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Video MP3 Players Tips
The Creative Labs Zen Vision W Video MP3 Player
This versatile player received an 8 out of a possible 10 when reviewed by the editors of CNET. Although some consumers have complained that it is a bit bulky, Creative Labs is about to introduce a streamlined version of this 60GB player into the US market this year.
It has a 4.3" wide display for easier TV viewing and may be the best choice for those with bad vision.
It also supports TiVo-To-Go, which is unique in the market place.
With an FM tuner built in, support for a wide array of video formats, and voice recording, it is one of the most feature rich video MP3 players on the market today.
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The iPod Video: A Revolution
Shopping.com Tip: The iPod Video when first announced sparked a veritable revolution in the MP3 player world - converting an MP3 player into a new term, "digital media player."
Today, the most popular and most widely used Video MP3 player is still the iPod Video. Use the 80GB version, which allows up to 100 hours of video playback, and has enabled millions to overcome boredom while waiting in line, sitting in the doctor's office or waiting to pick up a child from school.
Thousands of "just for iPod" videos have emerged in every category from "how-to" videos to exercise videos.
The 65,000 color backlit LCD display is clear, and allows comfortable video viewing even if it still isn't quite your TV!
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Create your Own Vodcast
Podcasts are SO last year! The latest and greatest self-produced content is the Vodcast or video podcast.
If you have a PC and a video camera, you can easily create a downloadable Vodcast. Simply take the video, then upload it to Apple Quicktime where you save it as MPEG -4 formatted video.
Now, you can feature this file as a downloadable Vodcast on your website.
If you want it to be accessible through iTunes, you will have to take an extra step and create an .xml file for it. There are many simple-to-follow tutorials on the web for this, and it will take about 5 minutes.
Vodcasts, similar to Podcasts, are a great way to gain buzz for your small company or product!
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The Microsoft Zune: A New Video MP3 Player
Shopping.com Tip: Microsoft's answer to the iPod Video, the Microsoft Zune, is a 30GB MP3 player that supports WMV video format natively. It has a 3" LCD screen in contrast to the iPod's 2.5" screen - and was announced last November amid a loud media splash. It runs for about $250.
It will convert MPEG-4 and H.264 files to WMV - but for all other formats, you will need a conversion utility.
You can also export your Zune video to your TV, but it will still be viewed at "Zune-size." This, as well as the lack of any videos for purchase at the Zune Marketplace are seen as the major drawbacks of this new video MP3 player.
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Zencast : Your Source for Video Blogs and Interesting Content
If you are a big fan of YouTube, you will love Zencast! Creative Labs Zen Vision users can subscribe to Zencast and download tons of user created content - from golf tips to news and views.
A wide variety of video blogs can be downloaded here, and you can also create and upload your own content, as well.
Anyone with a video camera can contribute to the wealth of knowledge on this site!
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The Top Reviewed Video MP3 Players
Shopping.com Tip: After the success of the iPod Video, a virtual plethora of video MP3 players have hit the market. One of the most highly rated is the Toshiba Gigabeat, which comes in a 30GB or 60GB version for roughly $300 or $400, respectively.
This handy, compact device supports a wider variety of video formats than either the iPod or the Zune. It supports WMA and WAV, and automatically transcodes DivX and AVI formats.
If you're considering this video mp3 player, you should know it doesn't support video recording.
The Creative Labs Zen Vision is also highly rated and supports TiVo To Go, which is a unique feature. It is a 60GB player and is offered for roughly $450 to $500. It is also reported to be a bit bulky.
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Where Can You Find Movies for Download?
With the advent of video MP3 players, movie download sites are becoming as popular as MP3 music download sites.
iTunes allows easy purchase of iPod compatible movies - no formatting changes are needed so this is the easiest way to go for iPod users.
Another great site is Quickfreemovies.com - which operates on a subscription basis.
All such sites allow you to download and rip your movie either to a DVD, or to your video MP3 player for viewing.
Movie storage does eat hard drive space very quickly, so it is a great idea to purchase a separate drive just for your video content.
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Selecting a Video MP3 Player
When selecting a video MP3 player, it is best to go to your local electronics store and actually watch the video to see how comfortable you are with the screen size and resolution.
If compact size doesn't matter to you, then it may make sense to go with the largest display, which is available from either Archos or Creative Labs.
If you like the idea of purchasing downloadable videos from an online store - iTunes can't be beat and the iPod Video is your best choice.
Watching videos is a highly personal thing - when you actually test each product, you will find a player that just "feels right" to you. Make sure it also supports your most used video format (or that you have a great conversion utility), and you have a winner!
