Typical price: £139
What is it: Flash-based MP3 player with 2GB of memory and photo viewing
What we think: The YP-Z5 sounds clean and punchy. The touchpad needs an overhaul, but it's one of the first genuinely exciting MP3 players this year
What you need to know
Reviewed on: 16 March 2006
Tags: Samsung, Samsung YP-Z5 (2GB), sound quality, audiophiles, DRM
We like:
Best music transfer system of any MP3 player; crisp, clean sound; bright screen
We don't like:
Fiddly touchpad control; non-standard USB connector
You might also need:
You'll need a computer to transfer MP3s from
CNET UK judgement:
Samsung has broken with convention by allowing the YP-Z5 to mount on any computer as a USB drive. It's a revelation. You don't need to install drivers, worry about DRM, stick to a single machine, or use a convoluted proprietary interface to transfer music. The touchpad is fiddly -- no match for the iPod -- and the chassis may look a bit 80s, but many will be happy to pay this price for the freedom the YP-Z5 offers
Full review:
Just as actors fear to speak the word 'Macbeth' outside of Shakespeare's play itself, worrying that it will bring bad fortune on their production, so MP3 player manufacturers should fear to speak the words 'iPod killer'. Continue Reading...
Samsung YP-Z5 (2GB) History
24 Mar 2006 in Digital Living
Samsung's YP-Z5 challenges the iPod nano with visually impressive menus, straightforward music transfers and double the battery life, but the control system doesn't quite measure up. Does it get a high five or a consoling pat?
Others to consider
Latest user reviews
March 27, 2007
Posted by: Phil Hazelton
"Almost, but not quite"
January 14, 2007
Posted by: Kyus Agu-Lionel
"I love this MP3 player. Good on what it does do (namely, music)"
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