Full of Features

The Creative Zen can read audio files with the following formats: MP3, WMA, WMA DRM (protected), WAV and AAC as well as videos in the WMV, DivX and XviD formats. For the videos, a program is supplied in order to encode them in a proper format. It’s perfect for the task of fixing the resolution of video files. The audio and video playback interfaces are very intuitive but classic. We appreciate the presence of the equaliser which allows the user to adapt the different frequencies to the style of music they listen to. You can do this in two ways. You can use the predefined styles (classic, rock, etc.) or, by accessing the manual equaliser, you can precisely set the equaliser to suit yourself and your music.

The bonus features

It has to be said that not all mp3 device come with bonus features. A shame because Novelty features are always well appreciated. The Creative Zen has got tons of them. It has an FM tuner feature which can have up to 32 different pre-programmed stations (it’s a shame it doesn’t display the names of the stations that you’ve found). It has an integrated Dictaphone as well as an organiser feature with a calendar/datebook which can be used to keep all your contacts. This feature also allows you to synchronise your files with Outlook.

A program that meets the expectations

In order to optimise the use of your mp3 player, Creative includes a program suit with the Zen package. It has the video conversion program we discussed, as well a Webcast handling interface (the equivalent of Apple’s Podcasts) and a synchronisation program. Everything is ready to help you take full advantage of the Zen. Despite the innovations in the programs, we do come miss the older models where you were allowed fill your device by simply copying and pasting.