Basic Hardware Question

[flooder]

Now that the next generation of players are out, does that mean that all the hardware available is of the same generation? Does it matter?

I see there is a:

4/8GB small unit

30GB

80GB

I assume that the 30 and 80 are new hardware and am not sure about the small units.

I don't think I care much about video (PPC and CF card will do for my video needs) so I would like a smaller physical unit but am scared of Gen 1 hardware.

[Sven Johannsen]

I assume that the 30 and 80 are new hardware and am not sure about the small units.

You assume incorrectly grasshopper. The 30G is the original, and the 80, 8 and 4 are the actual new models. The 30 is upgradeable to the Gen II software.

All can play video in any case, the 30 and 80 can output to an external display. The 30, plain video (yellow RCA jack) and the 80, that and RGB (component video).

The 30 and 80 are rotating media (little teeny hard drive) and the 4 and 8 flash units.

The 80 is actually physically a bit smaller than the original 30. The 30 can periodically be had for around $100 and is a good buy at that, though not at the retail $200, with the 80 going for $250...IMHO.

I do find that watching recorded TV (30 min) on the 30G is very satisfying. Not sure I could do a whole movie, though I have watched several TV shows in succession. Much better quality than my PPCs, BTW.

[David Tucker]

I agree with Sven on the video quality vs any of my PPCs. The Zune 30 is the first Gen and the largest physical unit. The Zune 80 and Zune 4/8 are both new generation and while the Zune 80 is small for a HDD based player, the Zune 4/8 are quite svelte. If size is a big issue and video isn't a primary interest, go for either the 4 or 8 GB model. (Though as Sven said you CAN watch video on it. A bit small to enjoy it though)

I find my Zune 80 an excellent device for video due to its very generous screen.