
by
Ted Kritsonis
Faze
Technology Editor
What it is:
Unlike the original ZEN Micro, this model has incorporated
photos, so you can listen to music and view photos. On top
of that, you can use it as a recording device and capture
FM radio stations. You get a 8GB drive, which can hold up
to 2,000 songs and many more photos. It also comes in a variety
of colours (too bad the pink version isn’t out in Canada
for you girls).
What’s
good about it: You’re definitely getting
some great features in a small (not to mention, cute) package.
The 1.5-inch screen isn’t big by any means, but it’s
vibrant, so you’ll get rich colours and good backlighting.
Creative says that it lasts about 15 hours on a full battery
charge, but 12 is probably a more realistic estimate, which
is still very good anyway. Another plus is that you can adjust
and alter menu options so you’ll only see the things
you really want. And last but not least, the recording features
are cool in that you can capture something from a radio station
or just record yourself and others having a conversation

What’s NOT good about it:
By far, the worst thing here is that you can’t view
photos and listen to music at the same time. If you’re
going to combine the two, then you should have that kind of
functionality going. Also, if you plan to go for a jog with
the ZEN MicroPhoto, get yourself a strap so you can wrap it
around your arm, or else the player will skip.
What’s the verdict:
It’s not perfect but the ZEN MicroPhoto is still a pretty
good product. If you care a lot about being able to listen
to music while watching a slideshow, then you may have issues
with this thing, but if photos aren’t a real concern,
then you’ve got an excellent mp3 player here.
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Manufacturer:
Creative
Labs
Cost:
$320 Retail

Rating:
8/10
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