Manage updates with the Download App
-
"Archos has done well with the 704!"
on by angelamkPros Great screen clarity, easy operation.
Cons Slow internet.
Summary I looked into purchasing the 604 when it first came out, but I just kept dragging my feet. Mostly because of the screen size and the continuous negative comments on the screen quality of the 604 wifi. I'm glad I waited.
I have had the 704 for a few weeks and it is just wonderful. It's larger than the 604, obviously, but it's so much better to watch movies and search the internet with. Archos really upped the quality of the screen with the 704. It's clear and vibrant. The touch screen only option makes me nervous, I would have liked to have some tactile buttons on the side of the unit, but if you're careful, you shouldn't have a problem.
The weight isn't an issue when travelling. I just put it in my purse and off I go. I can get directions from the internet, check my email, and watch movies on long flights or during layovers in the airport. No more lugging my laptop across country. My shoulder thanks me.
All in all, it's worth the money if you're looking to have some entertainment while travelling. For an everyday MP3 player, no. This gadget is geared more toward those with video needs and wants. It comes close to a complete laptop replacement. -
"Good Idea, but..."
on by Marcsr453Pros Great screen, fast response great potential as a small computer storage center.
Cons Needs a notes program, Easier to use web browser, Needs ability to use Windows Mobile 6.
Summary I think this is an early version of the new video iPod. The screen is great and the 80 gig hard drive is also great. I would like a better case and a better keyboard., but hey, this was made by French guys, so its not all that bad. I bought it for the photos and the resolution of the screen. I wasn't disappointed.
I like the idea of the web browser and it will find hot spots and connect fairly quickly. Just that the browser is kinda lame and not that easy to use. I would like to try Win Mobile 6 on this thing. Also, I want to add a gps program to it. One with zoomable screens. I like the way it downloads music and syncs to my desktop computer, very easy. I got mine at a substantial discount at Ritz, which means that the 705 is right around the corner. I just hope the software is compatible and can be used on the 704.Updated
The Archos 794 is now an orphaned step child. Archos will not be upgrading the firmware or otherwise improving the 704 WiFi, instead will focus its attention on the newer 705 WiFi. New widgets created by Archos will not work on the 704 and Archos technical support has told me that the company will not be upgrading the Generation 4 products. In light of this development I will return my 704 for a 705, and I rate this device a zero and do not recommend purchasing it.Updated
Archos has abandon the 704 WiFi and will not issue any upgrades to the firmware or offer any improvements to this device. Archos technical support has emailed me and said that the improved 705 WiFi software and widgets will not work on the 704 (Generation 4). And there are no plans to issue an updated software for the 704 as it is hardware dependent device. All efforts will be directed at the 705 (Generation 5) products. If you have bought one of these recently, take it back. -
"Superb until you use decent headphones"
on by nodoshPros Good size clear screen, plays most formats, easy to update
Cons Having to purchase codecs to play most film formats, poor sound on good headphones
Summary I am very pleased with the unit, it plays films on a decent size screen and is still portable. The only fault I can find is the background noise generated over all music and films. In fairness this is only noticable on Bose headphones in a quite surrounding. On planes and trains or using the 'in ear' phones that come with you lose the noise.
-
"Well worth the money"
on by davemeigs5Pros Divx files have excellant quality, so I convert my DVD's and this is much easier to use than a portable DVD player, WiFi allows easy transfer of files, Tivo to go
Cons lower quality video that looks ok on a 3.5" screen not as good on the 7" screen
Summary I have an 1&half hour bus ride to work and this
allows me to watch 2 1 hour TV shows each way and 1 at work and the battery isn't dead when I get home -
"Poor video/display quality"
on by imjustnotthatintoyouPros Large display, loud speakers, WIFI
Cons Display is horrible, not very portable
Summary This unit would have been great if the display quality was on par with the 504 model, I did a comparison using my friend's 504. It's very eye straining to watch the display on the 704 unit for very long. I'm returning mine and ordering a 504 160GB.
Write a Review
Sponsored Premier Brands on CNET
%20-%20CNET%20Reviews&srcUrl=http://reviews.cnet.com/portable-video-players-pvps/archos-704-wifi/4852-6499_7-32363051.html&x_breadcrumb=8900:6494:6499&x_arw_bkts=MAD:first_impression){kind=small}