Don't go jogging with this bad boy...
Written: Feb 16 '02 (Updated Feb 17 '02)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Mult-format, good sound, lotsa features, lots of accessories, Ni-MH batteries included
Cons: Trial software, brief operating manual, ESP doesn't work
The Bottom Line: Good sound, options and features make this a good unit. Inadequate manual, customer support and useless ESP make it less than perfect, but still worthwhile purchase.
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| copperkid675's Full Review: Compaq iPAQ PCD-1 Personal CD Player |
Ok Compaq, this is definitely the Elite Geek Toy of the year. While I applaud the PCD-1 design engineers for packing so many features into a relatively "small" unit, I do have a few stones to kick over concerning the newest addition to the iPAQ family.
Along with it's very solid (and somewhat Heavy-Bordering-On-Bulky) design, the PCD-1 harbors quite a few customizable options that any serious music lover would enjoy, right down to the backlit display, scrolling menu and file format listing options. While it's sleek design and advertised ESP (skip protection) might make it the joggers dream, be advised before taking it out on the blacktop. The ESP is not very effective. In fact it's downright annoying, generating little "pops" and "clicks" that made me feel like I was listening to an LP used as a Frisbee by the family dog. I turned the ESP feature off, and the pops, etc. disappeared, and the sound was very good. I especially like the fact that it plays cdr's and cdrw's, although you cannot leave the session open to add other songs, you need the session closed so that the PCD-1 can read the TOC and list all your songs!! I recommend using a cdr-w disk so you can add songs on the fly and still keep the session closed and the TOC updated.
Another feature is the built in FM tuner. Overall good sound, but after fooling with the unit for about ten minutes, I managed to save several stations in the "presets" area on the menu, and then I made a fatal mistake. I pulled the adapter plug from the wall without hitting the "off" button. Somewhat like a computer's operating system, the PCD-1 utilizes built in dynamic software and any changes to that software, including FM presets or any other options, must be saved by turning off the unit properly (powering down) or else they will be lost. As a result, I had to set up all my options again (no biggie).
For those of you who live in a dry environment, be aware that the iPAQ PCD-1 is sensitive to ESD discharge, and I had the entire unit "freeze" up on me (no response from the controls and no audio) when my cat decided to touch it with his nose. I pulled the plug and turned it back on(all presets were still saved) and had no other issues.
By far the best feature (besides the fact that you can play up to 20 hrs of mp3s on this baby) is the remote control. The PCD-1 definitely becomes the desktop jukebox with this feature, allowing the user to make detailed changes to settings from a distance, as well as general control including volume, next track, next station, etc. A keypad is featured on the remote only, so specific tracks can be dialed up.
A major complaint is the vague and very brief operating manual. A quick glance at this "brochure" will introduce the user to his/her new audio investment with button descriptions and definitions of menu features. No troubleshooting, customer service, or operating precautions are included in this "pamphlet". C'mon, Compaq, these folks are going to pay $169+ for this unit, at least give them a decent manual to go with it. I bought a DVD player for $89 bucks and I got a veritible novel that was as big as the unit itself, so you have no excuse!!!!
One last bone to pick. The software included is somewhat useless, the MusicMatch being trial software, and unstable, and Windows Media that can be downloaded from anywhere. I have my own burning program, so I am unaffected, but others need a more stable burning platform. Let's get with it, Compaq!
Otherwise, a good solid performer that can be a great gift for the music lover in your family.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
copperkid675
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Reviews written: 1
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