Zune HD allows you to buy, stream, and update your music--and download free games--wirelessly via a Wi-Fi connection. Feeling entangled? Wirelessly sync your Zune HD to your home PC via your home network. You also can stream millions of songs over Wi-Fi directly to your Zune HD and turn it into a portable digital jukebox.3

Internet Browsing

Surf the web anytime, anywhere you have a Wi-Fi connection. Enjoy your favorite websites with a well-featured web browser, including tap-to-zoom technology, built-in accelerometer, and touchscreen QWERTY keyboard.

Zune Marketplace

Download free Zune software to access Zune Marketplace from your PC. Download or stream new music, rent the latest movies, buy TV shows, and watch free trailers and previews--plus thousands of audio and video podcasts. You also can download from our catalog of free games including classic and other popular titles.

Zune Marketplace enables powerful music discovery:

Create custom playlists based on the artist, album, or song you choose with Smart DJ. You'll rediscover old favorites in your collection, and if you're a Zune Pass subscriber, you'll find new ones from Zune Marketplace.5
Pick an artist or band, or a song you like, then launch Mixview to find related artists and albums--even like-minded listeners in the Zune community.
Zune Channels are custom programmed playlists that deliver music from a variety of expert sources. As a Zune Pass subscriber, Channels automatically updates whenever you're connected to the Internet.5

Rent or purchase from a great selection of video in both high and standard definition. Watch on demand right on your PC, or take them to go on your Zune HD player.

And starting now, the moviews and TV shows that you buy from Zune, you can watch on all of your screens--your monitor, TV, or Zune player.6 Your purchase history goes with you, so you can download to you Xbox 360, PC, or Zune HD and enjoy everywhere you want at no extra cost.

Zune Pass

Enjoy unlimited music for one low monthly fee. a $14.99 monthly Zune Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of songs in Zune Marketplace. Download or stream your favorites and experiment with as much new music as you like. Listen whenever you want on up to three PCs and three Zune players while you keep your Zune Pass active. In addition, each month you'll receive 10 free song credits to redeem for MP3s that are yours to keep forever.5

Expand Your Entertainment with Xbox 360

Zune features movies, TV shows, and more in both high and standard definition. Browse and watch from thousands of titles for rent, or purchase available instantly through Microsoft's Smooth Streaming technology. Buy videos once and watch on multiple screens: on your Xbox 360, Zune player, and PC. See www.xbox.com/live for system requirements. The convenience of on-demand, only on Xbox 360.



Accessories (Sold Separately)
Zune HD AV Dock This all-in-one package enables Zune HD players to charge, sync, and play supported 720p HD videos on HDTVs. Send music to your home audio systems and control it all via a wireless remote.

Zune Premium Car Pack Charge and play music, podcasts, and HD Radio stations from your Zune HD while you drive. The FM transmitter/car charger auto-seeks the best available frequency on your car stereo. A USB port located on the transmitter/car charger allows you to charge a second Zune player simultaneously.

Zune Sync Cable Charge your Zune player and sync with your collection on your PC.

Zune Charge Pack The Zune AC Adapter fast-charges your Zune player up to 70% within an hour. Folding blades make it easy to travel with. Use the included USB cable to sync with a PC.

Zune Power Pack Connect your AV cable to your docked Zune HD to play music, HD Radio broadcasts, and audio podcasts through your home audio system. The HDMI cable connects your docked Zune HD to HDTVs to view movies and videos. Also includes Zune AC Adapter; Zune HD player and Zune HD AV Dock sold separately.

Zune Sync Dock Connect to your PC and sync your collection while you charge your Zune in style. Control from a distance with the included wireless remote, which gives you full access to your Zune player from anywhere in the room.

1. Zune HD player screen shows supported 720p HD videos at 480x272 – not HD. HDTV and Zune HD AV Dock (both sold separately) are required to view video at 720p HD resolution.
2. Music estimates based on 128 Kbps WMA files with length of 4 minutes each. Pictures transferred to Zune will be optimized for Zune screen size; video estimates based on 500 Kbps WMV files with 128 Kbps WMA audio tracks.
3. Wireless sync feature requires access to a home wireless network. Full song streaming feature requires a Zune Pass subscription.
4. Zune player sold separately. An HDTV (sold separately) required to view video at 720p HD resolution. See zune.net.
5. Zune Pass is a monthly music subscription service; some Marketplace songs are not available via Zune Pass. Available content may vary over time.
6. Content available for download on multiple devices may vary over time. Availability of content and video resolution will vary by device.

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Zune Wireless Remote for Zune Dock Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First off, size wise it's about half the size of the Zune itself in just about every way. It's small, but not too small to where it could innevitably annoy you.
To me, the buttons seem like they are placed a tad oddly. The back button and play buttons are over the "d-pad", instead of on the sides of it like the Zune device itself. It takes some getting used to, and the two "skip track" buttons are even higher up then said back and play buttons, which is even more out of the way. Also, the two volume up/down buttons toward the button of the remote don't actually control the volume on the Zune. I still have yet to figure out what they do.
Now, even though the buttons are (in my humble opinion) placed oddly, the d-pad on the remote mimmicks the one on the Zune device spot-on. So, you actually don't really have to use the buttons if you don't want to. I do have one more quibble, though. The IR range doesn't seem to be that good. When I use it in my Car, I sometimes have to point the remote directly at the Dock to get any response. Maybe that's just me, though.
But, I digress. The remote does what it needs to, and pretty well overall. It also has the same "soft" feeling the Zune device has, and like the Zune, is pretty scratch resistant. Now, if only it came in Brown or White...

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Designed exclusively for use with the Zune Dock (sold separately), the Zune wireless remote gives you quick access to your current playlist and full control over menu navigation and volume. The buttons on the wireless remote have the same controls as the Zune, so navigating through menus and media lists is easy and intuitive. Despite its small size, the button layout lets you easily hold and operate the remote with one hand. Small and sleek, the Wireless remote has an integrated magnet so you can attach it to a refrigerator, or you can store it in the integrated slot on the Zune dock. The wireless remote comes backed by a 1-year limited warranty.

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Zune Dock Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I received this item as a gift and, out of the box, it is little more than a sleek decorative puck. In other words, the dock does not include *any* cables, not even the Zune sync cable. Oh, it will hold the Zune upright though. It will also hold the Zune remote (sold *separately*.)
Once I collected the cables I needed (sync, plus either A/V or 3.5 to 3.5) the dock is working fine. I have nothing against the product, I just wish it came with at least the basic accessories out of the box.

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The Zune dock elegantly displays your Microsoft Zune media player anywhere in your home or office for easily customizable media access. The dock features a pair of built-in outputs for maximum versatility: a connector port for syncing and charging your Zune, and an audio/video output with a built-in audio amplifier. The connector port is a handy option for people who want to sync or charge their Zune without fumbling under the desk for the sync cable, as the cable instead plugs right into the dock. The A/V port, meanwhile, lets you connect the dock to a stereo system or TV for full-featured playback. In both cases, all you have to do is drop your Zune into the dock and it will charge, sync, or playback via the connected devices--no extra connections required. Plus, the dock includes an integrated IR receiver for use with the Zune wireless remote (sold separately). The IR receiver and remote give you quick access to your current playlist, as well as full control over menu navigation and volume. The dock even includes a small built-in slot that holds the remote--a convenient and stylish way to store the remote when not in use. As with all Zune accessories, the dock is backed by a 1-year warranty.

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Altec Lansing inMotion Speaker Dock with FM Radio for Zune (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Altec Lansing inMotion iM414v2 is an updated version of the iM414, which had a some fans and nearly as many detractors. Did Altec Lansing, a Plantronics company, get it right this time?
PROS:
- Good sound
- Easy to read LCD display
- FM tuner w/3 presets
- Aux-in
- Remote included
- Bass boost option helps
- Nice build quality
- AC or battery-operated (3xAA)
- Supports HD radio from Zune HD
- Now includes 3 adapters for multiple Zune support
CONS:
- Sound quality not as good as others, including other Altec Lansings
- Wire FM antenna difficult to tune and messy
- No clock function
- Mediocre value
Altec Lansing markets this as being for the home and office. I would have no problem using the iM414v2 in either location. Is it small enough to share space on my desks and provides good enough sound to be a compliment to any desk or shelf space. It does not however, take the place of my desktop multimedia system, which is not what the iM414v2 is intended for anyways.
SOUND QUALITY
For the size of the unit, I was quite impressed with the sound quality. The bass boost really does add some thump to the music, though the surround effect had very little effect. The high's were reasonably good but I found the mids to be rather bland. Again, these are portable speakers, so overall, the sound quality is good. The volume setting only goes to 30, but if you turn up the volume to max on your player, the speakers will present major distortion at 30.
FM TUNER
I found the tuning capabilities of the iM414v2 to be somewhat poor. The wire antenna is extremely long and not very effective just dangling towards the ground. I had to tape the antenna to the wall in order to get the best reception. I would have preferred a telescoping antenna like the MIX iMT800. You get 3 FM presets as well.
MISC
The build quality on the all plastic unit feels solid. The auxiliary line-in is a nice to have. Altec Lansing has now also included 3 different dock adapters for those with the Zune HD and older Zune's. The Zune will charge if the iM414v2 is on AC power but not on battery power, which is rated at 24 hour run-time. The LCD display is nice and clean but why not include a clock? Also, the warranty is just 1 year but if you register the speakers at Altec Lansing's website, they will extend your warranty to 2 years. Given some of the build issues from the original iM414, I would highly recommend everyone to register to get their free extended warranty.
SUMMARY
Overall, the Altec Lansing inMotion iM414v2 is a good speaker dock for the Zune. Time will tell if firmware changes improved on the older iM414. MSRP is rather high for such a basic speaker dock, but Zune users do not have many options other than using pre-existing AV equipment. If you've been getting by on your current configuration, I'd probably stick to that. If however, you didn't have your Zune connected to anything or would like something for the office, the iM414v2 is a decent option.

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Portable Speaker with FM Tuner for Zune and Zune HD.Drivers, enclosure and electronics are balanced for optimum sound.Full-range custom-designed speakers and surround effect technology combine to widen the audio image.Bass enhancement technology delivers quality bass without a subwoofer.Its the perfect music companion around the kitchen, bedroom, or workshop.Built-in dock recharges your Zune or Zune HD player when powered on.FM radio with convenient remote controls and station presets, LCD display, and antenna.Enjoy the crystal-clear sound of many local HD Radio stations at no extra cost with Zune HD. Battery life -8 x D (LR20) batteries provide up to 30 hours of continuous playing time 7-band graphic equalizer Multiple EQ modes let you select your sound Digital FM radio -Tune in to clean reception with antenna Infra-red (IR) remote control and onboard unit controls Automatically pauses music when a call is received on the iPhone Convenient side grab handles Unique design is immune to mobile phone interference; no need to switch to airplane mode Plug in or lose the wires with up to 30 hours of play using 8 D batteries Charges docked iPod/iPhone Unit Dimensions -19.7 (W) x 9.3 (D) x 7.7 (H)

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Zune 80 GB Digital Media Player (Red) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've owned 5 different kinds of iPods, as well as the original Zune, and I must say, that this product is by far the best of the group. I spent the day trying to return my iPod Classic (80GB) so that I could get my hands on one of these---and I had to look just about everywhere in town to find one.
Is this better than the iPod Classic? Undoubtedly. I can make a fair comparison, as I have been toying with the Classic for the last two weeks. I've had iPod Nanos (first and third generations), 3 iPod Videos (5G), and an iPod Classic (80GB). The iPod is a fine product line, but I had too many bad experiences with the 5G video to want to keep them. I heard that the Z80 came out so I went and bought that one instead.
I'm going to spend most of my time here discussing how the Zune 80 compares to its predecessor, the Zune 30, as well as the iPod line--as it has set the standard for mp3 players for the last few years.
Screen- The glass screen looks much better than the original Zune's plastic one. The 320X240 resolution looks great. It looks far better than the Classic's screen. You can turn it sideways to take full advantage of it while watching videos. The iPod Classic's screen can only be viewed from one direction, and it has for the most part remained the same since the fifth generation. The video quality is great. Although this is technically the same resolution as the ipod Classic, nano, and Zune 4 and 8, it still manages to look great because of its size and clarity. You will notice that the quality on the smaller Zune appears sharper, but that's only because there are more pixels per square inch on them, due to the smaller size. Still looks awesome. This screen is slightly larger than the 1G Zune, but overall it is still smaller in both thinness and height. The glass screen is far more durable than the plastic one, and after a few months of testing it now I can say that it does not scratch easily, if at all.
Build- This thing is built to last. It feels a lot denser and sturdier than the last year's model. The first generation Zune couldn't win a beauty contest by a long shot--but I think this one's a winner. Aluminum back reminds me of the iPod line, although it's much better because it is brushed metal. (Meaning you don't have to keep it in a glass case, and bring out gloves when you want to handle it, like you did with the iPods). The paint, believe it or not, is actually very difficult to scratch. I've put it in my pocket with my keys, and the screen nor the paint scratches. I wouldn't want purposefully subject it to such tests, but it happened, and it's still in pristine condition. I scratched the back of my iPod Classic the first day I got it because of the glossy metal back. Scratching the back of your iPod is inevitable. I really don't see a need for a case.
Zunepad- The iPod's scroll wheel was a nice piece of work when it first came out. The Zunepad is better. Bold statement? Maybe. But I can now navigate via touch controls in four different directions as opposed to two with the iPod. And it is very easy to do so. I was skeptical at first, but Microsoft nailed it. You can choose if you want to flick your fingers across the "squirqle" to play your music, or you can just press the buttons to navigate. Nothing against Apple, but the scrollwheel on the Classic wasn't nearly as sensitive as the 5th generation iPod video's. Aren't you supposed to make progress when you release new hardware? I had problems with my Classic's scrollwheel's sensitivity. I can definitely see myself navigating menus much faster using the Zunepad.
A few things that I've noticed: Zunepad doesn't work with gloves of any sort (most of the time). Not that big of a problem, but I have noticed something interesting. Even the analog buttons underneath the Zunepad do not work if you are wearing gloves. It must sense that your skin is actually touching it to work correctly. I found that rather odd. I get some response out of it, but it usually doesn't respond the way you want it to. This is a big deal for me, as it is getting cold. Taking off your gloves to change a song is a burden, although I still enjoy using it more than I did the scrollwheel (which worked with gloves.) I've tried cotton, leather, and suede. This sounds crazy, but it is my biggest gripe with the Zune 80.
Firmware- Not too much different from the original, aside from aesthetics. It just looks pretty. Oversized letters are nice to look at, in addition to some decent animations. You can set your own backgrounds, as opposed to having the iPod Classic automatically flowing album art in the back (I hated that). The "twist" interface is much easier to use than that of the Ipod. I'm pretty sure I can get to a song much faster than someone with an Ipod. It works similar to a spreadsheet, as you have artist, songs, albums etc. listed at the top, with the contents of the respective categories listed below. A simple f lick to the right or left immediately changes categories. Microsoft definitely wins in this department.
Radio- You'd have to pay for this if you bought an Ipod Classic. Although I don't use it, it is still nice to have.
Zune Software- I'll be honest, I've been using itunes for a few years now, and I hate it. When I bought the original Zune, I thought that escaping itunes would be a good thing. I was wrong. The original software was abysmal. BUT, the new software is a vast improvement. It's almost too simple. And it's also easy on the eyes. I may consider using this as my default player from now on---something that I would have never done with the original software. The reason why I got rid of my original Zune in favor of the iPod classic was the software. I was tired of using it. Now I have more reason to keep my Zune.
After using it for awhile, I have noticed a few quirks with this software, mainly that it seems to sync a small group of songs over and over again. I see this being fixed by Microsoft's next update. I've been using it for awhile now, and I am not entirely as optimistic about it as when I wrote this review. It is STILL superior to itunes, and definitely the original software, but they need to fix a few issues with it. Namely the syncing options. The software recognizes some of the videos in the mpeg 4 format, but not all. I am thinking that this might have been a problem with the conversion software (Xvid->mpeg4).
The sound quality, which is probably the most important part of this review, is great. One problem is that they removed the equalizer, so what you hear is what you get. That wasn't a smart move on Microsoft's part. I think it sounds louder than an iPod, but I'm not an audiophile by any means.
Premium earbuds. These are alot nicer than most other stock headphones. They're the in-ear type, and they will take some getting used to if you've never used them. Bass response is a plus. I tried them earlier and they are comparable to my more expensive Sony's.
DRM- I don't know alot about this category, so look at the comments that people have left at the end of this review. I don't use this type of content. I do understand that anything downloaded from itunes will not work on the Zune. So if your entire library was downloaded on itunes, don't get this MP3 player. It's their way of making sure you continue to buy their products, as well as preventing piracy.
Wireless sync. I really can't use this.I hear it works nicely though. I can't really imagine using it, so take this one as you will. I really don't see the big deal about this. If I'm syncing my music, I want my Zune to charge as well. Maybe this feature is for lazy people, but I don't see it as useful.
Drive usage. You can't put anything on here that doesn't run through the Zune software. In other words--You won't be using this as a portable hard drive, even though most of us will not fill it up with music. You can do whatever you please with an iPod. There ARE hacks online that require you to alter your registry available online. Google is your friend. Try it at your own risk.

Battery life- Okay, the battery life isn't too shabby when just playing mp3's. I went a weekend with reasonable use without having to recharge it (forgot usb chord in the car). Battery life with video isn't good at all, but I don't think it was too far off from that of the Classic iPod. I'd prefer the large screen and lesser battery life over that of the Classic any day. Conclusion-
I'm not a Micro$oft fanboy, contrary to what this review might look like. I've owned nothing but ipods before owning the 1G Zune. I must say that this seems to be the best one I've owned, and I don't regret returning my Classic.
It's easier to use, has a nicer screen, very generous capacity, great sound and video playback, a built in radio, and sleek design.
If the iPod Classic can earn four stars, this definitely gets five, as it is the superior mp3 player---by a longshot. It's not without its shortcomings, but they are forgivable, considering we've been under "ipod control" for the last few years.
That's about all I can think of. Hope this helps.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Zune 80 GB Digital Media Player (Red)

Music and entertainment, your way. That's what the Zune 80 GB Digital Media Player is designed to deliver. The Zune easily connects you with your music, videos, and pictures wherever and whenever you want, and unlike the iPod, it even has a built-in FM tuner so you can keep up with local news and sports. Your Zune gives you the power to wirelessly share full-length tracks, playlists, pictures and podcasts with your other Zune-wielding friends. And when you receive songs that you just can't get out of your head, you can easily tag the songs and buy them the next time you sync up. Whether you're listening to music, radio, or rocking out to the latest music videos on the bright, roomy screen, the Zune allows you to tailor your entertainment, right in the palm of your hand. Watch a demo on Zune.
Simple, Innovative Controls The Zune is a breeze to use with new, intuitive touch controls. Don't subject yourself to cumbersome, slow scrolling. The innovative new Zune pad makes browsing your music, video and picture collections fun and effortless. You'll fly through your favorites and get to just what you're looking for in no time flat. This powerhouse device stores up to 20,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 250 hours of video. (Please note that music estimates are based on 128 kbps WMA files, with length of 4 minutes each; pictures transferred to Zune will be optimized for Zune screen size; and video estimates are based on 500 kbps WMV files with 128 kbps WMA audio tracks.)
That's a lot of entertainment, and you'll appreciate it even more with the Zune's awesome screen. The big, beautiful, 3.2-inch color screen provides uncompromising portable video viewing. This Zune also comes equipped with premium earphones. Designed to block out external noise, these earphones provide superior sound and bass response, and leave your ears with nothing but your favorite tunes. Your favorite music, videos, and pictures have never looked and sounded better.
FM Radio The Zune also features a built-in FM radio tuner so that you can listen to local FM stations or tune-in programming while you're at the gym. Advanced tuning capabilities allow you to see the name of the song that's currently playing on select frequencies.
Wireless Sync We're all exhausted by the cables and wires that tangle up our lives. Luckily, the Zune is one device that doesn't require another cord. You can easily connect to your home wireless network and sync your Zune with your PC collection of digital goodies. You can also sync using the dock, AC adapter, or speaker dock accessory (not included).
The Zune Community and Marketplace Zune is all about sharing and community. At the Zune Online Community, you'll discover, share, and leave your musical mark. Create a Zune card and Zune profile page to reflect your musical identity. From the Zune Online Community, you can invite friends, share song recommendations, post comments, and browse member pages to unearth new tunes and connect to others who share your musical tastes.
When you're ready to purchase music and load your device with new tunes, turn to Zune Marketplace. With more than 3 million songs, DRM-free MP3s, music videos, audio/video podcasts, and more content added every day, you'll certainly get your fill. The store is always open and just a mouse click away. You also can choose between the download or subscription packages--buy individual songs and albums, or snag a Zune Pass subscription with all you can eat access to discover and explore the nooks and crannies of artists and genres.
Zune-to-Zune Sharing Once your Zune is loaded with good stuff, you'll be ready to embrace wireless Zune-to-Zune sharing. Share full-length tracks of your favorite songs, albums, playlists, pictures, and even audio podcasts. You can listen to the full track of any song you receive up to three times, and you can even pass along songs that are shared with you to other friends. If you find a song you really love, you can easily add it to your wishlist and buy it later when you sync to your PC. When it comes to syncing and importing your music, the Zune makes it easy. Zune software can automatically import your existing music, pictures, and videos from iTunes and Windows Media Player in a variety of formats, including your existing playlists and song ratings.
Recorded TV or Movies to Go The Zune will also automatically import TV shows or movies recorded using a PC running Windows Media Center in Windows Vista. Record all your favorites, sync to your Zune, and hit the road with your favorite TV shows right in your pocket.
Your Games. Your Music. Your Way. Another awesome feature is the Zune's compatibility with the Xbox 360. Plug your Zune into your Xbox 360 to customize the soundtrack in supported games. You also can stream music, pictures, and videos from the Zune software on your PC to your Xbox 360 console using a wireless connection. Whether you're staying in or going out, travelling or working, the Zune can be right there with you, providing loads of entertainment direct from your pocket.
What's in the Box Zune 80 GB Digital Media Player (red), premium headphones, sync cable, and three sizes of ear sleeves.

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iHome ZN9 Dual Alarm Clock with Speaker Dock for Zune (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently bought the 80GB 2nd Gen Zune (which I love) but I knew I wouldn't just want to listen to it via earbuds all the time. So I finally found this device. And let me tell you, it is worth every penny.
Features I love:
--It is LOUD, I can hear this all over the house pretty much and I haven't even tried the highest volume setting.
--It is sleek looking. Nice design and easy to read display with multiple brightness settings for the clock.
--I like the dual alarms. Have one set early for during the work week which it knows to only use M-F, and one set for later on the weekend days.
--I like that it has two volume memories. One for just normal play and one for when you have it on the sleep. So crank it up during the day, and if you want to fall asleep to it, that volume can be kept lower.
--And the sleep timer is available for up to 2 hours long which is nice. Most units only do 1 hour.
--Adjustable snooze time length, anywhere up to 30 minutes of snooze time.
--All display buttons light up, making it easy to use even late at night.
Features not so great:
--Does not include a remote control to operate the unit. That is available via an offer inside the box direct from iHome for $20 more.
--Only 6 preset radio stations per band. I have close to 10 good stations near me so I had to narrow it down a bit. But then again I didn't really buy this to listen to the FM radio much.The 2 cons are not that big however. The option to get the unit for $100 and buy a remote is fine and the other one is just me being picky so I would have something negative to say!
All in all, this is a great product and if you are a Zune owner, it is nice to have something specifically made for Zune products! Highly recommend!
PS - Since Amazon.com doesn't seem to actually stock this item, get it direct from iHome for $99 with no shipping and tax (at least to where I lived) and it arrives fast, plus you get a free set of pretty nice earbuds (although I still prefer the premium buds I got with the Zune 80...) The included 10% coupon in the box can save you $2 more on the remote if you order that... Not bad...

Click Here to see more reviews about: iHome ZN9 Dual Alarm Clock with Speaker Dock for Zune (Black)

Meet the new ZN9, the world's first clock radio for Zune. The ZN9 features several innovative solutions, including wake and sleep to your Zune music or AM/FM radio presets, a 7-5-2 feature for separate weekday and weekend alarm times, and an extra-large backlit LCD with dimmer. With the Reson8 speaker chambers, you'll be able to enjoy stereo sound around the clock. The new ZN9... treat yourself and your Zune right.

Dock Your Zune Enjoy your favorite songs while your Zune is docked in the ZN9. While docked, your Zune is charged, so it's ready to go when you are.
Clock Your Zune The ZN9 boasts a ton of options to help you drag yourself out of bed. Wake or sleep to Zune, AM/FM radio, or buzzer, depending on your mood. Use the programmable snooze to get that perfect amount of extra sleep in the morning.
The Gradual Wake and Gradual Sleep features increase/decrease Alarm/Sleep volume. As you fall asleep, the music fades out, and as you wake up, it fades in, so you don't get the jarring effect of standard alarms.
The ZN9 also gives you several alarm features: dual alarm for multiple wake times, a 7-5-2 feature for setting separate weekday and weekend alarm times, AM/FM presets, and an auto-set clock that sets itself.
Sound and Vision Enjoy great sound from the high-fidelity stereo drivers in specially designed Reson8 speaker chambers, which deliver astounding clarity, depth, and power. On top of that, the speakers are enclosed in a clean, contemporary design, perfectly complementing the looks of your Zune.
Auxiliary Input The ZN9 also features an auxiliary input for connecting external devices like CD or MP3 players.
What's in the Box iHome Dual Alarm Clock with Speaker Dock for Zune (Black), AC adapter, AM antenna, three Zune inserts, manual

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