Microsoft Zune Review 8GB
It’s time for some healthy competition to challenge the ipod market, and this is where the Microsoft Zune comes into play. TheFreshpage.com was one of the lucky few in Canada to receive a Zune kit including an 8GB Zune, a set of Premium Zune headphones and an AC Adapter. We took a detailed look over the Zune and we found it had quite a few striking features.
Look and Feel of Microsoft Zune 8GB
Well after you open the package and hold the Microsoft Zune 8GB in your hand you will notice that it feels very solid with a brushed metal backing and a fairly large glass screen (1.8 inches).
After turning it on we were quite impressed with the sexy LCD menu which can be viewed at all angles even in the sun. The touch controls were easy to learn and very intuitive (i.e. no need for a manual).
To be real, we have to mention some of the cons of this device. Firstly, it doesn’t come with any software, you have to download it from the Zune web site. This way you get the latest Zune software, but if you don’t happen to have a fast connection or are away on a trip with no internet connection….
Secondly, the playlist was a bit frustrating to deal with. You can’t just drag and drop files from your computer onto the Zune software. This would have been the most user friendly method which should be a no brainer since most of you are already probably used to that functionality. Instead you have to the Zune software where on your hard drive you want to sync from. But let’s look at all the other features which makes Zune a pretty cool device:
———————————————————————————————–
Microsoft Zune 8GB Features
Wireless Sync – Probably one of the coolest features of the Zune is the wireless syncing to your playlist on your computer. It connects via 802.11b/g and can sync your playlist wirelessly (not as fast as USB2, but pretty cool feature if you are in another part of your house and want to update your Zune before you leave). (We’ll have to admit, this feature was a little tricky to find out how to use, but all you have to do after setting it up is to go to Settings -> Wireless ->Sync now).
Wireless Zune to Zune Sharing aka Social – ok well if you do really have a friend who also has a Zune this is a cool feature. You can send and receive tracks to each other and play them up to three times before purchasing them from the Zune Marketplace (www.zune.net/marketplace).
Not just an mp3 player – The Zune also plays video files, allbeit on a fairly small screen, but this can come really in handy. Say you want to throw on some videos showing you how do to an exercise at the gym…well you can take it with you on your Zune!
File Compatibility – Because of it’s ability to play video files the Zune can play a huge number of different file types including: Windows Media Audio Standard (.wma): Up to 320 Kbps; (CBR) and (VBR) up to 48-kHz sample rate. WMA Pro 2-channel up to 384 Kbps; CBR and VBR up to 48-kHz. WMA Lossless. Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) (.mp4, .m4a, .m4b, .mov) – .m4a and .m4b files without FairPlay DRM up to 320 Kbps; CBR and VBR up to 48-kHz. MP3 (.mp3) – Up to 320 Kbps; CBR and VBR up to 48-kHz.
Xbox 360 Connectivity – Pretty cool feature which allows you to listen to your music while playing your favorite games.
Built in FM Radio – not sure who listens to the radio anymore, but if you’re old-school, at least you have this option which isn’t found on the ipods.
———————————————————————————————–
Conclusion:
Overall this is quite a good competitor to the ipods which have completely overtaken the market. It blasts away the ipods which wireless connectivity, Social networking and the ability to play radio and give your Xbox 360 games a little more pizazz. The playlist requires a little more getting used to, but hopefully a future update of the software will allow drag and dropping into playlists. And lastly, this is a solid device that feels great in your hand, and has a very clear LCD glass display which shows off any CD cover art beautifully and allows you to play video.
Links:
Get a Zune 8 GB Digital Media Player Black from Amazon.om
More Gadget Reviews
www.zune.net
