10 out of 10 people found this review helpful.
iPod Nano 2nd Generation - Ideal for the average user!
Date of Review: Dec 2, 2007
The Bottom Line: Good entry level Ipod for the average user. Docks to current Ipod stations, and connections. Avoid the sky high pricing - buy online used or refurbished!
After having learned about Podcasts and other training and information files you could play on an Ipod, my interest became peaked! I finally took the Ipod-audio-techno plunge and purchased a Nano 2nd Generation model refurbished online a few months back. I am ten thumbs when it comes to these kind of devices with only a limited number of individual albums and songs I'm interested in hearing, so the 4 GIG size is ample for me - an average, occasional user!!
I'd heard that this was one of the most durable models, as compared to the hefty 30-60 GIG versions with the delicate internal hard drives. Conversely, the Nano models are similar to a flash drive in terms of how data is stored, and therefore they can take a bit more rough and toughness! I'm busy sometimes tossing phones etc. into the bottom of a purse or corner with the tendency to drop things, so I decided this was the model for me. See link below regarding the "indestructible" ipod:
http://arstechnica.com/reviews/hardware/nano.ars/3
Additionally, I immediately purchased one of those simple rubber protective sleeves. Then off to Itunes to learn how to use my Ipod! I purchased my Nano refurbished online for under $90 with the Apple earbuds, AC adapter included. I have not had any trouble with it. It took me a bit to figured out the iTunes/ library to Ipod manuevering/ transfer etc. I made a joke of it at the end of one my classes asking my college students the nuances of Ipod use, and what to expect from my model. We all laughed as I am well versed with computers and many software packages, yet pretty clueless with an Ipod!
My 4 GIG model can hold about 1,000 songs. That's more songs than I currently know - top of mind! However, I have loaded some songs, several broad and podcasts and love the portability! I have not figured out how to separate the songs from the broadcasts in the shuffle mode. My model is limited, but I manage. The sound quality is good, though I suspect the Apple earbuds just ok. And I have heard that the white Ipod earphones are a give away to a would be thief that you're listening to one of those "expensive" Ipods, so I may just go with my older over-the-head mini headphones I've loved. I care little about current style! Hah!
Initially, I found the click wheel awkward, but I am adapting. It is hard to tell when the device is turned off completely. However, overall I would say the level of detail, options and engineering of this compact device is impressive! The menus, sub-menues and features are detailed and user friendly. The brushed-metal case seems quite sturdy. I would like to simply delete/ add a song or podcast at a time from the unit, but that's not possible with the Nano playlist set up. I prefer the 1.5" LCD screen and would find the no-screen "blind" Ipod Shuffle model problematic.
Now if only Apple would release an Ipod Nano or whatever with an AM/ FM radio! Some of us actually listen to AM. Now that would be perrrfectttt!
