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PC Advisor Best Buy

October 26, 2006

2nd-generation iPod nano

Only in the fast-paced world of technology could the words "What's old is new again" refer to a product that's been dead for barely a year. Yet how else can you describe the second-generation nano but as the resurrection of the iPod mini?

Though Apple's newest nanos look positively Lilliputian next to an iPod mini, they have plenty in common. Available in capacities of 2GB, 4GB and 8GB, the nano has the same scratch-resistant aluminium shell, rounded edges and (in the case of the 4GB version) colourful exterior as the mini.

The cheapest nano comes in silver; the 4GB model can be had in silver, bright blue, green or pink; and the 8GB nano can be any colour as long as it's brushed-metal black. Like the mini, these players feel solid in your hand – more so than the original nano.

In most other respects, though, they are far more like the first-generation nano. The height and width is very similar, the headphone port is on the bottom rather than the top, and you can only sync via USB. The sound quality is of a similarly high standard.

There's now a search feature that allows you to use the scrollwheel to select letters on the screen. As you dial in each letter, the track list is whittled down to include only entries starting with those letters. It can also search for phrases – enter DC, for example, and you'll locate those hidden AC/DC tracks. In all honesty, we found this rather more tedious than the traditional method of selecting tracks, although it could be useful for those with large, disorganised libraries.

The redesigned earbuds are also slightly disappointing: a bit of a step back, in our opinion. These ship without foam covers, so they tend to slide around in your ears.

Battery life is hugely improved, though. Apple claims 24 hours; in our tests, the 8GB model played for 26 hours and 45 minutes, while the 4GB managed almost as much. Lastly, the display’s distinctly brighter – 40 percent brighter, Apple reckons.

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Independent customer reviews from

Apple iPod nano 2G scored:
9.0 out of 10 100% real reviews

The 2 most helpful reviews based on 86 reviews:

12 Sep 2007 Sharon, Newcastle Upon Tyne

9

Good Points

everything really from the way it looks(really slim) to the ease of use

Bad Points

can't think of any

23 Jul 2007 Jo, Kent

9

Good Points

The sound quality is fantastic. I cant believe the size and weight.

Bad Points

A mains charger or car charger should really come with the product as standard, especially as it is used on holiday and in the car.

See more Apple iPod nano 2G reviews on Reevoo.com

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2nd-generation iPod nano

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