poll: dell dj vs apple ipod - opinions?

[rainypickles]

any quick links to comparisons? i saw the one at tomshardware, but wondering if anyone knew of a better review/comparison.

i was gonna get a flash mp3 player, but it is expensive when compared to the massive capacity of the dj or ipod. esp when they have VERY short warranty periods.

questions:

for the dj or the ipod, can i transfer songs WITHOUT using any kind of special software? am i stuck using music match or itunes or whatever?

can i use the as regular storage? can i put movies or documents on the players and move them from computer and computer. (again, i don't want to use special software.)

are there any battery issues? battery dying or anything? are they replaceable or do they stay dead when something happens to the battery?

i guess a minor question would be support and service. anyone had experience with that?

and any other general comments about the dj or the ipod?

 

[TimothyX]

stupid iPod has a battery life of 8 hours, and thats only after you pray to the Mp3 player gods. I am in limbo like you are waiting to buy a player. I was about to buy a ipod until i heard that owners are even going to court over the fact that the battery doesnt last too long and it can die after 18 months. I thought about the dell, but want atleast 40 gigs and the Dell looks creepy (i dont want to scare children when i take it out to turn it off). I am waiting for ipod to use a new type of battery or to find a new player that gets solid reviews. (there are 80 gig ones for about the same price as the 40gig ipod that have twice the battery life.) hope this helps, im not trying to scare you off either player....dell ones have got good reviews

 

[ponyo]

This is for iPod. I own one. I don't have experience w/ DJ.

1) you need to use somekind of software to transfer songs. I really like iTunes but if you don't like that you can use musicmatch (yuck) or ephpod.
2) you can use as regular storage. Don't need any software.
3) All portable devices have battery issues over time. iPod is rated 8 hours and you'll get 8 hours or very close to it. Battery can be easily replaced. It cost $50 to do it yourself or you can have Apple do it for you for like double the cost.
4) Apple service is excellent as long as you have warranty or Applecare (rip). They ship box out to you to return the unit in. You put it in there and send it. They ship you replacement. I sent mine in Friday and received my replacement on Monday. How's that for fast turnaround.

I like my iPod but find it kind of bulky so I'm going to get the new iPod Mini. iPod has the best design and interface out of all the players IMO. I love the scrollwheel. I suggest you go to Applestore near you if you have one nearby and try it out yourself. You might pay little more for iPod but it's worth it IMO.