Poor Choice for Serious Computer Users
Written: Feb 12 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Size, Radio, Exandable
Cons: Parallel interface
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| hankm's Full Review: Creative Technology Nomad Jukebox (32 MB) MP3 Play... |
My Nomad was a gift. It plays music great; I like the built in radio; the software does MP3 encoding well with a variety of options, and I especially like how it retrieves album information from the web.
...but since I'm a heavy computer user I will focus on interface and software features as well as a couple of problems I've had.
I found the following disappointing:
1) It looks like the only difference between the 32 and 64M models is the addition of the 32M SmartMedia card. So for $80 more you get an option that I was able to find on the web for $70.
2) The device connects by parallel port. Most computers only come with one parallel port and that's usually where you plug in a printer. I hate swapping cables.
3) The parallel port is slow. I don't know how fast the Nomad can accept an MP3 file, but the parallel port is inherently slow, especially when compared to USB which is availble on most newer computers.
4) The parallel interface is limited to Win98. If you run WinNT or expect to run Win2000, you're out of luck.
5) I found it awkward to switch back and forth between multiple CD-ROM drives.
Disappointing personal experiences:
1) I could not get the NiMH batteries to charge. I finally had to put in alkalines to get the device to work. In this situation you are specifically warned not to put the device on the cradle. This could lead to accidental problems if you ever replace the rechargeable batteries w/ alkalines and then forget.
2) The Nomad has "crashed" on me three times. During these times it only put out static. Turning it off and then on again restored the Nomad to normal.
3) I found the software confusing. I found it to have too much focus on glitzy graphics and not enough on usability.
Bottom line:
1) MP3 players are great.
2) I wish I had an MP3 player with a USB connection.
3) There's something flaky with my NiMH batteries or charger.
4) You might be better off getting a 32M unit and buying the upcoming 64MB SmartMedia card.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
hankm
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Member: Hank Meuret
Reviews written: 1
Trusted by: 3 members
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