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- Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 82 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
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4 out of 4 people found this review helpful
2.5 stars
"iPod with an identity crisis"
Pros: Video and Video Pod Cast Support, bright screen
Cons: awkward size, tries to be all things and does none well
Summary: I was amazed when I saw the new iPod Nano. I thought how could Apple go so wrong? Then the reviews came, touting it as the best player ever and I figured I needed to rethink it. So I did, and returned to my first impression.
The new Nano takes away all of the coolness and sleekness of the Nano 2nd Gen design, and replaces it with a "do it all" (well, except for recording and FM which for some reason Apple seems to refuse to put, despite it being standard on everything else).
With a reduced screen size over the "Classic" iPod, and of course less storage capacity, the Nano is really ill-suited for video use. The split screen "feature" removes any advantage that might have been possible with changing the menus to make use of the larger screen and instead relegates it to half screen and the old look (with the same quirks remaining).
Cover Flow is a novelty that I don't get why the reviewers gush over. Sure it is a cute toy and helps mask slow menus by entertaining you with animation. And on a desktop (in iTunes) it is not detrimental, but on a battery powered DAP it is either a waste of precious time and power, or completely ignored if you are the set it and forget it type (ie those that use it at the gym or for running).
Also the new wider size makes it much less attractive than the 2nd gen for those who exercise and like to have it strapped to their arms, but not wide enough for a screen that it worthwhile for those that want video.
Sound is sound and virtually all these devices sound relatively similar, so the only way to really evaluate sound is through a decent set up ear buds (which you will need to own, or purchase separately, as the trademark white one that come with the player is junk).
So is it a too small video iPod or a too wide exercises music device? It tries to be both, but ends up not being exactly right for either.
- 2 replies to this review
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I think you don't understand the ipod. It is a great ipod. I have it and it works perfectly.
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works great for me when I workout
Where to buy
Apple iPod Nano (third generation, 8GB, black):
$399.95
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Amazon.com Marketplace
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$399.95 | Yes |
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