iPod mini vs 4th Gen vs 3rd Gen

[right_stuff]

Is it true that the mini has a better sound quality compared to the 4th & 3rd Gen iPods? http://ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=b28945a2158a1c50d70b7208a0a366ed& amp;postid=266895#post266895

I also notice the difference when i tried listening to my GF's mini a week ago and was surprised that her mini sounded better than my 3rd Gen. I used the same earphones, uploaded the same file from the same source, EQ was set to off but still, her mini sounded better. Can anyone confirm this?

For the 4th Gen owners, is it harder to navigate your iPod while resting on its dock as compared to the 3rd Gen's touch wheel?

thanks...

[wpalomine]

From my experience the mini does not sound 'better'. I think the headphone jack outputs a few mW more than the 3G. Basically the volume is louder.

[subtleclarity]

imo, the design of the 3g is so much better compared to the 4g and mini...

[elbert]

The mini seems to have a louder output. I noticed that when plugged into a cassette adaptor, the sound distorts when the volume level is up. The 3rd gen doesn't distort as much.

I've recently hardwired my iPods into my car's head unit via line out. I'm using both the mini and the 3rd gen. On line out (via the dock connector, not the headphone socket), the sound is identical.

[elbert]

While we're at the subject of comparing the three...

The 4th gen has a few nifty features not found on the 3rd gen. For one, the click-wheel is so much easier to use and less prone to 'accidental' pressing of buttons. Also, the 4G has 12 hours of battery life compared to 8 on the 3G. I also like the fact that "Shuffle Songs" can now be accessed from the main menu. Compared to having to enter Settings | Shuffle | toggle Off/Songs/Albums, the new feature allows you to Shuffle songs on demand, in whatever playlist you are in.

The mini may not have the new battery life or the Shuffle Songs feature of the 4G, but the form factor is fantastic. Being small (hence, more ergonomic) and scratch-resistant are its selling points over the white iPods.

I'm not saying the 3G isn't good. IMO, the new features on the 4G aren't compelling enough to warrant an upgrade. It's still a fantastic product, IMHO, so I'm sticking to it.

[right_stuff]

ok, i was tempted to open one of my mini's. its like carrying nuthing compared to my 3rd Gen... and it looks so attractive as well.. problem is, i was only able to upload 2 of my playlists... i think i want to use the both of them...:dry:

[ayrton senna]

went to erie, pennsylvania last labor day & looking for a good sale saw an ipod 4th gen 40gb is now selling for $399 & i have seen a 3rd gen 40gb selling for $340. now the only difference is that the 3rd gen has a remote & belt clip (w/c if u add up could save you around $80). i almost got the 3rd gen but still wasnt convince if ill get it or not. i eventually ended up not buying either.

now can u guys help me decide on which ipod to buy? im not a guy who upgrades when there is another new fad around but i would like something that would still be "sulit" khit na may bago eh competitive pa rin interms of features. feature wise are you convince that the 4th gen is much better than the 3rd gen? im thinking of going back to delaware this thanks giving (november) ksi its tax free doon. so i hope i can have some input from u guys on w/c ipod to pick. i cant take it anymore... naiingit na ako sa inyong lahat ako nlng yata ang walang ipod..... :lol:

by the way apple is selling a refurbish ipod 3rd gen (i think?) on their site for $329 & free delivery ha. do u think this is a good deal. any comments about refurbish products from apple. what about apple care on an ipod? think its worth it.

thanks in advance guys

AS

[jsaure]

There's a little peace of mind going for the newer model in that you know you're getting fresher parts (although not necessarily better) and an overall improved product. Click wheel, longer battery usage--I'd go for the 4G if I've never had an iPod.

[elbert]

@jsaure: good advice, jsaure. I was about to say the same.

@Ayrton Senna: AppleCare for iPod is well worth it. Peace of mind = priceless.

[Adel]

Originally posted by subtleclarity
imo, the design of the 3g is so much better compared to the 4g and mini...

Hm. I seem to hold the completely opposite opinion.

The touchwheel and buttons of 3Gs operate erratically, and seem to be calibrated to respond to all manner of touch - depending upon its own mood.

Sometimes a mere wisp of air from a passing butterfly's wings will get you a response, andf sometimes even the full force of an overhead-swung mallet won't get you squat.

When twirling your finger 'round the wheel, take care not to brush against the center button lest you want unexpected results. Likewise, when merely holding the iPod idly, make sure your fingers are well away from the four buttons. Conversely, sometimes tapping on them like a woodpecker won't do anything at all, or it might net you a delayed response.

And the red lights? I dunno about you folk, but stylistically it seems out of place; it violates basic design sense to have such a stark and shocking color on an otherwise thematically neutral concept.

But then again, that's just me.