I'm not looking for an "Ipod is better than Zune" type of comparison - there are plenty of those out there on the web that I'm free to read. What I am looking for is honest opinions from those of you who have one, use one, and have something to say.

I've got an inside to buy one (30gb)for $75 off of a guy that says that he just never uses it. It's in perfect shape and even has a couple of extras with it (case and other jive). Just not sure if it's the device for me.

Online reviews are mixed but, overall, pretty high.

I like the thought of ripping DVDs to it and then using it to play them over my Eclipse head unit but, I'm not totally sure how to make it work (or if it will).

All insight, hacks, thoughts, and other input ABOUT THE ZUNE (not Ipod or Creative or any other mp3-type device) is GREATLY appreciated!!

-RP-

 

I have had my 30g for a while and I really enjoy the large screen for music videos, 75bucks that is a good deal. Hell I would get it even if I already had an Ipod for that price. The zune is pretty hard to find stuff for but they are slowly coming out w/ stuff expecially w/ the new 2.0's coming out the 15th. I have had a couple probs w/ mine .ie. the first time i turned it one it didn't work, it syncs really slow and is picky what MP4 files it will play. The easiest and one of the best conversion software is cucusoft. They have several diff packages for converting everything you can think of. The zune software is tricky, and harder to learn if you are used to Itunes. I say get it, for that price you will not be disipointed.

 

Thanks, Nick. I appreciate the software recommendation as well. I was actually looking at a tutorial last night on ripping to the Zune.

Like you, I've read about several little qwirks with the Zune software on the PC side and have also read about it being finicky with certain file types. That's okay -- most everything that I have is 'old school' mp3s in horrible bitrates so, I should be okay.

Plus, I'm not used to itunes -- never used it in fact -- so, I should be just fine there.

I think I'll probably just do it. With gas prices going the way that they are and the recent addition of a little one (now 4-months old) to the house, I have a much higher tendency to watch how monies come and go out of the account. $75 is a few cans of baby formula! I haven't treated myself to a goodie in a while... the cheapest I can find them online is about $100 shipped so, what the heck? Right?

Sorry kiddo! Daddy got a new toy. You're going to have to skip a couple of bottles today!

 

The "Zune Forum" is a pretty good place to find out info on Zune's
Word of Caution! Don't buy the fm modulator made by zune...it sucks,
An aux hookup works great but you won't beable to charge it at the same time, it is alot of wires but I use a power converter and the ac charger.
I don't know if you can use the usb hub on your HU to play it either.
Also dont waste your money on the zune charger, instead check out this one
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/produ...uct_id=5750794
20bucks cheaper and it will charge 2 usb devices.
I don't know what type of hacks and stuff you are looking for?
the only one that I have tried, allows you to see your zune in "My Computer"
There are directions for installation of bigger batteries and harddrives (60,80)But it will void your warranty!

 

My buddy just downloaded "Knocked Up" on his zune it looks pretty sweet, I am going to love it in Iraq this time cant wait!
Oh here is a great website for free backgrounds already formated for the zune
http://themezune.com/index.php
Have fun man and not feedin the kiddys will only build character

 

Ehh, I'm not looking for a bigger drive -- although that's an interesting hardware hack, I suppose.

I like that charger... it'd work PERFECT with my Moto Q and Zune (both USB chargers). Thanks for that link.

I certainly wasn't going to go the modulator route. No need to take a digital stream and downconvert it to the point that it really sucks. Rather, I'm going to use a RCA AV to mini-jack cord and put the Zune in my console and run a wire from my Eclipse 5435 (via the VTR inputs) to that point. I might, while I'm in there, run an auxillary power plug as well. We'll see... I think I have that one figured out and, god willing, it should work.

I'm kind of getting excited about all of this now. While it's probably just another 'gadget' for me to toy with, maybe I'll use the thing... heck, I see possibilities, at least.

 

I have a zune I bought for $100 off my brother. It's good. Like others have said the software takes some getting use to, and you'll have to buy a program that'll let you rip dvd and convert them to the correct format. The program is really easy to use you can find set by set tutorials with pictures that help you set everything up. Just let me say this also, the whole button pressing gets kind of annoying when you're use to an Ipod. Sorry I just had to throw that in. Buy the Zune you wont regret it at that price.

 

You can check out http://www.zune.net the official zune page to get an idea of the accessories available (and then search the web to see where you can get them cheaper) as well as keep an eye out for the firmware upgrade that will be coming that will update it to the same level as the Zune 2's that are coming. That is one of many things that Microsoft is doing right for the customer. The new ones also have the touchpad but unfortunately can't update that on the old ones. Microsoft has also announced that they are working with 23 new 3 party vendors on accessories for Zune 2 and I would imagine some of those will be backwards compat with the original.

Fansites you may want to check out http://www.zuneworld.com/ and http://www.zuneinsider.com

Here's a list of some of the updates that come with the new firmware:

Wireless sync: wirelessly updates content on the device when it is within range of the PC with the Zune Collection on it, or on the same wireless network. You can start the sync manually or, when its plugged into AC power, Sync will automatically start after 1 minute of inactivity. This is so the battery doesn’t get drained by the automatic sync.
Expanded wireless send capabilities: you can now keep a track for three plays (we’ve taken any time restrictions out of the equation) you can also send a track you’ve been sent on to other Zune owners.
Lossless playback will be supported on every Zune
Podcasting – that is, automatic RSS based subscription to both audio and video podcasts via Zune Marketplace (more on ZMP below).
You’ll be able to sync your Vista Media Center TV content to your Zune and watch it on the go.
We’re still testing battery life on the new Zune 4GB, 8GB, and 80GB, but it’s looking good. Since we built them from the ground up, we have more control over battery performance.
Updated device UI

 

im on my 4th zune due to battery and locking up issues. Ill be heading to an ipod touch when my zunes free replace warranty is up 75 bucks tho its worth it. Cant get a new one even close to the zune for that price.

 

Ouch, bad luck. Everyone I know that has them hasn't had any problems like that. I hear more complaints about Ipods. Strange how perceptions get shaped...

 

Thanks, man. I told the guy that I'd like to get it this morning and should have it early next week (he's out on biz for the next several days).

What program are you using to rip DVD to Zune? Cucusoft?

 

Excellent info. Thanks!

I've seen the new Zune that is in the pipeline and, personally, I'm just fine with going with the old technology..

When you pasted in the info about the new firmware -- is that for the 'NEW' Zune 2 that is on it's way or is that for the current Zune? I'm assuming NEW considering that it mentions a 80gb Zune (which doesn't exist just yet as I understand it)? You do mention though that maybe the Zune 1 may be able to be upgraded firmware-wise to the Zune 2 firmware? That's interesting...

Everything I've read about the current Zune is that the wifi feature is useless -- opinions from anyone on that?

Thanks for those links! I'll definitely start checking them out. Much appreciated!

-RP-

 

Actually, the Brown Zune (which is what I'm getting, btw (it'll match the interior - )) can be had all over the web for $99.99. Personally, the brown isn't my first choice of colors but, I just can't see paying $30 more for a black one -- really goofy in my opinion.

As for the batts, I've read a few folks talking about having problems. I haven't, however, read about anyone with 4! Dang! Have they been okay to deal with from a warranty standpoint?

 

Yes, original Zune's can be updated with the new firmware. I think this is pretty cool on MS's part. You'll essentially have a Zune 2 minus the new touchpad. Typically on Ipod's for those sort of feature changes/adds you need to get new hardware.

As for wireless, yes the original functionality was limited, get's better with firmware upgrade. Now wireless synch is enabled and wireless send has changed from 3days OR 3 plays to just 3 plays (which is a little less useless but makes music companies happy).

 

Watch woot.com. I have seen zunes go for as low as $75 for refurbished models. they seem to have them every now and then.