Creative Zen V Plus 4 GB Portable Media Player (Black/Blue)
by Creative
(Click here)
Customers in the UK,
buy this product at amazon.co.uk
for British Pounds
Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: CreativeBrand: Creative Labs
Edition: Electronics
Audio: English (Original Language)
Format: CD
Platform: Windows
Model: 70PF2072001Y1
Publisher: Creative
Studio: Creative
Music Label: Creative
Product features:
- Product Type - MP3 Player
- Memory - 4GB
- Battery - Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
- Storage Capacity: 4GB (2,000 songs)
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Creative Zen V Plus 4 GB Portable Media Player (Black/Blue)
Customer Review: Creative Zen - So Far, Fantastic; Update the Firmware Before Using
Summary: 5 Stars
I've had my Zen V Plus for about 2-3 months, and it's been working beautifully so far. I first chose the Zen instead of the iPod because I did not want to be bound to the iTunes interface - I'm a drag and drop sort of person.
One thing I did as soon that I got the device was download and update its firmware on Creative's website in the Downloads section with the January 07 release, as I noticed that there were plenty of complaints about the firmware. So far, no faulty firmware or freezing problems.
It's survived a few field trips, being passed around by excited middle schoolers (who, much to my chagrin and amusement, immediately coined it Tamagotchi-like and cute, among other similar adjectives). In addition, many commented that it was better than an iPod, due to the FM radio capability and higher capacity hard drive - many of them own the iPod Nano 2GB (in fact, me and a close friend are the only two to own a Zen product)There are minuscule scratches on it, but only visible if you go in for a nice close up.
The voice recording worked for entertaining us for hours on end, though the quality was a bit mediocre, and could have been better. While the subtitles were impossible to read, we did have a nice time with watching some smaller clips of anime and other media. I wouldn't recommend watching a full episode, though, it is a nice thing to have on a field trip with you for the price versus a video iPod.
One of my friends who owns an iPod comments that one of the better things it has is the precise volume control, just clicking the up/down button on the side. He notes that he has tried changing the volume on his own iPod, and when distracted, accidentally clicks the wheel the wrong way and nearly blows out his eardrums (hyperbole, but it's a strain on your ears nonetheless).
This is surprisingly durable. I've knocked it onto the floor, banged it a couple times against an upright bass (music festivals include the major lugging of our string instruments), and some other incidents. One worth mentioning happened only today.
I was in the bathroom of my home, and had my earbuds on, listening, with the Zen on the counter. I'm a klutz, and Murphy's Law is evil - so of course, I slung my arm around to grab my towel to wipe my hands - and the Zen went soaring into the sink, still draining with about a quarter inch of soapy water. I quickly yanked it out, slightly wet from the incident. I quickly shut it down, and wiped it off with a towel. Hoping for the best, I waited for it to dry before turning it on. And lo and behold, it was still working and functioning correctly.
Granted, it wasn't in the water for very long, or even what you'd called completely submerged, but the damage that could have happened didn't. For that, I'm thankful.
The only time I've had to reset this was when I decided to view a video that I hadn't converted beforehand and the device froze. Fortunately, the reset button quickly remedied the freeze and I learned to not be too impatient when transferring media onto these that I know probably won't work correctly.
Of course, I've only had it for about three months, so I might be back with a few corrections. I wonder how well it (namely, the joystick) will hold up in the future.
Pros:
- Smart Volume (great for keeping the volume from blowing your ears out and still achieving phenomenal sound; this can be disabled and enabled as you wish)
- Great capacity for its price
- Durability
- FM radio
- Voice Recorder
- Customizable color themes and backgrounds from .jpeg pictures loaded onto the device
Cons:
- Small video size
- Tiny screen
- Long charging period
- Bass amplifier renders slightly scratchy sound; better off without it
- Seemingly delicate joystick
Overall, it seems that since I haven't had the problems others seem to be having, might just have to do with updating the firmware. I can't say the same for the joystick navigation in times to come, but so far, this is one tough little device, and I hope to enjoy it for months, at least, to come.
Description of Creative Zen V Plus 4 GB Portable Media Player (Black/Blue)
The ZEN V Plus player was designed for people like youthose who walk a step or two ahead of the pack. So do not be surprised when people take notice of your cool, colorful music, photo and video player. Tell them you carry up to 2,000 songs with you. Tell them you can watch video on the go. Show them just a handful of the photos youve stored on the pocket sized powerhouse. And tell them there is even more but they will have to get their own.Amazon.com Product Description With a tiny, eye-catching design, smooth contours, and a discreet size, the Creative Zen V Plus 4 GB Portable Media Player fits perfectly in your palm and slides effortlessly into your smallest pocket. With 4 GB of storage space,
 A 1.5-inch OLED screen displays rich and vibrant photos, as well as the easy-to-use Creative interface. View all Zen V Plus features. |
 Not much bigger than a pair of earbuds! (black and orange model shown) See the Zen V Plus in 3D. |
Another great feature is a Direct CD Recording function that allows you to record songs directly from a CD player or other audio source without using a PC as an intermediary. You no longer need to burn CDs to your PC then download to your MP3 player. Just connect an audio device directly to your Zen V Plus, and record your favorite CDs, records, beats and more, direct from the source. Meanwhile, automatic track detection separates each song for you--a handy feature when you're converting analog (records and cassette tapes) to digital. If organization is a high priority, the Zen V Plus's Personal Organizer will help you stay connected and in-sync with your Microsoft Outlook information. Just connect the Zen V Plus to your PC, sync your Outlook information, and you'll be ready to carry around your contacts, calendar, and to-do lists right in your pocket. Plus, the Zen V Plus uses a handy built-in microphone to double as a voice recorder, so you can capture notes, record lectures, and more.
 No matter how you hold it, the Zen V Plus is just the right size. |
What's in the Box
Creative Zen V Plus, earphones, drawstring pouch, lanyard, USB 2.0 cable, line-in cable, neck strap, installation CD including user manual, and quick start guide.
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