Jason Dunn
03-31-2006, 05:00 PM
<img src="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/saunders-zenmicro-001.jpg" /><br /><br />Saunders, makers of the famed Rhinoskin brand of case, has branched out and now produces all sorts of cases now – one of which is the Zen Micro Magnesium Hardcase. The Zen Micro was the first dedicated MP3 player that I had ever owned – previously I'd relied upon on my Windows Mobile Pocket PC or Smartphone for music. I didn't have a case for the Zen Micro initially, and ended up carrying it in the small faux-silk pouch that came in the box. Problem is, it was <i>really</i> faux – the top stitching came undone and the cheap fabric started to shred. So I needed a real case, and a helpful Saunders staffer sent me one to look at. And because <a href="http://www.saunders-usa.com/rhinoskin/?sku=00550">these cases are currently over 40% off</a> (selling for $19.95) I figured it was time for me to write up a Quick Look on mine. ;-)<!><br /><br />I hadn't seen any photos of the Saunders Zen Micro case prior to getting sent one, but based on magnesium in the name, I was hoping for a slick-as-spit magnesium alloy case that would be strong yet light. I was half right: the back half is magnesium (<a href="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/saunders-zenmicro-002.JPG">picture</a>) imprinted with a pattern and the front half (<a href="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/saunders-zenmicro-003.JPG">picture</a>) is a clear a plastic polycarbonate (that's their fancy word for it). The front plastic cover is hinged and folds outward (<a href="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/saunders-zenmicro-004.JPG">picture</a>) and even back behind the case where it acts as a stand (<a href="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/saunders-zenmicro-005.JPG">picture</a>). Cool feature! The back also features a removable belt clip (<a href="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/saunders-zenmicro-006.JPG">picture</a>) for when you need to clip the case to yourself. Clipping it to your belt is recommended, as other body parts may be too painful. ;-) The top of the case is open, giving you access to the on/off button, headphone jack, and charging port without having to remove it from the case. The front panel comes down quickly and easily, so I was able to adjust the volume and skip tracks very easily. The belt clip feels sturdy, and Stuffbak Loss Protection Service label is included (I've never used that service – anyone had any good experiences with it?).<br /><br />Overall, the case is functional – it gets the job done, and is quite sturdy. My only negative comment about the case is that the clear plastic look just doesn't do it for me. Saunders/Rhinoskin is known for their metal cases, so I would have preferred to see an all-metal case, especially in that cool blue/grey magnesium. Digital audio players are like mobile phones and PDAs – very personal devices, so a case needs to match your sense of style. The Saunders Zen Micro Magnesium Hardcase doesn't match mine, but if it matches yours, it's a solid case for your Zen Micro.