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Featuring CNET Editor Donald Bell

MP3 players for the holidays Session has ended.

Missed this live event? No worries! Check out the Ask the Editors Live calendar event and see what topic is up next and get a chance to chat live with a CNET editor. We'll cover new topics each week, from cell phones to TVs, so get those burning tech questions ready!

Latest questions and answers

Q: Ipod Touch or 5th gen iPod Video

by warriors7749 - 12/4/07 11:51 AM

Hey just wondering if it would be worth the upgrade from a 30 gb 5th gen ipod video to a 16gb iPod touch?

the size difference doesnt matter too much, i have less than 10 gb of music/movies anyway, but for everyday use, mostly listening to music, would the ipod touch better suited for that than the old video? I have maybe 2 movies, 5 tv episodes, and 10 funny commercials that i dont watch often. I think going on youtube and browsing with safari would be cool, but is it worth $400....and is the browsing experience any good?


thanks for all the help

A: it's a spurge

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 12:15 PM

I think the music interface on the Touch/iPhone is fantastic--much more than a gimmick. If money was no object, I would totally get one. The Web browser is awesome. Is it worth $400? Personally, no. It's a super-futuristic gadget with a premium price for gadget lovers with money to spare. My trusty 5G video iPod has nothing to worry about.

Q: you got the Q5W on your desk

by JonTitor - 12/4/07 12:02 PM

when can we expect the review? also the 705WiFi and A3?

A: patience...

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 12:11 PM

The Q5W we have on hand is, unfortunately, an early engineering sample. It appears to be fully functioning, but as a matter of practice CNET only reviews the final shipping model of any product. More than likely, especially with the holidays approaching, these players won't be reviewed until January.

Q: Creative Zen

by mivec01 - 12/4/07 12:07 PM

Have you guys encoutered any problem with the creative zen? thanks

A: Nope

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 12:08 PM

Not on our end. Have you heard anything?

Q: Creative Zen Or Ipod Nano 3rd Gen?

by mivec01 - 12/4/07 11:56 AM

I'm torn between the new zen and the new nano, even if it's just the 4 gb version, which should i get? i', after sound quality, features, and value. Thanks in advance

A: Zen, no question...sorta

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 12:06 PM

Zen is going to give you a bigger screen, memory expansion, FM radio, Zencast podcast support, subscription music support, more EQ options... and on, and on...

The iPod Nano is a much, much smaller player--in every way. It's adorable, but the Zen has it beat on features. One thing the iPod Nano does really well, however, is podcast integration (both audio and video). I'm a podcast nut, and would rather go with the Nano for this feature alone. Zencast is great, but the iTunes podcast management is just so easy and fun.

Q: Bluetooth/MP3 integration

by mswans - 12/4/07 11:57 AM

Why is bluetooth not a common feature on Mp3 devices? The only player I have read about having it is the new Ibiza Rhapsody. Why aren't the major companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Creative, making this feature available? It would seem to be very useful for integrating the MP# device with the car stereo, home stereo, and pc.

A: agreed

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 12:00 PM

Manufacturing cost I suppose. Lack of popular demand. Expect this to change soon.

Q: Software of MP3 players...

by cmosax - 12/4/07 11:52 AM

Some of us oldies still like our Win98SE...can any of the new devices really use this software or are we going to have to breakdown and get a "dummy" machine just for the music?

A: should be fine

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:58 AM

Most MP3 players are drag and drop generic USB hard drives (except iPod and Zune). You should be safe.

Q: Sony A-810

by iamezinlv - 12/4/07 11:53 AM

I've recently ordered a Sony mp3 player based upon recommendations I read on CNET. I know these players are EVERYWHERE, I don't mean just Sony. I know very little about them. I has dawned on me that I own an iMac computer. Have a made a BIG mistake?

Thanks in advance for your help.

A: nope

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:57 AM

I've been able to get the Sony A810 to show up on my Macbook. It's tough to eject without it remounting, but it works.

Q: What does Donald bell have on his desk?

by jssshashi - 12/4/07 11:17 AM

his pick of gadgets owned at the moment. or by the holidays?

A: clutter!

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:54 AM

On my desk right now, waiting for review:
-Cowon Q5W (a monster PVP/computer/GPS)
-DLO TransDock Deluxe (iPod FM transmitter)
-Ion TTUSB10 USB turntable

As for holiday recommendations, I think the most dead-simple purchase is an earbud/headphone upgrade. Most people have no idea how good their existing MP3 player sounds. Some Shure SE110 earphones are a solid choice.
http://reviews.cnet.com/headphones-headsets/shure-se110-sound-isolating/4505-6468_7-32594477.html

Q: flash drive v hard drive

by mrsimps - 12/4/07 11:28 AM

Why is the significance of this distinction? Which is my iPod? I'm assuming, hard drive.

A: flash vs hdd

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:49 AM

Flash memory has become all the rage because it is very compact, requires no moving parts, and offers relatively fast access times. Unfortunately, Flash technology doesn't offer the same affordable capacity of larger hard drive players. Right now were seeing some rather expensive 16GB Flash players from Creative, Apple, SanDisk, and others, while hard drive players are topping out at 160GB (iPod Classic, Archos 605WiFi).

Both options offer the same features and sound quality, the difference is purely storage capacity and the added reliability of Flash's solid-state technology. If your iPod is over 16GB, it's a hard drive player.

Q: Will Zune get AVI/Divx Support?

by jssshashi - 12/4/07 11:38 AM

I heard that Xbox and media center are about to get divx support.

A: doubtful

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:44 AM

The Zune's video support is still pretty sparse and they don't seem to like playing friendly with outside video formats (not natively, at least). Many people have had troubles getting the Zune to recognize Microsoft's own DVR-MS files from Media Center. I'm mostly a video podcast guy, so I don't do much with transferring TV shows and movies on a regular basis.

Q: Zune "for the holidays" ??

by arunece - 12/4/07 11:33 AM

Poor me.. Big time fan of creative(Soundcards/PC Speakers) and hoped that they have similar market in MP3 Segments.

But i hardly see any talk about Creative Mp3 Players. I have seen the video's about them and it seems they have multiple means of transferring songs and good video clarity...... But still no talk about them in the town :(

CNET puts a new buyer like me guessing (one says IPOD/ZUNE is a draw). Going with Donalds tips..Zune seems to be the talk of the town

Maybe i should buy myself a Zune as a Holiday gift..

A: Don't count out Creative

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:41 AM

Creative's latest Zen player is probably the best value of the year.
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-players/creative-zen-4gb/4505-6490_7-32589082.html

Great display, memory expansion, FM radio, killer sound, quality GUI... the list goes on.

It doesn't pull the same buzz as a high-capacity MP3 player like the Zune 80 or iPod Classic, but it will undoubtedly be a top seller.

Q: Music Cost

by ronaldsevans - 12/4/07 11:34 AM

Are downloaded songs pretty much $2 accross the board? I hate to pay $2 a song only to get sick of it after a couple weeks. Have they developed rental options yet?

A: no, and yes

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:37 AM

Most online retailers (iTunes, Amazon, eMusic) are selling songs around the $.99 price point. If you have a DRM-WMA file compatible player, you can take advantage of music subscription services from Rhapsody, Yahoo, Napster, and others.

Q: Outdoors and MP3

by stomachdoc - 12/4/07 11:27 AM

Hi Donald:

I'm a skier and I've been using an iPod shuffle which sits on the outside of my ski parka hooked into my helmet. Any other suggestions for a durable, weather resistant MP-3 player?

A: bluetooth

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:34 AM

You could always explore the options for bluetooth headphones. That way you could keep whatever MP3 player you like tucked safely inside your jacket. The Logitech freepulse headphones are good and cheap.
http://reviews.cnet.com/headphones/logitech-freepulse-wireless-headphones/4505-7877_7-32110400.html

You could also go with sunglasses with an integrated MP3 player, like the Oakley Split Thump:
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-players/oakley-split-thump-2gb/4505-6490_7-32740046.html

I also reviewed a cool jacket from Burton with an integrated iPod remote:
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-player-accessories/burton-audex-ipod-field/4505-6519_7-32569169.html

Hope that helps.

Q: Zune 2nd Gen or the iPOD Touch

by vaidee325 - 12/4/07 11:19 AM

Hey Donald

I have been weighing my options on the above question. The touch screen of the iPOD touch really sweeps me off the floor but I am disappointed with the low storage capacity and the high cost of the touch when compared with the Zune.

How do they weigh against each other apart from the storage?

What would be your recommendation?

A: features vs. bling

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:29 AM

Both are great devices. I think the question you have to ask is whether you're looking for more of a slick PDA-type device, or a more traditional music/video player. The best asset on the Touch is the convergence of the Safari Web browser and calendar functions. The Zune 80 is a bulkier device, but it's less expensive, offers much more storage, a great FM radio, and a subscription music service that I've been impressed with.

That said, the iPod Touch will turn more heads and impress folks at parties--which is not something to be discounted even though it sounds trivial. It's a fun device. For me, it's the Zune.

Q: Care to comment on Fake 4GB MP3 Players?

by R. Proffitt - 12/4/07 11:20 AM

These are all over the *Bay sites. Care to comment about them, how to spot the fake and what to do when you get ripped off?

Thanks for tbe Benny Hill... "Cut out the middleman" is a good explainer.

Thanks and have a fun Live event.

A: don't go cheap

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:23 AM

If you mean those off-brand "MP4" players, I just consider them punishment for cheapskates. My advice, "Buyer beware" + "You get what you pay for".

Q: Best exercise player?

by Owyn - 12/4/07 11:13 AM

Looking for rugged flash player with screen.

Will be used primarily outdoors in all temperature ranges.

4GB should be fine.

FM tuner definite plus.

Have existing rugged head phones that in mini-jack that I would like to continue to use.

A: rugged, eh?

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:20 AM

If it weren't for its lack of an FM tuner, I would say the new Sony NWZA816. Rugged metal construction, great screen, great battery life
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-players/sony-nwz-a816-4gb/4505-6490_7-32593871.html

If you don't need much of a screen, go with the Sony B105F (only 2GB)
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-players/sony-nwz-b105f-2gb/4505-6490_7-32593878.html

or go cheap and get a handful of Sansa Clips
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-players/sandisk-sansa-clip-2gb/4505-6490_7-32588380.html

Not a satisfying answer, I know.

There's always the Trevor Baylis wind-up player
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-players/trevor-baylis-eco-media/4505-6490_7-32640582.html

Q: Retailers and product breadth.

by R. Proffitt - 12/4/07 11:09 AM

A question in the MP3 forums came up about product breadth in retailers. Specifically why you don't see brand X at retailer Y.

My explanation is that some retailers have price match policies so they can get exclusives on some items which means the choices shrink.

Another explanation is the 80/20 rule. Why not carry just the 80 percent product line and let others fight over the scraps.

Care to offer another explainer?

A: profit margins

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:13 AM

I can't say for certain, but I expect that many manufacturers (Cowon, iRiver, etc.) sell direct is because it cuts out the wholesale middleman and offers the company better profits and the customer a better price.

Q: New2Mp3Players

by arunece - 12/4/07 11:05 AM

Hey Donald
I am confused and need advice on an MP3 player.

Based on what i see i got
1. Apple Classic 160GB
2. Zune Gen 2
3. Creative Zen W 60GB

Which one would advice for this holiday.. do you see a price drop in the days to come??

A: hard to say

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:09 AM

Sounds like you're specifically looking for a high-capacity hard drive player (getting rare these days). I wouldn't count on a price drop, but who knows. The iPod Classic is going to offer the most storage, battery life and range of accessories. That said, I just ordered myself a customized Zune from ZuneOriginals because I'm pretty fond of the player at the moment.

Q: Zune Software

by ronaldsevans - 12/4/07 11:00 AM

Has Zune made improvements so it's software is better than previously reviewed?

A: Sorta...

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:06 AM

Zune offered a Firmware update (2.2, I believe) that was said to help with the metadata scrambling issues somehow. As far as I can tell, the actual Zune PC software has seen any significant changes since it launched.

Q: Zune to external speakers

by jssshashi - 12/4/07 11:00 AM

I have a zune 30
What options do I have for zune to connect to external speakers..or a built in docks

A: Zune docks

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 11:04 AM

Microsoft sells their own Zune dock, that comes with a remote control, as well as component and composite a/v connections. It's pretty sweet if you already have a stereo system to hook it up to. If not, check out the Altec Lansing M604
http://reviews.cnet.com/mp3-player-accessories/altec-lansing-m604-portable/4505-6519_7-32148604.html

As a rule of thumb, all old Zune accessories are compatible with the newest Zunes (and vice-versa).

A: Fire away

by audiodonald - 12/4/07 10:57 AM

Hey everyone,
I'm here to try and answer any questions you might have about buying MP3 players for the holidays (or any other MP3 player-related stuff). I'll try and answer as many questions as I can, but I can't promise I'll get to everyone.

So, how can I help you?

-Donald

Incoming questions

Playing MP3s
I have trouble playing MP3s on my Windows XP MCE (SP2) computer without interruption while using WinAmp 5.5 or WMP 11. Basically, while a song is playing, my cursor turns into an hour glass figure followed by an immediate delay in the song. The song starts to replay when the hour glass goes away. I figure it must be some sort of Windows service that's attempting to verify my digital media rights. Is there any way to locate the source of this annoying service so I can disable it and play my music uninterrupted? Your help would be much appreciated.
by michaeln - 12/4/07 12:31 PM
Which mp3 player??
Looking for an easy to use not to expensive mp3 player at least 4 gig. oor my Grandson's.
by Elgroves - 12/4/07 12:19 PM
How to rip then burn from CD.
I have put old CD (1996) on to RIP via WindowsMedia 11 on WIN XP.

The list plays through but I cannot then BURN onto blank disk.

I have bought an iRiverClix 2MB specifically and cannot I get anything on to it.

The HELP file WM11...doesn't, not for me anyway.

Gargoyle
by gargoyle - 12/4/07 12:17 PM
Other Download Software for iPod
I've heard that you can use software other than iTunes to download music to your iPod. What are some examples of those sorts of software?
by mrsimps - 12/4/07 12:15 PM
mp3 audio book on 5th gen ipod
i cannot get mp3 audio books into the audio book section so end up putting in music playlist. i wish it to remember where i left off like it does for my videos.
by nancy joyce - 12/4/07 12:14 PM
Shuffle Albums
What mp3 players allow me to shuffle albums as well as songs?
by carl.k.blank - 12/4/07 12:13 PM
Nano
How about the 3rd gen nano? as far as i've researched, the nano seemed to have issues, compared to the zen, one of the things i'm after, thanks
by mivec01 - 12/4/07 12:09 PM
Creative Zen
Have you guys encoutered any problem with the creative zen? thanks
by mivec01 - 12/4/07 12:07 PM
MP3 for oldies
Another oldie question? Is the MP3 player primarily to listen to downloaded music? I was looking at the IPOD 30gb? Is that a good starting point?
So how to get the music? What is the best site to go to? Do I have to put into my computer first then transfer to the MP3 player later? You mentioned .99 per song. Isn't there anything cheaper to download?
by pll911 - 12/4/07 12:07 PM
generic mp3 player
I have problems with the drag & drop portion of said player. To which drive do I send the music files to?
by harry_kel - 12/4/07 12:03 PM
you got the Q5W on your desk
when can we expect the review? also the 705WiFi and A3?
by JonTitor - 12/4/07 12:02 PM
Feature or a Bug - Smart Playlist for Podcasts
When I create a smart playlist on my video Ipod for Podcasts it will work perfectly in Itunes playing each Podcast in sequence. But on the Ipod itself it will not advance to the next Podcast after playing one. Is this a feature or a bug?
by jlnoell - 12/4/07 11:58 AM
Open source firmware
What is your take on alternative, open-source firmware? Do you like Rockbox? Are there others? Are they safe? What are their advantages and disadvantages? Can your original operating system software be restored if the open-source software doesn't work?

Thanks
by RNeprash - 12/4/07 11:57 AM
Bluetooth/MP3 integration
Why is bluetooth not a common feature on Mp3 devices? The only player I have read about having it is the new Ibiza Rhapsody. Why aren't the major companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Creative, making this feature available? It would seem to be very useful for integrating the MP# device with the car stereo, home stereo, and pc.
by mswans - 12/4/07 11:57 AM
Creative Zen Or Ipod Nano 3rd Gen?
I'm torn between the new zen and the new nano, even if it's just the 4 gb version, which should i get? i', after sound quality, features, and value. Thanks in advance
by mivec01 - 12/4/07 11:56 AM
Sony A-810
I've recently ordered a Sony mp3 player based upon recommendations I read on CNET. I know these players are EVERYWHERE, I don't mean just Sony. I know very little about them. I has dawned on me that I own an iMac computer. Have a made a BIG mistake?

Thanks in advance for your help.
by iamezinlv - 12/4/07 11:53 AM
Software of MP3 players...
Some of us oldies still like our Win98SE...can any of the new devices really use this software or are we going to have to breakdown and get a "dummy" machine just for the music?
by cmosax - 12/4/07 11:52 AM
Ipod Touch or 5th gen iPod Video
Hey just wondering if it would be worth the upgrade from a 30 gb 5th gen ipod video to a 16gb iPod touch?

the size difference doesnt matter too much, i have less than 10 gb of music/movies anyway, but for everyday use, mostly listening to music, would the ipod touch better suited for that than the old video? I have maybe 2 movies, 5 tv episodes, and 10 funny commercials that i dont watch often. I think going on youtube and browsing with safari would be cool, but is it worth $400....and is the browsing experience any good?


thanks for all the help
by warriors7749 - 12/4/07 11:51 AM
Flash storage capacity in the near future?
When do you think these attractive flash mp3 players, such as the Ipod touch, will come with sufficient storage capacity, say 32GB and above?

Thanks for any info.
by mswans - 12/4/07 11:49 AM
Cell Phones and MP3 players
Having to carry an MP3 player in addition to a cell phone is a pain. Aside from the obvious (iphone) are their any other cell phones that would allow you to ditch the stand alone MP3 player?
by sassinator333 - 12/4/07 11:38 AM
Will Zune get AVI/Divx Support?
I heard that Xbox and media center are about to get divx support.
by jssshashi - 12/4/07 11:38 AM
Music Cost
Are downloaded songs pretty much $2 accross the board? I hate to pay $2 a song only to get sick of it after a couple weeks. Have they developed rental options yet?
by ronaldsevans - 12/4/07 11:34 AM
Zune "for the holidays" ??
Poor me.. Big time fan of creative(Soundcards/PC Speakers) and hoped that they have similar market in MP3 Segments.

But i hardly see any talk about Creative Mp3 Players. I have seen the video's about them and it seems they have multiple means of transferring songs and good video clarity...... But still no talk about them in the town :(

CNET puts a new buyer like me guessing (one says IPOD/ZUNE is a draw). Going with Donalds tips..Zune seems to be the talk of the town

Maybe i should buy myself a Zune as a Holiday gift..
by arunece - 12/4/07 11:33 AM
hi Bholt2 (Brian) in regards to Plasma vs. LCD
Hi Brian,

Sorry, this live event topic is on MP3 players. I would recommend posting your question in the CNET Home Audio and Video forum for advice from our members here:

http://forums.cnet.com/5204-7596_102-0.html?forumID=60

or check out CNET's HDTV World here:

http://www.cnet.com/4520-7874_1-5102926-1.html

Thanks!

Best regards and happy holidays!
-Lee
CNET Community
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/4/07 11:30 AM
flash drive v hard drive
Why is the significance of this distinction? Which is my iPod? I'm assuming, hard drive.
by mrsimps - 12/4/07 11:28 AM
Outdoors and MP3
Hi Donald:

I'm a skier and I've been using an iPod shuffle which sits on the outside of my ski parka hooked into my helmet. Any other suggestions for a durable, weather resistant MP-3 player?
by stomachdoc - 12/4/07 11:27 AM
Plasma vs LCD
Hey Donald, looking for some advice on a new flat panel tv, specifically if you think i'd be better off with a plasma or LCD? I mainly use TV to play video games, watch sports, and watch movies. As I have both an Xbox360 and PS3, having HDMI 1.3v and 1080p I'm looking for regardless. I'm trying to stay in the 3-5K price range and looking for a size of 46-52inch. So far I like the sony XBR5 LCD, Pioneer Plasma, Panasonic Plasma, and the Ssamsung LED LCD. It will be used for the main room tv, but natural light isn't too much of an issue to handle. Any suggestions you have would be great! Thanks for the help. -Brian
by Bholt2 - 12/4/07 11:24 AM
Care to comment on Fake 4GB MP3 Players?
These are all over the *Bay sites. Care to comment about them, how to spot the fake and what to do when you get ripped off?

Thanks for tbe Benny Hill... "Cut out the middleman" is a good explainer.

Thanks and have a fun Live event.
by R. Proffitt - 12/4/07 11:20 AM
Zune 2nd Gen or the iPOD Touch
Hey Donald

I have been weighing my options on the above question. The touch screen of the iPOD touch really sweeps me off the floor but I am disappointed with the low storage capacity and the high cost of the touch when compared with the Zune.

How do they weigh against each other apart from the storage?

What would be your recommendation?
by vaidee325 - 12/4/07 11:19 AM
What does Donald bell have on his desk?
his pick of gadgets owned at the moment. or by the holidays?
by jssshashi - 12/4/07 11:17 AM
Accessory Compatibility
I've read that the iPod Nano has changed shape, do all iPods fit with the various accessories, docks etc? What about other players?
by ronaldsevans - 12/4/07 11:16 AM
Best exercise player?
Looking for rugged flash player with screen.

Will be used primarily outdoors in all temperature ranges.

4GB should be fine.

FM tuner definite plus.

Have existing rugged head phones that in mini-jack that I would like to continue to use.
by Owyn - 12/4/07 11:13 AM
Retailers and product breadth.
A question in the MP3 forums came up about product breadth in retailers. Specifically why you don't see brand X at retailer Y.

My explanation is that some retailers have price match policies so they can get exclusives on some items which means the choices shrink.

Another explanation is the 80/20 rule. Why not carry just the 80 percent product line and let others fight over the scraps.

Care to offer another explainer?
by R. Proffitt - 12/4/07 11:09 AM
Audo dock for a 2G Nano
Do you have a good recommendation for a dock to connect 2G nano to my stereo (I know that I could just use a cable).
by newcastle68 - 12/4/07 11:06 AM
New2Mp3Players
Hey Donald
I am confused and need advice on an MP3 player.

Based on what i see i got
1. Apple Classic 160GB
2. Zune Gen 2
3. Creative Zen W 60GB

Which one would advice for this holiday.. do you see a price drop in the days to come??
by arunece - 12/4/07 11:05 AM
Zune to external speakers
I have a zune 30
What options do I have for zune to connect to external speakers..or a built in docks
by jssshashi - 12/4/07 11:00 AM
Zune Software
Has Zune made improvements so it's software is better than previously reviewed?
by ronaldsevans - 12/4/07 11:00 AM
Donald Bell, CNET editor for MP3 and digital audio Live!
Ask the Editors Live! event. Topic: MP3 players for the holidays.

Got MP3 player questions? Need some holiday buying advice on them?

Well, you've come to the right place. For one whole hour on Tuesday, December 4, from 11 am to noon Pacific Time (2 pm Eastern), CNET Mp3 player guru, Donald Bell will be here to answer all your questions about MP3 players!

So if you got questions ranging from wanting the latest and greatest scoop on Mp3 players, to needing a little holiday buying advice on them, hit up Donald with your best shot! And I'm sure he'll fire right back with some answers! Don't miss out!

Click here for upcoming Ask the Editors Live events and past transcripts of events.
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/4/07 1:58 AM