Strengths:Small; scratch resistant; bright screen; good battery life
Weaknesses:No video playback; missing power adapter; missing software
Posted Oct 17, 2006 - I have been an apple iPod user since they first came out with a PC compatible product. I've usually opted for the larger capacity units, as I have a huge MP3 library from my 2000+ ripped CDs. However, I got a shuffle last year as a gift, and while leary at first, found that I really enjoyed it! While there was not screen, this was not an issue while working out with it. I would just as soon let it shuffle thru a variety of songs. But I would like larger capacity, because I don't always bother reloading the player with fresh music. A since I use 220kbps VBR to rip my music, the files are larger, which means less songs can fit on the iPod shuffle.
I thought about the nano when it first came out, but thought it was too fragile and scratchable, especially if I took it with me jogging and threw it into my bag. Now that this 8GB unit came out, with a scratch resistant exterior, I was quite happy, so pulled the trigger!
I have had it for about two weeks now, and am quite happy. I like the "feel" of the nano 2G in your hands! It's nice to hold onto and flip thru tunes. I only put music on it, as well as PodCasts. The display is helpful and bright, but not all that important to me. Evidently you cannot play video on it, but ho-hum to me. Album art looks fine on the screen. I have jogged with it on many occasions, holding it in my hand, as I don't have a case for it yet. No issues at all. Have not even re-charged it yet!
My only knock is that there is no AC charger included. Seems to be the trend these days. They want you to charge via your computer's USB port or buy a separate charger. Good thing there are cheap third-party chargers. They don't include the iTunes software, which is not a big deal to me, but could be to someone who only has a dial-up connection and has to download the large file!! I really like the latest version of iTunes! The album artwork is downloaded automatically for most of my albums, and it's a breeze to sort thru the library.
In summary, I would certainly buy this again, had I the option. I do wish they would offer all color options, regardless of capacity. Would have opted for the silver or the new red one. I'm getting one as a gift for my wife, and I do know that black would not be her first choice.
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Rated 
Very good indeed.
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