Well, I broke down and did it. I pre-ordered a new Zune. I have had my 80 Gig model for almost 2 years and I have loved it. I originally got the Zune because of the way the Zune Marketplace and the device itself handled podcasts (which is what I listen to almost exclusively). Plus the Zune earbuds fit well and have excellent sound. I also liked the fact that it could sync wirelessly.
When I first heard about the upcoming Zune HD I got really excited. It’s a touch screen device that reviewers have said has a better user interface than the iPod touch. The Zune HD can also output HD video to an HD tv (with optional connection device). Best of all the new HD has an internet browser!
Well, the device becomes available September 15th. I debated between waiting and just picking one up at WalMart and pre-ordering through Amazon. The price would be the same for the unit, but it came down to tax vs. shipping. The tax to buy locally is $21. Amazon ships for under $6. No contest. And I should still have it by the 15th.
I will do a follow-up posting when I have had a chance to play with it a while. And, I will probably give the Zune 80 to Mrs. JohnStuff.
Here’s some shots of the Zune HD:
