Zune

Well, I never thought I'd be writing this post.

It all started about 2 and a half years ago for me with the Zune.  I bought the first edition Zune (brown), and was eager to try out the new "iPod killer."  Much to my distress, the software install was terrible, the interface (of the PC software, not the device) was horrific, and the device itself was limited.
Shortly after the purchase, Microsoft released the firmware update to "fix all things Zune."



It was almost as if they took all the bad things about the GUI, the device, and the marketplace, and threw them out the window.  They completely re-wrote the Zune application.  Like most first-second edition releases, it was a bit buggy, but it was beautiful.  Some functionality was taken away from the app (music ranking the way we knew it, smart playlists to name a couple), but in my mind it stood a chance.

I sold the device deciding it hadn't evolved enough for my use.

Just recently I decided to switch all of my usage to Zune.  Several reasons in-fact; but the main being the release of the iPhone - I know what you're thinking.. WHAT???


I work at a company that uses Sprint's service for cellular services.  It's not a practical, or reasonable solution to switch to AT&T's crappy coverage (and pricing).  Because of Apples stupid decision to go to AT&T exclusively, I have about 400 Gig's of Legally purchased music I can only use on my iPod, and one computer; I can't use the music on my Blackberry for example (with out burning a CD, and then re-ripping back to my computer).  I've tried to follow the Legal rules, and I'M the one getting shafted by Apple's decision.  I've buried several THOUSANDS of dollars into Apples entertainment services, only to realize I will only be able to use the content in a very limited fashion.

Microsoft AGAIN listened to it's users for Zune's latest software.  They added the missing components (minus the rating system, which still baffles me - a sacrifice I'm willing to make for the benefits of the software) to the latest version, and now it's a VERY viable solution for users like me.

I know what you're thinking - music downloaded from Zune's service can only be used on a Zune.  That's not entirely true.  Their new subscription service offers the ability to play back music on ANY device that holds your active subscription (I can sync the device with several computers), I can stream entire songs to determine if I want to download them, I get 10 free songs (to keep in non-DRM format) each month.  WHAT A DEAL!!!  That means while riding my bike, I can listen to those 10 songs on my Blackberry (a non Zune device), not miss calls while riding, I can access the market place from the Zune using wifi, and burn discs from the music I keep; all for around $15 a month.  Have an XBOX 360?  Stream your content from the Zune software... goodbye Apple TV (although it's worth mentioning the XBOX sounds like a jet turbine... move it to the other room, away from those of you with tender ears, the controllers use RF).  There are SEVERAL other benefits worthy of mentioning,  but this post would get exceedingly boring.

The device itself is everything you want in a player.  It's not an ipod touch, but I can stack whatever album I want to listen to on the device.

I can't use an iPhone; without that benefit, the Apple store is extremely expensive, inconvenient, and overrated.  Keep in mind I've owned EVERY ipod created, and Zune had a long way to come in order to truly compete in the market.  I have 2 Apple TV's, and 5 computers all streaming content from my iTunes library.

The Zune is a WORTHY competitor to the ipod.  In my case, it fills in the gaps the iPod leaves out.  It's a handsome device that has a lot of functionality.  Microsoft has really come a long way with this piece of hardware.  The sound quality is excellent, and the ease of use (for both the PC software, and the device) make it well worth the money.

Until Apple decides to change their model to something similar, I'm going to use the Zune.
I'm STILL looking for the device that does it all (the iPhone almost does), but one that can be used with ANY carrier, any song I PURCHASE (easily), and will work with any free online sync service.
Give it a try, I don't think you'll regret it.