Zune Downloading Secrets
(if you decide to get a Zune player)

I hadn't really paid much attention to the Zune player, even though it's been around since 2006. I have another blog about my recent research into the Zune player features. The other blog (www.zune-info.weebly.com) goes into depth about the prices of the player and the kinds of files you can download and play on a Zune (like MP3 files, WMV vidoes, WMA sound, songs and music). I also still can't decide which to get: a Zune or an iPod. But the press on the latest Zune (the 80 GB) player seems good so far. I was surprised to hear that the screen is actually bigger than the iPod's. But, evidently the battery life is shorter.

The real investigation I had to make was about getting downloads. I was concerned about how much it could end up costing to use the Zune Marketplace (the official place that Microsoft runs to deliver downloads). It's basically like joining iTunes or some other music download site. I guess they call that pay-per-download. Well, they also have a pass, but it really doesn't sound like a very good deal. The main thing I dislike about the pass is that it is a subscription-based service, and even though you can download a lot of files, those files will become unavailable if you don't keep paying for the subscription.
 

So, you might ask, where DO you find Zune downloads?

I had to look all over to find out about where to get downloadable media files for a Zune player.  I found several membership services that have reasonable prices. I guess the real techno-geeks know how to get downloads for free, but frankly that might be beyond my capabilities. Or even if I can figure it out, it probably takes a while to find the, make sure you have the right conversion software, etc.  I think a pay-for option would be quicker and easier. So the memberships I found out about sound like time savers, and really, they probably save you mone, too. These are summarized pretty well at this website: www.allnewsandreviews.com/zune.html, and several other sites. I like that particular download review site because they list 6 services and all of them seem worth trying. These download memberships have file sharing networks, and if you buy the lifetime memberships (which are uner $40) you can download all the videos, movies, tv shows, music, software and whatever else you can find (and there are millions of files to search through). Sounds good to me! If I get a Zune, I'll check out a download membership site. Some have forums where i bet you can get help if you need it.

So, if you are in the same place I am (trying to decide) - or if you already own a zune and want to find out about downloads, you should go read about those download options. Reading that made me feel better about possibly not being in the "cool" group of iPod owners. I think a Zune may be better for me (a long, long, time PC user). And I am relieved to know there are download (unlimited, and for life!) that I can look into.

Speaking of help, there are people making educational videos and uploading them at YouTube and other video sites.  The first one shows Zune features and the second video is one that shows how download, convert and transfer YouTube videos onto your Zune.

I just love the way people will help you for free on the internet! Anyway, like I said, if you were trying to get the "scoop" on how to get lots of downloads for a Zune, go check out www.allnewsandreviews.com/zune.html.

For more Zune player information, see: Zune Information and Features.