Amazon.com Product Description
The ZEN Stone Plus is a tiny 2GB MP3 player available in six fun colors. It may fit in your pocket, but it's packed with features: built-in FM radio with 32 presets, stopwatch, countdown timer, clock, and even a voice recorder. All this and 500 of your favorite songs for you to take anywhere.
Fill this tiny, action-packed 2GB MP3 Player with up to 500 of your favorite songs and take it with you everywhere.
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Six hot colors! |
Ultra-Portable MP3 Player
The ZEN Stone Plus weights less than an ounce, which means you can truly take it anywhere, in any pocket. It features 2 GB of flash memory, so you can put up to 500 of your favorite songs on the device. The Stone Plus supports MP3, WMA and Audible file formats, and its rechargeable Li-ion Polymer battery will give you up to 9.5 hours of playback. In a hurry? A 15-minute quick charge will give you 2 hours.
Songs Your Way
Pull out your CD collection and rip your albums. You can download Creative Media Lite to rip CDs, manage folders, transfer files and access other essential functions.
The Stone Plus is compatible with most online music stores. Log onto the Internet and browse different music services for the songs you don't have. Download your favorite songs without paying for the whole album.
Built-In FM Radio
When in the mood for something different, simply use the built-in FM radio. Set up to 32 station presets so you can catch up on the latest sports results or listen to your favorite talk show.
Keep Track of Time
The built-in stopwatch, countdown timer and clock give you everything you need for your workout.
Voice Recorder
Capture that thought when it hits you, or record lectures or meetings with the built-in microphone and voice recorder.
Protect Your Investment
Every Zen MP3 player includes a 1-year parts / 90-day labor warranty and 60 days of complimentary telephone support. By purchasing a Creative Care Protection Plan within the first 90 days of ownership, you can protect your investment by extending the hardware coverage and telephone support of your product to 2 years from your original purchase date.
What's in the Box?
ZEN Stone Plus, Earphones, USB 2.0 cable, Quick Start guide.
Product Description
Fill this tiny, action-packed 2GB MP3 Player with up to 500 of your favorite songs and take it with you anywhere. Don't let the tiny size of the ZEN Stone Plus fool you. ZEN Stone Plus is still packed with great features such as a built-in FM radio. Set up to 32 station presets with a built-in stopwatch, countdown timer and clock to get everything you need for your workout. The refreshing blue OLED screen of the ZEN Stone Plus lets you interacts and personalizes your player. Long listening, endless enjoyment - Up to 9.5 hours of continuous music playback for travel trips Battery Charge - Quick charge 15 min for up to 2 hours Features - FM Radio, Voice Recorder, Shortcut Button, Clock, Stopwatch, Countdown Timer and Volume Restriction Control System Requirements - Microsoft Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or higher), XP 64-bit, Microsoft Windows Vista and USB 1.1 port (USB 2.0 recommended) Dimensions - Width 2.19 x Height 1.39 x Depth 0.5 inch Weight - 0.74 ounces
Customer Reviews:
My review: Zen Stone Plus.......2007-11-23
I am very happy with this product. It's light, compact, and easy to use. There are many different features that are convenient to have. The sound is great and the program to upload the music is very user-friendly. The music occasionally skips, but not often enough to complain about. The battery life is good, getting me through an entire 8 hour shift at work.
Creative Zen Stone Plus 2GB - Decent Value and Performance.......2007-11-17
The Creative Zen Stone Plus 2GB doubles the size of the iPod Shuffle and adds a monochrome screen for viewing track names and settings. Add in the functionality of a built-in FM tuner and voice recorder at $65 and you have a great value.
Pros -
+ good stereo sound
+ nice capacity for a decent price
+ light-weight
+ FM tuner with 32 presets ( though it's just average )
+ voice recording
+ simple design (no more click wheel!) with more color options
+ great navigation and sorting features
+ Nice format compatibility (MP3, WAV, WMA, Audible)
+ USB 1.1 and 2.0 connectivity
+ Can be used as a USB drive / mass storage
+ Can sync music with drag & drop or via Creative software
+ Nice extras like stopwatch function
Cons
- average battery life of 10 hours (OLED screen sucks the battery)
- mediocre backlight ( but it can be disabled )
- some DRM song transfer issues with some firmware versions
- not expandable - few size options 1GB and 2GB
- Creative software is buggy
- larger than the 2nd and 3rd generation iPod shuffles
Creative's Zen Stone line was meant to be the upgrade to the Zen nano, aka Muvo mini. Unfortunately, the 1GB Zen Stone had some quality issues. With the new 2GB Zen Stone Plus, Creative has tried to improve on previous models and compete with the Sandisk Sansas.
I love the new Sandisk Sansa's. The Sansa Express has the advantage that you can plug it directly into your USB port without a cable. SanDisk Sansa Express 2 GB MP3 Player (Black) Still, the Creative Zen Stone feels nicer in the hand. It's not as sleek as the Sansa Express and doesn't have all the cool cache' of an iPod shuffle or iPod nano. But it is priced very attractively and has some NICE features. It's good for a starter, workout unit, or gift for a kid.
The Creative Zen Stone Plus is lighter than the competition, but is still larger than the new iPod Shuffle 2nd and 3rd generations. Unlike the shuffle, you can actually see your track names! The OLED screen is perfect for a player this size but does suck more power and shorten the battery life.
The controls are an improvement from the Zen nano days. While I didn't mind the toggle wheel, it has been replaced by intuitive buttons for the standard functions (select, up, down, play, pause, forward or reverse). There's a headphone jack, microphone hole, and a USB port.
Another change from the Zen nano days is the Lithium Ion battery, which gives you about 10 hours if your lucky. This is less versatile than the old battery operated unit, but more convenient.
What about sound? The sound is great, and it comes through in pure stereo. As usual, you will hear complaints about the earbuds. Most people replace their standard earbuds so I won't hold that against Creative.
The Zen Stone doesn't have larger storage options. For those needing more space, you will have to explore the Creative Zen, Sandisk Sansa or new iPod Nano. All of those units have higher price tags.
Creative Zen 4 GB (Black)
Creative Zen 8 GB (Black)
Creative Zen 16 GB (Black)
Sandisk SDMX4-4096 Sansa e260 4 GB MP3 Player with SD Expansion Slot
SanDisk SDMX4-8192 Sansa e280 8 GB MP3 Player (Black)
Apple 4 GB iPod nano AAC/MP3 Player Silver (3rd Generation)
Apple 8 GB iPod nano AAC/MP3 Player Black (3rd Generation)
This unit is ideal as a player and not for those who primarily want to use it for recording. The built-in microphone is nice for short reminders.
The price isn't a give-away, and the plastic case could be more durable. Still, this is a nice starter unit that can last you a while. Check it out. Enjoy!!!
Good, but not exactly as described.......2007-10-24
9.5 hours battery? This thing wont even make it past 6 hours. Maybe they were expecting me to have the volume on 1. Music sounds great if you have good earphones or headset. The buttons and menus are not hard to memorize and use. However, there is lag if you are playing a song and try to access menus, there must be some processing limitations. The charging light indicator does not do what it should be doing as the manual says, so that adds a bit more to my confusion. This thing is light and great for running (if creative strap is bought). Default earphones are not out of this world, so do treat yourself to better ones. I bought this specifically because it does not use hard drive storage; they tend to break if you shake them too hard. Plus my friend sent his stone plus through wash cycle and dryer and it still works. Easy and fast file loading. Sturdy feel to it as well.
Adequate features; POOR BATTERY LIFE.......2007-09-10
I got this to replace an ipod shuffle that died right after the warranty expired. This definitely has more features than the Shuffle for a comparable price. However, nothing really stands out as being anything more than merely adequate.
The battery charging process is buggy, even with recent firmware updates applied. The battery indicator on the player differs from the one in the software. It takes multiple attempts to get a full charge on the player. I am only getting 6 hours at most of playback on a full charge. The manufacturer claims 9.5 hours of playback. This is a pretty major flaw.
Data transfer seems slow (40 minutes to sync 1.8 gig).
The controls and navigation could be better, the menus are not particularly user friendly. Navigation is hard because the buttons are not as responsive as they could be. After a few seconds, the screen shuts off (to save battery life) but that means that you need to hit a button to wake it up and then hit it again to get it to do anything. This means if you want to pause, skip a song, change the volume, etc... it takes two button pushes and it has to reactivate the screen.
The 'creative lite' software is so 'lite' it barely has any features at all, so I use Windows Media Player to manage my songs. Every time I plug in the player, I get a message that the date and time on the player does not match my computer, but when I click "yes" to set the player date and time, I end up getting the same message the next time.
On the plus side, this player holds twice as much as the 1 gig Ipod Shuffle, it has a screen, it has an equalizer, it has FM radio (a feature that I won't use), it has multiple play modes, etc... The sound quality and the ear buds are adequate, also.
This player meet my minimum needs but you may want to think twice if you need long battery life or 'one touch' navigation.
Great First Mp3 Player.......2007-08-10
Well not much to say hear. I've Had this player for about a month and a half and have used it pretty much every day. The battery Life is Great on this as I will normally sleep listening to music and Ive got a good 2-3 hours left on the battery when I wake up. Other then that little note it will make a great player for your kids or your workouts. Only con is the little Crevice all around the player will get dirty with time unless you buy a holder.
Product Description
The Zen Nano Plus 1GB MP3/WMA Player blends functionality wth style, for a practical MP3 player that fits your life. This slim, trendy MP3 player was designed to fit perfectly in a pocket or backpack, or on your armband. Bring your favorite tunes with you everywhere, without having to lug around space-eating CDs. Signal-to-Noise Ratio - Up to 90dB Frequency Response - 20Hz-20KHz Harmonic Response Output -
<0.1% Requires 1 AAA battery System Requirements - Windows 98SE to XP, Pentium 350 MHz or AMD 450 MHz processor Dimensions(WxHxD) - 1.32 x 2.58 x 0.51 Weight - 0.8 oz. (without battery) Color - White
Amazon.com Product Description
Ready for remarkably thin and powerful performance from your portable music device? The Creative Zen Nano Plus 1 GB MP3 Player is the ticket. Incredibly thin and lightweight, it's packed with the latest features to meet all your needs. Enjoy amazing, skip-free audio quality when you're listening to your MP3 and WMA music.
The Zen Nano Plus is incredibly thin and can store 500 songs on its 1 GB flash memory. View larger.
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The built in mic lets you record conversations. |
The LCD is built for left or right handed operation. |
The Nano Plus is much more than just a music player; it includes an FM tuner, voice/FM recording, and line-in encoding for direct connection and recording from any audio source. Use the Nano Plus to record music directly from your CD player, without a computer.
Of course, if you do have a computer you can transfer audio and data files in seconds with "drag-and-drop" ease--and without software--using the player's USB 2.0 connection. Meanwhile, the Auto Synchronization feature makes it easy to transfer your favorite songs and albums from CDs through the line-in port. Battery life is outstanding, allowing you to listen to music for up to 18 hours on a single AAA battery. Now you can keep the tunes rolling all day long, and do it in style, as the Zen Nano plus comes in ten fun, vibrant colors. The 1 GB model's flash memory can store up to 500 songs (WMA-encoding, 64 kbps).
The FM tuner lets you tune 32 stations. As mentioned, you can also record FM radio so you can catch your favorite tunes or talk shows later on. The built in microphone lets you record voice conversations -- great for those long lectures at school. You can also use the Nano Plus as a portable mini hard drive, allowing you to store data files such as photos and presentations. The unit's LCD is even reversible for left or right handed operation. Last but not least, the Zen Nano sports equalizer presets (Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock) that make your music sound better.
The Zen Nano Plus uses PlaysForSure technology. Look for the PlaysForSure logo if you're shopping for a portable music or video device and you want to make sure the digital music and video you purchase will play back on it every time. Match the PlaysForSure logo on a large selection of leading devices and online music stores. If you see the logo, you'll know your digital music will play for sure. Choose from a large number of digital music and video stores, including MTV's Urge, Rhapsody, Yahoo!, MSN Music, MusicMatch, MusicNow, Napster, Wal-Mart Music Downloads, and many more.
What's in the Box
Zen Nano Plus, high quality earphones, AAA battery, USB 2.0 cable, line-in cable, quick start booklet, installation CD and neck strap.
Customer Reviews:
Best value for your money.......2007-06-28
I could pick a MP3 player for my birthday. Originally I planned on asking for an Ipod Nano, but I just did not feel good having someone spend so much money on something that I probably will loose or break (I have a whole notebook graveyard).
So after much research I settled on the Nano Plus. 1 GB is enough for a few days of listening, if I pick careful I can even go on a short international hop. I love the external battery, that is something I enjoy after my PDA. And I liked the small, white design.
Now I am using the Nano Plus for close to two weeks and I love it. Great sound, even on the underground train while listening to a low quality download of talk radio! I have some classical pieces that I enjoy hearing and there is full sound, even on the supplied earphones. And the battery seems to last forever, I am already over 18 hours and it still works.
Yes, the casing is a big cheap placsticy. I will just grab a cheap cover next time I am at the electronics store, and for what the player cost I can replace it in two years if its broken.
Does the job it's made for.......2007-03-05
FIRST OF ALL THIS DOES NOT COME WITH A NECKSTRAP!!! There is a misprint above, it comes with an armband - not a neckstrap. I was aware of this so it's fine with me but thought I would warn others.
In regards to the product itself I read all the professional reviews and this was basically tied with the ipod shuffle for best sound quality in the flash player category. If you are an audiophile looking for perfect sound you should get something more robust, because the sound in these small players can be slightly muddy. How to correct this? As with all portable players you need to toss the headphones that come with it. The Creative headphones are average and aren't really made to stay in the ear during workouts or running. If you are considering purchasing an ipod shuffle they will tell you the same thing - default headphones are always cheap. There's a huge difference in sound quality if you upgrade them to something better so it's highly recommended you do this.
I bought the Sennheiser PMX 70 headphones for this purpose. They sound great and stay in place while running. For walking around or light house-work I also bought the Sennheiser PX 100's which have even better sound and are more comfortable for longer use.
The armband that comes with this is great and you don't have to pay extra for it like you would with an ipod. I also own an older 256mb version of this product. It received alot of abuse but still works fine. It also comes with a rubber housing so if you bang your arm against the wall it won't break. Operating the unit is a no brainer, you just attach the USB cable to the player and your computer. It then acts as a hard drive which Windows will automatically read. A little window will pop up asking if you want to open files in the removal disk. Then, all you have to do is drag and drop your MP3 files and you are set. It comes with a CD with software but it's not really necessary. The software does have an owners manual that is much better than the written documentation that comes in the box so you may want to install it anyway.
A prior reviewer complained you could not put songs in folders. This is not true. You can organize your songs in folders on your computer then simply drop them into the player. When you want to change folders during use just press in the wheel and select "skip folder." You can then rotate the wheel to the folder you want. There are many options available, for example you can set it to play random songs or you can play them in order. If you like to play folders in order you may want to put a number in front of each folder or it will play them in alphabetical order.
There are several equilizer presets such as classical, jazz, rock, or custom. I set mine to normal because I read that you lose a little sound quality to distortion if you use a preset. Battery life is good, I didn't count the hours of use but it lasted quite a long time and the batteries are small and cheap so is not a large concern. I wish however the armband had a small slot in it to hold an extra battery. It's a bummer to run out of juice while on the trail or in the gym but that's a picky complaint.
There are other goodies as well such as FM radio, microphone to record voice and even mp3 encoding capability but I have not tried them out. I only use as an mp3 player.
The bottom line is that if you are looking for a player to take with you to the gym then look no further. It has good sound, good battery life, good options, good armband, and is easy to use. What more do you want?
Zen nano is a pretty good deal.......2007-01-11
I've bought four of these for myself and friends. They're cheap enough that you don't have to worry too much about losing or breaking them (like you would an ipod). It doesn't have silly restrictions on what kind of MP3s you can play (but you can't play itunes music!). It's literally as small as a matchbox and great in the gym. One gig is plenty of music for one outing, and you can always change it. I got one wet and it kept working.
Down sides: The sound quality is a bit tinny. The interface isn't as sleek and engaging as the ipod, but it's not bad. Two of the four I bought stopped working after about 14-18 months of use, and there's really no way to get it fixed. You probably shouldn't think of it as something that will last forever... or else you could get one of those 2-3 year replacement warranty deals.
Still, not too bad a deal overall, I think.
You don;t need to pick "fruit" for quality music.......2007-01-10
Creative have a long legacy in digital sound their media players are much more versatile than the iPods of this world.
This player has everything. It is small, has all the features you would expect plus some extras like a superb voice recorder and the ability to take line-in audio and split it into separate tracks.
The only thing this audio player does not allow is naming the FM stations on the tuner, but that's it!
I have 3 of these in the family (two black one white) and a Zen Vision:M (also awesome) - Creative rules!
I love this MP3 player!.......2007-01-03
This works great the battery lasts a long time. The only problem with it is that it says it can hold 500 songs but in reality it only holds about half of that -I think it's due to the length of the music files some may be larger than others-they should tell you that or make it completely compatable to hold 500 songs no matter what. Other than that I love it-it is so small and the sound quality is great! I would recommend this product it's great!
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Portable Digital Media Players
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