Creative Zen Vision:M

Playlists can be managed and created quite easily from here as well. Although you can't copy paste files directly into folders that's ok. A great feature is that you can also easily sync the Vision:M to your Microsoft Outlook and store your contacts and schedules/appointment or tasks in the calendar function. The entire PC software interface has been designed keeping simplicity in mind, so no worries. Along with the media explorer and MediaSource Manger, you can also install the Audible manager software for listening to music from the player. You can also use Windows Media Player to handle your player if you choose. One issue I have with the player though, is the fact that it sometimes takes around 3-5 seconds to start up. But I can live with that.

Audio
Once again I'm quite impressed with the quality of sound from Creative. You can pretty much walk into a riot and not worry about it cutting into your listening pleasure. Plus with a custom 5 band EQ setting you just can’t go wrong. Simply adjust the sound to your preference and if you’re a bit too lazy for that, fear not. There are 8 presets to choose from. The only problem is, the menu, although it has plenty of options (some unnecessary), doesn’t have a direct link to the EQ. So you’ll have to go back to the main menu and then change the settings etc. Another feature I like about the Vision:M is the Smart Volume feature that maintains a "Healthy" sound limit so you don’t burn your ears out. And in contrast, there’s a Bass Boost option as well.

The FM radio has excellent pick up in most places but it’s not perfect while commuting. But the FM recordings (when you have a clear signal), if you could see me right now, I’d have both my thumbs up high! It also takes just around 10-15 seconds to auto-tune and preset the channels for you. The voice recorder function is quite bonus especially in an industry like mine. When in need of a dicta phone the Vision:M comes in quite handy. Though it might look rather unconventional to be holding up a Media player up to someone during an interview.