*UPDATE
The reviews for the iRiver iHP players are now in. Cnet review here.
First of all, there is now a 20 Gig version, the iRiver iHP 120, at $400. The iHP 100 is now $350.
The low down:
1. Windows (Windows 98 SE, Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows XP) recognises the player as a harddrive automatically; drag and drop files using windows. In other words it doubles as a portable harddrive - brilliant.
2. Seperate FM radio remote comes with player as standard; no need to buy it as an addon. CORRECTION: FM radio is built in, but you still need to use the remote, or your own headphones, as they act as an antenna - also brilliant
3. Looks like you can expect 14hr battery life, or even some more. They're 16 hrs advertised battery life looks genuine. Battery is non-removable rechargable lithium-ion (CORRECTION: it's lithium-polymer 1300 mAh - better).
4. Sound quality is as good, if not better, than the iPod, but creative players still win here.
5. in/out line so you can connect to your stereo no dramas.
6. Microphone built in - all good.
7. As mentioned before, size and weight a fraction more than best (2nd to the iPod).
8. 1 year warranty
9. 10 MB memory buffer
Bottom line is, if you've got the money this is right up there with the best players on the market (drag and drop to harddrive very tempting). If you don't have the money go for the Zen NX.
Quality at a price.
Last edited by b1_ on Nov-15-2003 at 09:04
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