Model:  Vision:M (Black)

Manufacturer:  Creative

Reviewed By:  Miguel

Review Date:  01/23/06

  While Apple managed to get their Video Ipod out before the holidays, Creative wasn't far behind, releasing their competitive player to the US market roughly a month later. I'll be honest and say that the official press pictures didn't look all that appealing. However, after playing with a Zen Vision:M at this year's CES, I couldn't help but pickup one of these units for a thorough review. Aside from the truly spectacular screen, the Vision:M is a major step above any of their other MP3 players.  Oddly, Creative has it listed under their MP3 players section.  With its high level of video playback support and picture viewing, it should be considered a PMP.  I'm pleased to give you a thorough look at Creative's answer to the Video Ipod.  Does it really have what it takes to stay in the game?  Let's find out...

Packaging & Contents

The Vision:M comes in a large but attractive box which includes special earbuds, power adapter with 2 interchangeable plugs, sync adapter, USB cable, user's guide, installation CD and a odd "cowhide-like" pouch.  Would have liked to see a smaller pouch similar to the one found on Philip's GoGear HDD6330.

Design

Our model had a black front panel but they are available in a variety of other colors as well.  Now, I'm not fond of the pearl white back housing on this unit.  Come on, be creative...literally.  Who are they trying to fool?  The Vision:M does not even support Macs.  Needless to say, I'm not happy with the choice of white for the back and for the accessories either.  It's just not that appealing nor does it give it that "high-tech" look.  Perhaps something like the GoGear HDD6330 was more in line.  Frustrations aside, the unit does feel very solid.

The top features the lighted power/hold toggle switch as well as the headphone jack.  On the bottom you'll find the dock port and a very small hole where you can reset the device if it does eventually lockup on you.

**click to enlarge**

Oddly, you have to use the included adapter to plug your Vision:M for power and USB transfers.  Despite the awkward use of this adapter, it does offer you a video out jack allowing you to display photos and videos.  This is usually something that is offered with an optional cradle.  Nice to see you do have this capability out of the box.

**click to enlarge**

Nothing found on the left side of the player but you will find the Mic on the right side.

The Vision:M sports a highly impressive 2.5" LCD capable of displaying 262,144 colors.  It is the best screen I've ever seen on a portable device of its kind and you'll have to see one in person to really appreciate it.  Now, I've read many user reviews stating that the screen has poor viewing angles.  This is absolutely not true!  It really irritates me when people make such absurd comments as it only confuses potential buyers.  The screen looks fantastic and the only time you will notice a slight difference in viewing angles is when playing most video files.  However, when using the interface, it is not an issue at all and the screen almost looks like a picture...it is that impressive.  The controls consists of 4 buttons that are backlit in blue as well as the vertical touch- sensitive scroll pad with side nav buttons.

Specifications

Next: Install & Bundled Software