PCWorld writter Ginny Mies has an initial review of the new Apple iPod Shuffle. The new iPod Shuffle uses a voice over to read the names of songs and play list for easier user control. It almost has no buttons of any kind and looks more like a futuristic paper clip than an MP3 player. Well, actually not totally. Apple has just moved the controls to the earbud cord on the right side. Which means you are stuck with Apple’s ear buds which not only sound bad but generally hurt after wearing for a while. Ginny notes that there will be third party earphones that are compatible with the new Shuffle from manufacturers such as Klipsch and Eytmotic Research. But it makes you wonder, $79 for a shuffle, probably $50 for some Shuffle specific earbuds/headphones, heck, your at the price of a normal Nano then, and for $20-$50 more you could get some kick ass headphones or earbuds not designed around Apple’s crazy designs schemes.
- audioreview
The minimalist Shuffle has innovative text-to-voice technology, but the controls take some getting used to.
Apple’s third-generation iPod Shuffle ($80) will please minimalist-design enthusiasts: Smaller than a USB thumb drive, it is completely devoid of buttons, knobs, and a screen. While it is attractive, the Shuffle’s earbud controls and VoiceOver feature might not be for everyone.
The latest Shuffle looks like no other MP3 player–or even iPod–out there. Aside from the earbuds, the only indicator that it does something other than accessorize your outfit is the Apple logo on the backside clip. Measuring 0.7 by 1.8 by 0.3 inches and weighing a scant 0.38 ounce, this minuscule device could easily get lost in your pocket or bag if you’re not careful. At the top of the device, next to the headphone jack, resides a switch for Shuffle, Play in Order, or Power Off. Between the switch and the jack is a status light that indicates how much life is left in the battery.
read the rest of the review at PCWorld….
source: PCWorld
