Summary

Having had an Archos Jukebox previously, I'm already tuned in to having a hard disk based mp3 player. The obvious advantages - not having to keep any mp3 files on my PC at all, saving me from having to get external hard disks, and being able to take my entire CD collection (all 120 albums) out and about with me.

I decided I needed an upgrade, and my brother (may he live forever) agreed to buy me the iPod 40 for Christmas. I've never fallen in love with a gadget so quickly in all my life. The sound quality from the iPod is incredible. The fact that it integrates seamlessly with iTunes (my software of choice for playing mp3 on my PC, anyway) has proven to be a timesaver on more than one occasion. The shuffle mode means I don't even need to think about what I want to listen to - I simply let the iPod do it for me.

The only major thing that lets this product down is that it doesn't play WMA files - with my brother using Windows Media Player, most of his CD collection is in WMA format

Which similar products have you used?

Archos Jukebox Recorder 20

How long have you used the product?

Less than 1 month

What are the strengths?

Exceptional sound quality
Easy to use
Seamless integration into iTunes
Looks fantastic - plus kudos of owning a 4G iPod

What are the weaknesses?

Lacking in some features compared to others
No WMA playback
Expensive!

Summary

I love almost everything about this beautifully designed player, but the battery life could be longer. its awesome

Which similar products have you used?

apple ipod

How long have you used the product?

1-3 months

What are the strengths?

Best-of-breed design and interface; excellent playlist features; clean, configurable sound; smooth syncing with both Windows PCs and Macs via iTunes; organizes contacts; includes games; functions as an external drive; optional voice-recording and photo-wallet accessories.

What are the weaknesses?

No FM or line-in recording; voice recording enabled with accessory; battery life compromised somewhat by small size; battery not user-replaceable.

Summary

A BETTER VALUE THAN MOST DEVICES OF THE SAME TYPE.
Easy to use once you get the hang of it. Highly recommended to anyone who owns a computer and has a large music collection. Real value for money.

Which similar products have you used?

Apple 4 GB iPod Mini Pink

How long have you used the product?

Less than 1 month

What are the strengths?

Its large capacity holds up to 10,000 songs. Improved features include a new Click Wheel, slimmer case, and easier navigation, which takes some time to get used to. Supports most of the major formats.Has a battery life of at least 12 hours. Great additional features - four popular and addicting games, alarm clock, ability to store text notes etc.

What are the weaknesses?

Retitling songs/artists/albums is annoying and time-consuming but necessary as it will leave you with a mixed up media library. The instruction manual is not very helpful and could include more details.

Summary

The design and amazing playback makes it a great buy. I wish that they did include some accessories like the adapter.

Which similar products have you used?

None

How long have you used the product?

1-3 months

What are the strengths?

The Apple IPOD 40GB is extremely sleek and beautiful. It has an awesome LCD with great video and photo playback. It is easy to use and extremely durable.

What are the weaknesses?

It lacks extras like A/V cable and power adapter. Other than that I didn’t find any flaws with this product.

Summary

Overall, this is a great product, I highly recomend it. Especially for someone active who really needs music to inspire them. I don't know how I ever used CD players and/or walkmans, a forgotten thing of the past. This is a simple product to learn, even for the non-computer/gadget geeks.

How long have you used the product?

More than 3 months

What are the strengths?

This product is very easy to use and extremely durable. I use this product primarily for fitness purposes and it has stood the test of time. The learning curve was easy, considering I was oblivious to using such products. I love that this product can hold so many songs and that you are able to make your own music folders. This IPOD is one of my favorite every day items, use it constantly.

What are the weaknesses?

I wish this product had the Video capabilities - guess I have to upgrade eventually.