Overview:
Cowon S9 is the latest portable multimedia player with a 3.3-inch AMOLED touch screen. With a basic memory drive of 4GB, it promises to challenge the likes of iPod, for the top spot amongst the leading portable audio devices.
Review:
With its curvaceous body, the S9 looks more like a glorified hand sander if left face down. However, it compromises of more built in features and extras than previous models and has a battery life of 55 hours continuous play – which perhaps is plenty seeming the average album is an hour and a quarter long.
The sleek and elegant look is somewhat thought provoking, as the desire you dive right in is imminent. But if you do, keep the manual at arms length, ready to pick out the abundant codec's and extension files from the “user friendly” guide. Nevertheless, in an era where everything is touch screen, you can’t wait to get this lightweight device in front of your friends and compare its statistics against the nail biting iPod enthusiasts.
The S9 has been dragged through its paces and recently been put up against Sony and apples devices (mentioning no specific models) and came out as an all-rounder. The sound not at all “tinny”, but lacking bass and although the lows are punchy and decisive, mids are smooth and highs are distinct, you just get an even sense of sound.
Moreover, various other cool integrated features include Bluetooth, equalizer, FM radio, flash player, and Erm…a calculator, because you never know?
Now, you can pick up a Cowon S9 for around £200, (8GB memory) but be aware, there are cheaper ones out there, it just depends on where you get them from.
The Gaj-it Verdict:
Design: 10/10
Usability: 9/10
Features: 8/10
Value: 8/10
We say:
Hold on before you rush out and buy. Although the Cowon S9 is going to be a sure fire hit, its price has not settled down quite enough. But for you anxious buyers out there, go and get one now!
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