Apple iPod Mini (4GB, Silver, 2nd generation)
MP3 players Buying Guide
-
May 8, 2005 02:41
3.5/5
The iPod is a good product, but there are some things you need to consider before buying. You should know that Apple scams you with their 1 year battery. Shortly after that, it dies and it cost $100 to fix it, and the new battery isnt that great eihter. The 2nd Gen got worse in a way because it didn't include a AC Adapter, so you can't charge it when it dies. The only way to charge it is through a USB cable on a computer, but when you're going to Las Vegas or something and you go to your hotel, where are you going to find a computer? Also, the 6 GB was just a lame tactic to try to become better than all the other mp3 playres out there. Add another Gig, for $50 more? nahhh screw it, just buy the 4th Gen 20 GB model. Another main concern about this is that it doesn't play WMA, which really sux, since most of my music are WMA and most music service providers are now using WMA. Also, one final thing to consider, the iPod is dead if it doesn't have iTunes. -
June 16, 2005 03:29
3.5/5
I've had my iPod Mini for 10 months, and it has broken twice. Also, if i want accessories, I have to buy them from Apple (Which means I have to spent a lot of money.) Aside from that, it is a great MP3 player. -
March 10, 2005 05:51
4.5/5
Apple has done it yet again with this new Ipod Mini 2nd Generation. The difference between the new Mini compared to the older version is minimal, but the price different is huge. The older version was going for $250 where as this new one is now going for $199 (4GB). Apple is also offering 6GB with a capacity of 1,500 songs. The new Mini also has a longer battery, 18 hours compared to the 8 the old one had. This makes a significant difference, and really urged me to purchase it. The click wheel is still very easy to use, like the older one. The colors on the directional pad have changed to the color matching your Mini. Other than that there is no other change to the old one. So you are getting a much better deal for your money with the 2nd Generation Ipod. I should also mention that there is no FM radio, but there never has been on any Ipod model. Other than that this Ipod is better than most of the mp3 hard drive players out there. -
February 26, 2005 03:21
4.5/5
I just bought the new generation iPod mini (6 GB). It's everything I ever wanted!!! Unlike the old mini pods, the new ones have color coordinated buttons to match whatever color your player is, the battery is also 10 HOURS LONGER (to make 18 hours total) which outlasts ANY of the iPods. They also dropped the price from $250 to $179. The new generations are available in 4GB or 6GB (which holds approx. 1,500 songs). Apple has done it again. -
March 31, 2005 02:09
Excellent
2.0/5
This device has clearly led the industry for some time now. Apple made the quality product while other companies just sold a piece of trash. But with the introduction of new micro-jukebox players, apple no longer has the luxury of not paying very much attention to the progression of the mini. There are new competitors that will (in my opinion they already have) take the #1 spot from apple.
The mini is a good mp3 player, but it needs a little bit of updating. Here is what I think should be added:
1.FM Radio(sometimes we get tired of our own music)
2.Microphone/Voice recorder(for lectures and meetings
3.BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE!!
4.WMA compatibility (big must for dedicated PC users)
5.Replaceable battery (it costs $99 to get it replaced and it dies out quickly, too
I think if apple added these, it would be a better product. -
June 28, 2005 04:39
4.5/5
When used correctly, iPods are awesome. Meaning, if you go running, don't get an iPod mini, get an iPod shuffle or some other sort of flash mp3 drive. However, for the lazy student who needs his/her music on a compact player; the iPod mini fits perfectly.
The only few problems I've run into with my iPod is when switching from one computer to the next (utilizing a friend's music collection as well) unless you tweak certain features in iTunes, you're likely to erase all your songs off the iPod. Yes, this is easily fixed, but not without a small hassle. Otherwise, I've had no problems with anything due to connectivity, and the program is really easy to learn.
One thing that seems to plague all iPods is the screen sensitivity. This is why I bought a screen protector on the first day of owning my iPod. I am proud to say that, to this day, I have yet to scratch the screen. The click wheel is also a popular topic, but the only thing bad I have to say about it is that it gets dirty somewhat easily.
Overall, I love my iPod and most people I know that own one can't live without it. And if you're a student, Apple gives educational discounts both online and in their stores. -
May 19, 2005 03:35
4.5/5
If you're considering an MP3 player, but are undecided re: spending the extra $$ for an iPod mini (as opposed to the $99 off brands...), it's WORTH IT! I have had SEVERAL MP3 players, and quickly discovered upon purchasing my iPod mini exactly WHY it's the industry standard. Incredible. I filled up the 4G in a hurry, but would not sacrafice the small design. ****! Shure e2's (read my review) are a good "upgrade" from the standard-issue headphones included. -
August 8, 2005 12:34
4.0/5
Ok, let me start of by saying that Im no super techy guru, but I know enough to say that most of the "experts" on here that are complaining about the iPods, are idiots IMO. Seriously. They claim to know a lot about this subject, but then I read their reasons for hating the Apples...and its for really dumb reasons. Some complaints Ive heard:
-Not being able to use WMA's (so most give up and return it or dont change the files) Man, first off....Apple says THEY DONT SUPPORT WMA's, SO WHY BUY IT IF YOU KNOW IT WONT PLAY THEM!??? I have had no problems getting started with my iPod mini. All of my songs that were WMA's from my CD ripping were changing to AAC files (basically making copies, because my original WMA files are still existant)the minute I fired up iTunes 4.9
Piece of cake.
-The scroll wheel being touchy or not working properly. Ok, I think my 17-month old daughter can figure this out. People, it is TOUCH sensitive. When my fingers are super squeaky clean, they're dry. As if having baby powder on them. At this point the wheel may be sort of laggy feeling or eratic. Why? Because theres less sensitivity. Now if I was to lightly lick the finger I was using and snap my fingers or wipe that finger off barely to give it a tacky feel.....WOW!!! The wheel works more than generously. Amazing eh? Some people are just plain lazy.
-Battery program. Ok, I didnt have my iPod when the old program was running so that would have MAYBE deterred me from buying, but I doubt it. $99 the first time was QUITE pricey. But now its only $56(plus shipping). I think thats a heck of a deal considering the fact that the rules say that you get a new or refurbished iPod back. Just think, every year or two (depending on how fast you wear your batteries out) you get a new or like new iPod mini for $60+.
-Price per capacity. Ok, one dingbat on here was going to sacrifice sound quality so he could say he achieved 200 songs a 512mb player (at like 40kbps) and say it was a better value than an iPod mini. Ugh, what? I myself was even looking at anywhere from 512m to 1g MP3 players. Samsungs YEPP 1g was about $120 new, and Apples iPod Shuffle was $99. It was down to those two for me. Then I saw in the display case that my local Circuit City had "open box" iPod minis for $150. Everything had been factory serviced/refurbished/everything new. There was one silver one in there so I bought it. I dont care what anyone says, but its a brand new 4gig iPod mini for $150. Plus it retained full warranty. That was a no-brainer.
The only thing that I was disappointed in, was the fact that when I got it home...it didnt have the belt clip. Ill have to call CC about that one.
Speaking of other things I didnt like:
-The stock earbuds blow! Plain and simple. Im just gonna get some Koss Sparkplugs for $20.
-Way too many EQ presets. You could honestly get away with about 5 of them. The rest are useless to have on there IMO.
-Apples repair/help services are quite pricey.
-I know iPods are geared towards yuppies and trendy people (both of which I am not)but I DO have to admit that I love the look of the silver one I got. It reminds me of the brushed aluminum/stainless items that I like. Therefore, its probably TOO pretty. haha I dont want to drop,scratch,mame, or disfigure this thing. I cherish it too much. Or maybe I....*gasp*...take CARE of my stuff. I cant believe people expect to drop items like these and just expect them to be ok. TAKE CARE OF YOUR STUFF PEOPLE and your stuff will take care of you. Simple concept.
Ill get off of my soapbox now. Im sure some or most of you will hate my review, but oh well. Im just brutaly honest. Im not some die-hard iPoder, but just think before you speak when you dis something. I just happen to like the iPod/iTune way of enjoying my music.
The reason I didnt give it a 10 is because its NOT perfect. No mp3 player is perfect yet. So it would have 9, but I hate the headphones and Apple could have a little more consumer and wallet friendly tech support. Therefore, it gets an 8.
Happy digital music listening everybody!
Peace.
_ -
July 6, 2005 05:54
4.0/5
Let's face it- the iPod is the quintissential MP3 player, hand's-down. Anyone stating otherwise is fooling themselves. The style & easy functioning, in tandem with iTunes & Apple's incredible PR job, have secured the iPod as the player of choice (no one is getting mugged over a Rio or Yepp).
However, I believe the player should have been shipped with at least a clear skin to protect it's face & wheel. I have babied mine (only 3 weeks old) & I already see scratches on the screen.
Also, though this is really an iTunes gripe, I find it perplexing & aggravating that I cannot manipulate the songlist in iTunes. I want to drag my songs into the order I wish & then transfer them. It seems ridiculous that I'm forced into the extra steps to create a playlist instead of just being able to put them how I basically want them in the first place?
As I said, I have had the player for 3 weeks. I lost one earbud cover the first time I used them (never found it)- they were a PITA to put on & then they just slip off- lousy. I'd think for what it would cost Apple (maybe a penny?), they could toss in at least 6 pairs of them?
The sound quality is ok but I expected better earbuds from Apple- perhaps even a closed-ear design?
These gripes aside, I have enjoyed this player very much. This would look sweet cradled next to a Mac-Mini on my desk---
Tracy ;^) -
June 15, 2005 03:52
4.5/5
I think this is a great product. I think you would like this if you are looking at it. The only problem I had with it was the consumer services. I called apple and they wanted to charge me just to call and I have not even owened my ipod for a year. There repair service is great I had to ship my ipod in for click-weel problems and they fixed it right away with no charge they even paid fof shipping. I think you will also enjoy that you can fit 1000 songs. I enjoy my Ipod. You may also want to cansitter the Sony PSP because it can also play music, wach videos and Images and Play PS2. Overall the ipod is great I really like it.
