“And why you should have one…”

Whilst I’m normally excited by brand new shiny things like iPods and other MP4s, there’s also a lot to be said about including a second hand MP3 player in your collection.

And, don’t think second hand, think “pre-loved”…

“Why you ask?”

Many uses spring to mind.  Here’s just a few:

• Using in dodgy suburbs, when you don’t want to get jumped for your ’stand-out-like-dogs-b***s’ white earphones;
• Being able to ignore people.  Just pop in the earphones and appear to be too engrossed in your music to talk / answer / listen
• Capturing celebrities drunken murmurings when you’re out and about (thanks, voice recorder); or
• Logging your investigations and findings during a covert operation;
• Sneakily listening to Triple J on the job site when “no radios are allowed” (so small it fits in any pocket); or
• Setting the alarm and hiding it under your flat mates pillow to wake them at all sorts of odd hours
• Ummm, playing up to 17 hours of your favourite digital music?  Just a thought…

So then where would you find such a beast to do all that?

Finding an MP3 player in good condition

Grab yourself a bargain on an iRiver MP3 player – comes with free carry case and earphone buds.

-> Bid on:  iRiver flash MP3 player

Microsoft Zune HD – “Portable Perfection”

Engadget checked out the Zune HD recently and were very impressed with it’s features.  The OLED screen was put to the test and passed with flying colours, plus nothing but praise for the UI and OS.  Check out the pics over at Engadget.

Zune HD : Engadget hands on

Photo courtesy of Engadget

What’s it got?

• 3.3 inch touchscreen
• HD radio – integrated HD radio receiver
• HDTV / HD video out
• Wireless connectivity – for streaming songs, purchasing content
• Web browser – surf the net on WiFi
• Accelerometer
• Touchscreen QWERTY keyboard

More info on Zune HD

You can check out more details on the Zune HD online

The Zune HD is set for release in the US in their fall.

iLounge launches 5th edition iPod guide (2009)

The go-to manual for all things iPod. Whether you’re interested in what other iPod users are using, the accessories they’re buying, how to buy and sell, or just want to find out what colour the iPod was back in 2004, then the iLounge guide is a very handy download.

What’s inside?

100 Best iPhone Apps & Games

Of the thousands of iPod games and apps on iTunes Apps store, iLounge has roadtested them all and rated their Top 100. After all, who amongst us has the time to do that amount of research? Well done iLounge

Amongst some of their favourites (and mine)?

• Tetris
• Bejeweled 2
• Brain Challenge
• Shanghai Mahjong

Top iPod Accessories, Best of Year, Readers’ Choice

Impressive to see some of our iPod covers and accessories rated an honourable mention. Namely, V-Moda Vibe Duo headsets, Speck ArmorSkins (iPod classic), Speck PixelSkins (iPod touch). Don’t miss our and Marware SportSuit Convertibles for iPhone as well.

There’s also great tips on:

• Buying and Selling your iPhone
• Historical iPhone timelines and colour charts

Where to Download

They make it easy for you. You can download it in two different style print versions, or view it on your iPhone (or iPod touch).

iLounge iPod iPhone Buyers Guide

Apple store unveils the new iPod shuffle

New iPod shuffle: Its shiny – and its tiny!

Now nearly only half the size of the previous iPod shuffle. Minute!

“I like a small player, but 1Gb just wasn’t enough”

Don’t worry, the new iPod shuffle is now 4GB, or 1,000 songs.

“Wow, it’s so small. How will my fingers work the buttons?”

Don’t worry, the controls are now on the earphone cord (no mic).

And if you ever have one of those moments when you’re not sure which song is playing, then the new VoiceOver on the shuffle might appeal to you.

The revolutionary new VoiceOver feature enables iPod shuffle to speak your song titles, artists and playlist names.

And it also now has playlist function. Available in silver and grey. Check it out for yourself at AppleAU store:

It’s pretty cute, but I’m not sure I wouldn’t lose it on the first outing, even with the little wearable clip! Yeh, I’m clumsy.

Where to find a review?

Check out this review by ars technica.

Previous iPod shuffle (and colours)

If you prefer the colourful iPod shuffles, they’re still available at the Apple store, but who knows for how long.