CNET Editor's rating: 8.3 out of 10
Reviewed by
Donald Bell
Review date: 11/12/07
Release date: 11/12/07
The good: The 80GB Microsoft Zune MP3 player features a 3.2-inch glass LCD; a user-friendly interface; exceptional navigation control; audio and video podcast support; a superlative FM radio with RBDS information; wireless syncing and sharing; high-quality earphones; revamped Zune Marketplace PC software; Zune Pass subscription music support; good audio quality; and a built-in composite-video output.
The bad: The Zune is a PC-only device that requires its own software and still does not support older WMA-DRM9 music files; Zune Marketplace does not offer TV or movie downloads; the USB connection is proprietary; no Wi-Fi music streaming; and the EQ feature has been removed.
The bottom line: The Zune has blossomed from an ugly duckling into a worthy iPod alternative.
Description:
The Microsoft Zune is an 80 GB, basic player.
Compared to other basic MP3 players on the market, it is midpriced at around $300.
Pros:
Comes with 80 GB storage, which is more spacious than some similarly priced MP3 players.
Cons:
Has a 4.5 oz weight.
This is not out of line with the product's price, but is heavier than the average MP3 player on the market today.
Suitability:
Suited for those who only want an MP3 player.
According to the manufacturer this player will last approximately 20 hour(s) between charges; your run-time will vary based on use and power management configuration.
Value:
In general, this MP3 player's features seem a bit weak for its price, compared to most other MP3 players.
Suggestions:
If you don't totally love the headphones that came with your MP3 player, you might find
aftermarket headphones
that better suit your needs.
41 out of 41 users found this user opinion helpful.
9 out of 10 - Spectacular
Excellent Player
I have owned several ipods and was considering upgrading to the ipod classic 80gb. I have 40gb of... Read more
by swdude987 (see profile) -
November 21, 2007
26 out of 26 users found this user opinion helpful.