Ahh.. I’ve been waiting for the folks at ArsTechnica to release their review of the new Zune media players and .. they finally have. You can find their review of the Zune 8 flash player here on their website. It’s a well written review that’s balanced and clearly not pro-Apple or con-Microsoft whatsoever (or pro-Microsoft). The review makes several valid points about the player, the Zune Marketplace, and of course the software. A couple of major griping points are important - especially supporting recorded television content from Windows Media Center systems. Here’s a blurb from the review:

Still, they are a huge step forward and a solid choice for anyone who likes the look and interface. We expect that the new lineup will help Microsoft become an established player in the PMP space over the next year. The updated devices should also put an end to the almost-endless set of Zune-related jokes, and they are an obvious choice for anyone who loves subscription music services.

Congratulations, Microsoft. Now keep working. 

[Check it out]

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