A couple issues I have with the Zen in use.
1. There is no random feature. You have to set playlists precisely and then listen to them in the exact order. You can't even load the songs into the playlist and hit a shuffle command with the software. That's kind of a pain. I would like to be able to shuffle up the songs.
2. It doesn't load songs in the same order as on the album, but in alphabetical order of song. This is kind of a randomizing function in a way, so not entirely annoying.
3. There is no fast-forward or reverse. You can go back to the beginning of the song or to the next song. You can't rewind a little to replay a neat riff you just heard.
4. You have to pay an extra $10 for the MP3 software. It comes with software that works with .wma files, but to get MP3 you have to pay $10. I didn't know whether .wma files or MP3 files were smaller, so I have to pay $10 just to experiment. That stinks.
5. On the positive side, I very much like the SD memory slot. I have an SD card loaded with Classical and Ethnic music (mostly Celtic), and plan to load other ones with Bluegrass, Gospel, Kid music, etc.
6. The annoying thing about the SD memory slot is that I can only play songs on that card or on the main memory of the device. You can't mix songs from the SD card and the main device in a playlist.
So, there are some limits that seem kind of bone-headed to me, but the sound is good, the capacity is wonderful, and I've been enjoying using it. It is far, far more flexible and easy to carry around than the 50 albums or so worth of music I have loaded on it.
- Zurf
Granted B chord amnesty by King of the Mutants (Long live the king).
If it comes from the heart and you add a few beers... it'll be awesome! - Mekidsmom
When in doubt ... hats. - B.G. Dude