I finally managed to get my hands on the new Zune 2nd Generation 80 GB. I just finished my initial tinkering with it and thought I would share my thoughts.
Initially, reading the
Zune Forums
got my a little worried about the device. I heard lots of complaints about the new Zune Software, malfunctioning devices, and a bug in the new firmware which causes your battery to drain faster when it's off than when it is on. Although, that particular bug effected my old Zune 30 as well, but has since disappeared.
Pros
- Much lighter and compact (in all dimensions) I no longer have the sense I have a brick in my pocket.
- 2 2/3 times more disk space for video junkies and people with Loseless Quality Audio.
- Tactile touch thing is pretty cool. I was happy with the round button thing, but you can fly through your library quickly now.
- The screen is now protected by hard glass instead of plastic. The screen is clearer and more resistant to scratches.
- Overall sounds better (maybe it's just me)? (See cons)
- Improved battery life for Music. (Video life is about the same)
- You can personalize it on zuneoriginals.net by ordering one with custom engraved text and images. Apple lets you do the text thing, but the images is a neat idea.
-
Cons
- No equalizer. I was a little surprised by this one, but the reason behind it is to increase battery life. They removed the hardware components needed for an EQ. Above, I said better sound (last pro). The sound is better when you compare the Zune 2 with the Zune 30s when their EQ is off.
- Not permanent, but they difficult to find.
- Microsoft said they would be including their "premium headphones", probably due to the lack of an EQ. I was disappointed by them. They still sound very tinny. Perhaps I have just been spoiled by my other in-ear-drivers. Don't look for good bass quality in these headphones, and with no EQ, it is noticeable. I would spring for a pair of Bose if you are looking for a good pair.
- Didn't come with a protective sleeve. I actually used my old one, and would have liked a new one.
- Only available in black (maybe that will change later)
- Pressing the "center" button can be a little tricky. If you press the "squircle" thing slightly off center, it will think you pressed a direction (such as left) then the center button, causing you to select the wrong thing. It takes some getting use to.
Overall, it is a very nice device, and would take it over any other media players.