iPod killer!!!

I previously owned an iPod Nano (2nd gen) and when the batter died on it I had to decide if I wanted another iPod or if I should try a different brand. I chosed the Zune 80 and haven't regretted it for a second. Not only is it dead sexy, it's ease of use and added features not found on the iPod make it a no brainer.

First thing you notice about the Zune is the humongous screen which boasts a 240 x 320 resolution. The display is crisp and clear, and with the glass cover over it gives you peace of mind that it will stay that way for months to come. The big pad/button in the middle is touch sensitive and can be used as such, or as a directional button for navigation purposes. I find this pad to be superior to iPod's touch wheel, especially the one on the iPod Classic cause it's so huge that you have to make one hell of a rotation with your thumb to navigate through your albums and what not. With the Zune pad, you either drag your finger across the pad or simply hold the button in the direction you want to go, makes life so much easier.

The matte finish of both the faceplate and the backplate ensure you won't have to worry about cleaning off fingerprints everytime you look at it. The interface is as straight forward as it could possibly be which makes navigation a breeze. The Zune has a built in FM Tuner so you can listen to your local radio stations if you so choose. It also allows you to change your background or wallpaper to a picture of your choosing, both of these are things the iPod can't do out of the box or at all in regards to the latter.

The audio signal is very clean and the included premium ear buds do nothing to take away from that. They are among the best ear buds I've ever heard and are comfortable just the same. Microsoft includes 3 extra sets of ear bud cups (S,M, and L) so you can find the size that fits you best.

I have yet to use the wireless file transfer feature but it's one of the reasons I chose this over the iPod and look forward to using it.

May main issue with this player is the lack of aftermarket support. While there is a little selection of accessories out there, go into any store that sells the iPod and the Zune and look at the difference in aftermarket products available for both products and you'll see what I mean. But i'm hopeful that this will soon change and will continue to use my Zune 80, which has made my transition from an iPod a pleasure.