

There's also basic PIM functionality: you can sync contacts, tasks, and calendar info from Outlook to the device. You do get voice recording and an FM radio with autoscan and 32 preset slots. In addition to its media capabilities, the Zen includes Creative's usual impressive array of features, though it's worth noting that there is no line-in recording for audio or video (the latter in particular would have been a nice touch). Creative includes an app-Zen Media Explorer-which can take care of the conversion painlessly and (somewhat) quickly. On the video side, the Zen plays WMV and Motion JPEG out of the box and MPEG4, DiVX, and XViD with conversion.
#Creative zen mp3 players review windows
Photos must be in JPEG format, which Windows Media Player can convert to automatically during syncing.
#Creative zen mp3 players review mac
Unfortunately, it also shares Mac incompatibility with the other players in its line. Like its other family members, this Zen also supports MP3, WAV, Audible, and both protected and unprotected WMA tracks. The player can sync via drag-and-drop in Windows Explorer, or you can use a jukebox such as Windows Media Player or Rhapsody. (Of course, at a price that exceeds the 16GB Zen itself, those are a bit cost-prohibitive at the moment.) Considering the move away from more capacious hard drive memory, we definitely think the addition of memory expansion was a wise-and necessary-move.Īnother new feature to be found on this Zen is its support of unprotected AAC files, meaning it will play back iTunesPlus tracks, though you can't use iTunes to transfer them. We're happy to report that the slot can take SDHC cards, which currently go up to 16GB in the full-size SD variety. In another departure from the norm, Creative has built in an SD card expansion slot-a first for its MP3 players. The reset and mic holes can be found on the bottom and top spines, respectively.Įxploring the top side of the Zen also reveals one of the new extras we alluded to earlier. Sadly, there's no dedicated volume control, but the right edge of the Zen houses the ever-handy hold/power switch along with a standard mini-USB port and 3.5mm headphone jack. This is flanked on the top by a back/contextual menu rocker and on the bottom by a shortcut and play/pause toggle. Main functions are handled by a four-way control square surrounding a center select button. We're also pleased to note that Creative didn't skimp on the controls and has migrated completely to the user-friendly tactile variety. At just 3.3 inches by 2.1 inches by 0.4 inch, it's about 60 percent smaller than the Vision:M and it's definitely pocket-friendly. It's like a smaller, sleeker version of the Vision.ĭespite its ample screen, the Zen is pleasantly compact. Also, while the design might not be as innovative as that of the iPod Touch and iRiver Clix-or as cute or as eye-catching as that of previous family members-the Zen has a certain understated elegance with its shiny face and brushed-metal backside. Still, it must be said that black does make an excellent frame for the awesome 2.5-inch TFT screen, which is capable of displaying 16.7 million colors.

However, the Neeon features a duo-tone color OLED screen not a full-color screen so this isn't the model for you if you want to view pictures or video.Creative has gained somewhat of a reputation for putting MP3 players in a vast array of colors, so it comes as a bit of a shock (and maybe a letdown, for some) that the Zen will be offered in just one: black. The Neeon also features and FM radio and voice recorder.

Creative offers tons of designs that are as individual as you are. You can also put a face on your music by adding Stik-On skins to your Neeon. This featherweight MP3 player is a heavyweight when it comes to battery power - with up to 32 hours of continuous playback. Retail - $119.99 US Creative MP3 Players - Zen Neeon (5GB) It also has cool features like line-in encoding, which allows you to record music directly from your CD player! With a rotating, scratch-resistant, full-colour screen, one touch navigation joystick and easy file transfer, this MP3 player is for serious music lovers. This tiny MP3 player comes in black or white with either orange, green or blue as an accent color. Kidzworld takes a look at what happens when people think outside the pod. If you think your only MP3 option is the iPod, you're seriously mistaken.
