Performance

Video Playback

Its video playback capabilities is not only its most attractive feature, but happens to be one of its most impressive as well.  That is why I spent quite a bit of time testing the Vision:M's video playback support.

This section will not only cover playback performance, but briefly touch on some of the better tools out there for video conversion and proper playback on such portable devices like the new Vision:M.

Unlike the Ipod, the biggest advantage of the Zen Vision:M is its excellent video playback support.  It can play a variety of formats very well including DivX, Xvid, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, WMV and motion-JPEG.  After testing the player with each, I can say it isn't very picky either and played every file I had or converted very smoothly.  I loaded the player with a variety of video clips in all formats ranging from 4 minutes to 2 hours.

Music Videos

Many years ago, I used to capture music videos and host them on a website I used to run as well as on Mirc.  I have an extensive collection of rare music videos in both MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 formats.  I was happy to find that all the videos I transferred did not require conversion and played back flawlessly on the Vision:M.  For testing purposes, I also converted them to both DivX and Xvid using some excellent tools such as Vidomi, SUPER and even a DivX convert software application I picked up for free at CES this year.  I was amazed to find that all files played back flawlessly on its beautiful screen.

Movies (Full Length DVDs and Shorts)

The next test was to playback significantly larger video files.  For this, I ripped a variety of DVDs including short films and full length movies.  I was pleased to find they too played very well and even fast-forwarding or rewinding large videos did not lock up the Vision:M.  For example, one DVD I played extensively and used to test battery life was the full Complex Rock Tour DVD from the Blue Man Group.

Update:  03/28/06

After extensive testing, I can say that the latest firmware from Creative ( Firmware 1.30.02 ), does significantly improve video playback.  I advise those who own the player to update to this latest firmware for best performance.

**click to enlarge**

The primary tool I recommend for this type of use is the excellent DVD Ripper Platinum 4 from Xilisoft.  Their tool will allow you to rip and directly convert to just about any format including DivX and Xvid.  It even has profiles available for those who may not have too much knowledge on video conversion.  Currently, they have a profile for the Zen Vision, but you'll probably see one for the Vision:M in a later release.

GUI & Navigation

During extensive use, I did not experience any lags when zipping back and forth through menus.  It's speedy and easy to navigate once you get used to the touch pad.

Sound Quality

As expected from a Zen player, sound quality is excellent, especially after just coming from the new Philips GoGear HDD6330.  Like a majority of their players, Creative boosts a high 97dB Signal-To-Noise Ratio.  The volume is quite loud and you'll never find yourself setting it to its highest output level.  Note that although the player just hit the US market, Creative has already released a firmware upgrade that does improve sound quality.

Recording Quality

The Vision:M is able to do voice recordings as well as record straight from the FM Tuner.  Two sample clips are provided below.  The audio files are un-edited and only converted to 192Kbps MP3 files using quality software.

	Sample Voice Recording
	Sample FM Radio Recording

Recording from radio sounds good but the voice recordings have background noise.  You can eliminate this by lowering the volume but you'll have to speak louder.  It works very well but not as good as the recordings from the Philips GoGear HDD6330.  For comparison, you can hear the GoGear recordings here.

Battery Life

This is one area that truly impressed me and exceeded my expectations.  Battery life is excellent and you'll be surprised, especially after checking out the specs.  I say this because usually the specs are a bit over what the player is really capable of.  After testing, I found the Vision:M can easily surpass the battery life stated in the specs when it comes to video playback.  Let's compare actual test results vs specs...

DivX is definitely the format to use with this player if you want the longest battery life.  The results speak for themselves.  With audio, it was slightly under specs but this was because all my MP3s are encoded in 192kbps.  14hr playback is based on 128kbps files only.  Also note that while you can charge your Vision:M with both the power adapter and USB cable, it only takes 2.5hrs to charge with the adapter.  Charging via USB only takes approximately 6hrs.

Durability

The Zen Vision:M is well built.  I don't think you'll have to worry about scratches on the back of the player.  The front, although no scratches are present on mine, can be prone to scratches if not properly cared for.  However, nothing like the new black Ipod models.  The included pouch is honestly a joke and I don't see many even using it.  Perhaps a front panel shield would be ideal for long term protection.

Accessories

Creative does have a few accessories for the Vision:M but unfortunately, I still can't find any of them sold here in the states.  Also, the Vision:M, as impressive as it is, is not an Ipod so don't expect high support for third-party companies.  Most you'll probably see are some cases but that's about it.

Update: 03/28/06

The kind folks over at The Invisible Shield have sent over one of their newest products, a full body shield for the Vision:M. 

I was impressed with the new packaging.  Unlike the sample provided for the Ipod Nano review, they now also provide an application solution along with each shield.  Unfortunately, I don't think it is enough to cover full body shields, but it is still a nice addition.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this product, I can honestly say it is one of the best products out there in terms of protecting your portable electronics.  The Invisible Shield is tougher than any other applicable film out there.  It basically offers you ultimate protection without added bulk.

It is not as easy to apply on the Vision:M as it is on the Ipod Nano, but the screenshots below show before and after photos with it applied.  Judge for yourself.

Next: Conclusions