Apple iPod 20 GB U2 Special Edition Black M9787LL/A (4th Generation)
By: Apple Average Rating: 4.0 Total Reviews: 47
More Information
 On: 2008-07-01
Completly stopped working after only being in my possession for less than a month. A disappointing waste of money.
 On: 2007-03-10
The sender went above and beyond my expectations and made sure they took great care in packaging as if it were their own. The product was in excellent condition and arrived much sooner than i would have ever anticipated. If you have the opportunity to do business with these people i can promise you that u will not be disapointed.
On: 2007-03-09
The sender went above and beyond my expectations and made sure they took great care in packaging as if it were their own. The product was in excellent condition and arrived much sooner than i would have ever anticipated. If you have the opportunity to do business with these people i can promise you that u will not be disapointed.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-01-20
PEOPLE HAVE ALMOST FORGOTTEN ABOUT THIS IPOD.IT COULD BE A COLLECTERS ITEM!I WOULD RATE THIS ITEM FOUR STAR.
On: 2006-09-15
Do not go on the website suggested by Hooked on Gadgets, it is a spam sending and fishing/phishing site that will try to steal your identity and send you LOADS of junk mail.
On: 2006-09-14
Do not go on the website suggested by Hooked on Gadgets, it is a spam sending and fishing/phishing site that will try to steal your identity and send you LOADS of junk mail.
 On: 2006-07-20
I bought this for my kid for Christmas 2 yrs ago. It was all he wanted (he was only 10). He promised to take good care of it - which he did. Its been fine until recently. It froze a couple of times, but I learned to reset (read: re-boot) the iPod, and it was fine. But a few weeks ago, he got the folder icon with the ! thats been mentioned by others. I took it to the Apple Store Genius Bar, where the resident genius informed me of 2 kinds of hard drives: those that have failed and those that will fail. I had "the former". He offered to "dispose of it properly" for me so I didnt polute the local water supply with the horrible chemicals in the battery. We exchanged some "not so" pleasantries and I took the iPod home to check the web to see what my options were. I found a site that explained how to replace the drive for about $100. But on the thread, someone commented that they "smacked it" and this fixed it. Since it was out of warranty, and the drive was gonna come out anyway, I gave it a try. My method was to hold the iPod in my left hand and deliver a substantial blow from the side with my right hand. The second blow caused the thing to start properly. This method may work by holding with the right hand and striking with the left - but I cant say for sure :-). Anyway, I cannot believe that Apple will not fix these things, or offer you this advice. And when I realize that they charged me $350 for a $70 harddrive, I get even more pissed... But, my kid loves his U2 iPod!
On: 2006-07-19
I bought this for my kid for Christmas 2 yrs ago. It was all he wanted (he was only 10). He promised to take good care of it - which he did. Its been fine until recently. It froze a couple of times, but I learned to reset (read: re-boot) the iPod, and it was fine. But a few weeks ago, he got the folder icon with the ! thats been mentioned by others. I took it to the Apple Store Genius Bar, where the resident genius informed me of 2 kinds of hard drives: those that have failed and those that will fail. I had "the former". He offered to "dispose of it properly" for me so I didnt polute the local water supply with the horrible chemicals in the battery. We exchanged some "not so" pleasantries and I took the iPod home to check the web to see what my options were. I found a site that explained how to replace the drive for about $100. But on the thread, someone commented that they "smacked it" and this fixed it. Since it was out of warranty, and the drive was gonna come out anyway, I gave it a try. My method was to hold the iPod in my left hand and deliver a substantial blow from the side with my right hand. The second blow caused the thing to start properly. This method may work by holding with the right hand and striking with the left - but I cant say for sure :-). Anyway, I cannot believe that Apple will not fix these things, or offer you this advice. And when I realize that they charged me $350 for a $70 harddrive, I get even more pissed... But, my kid loves his U2 iPod!
On: 2006-05-27
This iPod will randomly freeze. I have been through 3 in a year. It works fine until it decides it wants to shut down. Then the sad iPod icon comes up and you cant restore or reset it. so you have to send it in to apple and wait a week to get it back. Unless your warranty is up like mine was. Now they want to charge me $250 to ship my ipod out and repair it because the warranty expired a month ago. i could buy a new 40GB COLOR VIDEO IPOD for $200 instead of the 20GB BLACK/WHITE PLAIN U2 IPOD saving $50. Its just insane. something is wrong with this models hard drive. Too many other people have had this same problem for it to be a coincidence! so do yourself a favor: Buy a plain one; it will save you so many headaches.
On: 2006-05-26
This iPod will randomly freeze. I have been through 3 in a year. It works fine until it decides it wants to shut down. Then the sad iPod icon comes up and you cant restore or reset it. so you have to send it in to apple and wait a week to get it back. Unless your warranty is up like mine was. Now they want to charge me $250 to ship my ipod out and repair it because the warranty expired a month ago. i could buy a new 40GB COLOR VIDEO IPOD for $200 instead of the 20GB BLACK/WHITE PLAIN U2 IPOD saving $50. Its just insane. something is wrong with this models hard drive. Too many other people have had this same problem for it to be a coincidence! so do yourself a favor: Buy a plain one; it will save you so many headaches.
On: 2006-05-05
I got this Ipod on Christmas 2 years ago.. It was fine and made me very very happy.. but one of a sudden it completely stopped working and got the sad Ipod icon and the folder icon. Of course I called Apple Stores to see if they can get it fixed, but they told me that they didnt fixed them, and when they got that kind of problems they just give one new on refund... but my problem was that I didnt have an apple care program... so I called like one million places to get it fixed but this will cost me about US$ 200 so I got a brand new Ipod video instead, but I will try to get it fixed on the future. Ive learned this is a problem on this kind of Ipods, so I highly recommend to get an Apple Care program in case you are planning to get this ipod.
On: 2006-05-02
I had gotten one of the U2 iPod (20 GB) for christmas as a gift. It worked fine for a while, occasionally froze once in a while, but that was ok. Id had it for about 4 months and then it just stopped working. It was freezing a lot and then I went to restart it like the user manual said to, and then it wouldnt start up and then it showed a folder with an exclamation mark. I tried a few things like putting it on the computer, restarting my iPod( clearing it and then starting it out fresh) but that didnt work, there was nothign the people at the apple store could do either. So, I got a replacement iPod. and it took a while to get that setup and then FINALLy after about 5 days it got set up right and then I started usinng it on a Saturday, and I listened to it without that much problem, and then on a Thursday morning it started freezing up on me. I knew something was wrong. Then I go to restart it, and sure enough, it started the manilla folder thing again. I took it back and then I asked if they could replace it with the same kind of iPod.. just not the U2 one, but the same 4th Gen. 20 G ipod just not the U2 one and theyre like no. its stupid. that ipod is a piece. I dont reccomend it.
On: 2006-01-25
I got the U2 Ipod for Christmas and havent stopped playing with it since. Its lightweight, really easy to figure out how to use, and having the engraved signatures is fantastic, a great plus for the U2 fans!
I had actually never used an Ipod before, but I had it down in about an hour. Everything is included in the box, the Itunes cds, the earphones(which are fantastic), the charger (which I know doesnt come with a lot of Ipods), the coupon for the $50 off the U2 complete collection, and a great poster. The only things I had to buy for it was a case ( I bought the aluminum case from Amazon.com, and it looks great) and the U2 black and red Itrip (a girl has to match you know) , which you can also get from Amazon.com. The Itrip is fantastic as you can program it to your home stereo and car stereo, all for about $25, well worth it.
The one thing which truly amazed me was the quality of sound. The earphones are just earbuds, but its so clear. I heard things in songs which I had never heard before.
I guess the only negative aspect about this ipod is that it shows scratches really easily. Being black and chrome, any indentations really make themselves apparent, but just solve it by getting a case for it. That way, any chance of this being a collectors item in the future will be kept.
Other than that, I am addicted to it.
On: 2005-12-12
i wrote the review below last year and thought id provide a little update. we are on our 5th replacement of this ipod! the hard disk keeps failing. because we have applecare, apple has been replacing the unit, but what a hassle! i dont know why this version has so many problems. id say stay away and by another model. if i could change my inital rating of this unit i would change to 1 star. (although in all fairness, the apple store says they havent seen a lot of these brought in for service - maybe were just cursed).
******************
We loved this iPod, but it did just stop working after 11 months. We were always careful with the iPod - never abused it, didnt run with it so it wasnt subjected to shock - but one day it just wouldnt power up properly (you could hear the hard drive stuck). Luckily we were still within the one year warranty period. Apple replaced the iPod free of charge (provided we purchased the additional one year warranty through apple care). The new iPod Apple gave us stopped working in less than a day!!!!! Something is wrong with these units! Again, Apple replaced the iPod without charge. Lesson learned: it is worth purchasing the Apple Care extended warranty!!
On: 2005-10-20
To rate this product on anything other than its functionality is a bit misleading. Yes it is fifty bucks more than the standard 20GB model and yes you can double the memory by getting the 40GB model for a modest $50. However the fifty dollars is a wash (since you are spending $99 on the Complete U2 versus $149). The functionality of this iPod is the same as any other since I own one of each I can say that there is no difference. I have used other mp3 players from Rio and Dell and have found that the iPod, with its wheel, is much more user friendly. iTunes and its ability to group and rename entire groups of selected music is much more user friendly than either Real or Music Match or Window Media Player. I think that if you are going to buy an mp3 player and are a HARDCORE U2 FAN (this isnt for the faint of heart) it is a fun way to show devotion to the band and it is an automatic conversation point with other fans. If you are not really that interested in U2 I would strongly suggest the other models of iPod (not the shuffle or mini, I have no frame of reference).
On: 2005-07-12
I received the U2 iPod about a month ago and LOVE it. I use mine in conjunction with a Dell PC and havent had any technical problems. Installation and use have been without any glitches.
The sound quality from the included ear bud headphones is very good, and the ease of use is fantastic. I use my player several times weekly and am constantly discovering new capabilities to enhance my enjoyment.
Like most new tech gadgets, the accessories available (desktop players, car transmitters, etc.) are intriguing but do cost extra and you can quickly drop another few hundred dollars on accessories. For example, the desktop player Im lookong at runs about $250.00. That being said, I cant believe that someone would be disappointed by the product as it comes. You can get plenty of quality use from the player and the included headphones.
Memory on this player is a non-issue. Which I couldnt say if I had bought the mini, and certainly the shuffle. I have a large CD collection (300 +), which Ive digitized onto the iPod. I still have well over half of the memory available. My whole music collection now comes with me to work, to the yard, exercising, . . .
I love the look of this unit compared with the sterile white of the regular iPod. Here is the lone drawback, however. Im not sure if the extra price for the U2 edition is worth it. The extra $50 you spend over a regular iPod gets you the black and red player and $50 off the complete U2 download (priced at $150) from the iTunes site. There is also a nice U2 poster, but I stopped hanging posters on my walls about ten years ago so that wasnt a big deal. If you already own U2 CDs, transferring them to the player is a snap, so the $100 download might not be something you are interested in. If you are sure you want the U2 download, them by all means, get this player. If I had it to do over again, I would probably look at the regular iPod and deal with the dull white.
This should be a five-star review based strictly on the performance. I knocked off a star simply from the aspect of value (to me) and because I could make the review 4 1/2 stars.
by: Anonymous On: 2005-06-08
First, let me talk about the internal elements of this special edition iPod. This is pretty basic, as it is really just a 20 GB iPod. It doesnt download quicker or anything. It has the same great iPod quality, and my favorite iPod distinction, it feels sturdy in my hand. Now, on to the true selling point- the physical attributes of this beauty. First of all, I dig the black and red color scheme, which corresponds to the bands latest alblum, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (dont dig the name). I know it may not be for everyone, but this is what sold me on it, even though I am not a big U2 fan. Another thing I liked was the glossy finish of the U2 edition. Now the downside- black shows scratches easier. This, however, is not to big of a problem. My solution is to just by a case (clear, preferably, to show the brilliant colors). Another cool feature is signatures on the back by the band members. These laser-engraved autographs are pretty nifty, and are a distinctive feature.Overall, this is a great iPod. A little overpriced at, but the $50 off the complete U2 at iTunes sort of makes up for it. Just remember, this isnt for all. It really makes you standout!
On: 2005-06-07
First, let me talk about the internal elements of this special edition iPod. This is pretty basic, as it is really just a 20 GB iPod. It doesnt download quicker or anything. It has the same great iPod quality, and my favorite iPod distinction, it feels sturdy in my hand. Now, on to the true selling point- the physical attributes of this beauty. First of all, I dig the black and red color scheme, which corresponds to the bands latest alblum, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (dont dig the name). I know it may not be for everyone, but this is what sold me on it, even though I am not a big U2 fan. Another thing I liked was the glossy finish of the U2 edition. Now the downside- black shows scratches easier. This, however, is not to big of a problem. My solution is to just by a case (clear, preferably, to show the brilliant colors). Another cool feature is signatures on the back by the band members. These laser-engraved autographs are pretty nifty, and are a distinctive feature.Overall, this is a great iPod. A little overpriced at, but the $50 off the complete U2 at iTunes sort of makes up for it. Just remember, this isnt for all. It really makes you standout!
On: 2005-04-09
I got this device for a Yule present this year. I did not know how much I needed it until I actually got it! To be perfectly trivial, I like the color scheme because it is so striking. And, whats inside the device is even better. Yes, its probably a bit of a rip in terms of MBs, etc.. but hey, its very pretty to look at. Aesthetics combined with excelent engineering is hard to come by these days. Be aware that you are buying a "special edition"; sometimes you gotta pay for looks as well as intelligence. Overall, since it was a gift, I feel rather happy about the whole deal.
On: 2005-04-08
I got this device for a Yule present this year. I did not know how much I needed it until I actually got it! To be perfectly trivial, I like the color scheme because it is so striking. And, whats inside the device is even better. Yes, its probably a bit of a rip in terms of MBs, etc.. but hey, its very pretty to look at. Aesthetics combined with excelent engineering is hard to come by these days. Be aware that you are buying a "special edition"; sometimes you gotta pay for looks as well as intelligence. Overall, since it was a gift, I feel rather happy about the whole deal.
by: Anonymous On: 2005-03-24
Decide for yourself what you think is better:
1) Fall for a bogus offer and sign up for a bunch of trial offers which are impossible to cancel. Tons of spam. All for the "promise" of a refurbished iPod.
2) Ignore too-good-to-be-true hype and find a legitimate way to save money on an iPod.
On: 2005-03-23
Decide for yourself what you think is better:
1) Fall for a bogus offer and sign up for a bunch of trial offers which are impossible to cancel. Tons of spam. All for the "promise" of a refurbished iPod.
2) Ignore too-good-to-be-true hype and find a legitimate way to save money on an iPod.
by: Anonymous On: 2005-03-19
Dont fall for the "get an iPod for free" scams in the fake "reviews" posted here. Its spammers harvesting email addresses for their ridiculous products.
Think about it for a moment. How can somebody afford to give away $250+ gadgets just for signing up for some trial offers? Answer: they cant!
The San Francisco Chronicle also says these offers are bogus. Search sfgate.com or Google for "David Lazarus Free iPod not really" and you will see what the people running these programs are really doing.
On: 2005-03-18
Dont fall for the "get an iPod for free" scams in the fake "reviews" posted here. Its spammers harvesting email addresses for their ridiculous products.
Think about it for a moment. How can somebody afford to give away $250+ gadgets just for signing up for some trial offers? Answer: they cant!
The San Francisco Chronicle also says these offers are bogus. Search sfgate.com or Google for "David Lazarus Free iPod not really" and you will see what the people running these programs are really doing.
On: 2005-03-09
Using the supplied earbuds, the iPod does not disappoint. But the 4th gen iPod has a feature which proves to be a problem, at least for me.
I want to use better headphones than the earbuds supplied with the iPod because, while they sound ok, I find them uncomfortable and feel I can improve my audio and comfort with a better set.
The feature Im not happy with is that the 4th generation iPod will pause the music when the headphones become disconnected. This at first seemed to be handy, but when I tried using my Sony MDR-V600 over the ear headphones, the music keeps pausing, without the plug ever becoming disconnected. This happens frequently with every bump or jiggle and even when the lock is on. Its really very frustrating because you have to pull it out of your pocket, unlock it and press play again. What a chore. And as of this writing, it is not an option you can disable.
Some say the trouble is in using headphones with a bit larger metal base around the plug as its the metal base touching the metal on top of the iPod that causes this, I dont know.
The fix I have read about in iPod chatrooms, is that some people are using gaskets made of cellophane to insulate the top part of the plug base from the iPod, or just putting tape on the top of the iPod and cutting a hole in it to allow the plug to go through. Seems like a screwball thing to have to do after spending $299 to $350 on a player, just to use a better set of headphones.
To read more on this issue check out the iPod discussion forum at Apples web site. If I had read about this issue first, I would have bought a different player. If not for this problem, I would rate this iPod a big 5 Stars...but as it is I will only give it 3 stars
Now if youll excuse me, I need to go out and buy some tape...
On: 2005-03-08
I agree I used impulse and purchased this.......
I dont regret it really its nice looking but so are the others....
I am a big fan of U2 so I decided to buy it but shouldve used a bit more discretion........
On: 2005-03-08
Disclosure: My husband is a programmer with a kick-butt comp and we have a fiber-optic lightning fast internet connection, so my opinion of the performance of loading to the iPod and downloading from iTunes are shaded by those factors and may not represent the norm.
I got my iPod for Christmas from my husband. I love U2 and I have a big collection, so this seemed like the perfect addition. My husband was hesitant to buy it because he is convinced that "new technology" in digital players is right around the corner, but I must have been convincing in my, "but I want it now!" approach because he did buy it. Im not really that spoiled, Im kidding, sort of.
Back to my review, I am not particularly tech-savvy. I am an average computer user with average computer skills. I found the iPod and its software to be quite intuitive. The click wheel is easy to use, even when climbing a mountain on the elliptical machine. I find the battery life to be quite acceptable, I use it at work from 6-8 hours a day and it hasnt died on me yet.
I found iTunes to be very easy to install and use. I love being able to set up playlists. This is very handy if you plan on using your iPod for working out. I can set 50 minutes of exercisey-type songs in a playlist and work out without skipping around for a song with a good beat. Ive bought quite a few songs from iTunes. It works easily and is very fast. The songs are affordable if youre like me and usually only like 3-4 songs on a CD.
Downloading to the iPod over the firewire connection is automatically done by iTunes. It goes pretty quickly. If I am downloading a bunch of songs onto my iPod, I usually plan on letting it sit for 15 minutes or so to update completely. I have ripped songs from about 500 CDs onto iTunes and it was easy to use, but you have to have a large hard drive. My husband is complaining about the space the songs take (I dont know why hes complaining about my 2300 when he has like 10,000, who the heck can actually listen to 10,000 songs???)
All in all, I really love my iPod and I use it all the time. Two complaints though. This iPod gets scratched if you even look at it. I bought a silicone case for mine yesterday which stinks because it covers up the swank look, but its just getting so darn scratched. Another complaint I have is about the song shuffle. I listen to song shuffle in the car most of the time and my commute is pretty long. The song shuffle just doesnt seem to be very random. I hear a lot of the same songs over and over again. I checked on iTunes to see if I had it set up wrong or something, since you can select for it to play your higher rated songs more often, but I dont have it set up that way and it still seems to hit the same songs a lot.
If you can get over the sticker shock this is a fun and useful toy.
On: 2005-03-07
I agree I used impulse and purchased this.......
I dont regret it really its nice looking but so are the others....
I am a big fan of U2 so I decided to buy it but shouldve used a bit more discretion........
On: 2005-03-07
I received my U2 Special Edition iPod for Christmas this year from my darling Mom, and I opened the box with great anticipation. There it was, in my hand: beautifully simple in design; black, red and chrome; shiny, sleek and... mine. I didnt know when I started to charge it, set it up, and fill it with music (as of this writing, over 3000 songs, from downloads and my personal CD collection, and that means Im still only 3/5ths full!) that this little device would, in a small but important way, change my life.
My iPod is my music, anywhere I want it, any time. No more being tied to a CD player and my umpteen bulky cases of CDs, no more being stuck with the radio and its endless jabbering DJs and horrible commercials. No more having to edit what I listen to for the benefit of those around me. Beyond music, I can download audio books.
Why the iPod? The design is so simple and beautiful that it has set the standard for MP3 players, Apple technology has proven itself stable and powerful, Windows users like me can use it, there are a wide variety of accessories available for it, there are several good online communities devoted to the iPod where you can learn new things, and iTunes is easy to use for loading music into your iPod.
Why this iPod in particular? Because I madly love the black and red. Before the U2 Special Edition came out, I was interested in the iPod, but I absolutely despised the cold clinical white plastic models, and thought the Mini had inadequate capacity. Your aesthetics may vary, which is, of course your right. You may disagree (and may even inflict your poorly spelled (e.g., "eye-soaring"),or otherwise idiotic review of this iPod on us) but isnt it nice that Apple gave me this cool option, while not taking away your beloved white plastic?
Another reason why this iPod in particular: I love U2. They just keep getting better.
I invested in a good protective case for my iPod, Shure E2 earphones, and a protection plan from Apple. Im strongly considering the Logic3 I-Station Speakers, or the Bose Sounddock, and an audible.com membership. My car (Honda Element EX) came with an aux port, and a simple trip to Radio Shack to get a $6 male-to-male 3mm cord hooked up my iPod to my car stereo. Its heaven.
My iPod is, for me, just perfect.
On: 2005-03-07
Disclosure: My husband is a programmer with a kick-butt comp and we have a fiber-optic lightning fast internet connection, so my opinion of the performance of loading to the iPod and downloading from iTunes are shaded by those factors and may not represent the norm.
I got my iPod for Christmas from my husband. I love U2 and I have a big collection, so this seemed like the perfect addition. My husband was hesitant to buy it because he is convinced that "new technology" in digital players is right around the corner, but I must have been convincing in my, "but I want it now!" approach because he did buy it. Im not really that spoiled, Im kidding, sort of.
Back to my review, I am not particularly tech-savvy. I am an average computer user with average computer skills. I found the iPod and its software to be quite intuitive. The click wheel is easy to use, even when climbing a mountain on the elliptical machine. I find the battery life to be quite acceptable, I use it at work from 6-8 hours a day and it hasnt died on me yet.
I found iTunes to be very easy to install and use. I love being able to set up playlists. This is very handy if you plan on using your iPod for working out. I can set 50 minutes of exercisey-type songs in a playlist and work out without skipping around for a song with a good beat. Ive bought quite a few songs from iTunes. It works easily and is very fast. The songs are affordable if youre like me and usually only like 3-4 songs on a CD.
Downloading to the iPod over the firewire connection is automatically done by iTunes. It goes pretty quickly. If I am downloading a bunch of songs onto my iPod, I usually plan on letting it sit for 15 minutes or so to update completely. I have ripped songs from about 500 CDs onto iTunes and it was easy to use, but you have to have a large hard drive. My husband is complaining about the space the songs take (I dont know why hes complaining about my 2300 when he has like 10,000, who the heck can actually listen to 10,000 songs???)
All in all, I really love my iPod and I use it all the time. Two complaints though. This iPod gets scratched if you even look at it. I bought a silicone case for mine yesterday which stinks because it covers up the swank look, but its just getting so darn scratched. Another complaint I have is about the song shuffle. I listen to song shuffle in the car most of the time and my commute is pretty long. The song shuffle just doesnt seem to be very random. I hear a lot of the same songs over and over again. I checked on iTunes to see if I had it set up wrong or something, since you can select for it to play your higher rated songs more often, but I dont have it set up that way and it still seems to hit the same songs a lot.
If you can get over the sticker shock this is a fun and useful toy.
On: 2005-03-06
I received my U2 Special Edition iPod for Christmas this year from my darling Mom, and I opened the box with great anticipation. There it was, in my hand: beautifully simple in design; black, red and chrome; shiny, sleek and... mine. I didnt know when I started to charge it, set it up, and fill it with music (as of this writing, over 3000 songs, from downloads and my personal CD collection, and that means Im still only 3/5ths full!) that this little device would, in a small but important way, change my life.
My iPod is my music, anywhere I want it, any time. No more being tied to a CD player and my umpteen bulky cases of CDs, no more being stuck with the radio and its endless jabbering DJs and horrible commercials. No more having to edit what I listen to for the benefit of those around me. Beyond music, I can download audio books.
Why the iPod? The design is so simple and beautiful that it has set the standard for MP3 players, Apple technology has proven itself stable and powerful, Windows users like me can use it, there are a wide variety of accessories available for it, there are several good online communities devoted to the iPod where you can learn new things, and iTunes is easy to use for loading music into your iPod.
Why this iPod in particular? Because I madly love the black and red. Before the U2 Special Edition came out, I was interested in the iPod, but I absolutely despised the cold clinical white plastic models, and thought the Mini had inadequate capacity. Your aesthetics may vary, which is, of course your right. You may disagree (and may even inflict your poorly spelled (e.g., "eye-soaring"),or otherwise idiotic review of this iPod on us) but isnt it nice that Apple gave me this cool option, while not taking away your beloved white plastic?
Another reason why this iPod in particular: I love U2. They just keep getting better.
I invested in a good protective case for my iPod, Shure E2 earphones, and a protection plan from Apple. Im strongly considering the Logic3 I-Station Speakers, or the Bose Sounddock, and an audible.com membership. My car (Honda Element EX) came with an aux port, and a simple trip to Radio Shack to get a $6 male-to-male 3mm cord hooked up my iPod to my car stereo. Its heaven.
My iPod is, for me, just perfect.
On: 2005-03-03
Dont let the ads and all the hype and promotions fool you... this thing isnt half as extraordinary as they say it is... which makes in just amazing because they make it seems better then better and greater then greatest, ya know what I mean? I probably lost you, but whatever. This iPod is great I have about 1200 songs on it right now and it works like a charm... have listened to it for about three hours and it has lost about 2/3 of its battery (probably bout an hour left). So the music quality is awesome... those headphone are the best earbuds (unarguably ever) and that red and black color is to die for (not really... only if youre willing to cough up 50 extra bucks for U2 signatures on the back and and the color and enclosed $50 dollar coupon...
CONSIDER THIS, THOUGH-everybodys been syaing how its such a waste of the extra $50, but if Bono from U2 wins that Nobel Peace Prize--its gonna be worth ishloads of value--and then you can laugh in the faces ofall those SEu2ipod haters.
AND WAIT! A lot of people think iTunes is overpriced--there actual sales! not kidding--the maroon 5 album is 8 bucks, that ludacris album Chicken and Beer is $6.99, and theres a gazillion others under 9 bucks. not bad albums, too. Plus the free downloads arent that bad. Well, thats enough said.
Bottom Line: Its the best around. Period.---Oh wait---Comma, this thing blows everything away. If you want to read about other so-called crappy are breath-taking features, read the other reviews... Im not gonna waste my time with all that.
On: 2005-02-26
im hyunjoos son im a guy...my mom got me this ipod for my birthday and man it rocks. first and formost people seem to caomplain about not being able to get the music on their cd. Well i ahve sumthing to tell yall if you follow the instructions carefully even if u have a laptop as (......) slow as mine it will still work. so maybe you just need to try to do the software again. Do it as slowly and carefully..dont skip any steps or try to zoom through without patience. and people also seem to complain bout scrathches and finger prints on their ipods...well thats why apple made cases u idiots!!!! dont go complaining when u didnt buy a case earlier! be more mature about it! and last but not least why are allof u people complaing about having dropped ur ipods on the floor and "broke the scren" thats ur (......) fault and not apples! so stop complaing cause of ur stupid clumsiness...
now onto my review...
pretty good easy to get music on..my one and only complaint is that the touch wheel thing gets annoying..after listening to my ipod for 2 hours my thumb was dead from continuously using the wheel...so im just gonna say that people who listen to music alot should better have some therapy thing for there thumb joint after using this ipod for a long time..and also battery life suks...i ussually get only aroung 3 and a half hours...so dont listen to the dumb lies.....but overall it deservees 4 and a half stars
On: 2005-02-25
im hyunjoos son im a guy...my mom got me this ipod for my birthday and man it rocks. first and formost people seem to caomplain about not being able to get the music on their cd. Well i ahve sumthing to tell yall if you follow the instructions carefully even if u have a laptop as (......) slow as mine it will still work. so maybe you just need to try to do the software again. Do it as slowly and carefully..dont skip any steps or try to zoom through without patience. and people also seem to complain bout scrathches and finger prints on their ipods...well thats why apple made cases u idiots!!!! dont go complaining when u didnt buy a case earlier! be more mature about it! and last but not least why are allof u people complaing about having dropped ur ipods on the floor and "broke the scren" thats ur (......) fault and not apples! so stop complaing cause of ur stupid clumsiness...
now onto my review...
pretty good easy to get music on..my one and only complaint is that the touch wheel thing gets annoying..after listening to my ipod for 2 hours my thumb was dead from continuously using the wheel...so im just gonna say that people who listen to music alot should better have some therapy thing for there thumb joint after using this ipod for a long time..and also battery life suks...i ussually get only aroung 3 and a half hours...so dont listen to the dumb lies.....but overall it deservees 4 and a half stars
On: 2005-02-07
For those of you out there expecting something different than the regular 4th generation 20GB iPod - you are absolutely right! Its black and red instead of white and grey. Disappointed? You shouldnt be because this thing is cool and whether youre a U2 fan or not youll love the difference. Yes it runs 50 bucks more than a regular iPod but consider the fact youre already willing to shell out $300 for an MP3 player! Another fifty bucks to avoid the ghastly white color is worth every penny as far as Im concerned...
On: 2005-02-06
For those of you out there expecting something different than the regular 4th generation 20GB iPod - you are absolutely right! Its black and red instead of white and grey. Disappointed? You shouldnt be because this thing is cool and whether youre a U2 fan or not youll love the difference. Yes it runs 50 bucks more than a regular iPod but consider the fact youre already willing to shell out $300 for an MP3 player! Another fifty bucks to avoid the ghastly white color is worth every penny as far as Im concerned...
On: 2005-02-02
I really like this iPod because its the same design as the normal 20GB version. I dont care if U2 has their own iPod because theyre a good band and this is a really cool MP3 Player. Like some other reviews I probably would think its smarter to spend fifty dollars more and get the 40GB version but if you really like U2 this is the iPod for you. It can hold up to 5,000 songs on this really small device. The iPod photo costs $500-$600 but its much more thicker than the iPod. Its exactly the same but whats even greater on this iPod is that it has U2 signatures on the back which make it look unique. You cant personalize your own words on it but it still looks really cool. I would buy this iPod no doubt!
On: 2005-02-01
I really like this iPod because its the same design as the normal 20GB version. I dont care if U2 has their own iPod because theyre a good band and this is a really cool MP3 Player. Like some other reviews I probably would think its smarter to spend fifty dollars more and get the 40GB version but if you really like U2 this is the iPod for you. It can hold up to 5,000 songs on this really small device. The iPod photo costs $500-$600 but its much more thicker than the iPod. Its exactly the same but whats even greater on this iPod is that it has U2 signatures on the back which make it look unique. You cant personalize your own words on it but it still looks really cool. I would buy this iPod no doubt!
On: 2005-01-20
IPODs are IMHO overrated and over-hyped. My sister just got the U2 SE IPOD for her birthday and initially I was insanely jealous. Ive been mewling over getting a portable MP3 player for sometime and havent pulled the trigger. Everything I read about the IPOD says its the best thing in the world and all other digital music players are just IPOD wannabes. My sister came over on Thanksgiving with her new shiny IPOD and handed it over to me to play with. I spent the next couple of hours giving it a work through. The first thing that popped into my mind was "Why is this so great?". While the UI is rather intuitive it lacked one feature in particular I want. How do I get the song meta info on the IPOD??? Well out of the box you cant, you can always use iTunes to look at the meta data about the song (Year release, bit rate, etc.), but thats not the point. I think a $300 device should provide this information, many other digital players can do this, why cant the holy grail of digital players do this?????. Next I was shock by the lack of volume this device produces, when I turn it all the way up I expect my ears to hurt, not the case with the IPOD. In a nutshell Im not convinced that the IPOD is the right digital music player for me. Dumbed down UI missing competitor features, low volume, doesnt work as USB HD (cant copy my songs around easily without stupid iTunes), no WMA support (yes, you can convert them, but whats the point).
On: 2005-01-20
So i did my research on this ipod making sure its what I wanted to spend my money on. The ipod U2 edition is $350. It came with a $50 coupon to what the Amazon called iTunes. I thought great i can buy more songs with this coupon! I knew that ipods were good and went ahead and bought the ipod U2 edition. The coupon that comes with ipod can ONLY be used toward "the complete U2"($150 box set). You can not use it for anything else. If you want a 20 gig ipod just buy the normal ipod for $300 and save $50. I have nothing against ipods but the U2 edition is a waste of $50.
On: 2005-01-19
I just bought my new U2 iPod right after I sold my first generation. Let me tell you, after having no problems with my first iPod and none with this one (so far) I will never own another MP3 player as long as I live. Ive owned iRocks, dell jukebox, and many others, but none compare. The games, calander, contacts list, and notes are just add ons for a superior sounding piece of equipment. Some say its ugly, others dont, but hey...youre entitled to your opinion. Ive had plenty of people come up to me and tell me that they loved the colors. But, if thats not what you want to hear by all means dont buy one. It holds 5000 songs and has an equilizer which you can customize to your likings. You can also customize a play list while youre on the go. Just hold the center button while listening to the song and it will add it to your playlist. I find this helpful right before a long car ride. I just create my list and plug it into my FM transmitter. The sound is increadible, and can be plugged in to any computer speaker system by just plugging into the headphone jack.
The only thing I must warn you about are the finger prints on the center button. I used mine for a week to a week and a half before I bought my iSkin with the cover over the click wheel and the center of the click wheel has a permenant finger print on it. I cant get it off no matter what I try.
Best of luck purchasing your iPod. You wont be dissapointed.
On: 2005-01-19
IPODs are IMHO overrated and over-hyped. My sister just got the U2 SE IPOD for her birthday and initially I was insanely jealous. Ive been mewling over getting a portable MP3 player for sometime and havent pulled the trigger. Everything I read about the IPOD says its the best thing in the world and all other digital music players are just IPOD wannabes. My sister came over on Thanksgiving with her new shiny IPOD and handed it over to me to play with. I spent the next couple of hours giving it a work through. The first thing that popped into my mind was "Why is this so great?". While the UI is rather intuitive it lacked one feature in particular I want. How do I get the song meta info on the IPOD??? Well out of the box you cant, you can always use iTunes to look at the meta data about the song (Year release, bit rate, etc.), but thats not the point. I think a $300 device should provide this information, many other digital players can do this, why cant the holy grail of digital players do this?????. Next I was shock by the lack of volume this device produces, when I turn it all the way up I expect my ears to hurt, not the case with the IPOD. In a nutshell Im not convinced that the IPOD is the right digital music player for me. Dumbed down UI missing competitor features, low volume, doesnt work as USB HD (cant copy my songs around easily without stupid iTunes), no WMA support (yes, you can convert them, but whats the point).
On: 2005-01-19
So i did my research on this ipod making sure its what I wanted to spend my money on. The ipod U2 edition is $350. It came with a $50 coupon to what the Amazon called iTunes. I thought great i can buy more songs with this coupon! I knew that ipods were good and went ahead and bought the ipod U2 edition. The coupon that comes with ipod can ONLY be used toward "the complete U2"($150 box set). You can not use it for anything else. If you want a 20 gig ipod just buy the normal ipod for $300 and save $50. I have nothing against ipods but the U2 edition is a waste of $50.
On: 2005-01-12
Yes, I put off getting an ipod for a long time, partly because white is such a boring color. So now that I can have a non-white ipod, I went for it. Also, U2 is in my top five bands of all time. So for apple to call it "The U2 edition" totally suckered me big time. But I dont mind one bit.
I probably dont need to explain how great the ipod is. It is the ultimate way to listen to music. It will change your life, as Rolling Stone says. So what should I talk about, in a desperate attempt to make this review get lots of "Helpful" votes? How about the poster that comes in the box? Okay.
The saying on the poster is deep and profound: Bono says:
"the hardest thing to do is to stick together. Mates, family, marriage, business, bands... its like resisting gravity. Its like King Canute sitting in his chair trying to talk back the tide. But you can, and we have, and we will, turn the waves around... the alternative is too predictable. You rid the room of argument, you empty your life of the people you need the most." Bono 04
It is amazing to me that even somebody as successful as Bono can have a hard time keeping his friends, family, marriage, and life together. And the fact that Bono is so honest with the rest of us... well, he moves up a few notches in my book. Although he was already near the top.
Bonos honesty and kindness even amidst his huge success is enough to bring hope to the rest of us, as we spend our days toiling along in some boring corporate job and wishing we had the guts to reach for our dreams.
On: 2005-01-11
I just purchased the U2 Special Edition and I love it. It was an investment, much like my laptop. I love how it feels and the fact that its a different color from the bland white one everyone is carting around.
Upon hearing the criticism that it scratches easily, I bought a hard plastic casing with a belt clip to put it in as protection.
The Special Edition does cost more, but I am sure that Bono and the gang have to get their cut...and that happens to be the additional $50. It depends on how much you happen to like U2. I didnt mind paying for something a little different than what other folks have.
The sound quality is great and I found iTunes very easy to use, especially for someone as technologically unadept as I am. I likely wont stop buying CDs that I really like, and will download singles from albums that dont have but a couple of tracks that I really want to hear.
Its really not for use in the gym, or to go jogging with. The cost alone tells one that. But if you have a long commute or do long walks or some other mindless choice that music makes a lot easier, then its fabulous and fun.
Pop for the 20GB if you can...and if youre a real music lover and just want to be different..the U2 edition is kind of cool.
On: 2005-01-11
Yes, I put off getting an ipod for a long time, partly because white is such a boring color. So now that I can have a non-white ipod, I went for it. Also, U2 is in my top five bands of all time. So for apple to call it "The U2 edition" totally suckered me big time. But I dont mind one bit.
I probably dont need to explain how great the ipod is. It is the ultimate way to listen to music. It will change your life, as Rolling Stone says. So what should I talk about, in a desperate attempt to make this review get lots of "Helpful" votes? How about the poster that comes in the box? Okay.
The saying on the poster is deep and profound: Bono says:
"the hardest thing to do is to stick together. Mates, family, marriage, business, bands... its like resisting gravity. Its like King Canute sitting in his chair trying to talk back the tide. But you can, and we have, and we will, turn the waves around... the alternative is too predictable. You rid the room of argument, you empty your life of the people you need the most." Bono 04
It is amazing to me that even somebody as successful as Bono can have a hard time keeping his friends, family, marriage, and life together. And the fact that Bono is so honest with the rest of us... well, he moves up a few notches in my book. Although he was already near the top.
Bonos honesty and kindness even amidst his huge success is enough to bring hope to the rest of us, as we spend our days toiling along in some boring corporate job and wishing we had the guts to reach for our dreams.
On: 2005-01-10
I just purchased the U2 Special Edition and I love it. It was an investment, much like my laptop. I love how it feels and the fact that its a different color from the bland white one everyone is carting around.
Upon hearing the criticism that it scratches easily, I bought a hard plastic casing with a belt clip to put it in as protection.
The Special Edition does cost more, but I am sure that Bono and the gang have to get their cut...and that happens to be the additional $50. It depends on how much you happen to like U2. I didnt mind paying for something a little different than what other folks have.
The sound quality is great and I found iTunes very easy to use, especially for someone as technologically unadept as I am. I likely wont stop buying CDs that I really like, and will download singles from albums that dont have but a couple of tracks that I really want to hear.
Its really not for use in the gym, or to go jogging with. The cost alone tells one that. But if you have a long commute or do long walks or some other mindless choice that music makes a lot easier, then its fabulous and fun.
Pop for the 20GB if you can...and if youre a real music lover and just want to be different..the U2 edition is kind of cool.
On: 2005-01-10
Got it for Xmas and musically it is everything advertised. Great sound. Easy syncing with iTunes. Simple navigation. Good looks. Even the earbuds work well (and since I use these to exercise, Im pretty picky about this). Two drawbacks, though: battery life is nowhere near advertised - Im getting about 4-5 hours per charge and it claims 12 - and this model seems to scratch pretty easily. Other than that, its a wonderful device.
On: 2005-01-05
i found this iPod to be the coolest iPod out there, and it is so easy to use. THIS DOESNT COME WITH THE NEW U2 CD, IT HAS A COUPON FOR $50 OFF THE BOX SET!! that is a common misconseption about this iPod and just wanted to make sure that you know, if thats one of the reasons you are buying it... the two things i recomend to buy along with this is the Apple Product Protection Plan, found on their webpage, for $60 it extends your warranty to two years parts, labor and tech support... another item is the contour ipod hard case, it is all around the best case, and it has a port opening for your computer connector... DEFINENTLY A MUST BUY ITEM, ESPECIALLY IF YOU LOVE U2!!
On: 2005-01-02
The iPod works great. The iTunes on my desktop does a pretty good job of moving music around, etc., etc., like the reviews below suggest.
The catch: iTunes online downloads are not worth the hassle. Your have to keep purchasing CDs for reliability!
I purchased the digital box version... pumping my investment in this little machine to $450. My mistake: I will never use iTunes again.
The first time I tried downloading this set, I got about 1/3 of the U2 music (the total download time, even on a fast connection is hours... ...) For some reason, the connection timed out. iTunes says, just click on check for purchased music and it will resume.
Not so... after several iterations with the e-mail support staff, where they are telling me it is my fault, I take the whole thing into an Apple Store. Not only do I find out that they cannot help -- there is only this detached e-mail link, but also, half of the Apple Store STAFF HAS HAD PROBLEMS WITH iTUNES themselves.
Their suggestion: ask for a rebate, and buy the CD.
After about 8 e-mails, they refer me to their technical support -- apparently, your first e-mails go to just go into the ether... They finally admit, it was THEIR PROBLEM.
So, now I have my digital box set. Ive learned my lesson. No more iTunes purchases for me!
On: 2005-01-02
I cant think of anything more illogical than buying this u2 special edition Ipod. I cant think of anything more delightful than owning it.
The case against buying an Ipod and in favor of buying one of the alternatives, the Iriver, for example, are good ones. Yes, the Ipod doesnt support as many formats, yes, it is too trendy and too expensive. Similarly for the u2 special edition. Yes, its overpriced and the $50 coupon for the digital box set hardly compensates for this since anyone seriously interested in the u2 special edition ipod probably already has all their albums.
So, it just doesnt make sense to buy this thing. Or does it? I suspect when you first hold the u2 special edition ipod in your hand, youll get a great warm feeling come over you as I did. Turning it over and seeing the bands signatures will provoke another "I cant believe it!" feeling. Then theres the slick design of the ipod itself and its interface. This is a well designed creature. And, sure, Itunes is frustrating at first, but youll get used to it.
The Ipod is all about form over function. The detractors are entirely right about its flaws and miss the point entirely.
If you are the kind of incorrigible u2 fan that is considering buying this ipod, as one of the afflicted, I can assure you: you wont be disappointed. Just dont try and explain it to anyone else.
On: 2004-12-29
I received the iPod U2 Special Edition for Christmas. Not because Im a huge U2 fan (a fan, but not a huge fan), but because it so matches my cars interior. Hey, who said all gifts have to have a practical, reasonable explanaition?
I love it, and there are some errors in earlier reviews which I wanted to address.
1. This is a 20Gb unit, not 40, and a 3rd generation. It does not have a color screen or photo viewing options. It DOES act as an external hard drive on both Windows and Mac systems.
2. iTunes is VERY easy to use. It can automatically search an online database of tracknames and then update your iTunes and iPod for those CDs that dont report that info automatically. It is a two click process. Under Advanced, just select Get CD Track Names. Then under File, select Update Songs on iPod. If yur CD is not found in the online database, you can help the iPod community under Advanced by Submit CD Track Names.
3. The iPod, no matter what flavor you get, is the BEST music player on the market. Hands down. Sound, ease of use, design, and available accessories (including car kits by many auto manufacturers like BMW, MINI, etc.) make it the best. Apple has many plans for the iPod, making it the center of its digital world. Look for it to have even more features in future updates.
I dont regret waiting for this generation of iPod, I dont need the picture viewing of the newer models, and this is the coolest looking iPod of all!
On: 2004-12-28
I received the iPod U2 Special Edition for Christmas. Not because Im a huge U2 fan (a fan, but not a huge fan), but because it so matches my cars interior. Hey, who said all gifts have to have a practical, reasonable explanaition?
I love it, and there are some errors in earlier reviews which I wanted to address.
1. This is a 20Gb unit, not 40, and a 3rd generation. It does not have a color screen or photo viewing options. It DOES act as an external hard drive on both Windows and Mac systems.
2. iTunes is VERY easy to use. It can automatically search an online database of tracknames and then update your iTunes and iPod for those CDs that dont report that info automatically. It is a two click process. Under Advanced, just select Get CD Track Names. Then under File, select Update Songs on iPod. If yur CD is not found in the online database, you can help the iPod community under Advanced by Submit CD Track Names.
3. The iPod, no matter what flavor you get, is the BEST music player on the market. Hands down. Sound, ease of use, design, and available accessories (including car kits by many auto manufacturers like BMW, MINI, etc.) make it the best. Apple has many plans for the iPod, making it the center of its digital world. Look for it to have even more features in future updates.
I dont regret waiting for this generation of iPod, I dont need the picture viewing of the newer models, and this is the coolest looking iPod of all!
 On: 2004-12-25
Dont think the hype is worth the extra cost above the normal white ones.
Yeah it comes with the songs and all but most U2 fans will either already have them or will steal them off of the internet anyway.
On: 2004-12-22
Its small and its great for the Gym! I just got it. The music sounds great and its really easy to use! You will be happy with it!
On: 2004-12-20
#1 complaint is when running the drive can and will lock up, #2 after a playlist is done you have to stop and start a new one, #3 there is no substitute for live radio, #4 or is this #2? The headphones are ridiculously uncofortable, #5 battery life is not as advertised, #6 what a pain to load songs, #7 the software automatically sets skips on live albums (U2 Under a Blood Red Sky becomes broken up), #8 the case scratches easily. I have sent mine back to the company because of the above reasons and I hope this will open peoples eyes to how much of a waste of money this device is. Stick with a $15 fm/am and use the extra cash on something better.
by: prog_eater On: 2004-12-11
Many will be intrigued by the U2 iPods unique look, while others will be rather put off by it. You cant argue its unique style, and will go down a treat with the poseurs among us. The engrained autographs are a clever idea but not really worth extra money, the only thing worth the extra bucks is the U2 package which enables you to listen to all of U2s songs.
This is basically the 20GB iPod, with a new colour scheme, fancy autographs and hundreds of U2 songs. But for the extra money, I dont really think its worth it. Its good, no denying that, but for what it is, a fancier iPod, just get the 20GB.
I would hate to think people buy this iPod just for the looks, and couldnt care less what band endorsed it. But unfortunately, this is the case. I am a huge U2 fan but would still rather get the normal 20GB to save some money, Ive already got all the albums, Im not going to fret over the 25 unreleased songs. I dont really care for the colours, its different but a little ugly if you ask me, the normal white one has a sleek feel to it, this looks a bit cumbersome.
On: 2004-12-10
Many will be intrigued by the U2 iPods unique look, while others will be rather put off by it. You cant argue its unique style, and will go down a treat with the poseurs among us. The engrained autographs are a clever idea but not really worth extra money, the only thing worth the extra bucks is the U2 package which enables you to listen to all of U2s songs.
This is basically the 20GB iPod, with a new colour scheme, fancy autographs and hundreds of U2 songs. But for the extra money, I dont really think its worth it. Its good, no denying that, but for what it is, a fancier iPod, just get the 20GB.
I would hate to think people buy this iPod just for the looks, and couldnt care less what band endorsed it. But unfortunately, this is the case. I am a huge U2 fan but would still rather get the normal 20GB to save some money, Ive already got all the albums, Im not going to fret over the 25 unreleased songs. I dont really care for the colours, its different but a little ugly if you ask me, the normal white one has a sleek feel to it, this looks a bit cumbersome.
On: 2004-12-09
this is a good one. I liked it. Tell us what you think. Write a review of this item and share your opinions with others. Please be sure to focus your comments on the product. Read our review guidelines for more information
On: 2004-12-08
this is a good one. I liked it. Tell us what you think. Write a review of this item and share your opinions with others. Please be sure to focus your comments on the product. Read our review guidelines for more information
by: darthkommissar On: 2004-12-08
Early in the twenty-first century, MP3 players became a very popular way for people to listen to music, and with good reason - rather than hauling around a whole mess of CDs, people were able to fit practically their entire music collection in the palm of their hand! By far the most popular MP3 player on the market is the iPod line, from Apple Computers. How does the 20 GB model, redesigned for 2004 in a limited U2 edition, measure up? Read on for my review.
PROS:
-THE DEVICE CAN FIT UP TO (APPROXIMATELY) FIVE THOUSAND SONGS! If youre like me and you have tons of CDs (and I mean numbers of CDs in the hundreds), THIS DEVICE IS FOR YOU! More likely than not, youll be able to fit most of your discography onto the device!
-EASY TO USE ONCE YOU GET THE HANG OF IT. The click wheel and buttons may be a little tricky to use at first, but once you get the hang of them, youre going to wonder how you ever lived without them! Its MUCH easier using this interface than the one on earlier iPods.
-THE FOURTH GENERATION MODELS HAS BEEN SLIMMED DOWN CONSIDERABLY. The new version of the 40 GB iPod is slimmer than its older 40 GB counterpart, making it much easier to carry around.
-A DISC WITH THE SOFTWARE YOU NEED IS INCLUDED. The iPod works with Apples iTunes program, and youll get a CD that has the program on it with your iPod.
-SOFTWARE IS EASY TO USE. All you do to get music from your CDs into your iTunes library is stick the CD in your computer and press import! Its as simple as that!
-WORKS WITH A PC, NOT JUST APPLE COMPUTERS. I was a little worried about this being a compatibility issue - fortunately my fears were short-lived.
-HEADPHONES INCLUDED. And the headphones included are actually very good ones! They are the earbud style, and they get the job done very well. I think people diss the headphones too much - they work fine.
-THE IPOD THE BEST ALL-AROUND DIGITAL MUSIC DEVICE ON THE MARKET, PERIOD! Essentially, everything other players do, the iPod does better.
-BONUS FEATURES. The device includes some games, including Solitare and a ball-busting game similar to the arcade classic, Breakout. But the best of these bonus games is, by far, the music quiz. The player will play a song from your library at random, and you must guess (from a list of five songs) which one is playing! The faster you answer, the more points you get! This gets especially interesting when your digital music library gets to be as big as mine is.
-ITS GOT A BACKLIGHT! This way, you can easily navigate your music library in the dark!
-NO OTHER IPOD LOOKS THIS COOL. The black and red color scheme of this U2 model is just plain awesome, and it really makes me wish they offered other colors on other models.
CONS:
-RIP OFF! For just fifty bucks more, you can get the 40GB iPod, which has DOUBLE THE MEMORY! This U2 version, while cool looking, is a total rip-off. It comes with a coupon for $50 of the Complete U2 musical set, but since youre spending $50 extra on this iPod anyway, thats kind of meaningless. Even the normal 20GB version costs $50 less!
-GETTING MUSIC ONTO THE DEVICE IS CONFUSING AT FIRST. You MUST use iTunes for this - you cant simply click and drag. But once you get the hang of it, youll agree that iTunes is a good program.
-RETITLING SONGS/ARTISTS/ALBUMS GETS ANNOYING. This is a VERY time-consuming process, but if you DONT do it, youre going to end up with a jumbled mess of songs in your library. On the other hand, if you DO retitle them all, youre going to lose MANY hours of your social life.
-THE CHROME-STYLED BACK OF THE DEVICE IS POORLY DESIGNED. Because of the chrome stylings of this part of the player, it can easily get fingerprints on it, and get scratched. Why couldnt they just make the whole thing out of the same material?
-MANUAL IS NOT VERY HELPFUL. The manual is very small and doesnt have too many pages, and it doesnt really say a whole lot that will help you - youre better off just using the info thats on the iTunes installation CD.
OVERALL:
Let me put it simply - Maybe you dont need a 40 or 60 GB yet, but chances are your music library will grow enough that youll need one eventually, making that model the better choice in the long run. If youre going to shell out the cash for an iPod, you might as well get the best one of all. Final verdict? If youre gonna get an iPod, shell out the extra fifty bucks and get the 40 GB. Its a much better bargain.
by: Anonymous On: 2004-12-08
This is a good music player and looks pretty nice.It is overadvertised and everyone has one so its not even unique. There are many better players at comparable prices with 20GB or greater harddrive.There are many accesseries you have to buy for it which youd get free with other mp3 players(SONY Walkman digital music player and my favorite the RCA jukebox and video player)
It holds less songs than Sonys(Sony-13,000,Apple-5,000)
You cant watch movies in color on a 3.5inch flatscreen(you can on RCAs)
Accesaries not included
Case-$20-$45(included with Sonys and RCAs)
USB cable-$30(included with Sonys and RCAs)
No free songs(30 free with Sonys Walkman digital music player)
Dock $40(included with Sonys and RCAs)
On: 2004-12-07
Early in the twenty-first century, MP3 players became a very popular way for people to listen to music, and with good reason - rather than hauling around a whole mess of CDs, people were able to fit practically their entire music collection in the palm of their hand! By far the most popular MP3 player on the market is the iPod line, from Apple Computers. How does the 20 GB model, redesigned for 2004 in a limited U2 edition, measure up? Read on for my review.
PROS:
-THE DEVICE CAN FIT UP TO (APPROXIMATELY) FIVE THOUSAND SONGS! If youre like me and you have tons of CDs (and I mean numbers of CDs in the hundreds), THIS DEVICE IS FOR YOU! More likely than not, youll be able to fit most of your discography onto the device!
-EASY TO USE ONCE YOU GET THE HANG OF IT. The click wheel and buttons may be a little tricky to use at first, but once you get the hang of them, youre going to wonder how you ever lived without them! Its MUCH easier using this interface than the one on earlier iPods.
-THE FOURTH GENERATION MODELS HAS BEEN SLIMMED DOWN CONSIDERABLY. The new version of the 40 GB iPod is slimmer than its older 40 GB counterpart, making it much easier to carry around.
-A DISC WITH THE SOFTWARE YOU NEED IS INCLUDED. The iPod works with Apples iTunes program, and youll get a CD that has the program on it with your iPod.
-SOFTWARE IS EASY TO USE. All you do to get music from your CDs into your iTunes library is stick the CD in your computer and press import! Its as simple as that!
-WORKS WITH A PC, NOT JUST APPLE COMPUTERS. I was a little worried about this being a compatibility issue - fortunately my fears were short-lived.
-HEADPHONES INCLUDED. And the headphones included are actually very good ones! They are the earbud style, and they get the job done very well. I think people diss the headphones too much - they work fine.
-THE IPOD THE BEST ALL-AROUND DIGITAL MUSIC DEVICE ON THE MARKET, PERIOD! Essentially, everything other players do, the iPod does better.
-BONUS FEATURES. The device includes some games, including Solitare and a ball-busting game similar to the arcade classic, Breakout. But the best of these bonus games is, by far, the music quiz. The player will play a song from your library at random, and you must guess (from a list of five songs) which one is playing! The faster you answer, the more points you get! This gets especially interesting when your digital music library gets to be as big as mine is.
-ITS GOT A BACKLIGHT! This way, you can easily navigate your music library in the dark!
-NO OTHER IPOD LOOKS THIS COOL. The black and red color scheme of this U2 model is just plain awesome, and it really makes me wish they offered other colors on other models.
CONS:
-RIP OFF! For just fifty bucks more, you can get the 40GB iPod, which has DOUBLE THE MEMORY! This U2 version, while cool looking, is a total rip-off. It comes with a coupon for $50 of the Complete U2 musical set, but since youre spending $50 extra on this iPod anyway, thats kind of meaningless. Even the normal 20GB version costs $50 less!
-GETTING MUSIC ONTO THE DEVICE IS CONFUSING AT FIRST. You MUST use iTunes for this - you cant simply click and drag. But once you get the hang of it, youll agree that iTunes is a good program.
-RETITLING SONGS/ARTISTS/ALBUMS GETS ANNOYING. This is a VERY time-consuming process, but if you DONT do it, youre going to end up with a jumbled mess of songs in your library. On the other hand, if you DO retitle them all, youre going to lose MANY hours of your social life.
-THE CHROME-STYLED BACK OF THE DEVICE IS POORLY DESIGNED. Because of the chrome stylings of this part of the player, it can easily get fingerprints on it, and get scratched. Why couldnt they just make the whole thing out of the same material?
-MANUAL IS NOT VERY HELPFUL. The manual is very small and doesnt have too many pages, and it doesnt really say a whole lot that will help you - youre better off just using the info thats on the iTunes installation CD.
OVERALL:
Let me put it simply - Maybe you dont need a 40 or 60 GB yet, but chances are your music library will grow enough that youll need one eventually, making that model the better choice in the long run. If youre going to shell out the cash for an iPod, you might as well get the best one of all. Final verdict? If youre gonna get an iPod, shell out the extra fifty bucks and get the 40 GB. Its a much better bargain.
On: 2004-12-07
This is a good music player and looks pretty nice.It is overadvertised and everyone has one so its not even unique. There are many better players at comparable prices with 20GB or greater harddrive.There are many accesseries you have to buy for it which youd get free with other mp3 players(SONY Walkman digital music player and my favorite the RCA jukebox and video player)
It holds less songs than Sonys(Sony-13,000,Apple-5,000)
You cant watch movies in color on a 3.5inch flatscreen(you can on RCAs)
Accesaries not included
Case-$20-$45(included with Sonys and RCAs)
USB cable-$30(included with Sonys and RCAs)
No free songs(30 free with Sonys Walkman digital music player)
Dock $40(included with Sonys and RCAs)
On: 2004-12-05
It actually looks a lot better in the flesh than it does in the picture. Its smaller than the picture would have you believe -and thats a good thing. Its simple to operate too.
The silver metal back of the U2 IPOD does seem to add a little additional weight to the product. The metal back of this IPOD does pick-up fingerprints too.
The music sounds great - except - those cheapo earbuds that come with the IPOD - theyre almost non-usable. Many people find these earbuds to be extremely uncomfortable in their ears. Its to the IPODs credit, that even if you decide to stick with the freebie earbuds that come with it, the music still sounds good.
But - if youve decided to bite the bullet and make a considerable cash investment like this on the IPOD, it really doesnt make sense to go with third rate earphones. Put the expense of buying a nice pair of earphones in your budget right now if youre considering getting one of these sweet babies.
But overall - I say Go For It!
On: 2004-11-28
when I heard of the release of the two new ipods(ipod foto and ipod special edition)I hurried to the nearest apple store. I decided to get the ipod special edition because I like u2 and it included lots of songs so if you sum up it is pretty cheap. the 20gb ipod costs $299 plus you get 50 bucks off the box set. I would recomend this to anyone that loves ipods and that wants an original one. the laser signatures at the back are very cool. This is my second ipod, i have one from the previous generation and they both work perfectly. Buy this and you wont regret it.
On: 2004-11-28
First, you cannot judge most products by a tiny photo but in particular Apples product. Some (if not most tiny photos) do NOT do a product justice. While the color scheme may not be one that you might immediately associate as going together - when you ACTUALLY see it - its quite nice. Thats not to say everyone will like it but you should at least see and touch the product before being so sure its "ugly."
Note - this is has the same specs as the White iPod - its a grayscale screen not color. Only the iPod Photos ones have color screens.
The U2 itunes "box set" is $149 for everyone. By buying this iPod, you get a $50 dollar certificate towards that set - (aka: $99 dollars ).
I have no idea how limited this limited edition is so no can really guess its future value but iPods definitely hold their value more than other portable mp3 players AND you have something that has a value of $50 dollars that you can sell or in the near future on eBay (or Amazon auctions, of course) - now whether you can sell it for $50 dollars or even more, thats hard to say but it does have value as some if not many, many U2 fans who might want to download the set but might not be able to afford a new U2 ipod would be willing to buy the certificate off of you.
So, dont be so quick to judge this iPod - it works just as great as every other ipod - the first great invention of the 21st century AND ...
its an official Apple release
its a different color scheme,
its a limited edition,
AND with etched signatures on the back.
It does cost $50 more than the regular white iPod but in addition to the four things mentioned, you get a certificate for $50 dollars towards the digital box set. If you are going to buy the digital set, you will be spending EXACTLY the same amount but you get an limited edition iPod.
If you have the inclination, you can sell the certificate - maybe its worth less than $50 - maybe more (you never know) but it is worth something to many people so ... THATs THE REAL MATH!!
On: 2004-11-24
It is designed to match the new album colors, genious. Bono and the Edge were involved in the design process. You have all of U2s autographs engraved in it forever! If you think its ugly, you dont get it, so dont review it. I am a huge U2 fan, and I wouldnt even think of owning another Ipod. It rocks as much as they do!
On: 2004-11-23
It is designed to match the new album colors, genious. Bono and the Edge were involved in the design process. You have all of U2s autographs engraved in it forever! If you think its ugly, you dont get it, so dont review it. I am a huge U2 fan, and I wouldnt even think of owning another Ipod. It rocks as much as they do!
On: 2004-11-20
I grew to like it. Face it people, there are many things in life that looked ugly when we first laid eyes on it but grew prettier as time passed. A prime example is the difference between Japanese vs. German automobiles. Japanese autos look great when a new design is first released but as times passes it gets uglier and uglier. German car on the other hand, looks kind of clunky at first but gets better and better looking as time passes. Thats why old Benzes are "classics" and an old Lexus is a piece of crap.
The same can be said for this new black and red scheme. Yes, it looks ugly when you first see it because of the contrasting colors but over time, it becomes better and better looking. I think given enough time it will become a collectors "classic" while the white ones become crap, destined for the garbage after a newer model is released. I for one think its worth paying a little more now for a limited edition that will most likely develop a following where its value will hold up longer than the generic.
It comes down to, do you want to be just another boring face in the crowd with an iPod or do you want a special edition thats available to the exclusive few who will pony up the extra $50?
On: 2004-11-19
who came up with this choice of colours? I think the ipod is a great device and I thought Apple were on a quest to educate people about what design means and what is of good taste...
I cant imagine how revolting it will look in a white cradle (unless they made a red one)
U2 is fine, although I never listen to them... Im not the only one. And yeah, why U2 btw???
how 80s (in a bad way)... The sadest thing is that their competitors are probably working on gear inspired from it, as there were since the first imacs, get ready for more eye soring red and black devices.
On: 2004-11-19
I grew to like it. Face it people, there are many things in life that looked ugly when we first laid eyes on it but grew prettier as time passed. A prime example is the difference between Japanese vs. German automobiles. Japanese autos look great when a new design is first released but as times passes it gets uglier and uglier. German car on the other hand, looks kind of clunky at first but gets better and better looking as time passes. Thats why old Benzes are "classics" and an old Lexus is a piece of crap.
The same can be said for this new black and red scheme. Yes, it looks ugly when you first see it because of the contrasting colors but over time, it becomes better and better looking. I think given enough time it will become a collectors "classic" while the white ones become crap, destined for the garbage after a newer model is released. I for one think its worth paying a little more now for a limited edition that will most likely develop a following where its value will hold up longer than the generic.
It comes down to, do you want to be just another boring face in the crowd with an iPod or do you want a special edition thats available to the exclusive few who will pony up the extra $50?
by: Anonymous On: 2004-11-18
Well, this is my idea. Since we dont have a box set price yet, lets assume its $150 regualar.
Black/Red U2 Special Edition iPod + $350
U2 Box Set + $150
$50 Off Box Set With iPod Purchase - $50
-----------------------------------------
$450 for iPod and Box Set
Normal iPod (20 GB) + $300
U2 Box Set + $150
-----------------------------------------
$450 for iPod and Box Set
You arent saving any money, so if youre just getting it for the color and you dont really care about U2, DONT GET IT! $50 extra is a little too much to spend for a gift certificate you arent going to use.
Otherwise, the iPod is fine! Sure, you only get 18.2 GB of space when you get it, but you can fit over 6000 songs on it!
On: 2004-11-18
who came up with this choice of colours? I think the ipod is a great device and I thought Apple were on a quest to educate people about what design means and what is of good taste...
I cant imagine how revolting it will look in a white cradle (unless they made a red one)
U2 is fine, although I never listen to them... Im not the only one. And yeah, why U2 btw???
how 80s (in a bad way)... The sadest thing is that their competitors are probably working on gear inspired from it, as there were since the first imacs, get ready for more eye soring red and black devices.
On: 2004-11-17
Well, this is my idea. Since we dont have a box set price yet, lets assume its $150 regualar.
Black/Red U2 Special Edition iPod + $350
U2 Box Set + $150
$50 Off Box Set With iPod Purchase - $50
-----------------------------------------
$450 for iPod and Box Set
Normal iPod (20 GB) + $300
U2 Box Set + $150
-----------------------------------------
$450 for iPod and Box Set
You arent saving any money, so if youre just getting it for the color and you dont really care about U2, DONT GET IT! $50 extra is a little too much to spend for a gift certificate you arent going to use.
Otherwise, the iPod is fine! Sure, you only get 18.2 GB of space when you get it, but you can fit over 6000 songs on it!
On: 2004-11-13
Again Apple has revolutionized the music listening session. The incorporation of the Ipod & U2 is pure genious. The U2 Ipod is beautiully crafted & has the feel of a solid piece of aluminum. All other MP3 players are flimsey compared to the Ipod. Dude ... its all about the music & experience. The ipod sound is state of the art. Also nice to not have to use flash memory since this 20 GB holds all the music anyone is gonna need. Regarding the integration of U2 & Ipod, I believe the band was savvy by creating the first digital music box set that comes integrated with a player. Some may say commercial. I say awesome! Just drop the cash, get the U2 Ipod and watch all your friends drool in envy. Definitely worth every penny! Best product of the year!
by: Anonymous On: 2004-11-12
this ipod rox my sox!!! it is soo durable it has already been through the wash once ...... and it still plays every thing just fine! nothing was messed up. i dont think its ugly i think it looks awsome .... but thats all just opinion. the black and red is soo cool ...... but the coolest thing are the ingraved signatures! i love U2 they rock. it also comes with $50.00 off of "The Complete U2" .. "The Complete U2" has almost every U2 song ever made!!!
well if you dont like this ...................................... well your crazy!
(PS> it is a little over expenceve)
On: 2004-11-01
The iPod is great, of course, if wildly overrated. Compared to other hd-based mp3 players, its keep-it-simple-stupid automagical usability and ultra-hip branding have made it the product of choice for people who want easy solutions; i.e., almost everybody.
And when I heard about a black iPod, I was excited. Even the imprimatur of out-of-it dinosaur-rockers (and onetime anticorporate types) like U2 wasnt enough to dampen my anticipation. Then I actually saw the thing.
Whoa, its ugly. The red and black color scheme is ugly. The gloss black will be even uglier with fingerprints on it, and the red will be even uglier with the blue-and-white LCD lit up (the white markings on the click wheel dont help matters either). Even the text under the signatures is ugly.
And, as it turns out, the much-hyped U2 digital box set will be available on the ITMS and is neither exhaustive nor exclusive. Now that anyone can get their hands on the box set (educated guess: it is already up on p2p networks as I write this sentence), and now that the product didnt turn out as visually appealing as the words black iPod mightve suggested, what reason is there to buy this iPod instead of one of the regular ones? Well, itll match your throwback Jordans.
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