Sprenzy Shopping Blog

Are you thinking about getting the Microsoft Zune? There’s been a lot of buzz about the Zune over the last couple of months. Now that it’s released, here’s a hands-on review roundup.

• Ars Technica: Microsoft Zune - “The Zune is quite a compelling product, but it shows a strange schizophrenia of spirit. The detail work on the device is elegant and illustrates the thoughtful care lavished on the product, but basic functionality is crippled or poorly implemented.

  When a device promises “the social” but drastically limits file-sharing, can’t swap video clips, and only works with identical devices, it’s a tough sell in a world dominated by iPods. All Apple has to do is release a model with WiFi and Microsoft’s major advantage is wiped out. And because that “advantage” isn’t used well, the Zune will face an uphill path to broader market adoption.”

• i64x.com: My Zune Comparison: Zune vs. 5G iPod Video - “After using the Zune for a few hours I posted my iPod for sale online to cover most of the cost of the Zune and haven’t really looked back. Aside from the issue with the front USB ports I’ve had no problems with my Zune. The unit is rock stable, and the software - a bit slow at times - is still easy to use and with manual sync turned OFF is very drag and drop oriented and power user friendly.”

• Engadget: Zune Review - “The Zune is a player riddled with a lot of small issues – death by a thousand cuts. Do we think any particular one is a deal breaker? Well, even given our nightmarish software issues, not really. Do we think they should have worked out the kinks and sat out this holiday season? Probably, yeah. Do we think there’s potential for betterment of the platform and especially the player through software updates? Given enough time, absolutely. Would we recommend the product for purchase, like, right now? Not a chance.”

• Gizmodo: Zune: First Full Review - “Overall, this seems pretty promising. I can’t find any mis-steps or anything where I have to ask “wait, this is dumb, why did you do this?” in both the player and the software. The Zune itself is very sexy, and feels nice to the touch—not too heavy. We can’t wait to do another hands on as the launch date approaches.”

• WSJ.com: Microsoft’s Zune Challenges iPod - ”Overall, the iPod and iTunes are still the champs. Still, I expect the Zune to attract some converts and to get better with time. And this kind of competition from a big company with deep pockets and lots of talent is good for consumers in the long run.”

I found the Ars Technica review the most informative and entertaining to read. i64x.com’s review is also very good with a great rant on DRM and debunking of some Zune complaints/rumors.

I’m intrigued by the Zune’s UI and WiFi capability. The ability to navigate by artist, playlist, album, etc. without having to back-out a level is an improvement over the iPod’s UI. Even though the Zune WiFi implementation is limited, the potential is there. The ability to wirelessly synch an MP3 player with a PC would be killer feature.

Before passing judgment on the Zune, I’ll need to play around with one first. However, based on the first round of reviews, the Zune appears to be a viable alternative to the iPod and could get better with future software updates. If you know of other good Zune reviews, please share it with us.

This past Monday, I received my new 1 GB iPod Shuffle (2nd Generation) to replace the original Shuffle that died. After playing around with it this past week, I’m very happy with my new toy.

Apple improved the Shuffle by making it smaller and lighter. The built-in clip makes it easier to carry, even when you don’t have pockets. Additionally, the aluminum material has a much better look and feel than the cheap plastic of the original.

The only feature from the first generation Shuffle that I miss is the ability to connect directly to a USB port. The new Shuffle requires a mini-jack dock. But I have no issues giving up direct USB connectivity for the great size and form factor of the new Shuffle.

Here are some useful reviews:

• iLounge Review - “Because of its small size and simplicity, Apple’s incredibly small second-generation iPod shuffle will still be a viable option for many users; it’s a very good, generally recommendable option if you need a low-capacity music player. However, in our view, unless you’re as size- or weight-obsessed as a supermodel, or just don’t want to spend a dime more than the new shuffle’s $79 asking price, the even better lowest-end iPod nano is a smarter long-term purchase in literally all regards.”

• PC World Hands On Review - “I like Apple’s new iPod Shuffle. Given that 1GB of capacity is no big shakes these days, the lack of a screen seems less deplorable than during our last Shuffle review. If you’re on a budget and you want a good, albeit minimalist, audio player, get the Shuffle.”

• Playlistmag.com Review - “This iPod is sure to be the season’s most popular stocking stuffer, largely because it’s robust, holds more than enough music for even a day-long workout, and is priced to move.”

• PC Magazine Review - “The second-generation iPod shuffle is impressively small, and the built-in clip makes it ideal for working out, running, or just casual listening. Its lack of a screen or any extras like an FM tuner—or even support for many iPod accessories—is countered by its impressively diminutive size and low price.”

• Apple Insider Exposes Possible Issue - “It may have been a million-to-one shot, but one user’s early experience with Apple Computer’s second-generation iPod shuffle left him (and his new digital music player) a little bent out of shape.”

The Shuffle is not for everyone. If you need an LCD screen to skip to a specific song, then this MP3 player is not for you. However, if you want a super simple, small and lightweight MP3 player, then the new iPod Shuffle is a great player. It’s perfect on a run, during a workout or as a second iPod for use on the go.

Picture: Size Comparison between Shuffles and Nano