I have to first say that before I really tried to use this device I tried to get the firmware upgrade to make it Janus capable. I purchased a samsung YH-820 because it had the promise of being compatible with the music to go service with Rhapsody. This is a service where, if you have a Janus capable MP3 player, you can transfer all of the songs that you download to your computer free of charge (just the monthly $15.00). This was a great deal except... THE PLAYER HAS TO HAVE A FIRMWARE UPGRADE!!!

What is so bad about a three minute upgrade to the device? Nothing except that the device locked up due to an "installation error." After an hour of trying to either roll back the old firmware info AND trying to install a fresh janus update over the error, I called Samsung tech support. They told me that some of the older 820's (the one I have) needed a second transistor installed to fully take in the janus firmware update. To get this I would have to send in my product for a new one, which would be free minus shipping costs of sending my unit in. The problem is that there is a large back order and the minimum time to receive my new product is SIX MONTHS!!! ARRRRRRRGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. I did not get the real chance to test the product. Of course, this lock up is enough to make you want to avoid the 820 altogether.


Overall, this unit is a pretty decent MP3 player and mass storage device for its cost but I promise you that in all its capabilities it is inferior to an Ipod AND due to the unfixable glitch in older models (first releases) when you try to upgrade to Janus (napster/rhapsody music to go) you will be in for a very nasty suprise that will instantly kill, nay, SLAY your MP3 player for good! BOOOOO to Samsung!!! If you really want a good music to go compatible player then I suggest three devices. (Rio Carbon, Iriver H10, Zen micro).

Samsung has left a bad taste in my mouth with an unfixable bug YET they put no disclaimer on their website warning you about this. It is not until after you call tech support this flaw is made known!

Recommended: No

Amount Paid (US$): 150.00
Recommended for: Music Lovers - High Capacity Storage for an Entire Album Collection