crusader69's Full Review: Microsoft Zune Black (120 GB) MP3 Player
After having owned three Creative MP3 players (including the newer high-end Creative Zen X-Fi), I finally found one that will remain with me for years to come: The Zune 120GB. I happen to have the red one so it is easier for me to locate.
Some of the Microsoft Zune marketing is a lot of gimmickry (social networking, wireless hot spots, etc.), but the basic overall functions of the device and software are excellent.
According to information publicly available on the Internet, Zune dropped the equalizer from their 120GB model to "improve battery life." So far, I have had no problems with sound for songs, podcasts, videos, or general media files, but decent-quality headphones are strongly suggested. So far, the Creative Labs EP-830 in-ear earphones ($50 retail) work best on my Zune. I've tried a pair of Shure phones that retailed for $200, and they sucked. The so-called Zune "premium" buds that came with my Zune Travel Pack (an excellent bundled item) also leave much to be desired.
One of the most notable advantages of this MP3 player versus something like Creative, is the software. Since that is Microsoft's mainstay, this makes sense. Once I spent a few days playing around with the settings, all I do is plug my Zune into the USB slot of my computer, and Zune does the rest. If I have marked a podcast "played" on my Zune, it is removed from the player and computer "collection." If there are new podcasts that I have subscribed to, they automatically sync with my Zune player. For those who want to do everything manual (or just some of the stuff manual), that option is available. For example, I leave my pictures on "manual sync" so that I don't get a gazillion pics transferring to my device each time I sync.
A really cool feature of the software is Auto Playlist, which has many customizable features. I keep it simple though, and type in something like "John Mayer" for Name, "John Mayer" for Artist, and "200" for playlist limit. Each time I download a track from Zune Marketplace by John Mayer, it automatically goes into my "John Mayer" Playlist. It doesn't get any easier then this to organize ones music collection.
Audiobooks from Audible play nicely on the Zune (as do OverDrive) -- the only two formats supported by Zune -- but unlike the Audible books played on Creative and other players, pushing the main control button in the center one time does NOT bring up a sliding bar to go to various sections. Also, while the Zune may indicate "Chapter 2" on the device for the book, it can actually be on 5, 7, or 8. I haven't confirmed this with Audible, but I believe the Zune Chapter Numbers are really referring to the book's Section Numbers. I haven't played around with this too much, and it really isn't a huge deal. So far, the Zune has always remembered where I left off from the day before.
Audiobooks from OverDrive are really neat, but except for a limited number of MP3-qualtiy books, the WMA ones aren't as high quality as most Audible books, especially compared with the new Audible ENHANCED format available for some books. However, OverDrive is free with your participating library card, so it's okay for free. I had to search for a libary that contracts with OverDrive in a nearby county because NetLibrary does not work with Zune. OverDrive is way easier to navigate than NetLibrary. Keep in mind each library has different contracts with OverDrive, so while Ontario City Library in California has a great selection of best-selling and popular books, smaller libraries such as Palm Springs, California, do not!
The Zune doesn't have to boot up like other players. It is basically "instant on," even after I turn it off each night. Next time I am ready to use it, I slide the Unlock button, press and hold Play, the Zune is ON instantly. Now, if my comptuer would only do that.
The Zune Marketplace (about $15 a month) allows one to rent an unlimited number of songs, comedy, etc. Similar to a Napster To Go subscription, but much easier to navigate. The only frustrating thing is when one gets to a certain album or song, they are told (not available) or an additional fee has to be paid with credits that are purchased ahead of time. Napster pulls the same crap, and that's one of the reasons I am gravitating over to Slacker soon for most of my music needs. Anyhow, the selection is decent and it is an excellent value for those who utilize it to its full potential.
Unlike other MP3 players, the Zune is very solid. Add an Incipio metal case and the thing is the Hummer of MP3 players. The good about that is durability and larger buttons to make navigating your player easy. The negative of course is, don't plan on going for a jog or to gym with this one. It's even rather heavy in my T-shirt pocket, but that's okay since my primary use of the Zune will be audiobooks and storing my private music collection.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 185 Recommended for: Music Lovers - High Capacity Storage for an Entire Album Collection
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