iPod Shuffle (2nd Generation) Review Roundup

Chuck — Fri, 10 Nov 2006 01:39:00 -0500

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

iPod Shuffle Why Have You Forsaken Me?

Chuck — Mon, 21 Aug 2006 20:34:00 -0400

My iPod Shuffle died on me last month. Of the four iPods I own (1st generation Mini, 60 GB Video, 4 GB Nano and a 1 GB Shuffle) the Shuffle was my favorite iPod.

I used it all the time in the gym, running and riding my road bike. Note: You shouldn’t ride your bike wearing earphones… my public service message. After my Shuffle died, I was searching for ways to fix it and then thinking about buying a new one.

I discovered that there is a defect with the iPod Shuffle. PC World wrote about the issue last month. If your iPod Shuffle flashes green and amber lights, it could be in trouble. It appears that the issue occurs more often than the normal iPod defect rate. There’s even a blog devoted to the defect at Shufflers Unite.

After reading about all the troubles, I guess I’ve been fortunate that my Shuffle lasted 15 months trouble free. I did have a glitch 6 months after I bought it but was able to recover it. It also turns out that my Shuffle died due to a dead battery and not the orange/green light issue. So it’s now a USB flash drive.

Despite the defect, I’m still considering purchasing another Shuffle. I’ve been using my Nano running and cycling but I still prefer the Shuffle. Some people have complained about no display screen on the Shuffle but it’s not necessary when you are exercising. If I wanted to skip a song, it was easy to reach into my rear jersey pocket and push the skip button. Whereas with the Nano, it’s not as easy using the click wheel and lack of tactile feel to the buttons. Additionally, the Nano is usually locked to prevent accidental click wheel changes.

I also love the size and weight or lack there of with the Shuffle. I used to stick the Shuffle in my pocket of my running shorts and never noticed it there. The Nano definitely bounces in my pocket. I didn’t think 0.72 oz would make a difference but it does.

If the 1 GB Shuffle total price drops below $75, I will probably get another one despite the defect. Call me a sucker but it gets me through long climbs up Mt. Tam on my bike. Any product that motivates you to work-out harder or longer is priceless.

Sprenzy Shopping Blog: Tag shuffle

iPod Shuffle (2nd Generation) Review Roundup

iPod Shuffle Why Have You Forsaken Me?