Apple iPod Classic (80GB, 6th generation, Black) - Expert Reviews

Review summary: The name suggests more of the same but with more space and better value. Hard disk lag issues, video out controversy and just okay sound stop it from being a true classic though.

Pros: Huge storage (who really has 40,000 songs?) ; Good value ; Anodised aluminium front feels like quality ; Video and photos are bright and clear ; Interface looks even slicker than ever

Cons: but marred by hard disk lag issues ; Sound quality still, at best, mediocre ; Cover Flow a case of form over function ; New accessories required for video out

Verdict: Although we're pretty certain that Apple will get around to fixing the hard disk lag issue in the future, it's a pretty obvious bug to overlook and mars Apple's reputation for ease-of-use and design panache. Also distressing is the video out issue, ...

Review summary: What does the word 'classic' suggest to you? A timeless masterpiece, a nostalgic yearning for the past. Or something that's past its prime? The new / old Apple iPod classic is all these things and more. Let us explain...

Pros: Large storage capacity, Cheap for what you get, Feels more robust than the 5.5G, Revamped interface adds colour, a little pizzazz

Cons: May not work with old iPod docks, CPU is a bit under-powered for what's expected of it, Past its prime?

Verdict: There's never been a better time to buy a classic iPod. It sounds good, build quality is excellent and it boasts huge amounts of storage. Just don't expect it to be cool anymore. It's passed that mantle on the iPod touch and iPhone

Pros: Touch wheel is very intuitive, menu additions are great, larger capacities

Cons: Still reliant on iTunes, sound quality could use a little work

Verdict: The iPod classic is relatively plain compared to the nano and touch, and so it may struggle to find a position in the market. However, the massive storage capacity should be enough to attract anyone who has found that the touch's flash memory just isn ...

Pros: Updated user interface, Available in 160GB capacity, Updated user interface, Available in 160GB capacity

Cons: New user interface seems sluggish, Chrome back scratches too easily, Most (if not all) of the games purchased for previous iPods will not work on the classic, New user interface seems sluggish, Chrome back scratches too easily, Most (if not all) of ...

Review summary: Coming in 80GB and 160GB capacities, the new Apple iPod classic can hold a massive archive of music and video. There's no need to pick and choose which music goes with you, even if you rip CDs at the very highest lossless quality. The interface has ...

Pros: Capacity ; design ; good screen ; Cover Flow ; use of album art ; high-quality video support ; great games ; handy search feature ; sound quality ; support for lossless audio ; integrated podcast features

Cons: New main menu UI ; have to use iTunes ; navigation can be slow at times

Verdict: Apple has not only exceeded our expectations, it's exceeded ones we didn't even have. The iPod classic is a superb audio player with a huge wealth of well-integrated features and intuitive navigation. Our only real concern is that menus can be laggy. ...