Apple iPod Classic (second generation, 120GB, black)
Manufacturer: Apple Part number: MB565LL/A
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The iPod Classic refines the formula that put the iPod on the map. Few can match its combination of storage capacity, battery life, and intuitive user interface.
Read more
Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  | In stock Try Free Amazon Prime for one Month | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 12/08/2009 |
| Amazon.com Marketplace | | In stock | as of 12/08/2009 | |
 | | In stock | as of 12/08/2009 | |
 |  | In stock | as of 12/08/2009 Refurbished |
CNET editors' review
Apple iPod Classic (second generation, 120GB, black) price range: $195.95 - $265.95
- Reviewed by: Donald Bell
- Reviewed on: 10/01/2008
- Released on: 09/09/2008
The good: The second-generation iPod Classic adds a new Genius playlist feature to its time-tested combination of music, video, podcast, audiobook, and photo playback.
The bad: EQ control is limited; some older iPod video accessories may not be compatible; the plastic screen is susceptible to scratching; users are required to use the latest version of iTunes, which may not work on some older computer systems.
The bottom line: The iPod Classic refines the formula that put the iPod on the map. Few can match its combination of storage capacity, battery life, and intuitive user interface.
Editors' note, August 18, 2009: Rumors strongly suggest that a new line of iPods will be unveiled early in September of this year. For those considering the purchase of an iPod, we recommend holding off until these new models become available. Check out CNET's iPod Central for all iPod news updates.
The iPod Classic is Apple's iconic hard-drive-based MP3 player, with design roots that date back to 2001's original iPod model. If you can resist the fashion appeal and gee-whiz features of Apple's slimmer iPods, such as the iPod Nano and iPod Touch, the 120GB iPod Classic ($249) still delivers the most bang for the buck.
Design
The second-generation iPod Classic is indistinguishable from 2007's original model, except that the thicker 160GB version is no longer available. An anodized-aluminum faceplate covers the front of the Classic in either black or silver, while the back of the iPod is covered in the same scratch-showing, smudge-loving chromed steel found on most iPods.
The second-generation iPod Classic fits a whopping 120GB hard drive into the same enclosure as its 80GB predecessor, coming in at pocket-size 2.4 inches by 4.1 inches by 0.41 inch. The screen is still made from plastic, making it the only remaining iPod that hasn't yet switched to a scratch-resistant glass screen.
The second-generation iPod Classic is also now one of the only iPods to use a split-screen main menu layout, displaying menu items on the left half of the screen and a picture related to the selection on the right. For example, highlighting Music on the main menu causes the right half of the screen to display a drifting close-up of cover artwork from your music library. This split-screen effect is more beautiful than it is distracting, and applies to menu items such as movies, podcasts, and photos, as well. You also have the option to browse your music using the Cover Flow view made popular by the iPhone, however, the novelty of Cover Flow wears thin without a touch-screen display. Users with large music collections to sort through will prefer browsing using the list mode or search function.
Features
The only new feature distinguishing the second-generation iPod Classic from its predecessor is the ability to create instant Genius playlists. The Genius feature lets you create an instant 25-song playlists based on the musical characteristics of a single song, offering a new way to group together similar songs in your collection. Genius is easy to use, and the results are fun, provided your music collection holds enough songs to make interesting connections (with 120GB of storage, that shouldn't be hard). You can create and save Genius playlists directly onto your iPod, and with automatic syncing enabled in iTunes you can also transfer them back to your computer. Oddly, the Genius feature won't work if you haven't enabled Genius on your computer's iTunes software. If you find iTunes' Genius feature too demanding on your computer's resources or too invasive of your privacy (the feature reports your listening habits to Apple), then you'll need to live without the feature on your iPod as well.
Apple has also made it easier to record voice memos with the second-generation iPod Classic, although you'll need to pay a little extra to get the feature working. Many third-party iPhone headsets are compatible with the Classic's voice recording feature and beginning in October 2008, Apple will sell their own line of compatible headsets, as well. Without purchasing a compatible headset, however, there is no built-in way to create voice recordings with the iPod Classic right out of the box.
The iPod Classic supports H.264 or MPEG-4 video in MOV, MP4, or M4V file formats, with a maximum resolution of 640x480 at as much as 30 frames per second. You can buy or rent videos through the iTunes online store or import them into iTunes and convert them for playback. (Many third-party software video converters also do a great job converting videos for the iPod.) The Classic supports many of the video features we look for in portable video players. For instance, the Classic can recognize and skip between the DVD-like chapter markers embedded in QuickTime movie files. It also does a dependable job automatically resuming video playback at the point at which you last left off. Closed captioned subtitles can be switched on and off for video files that support them.
Apple's audio file format support remains the same. The iPod Classic allows for manually adding and deleting music and video files, but with 120GB of storage, many users will prefer to have their entire media library sync automatically. The Classic can also double as a USB hard drive in a pinch.
Performance
The iPod Classic's sound quality is clean and crisp, but still uninspired when it comes to sound enhancement options. Users do get more than 20 equalization presets to choose among--but half of them are either useless or indistinguishable from one another. Compared with products such as the Creative Zen, the Samsung P2, or the Sony S-Series Walkman, the iPod's sound quality still leaves room for improvement. That said, after listening with our Ultrasone HFI-2200 headphones as well as a set of Shure SE310 earphones, we can say with confidence that the Classic's fidelity will certainly satisfy most users.
Video playback was the most impressive aspect of the iPod Classic. While we were impressed by the crisp resolution of the iPod Nano's smaller 2-inch screen, the 2.5-inch screen found on the iPod Classic is easier on the eyes. Both players share the same 320x240 resolution and are capable of playing files encoded at 640x480. By purchasing an additional component AV cable from Apple, it's possible for users to output resolutions up to 480p (720x480) to a television.
The iPod Classic's enhanced battery life is one of the better reasons to fork over your money to Apple. The 120GB Classic's rated battery life of 36 hours of audio playback and 6 hours for video is fairly conservative, actually. Our CNET labs found the iPod Classic to be realistically capable of 39 hours of continuous audio playback or 8.8 hours of video playback. MP3 players capable of 30 to 40 hours of audio playback are a rare find, but the Classic's 8-plus hours of video playback is in a class of its own.
Is it worth upgrading?
If you're looking for an iPod that can store more than 32GB of music and video, the 120GB iPod Classic is the only option now available to you. For file-hoarders anxious to break the 120GB iPod storage limitation, you may want to consider picking up one of 2007's 160GB Classic's before they disappear from the market.
Before you leap, however, you should know that the iPod Nano, the iPod Classic, and the iPod Touch, all require iTunes 8 or later in order to be compatible with your computer. We recommend testing the compatibility of the latest version of iTunes with your computer before making the purchase.
The iTunes factor
No iPod review would be complete without mentioning Apple's iTunes music software. For better or worse, the integration between an iPod and Apple's iTunes music software is nearly airtight. If this is going to be your first iPod, it's worthwhile to download iTunes ahead of time to see if it works well on your computer and is intuitive for you to use. You should also be aware that most of the music and movies available for purchase on the iTunes online store will play only in iTunes or on an authorized iPod and cannot be transferred to a non-Apple MP3 player.
Final thoughts
As the availability of high-capacity hard-drive MP3 players seems to be on the decline, we're happy to see that Apple is continuing to develop them. The iPod Classic doesn't deliver the futuristic novelty of the iPod Nano or the iPod Touch, but it is still one of the best-designed high-capacity MP3 players on the market.
User reviews
-
-
..................................
by akosijoycel on October 2, 2008
Pros: i am wondering... is this the 6th Generation 120GB iPod Classic or the new 2nd Gen with same capacity..
Cons: ................................
Summary: ...............................
Summary: ...............................
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
Self limiting features a major drawback
by DJAmbient on October 9, 2008
Pros: The user interface and design are pretty much flawless - I honestly can't think of anyway to improve upon the hardware design itself with the exception of being able to replace the battery yourself,
Cons: Major con is having to use iTunes. I hate the fact that I'm forced to use it. Everything about it is designed to have you buy from iTunes - anything else and you have to jump through hoops due to the proprietary database I want to drag and drop!
Summary: Due to the built in limitations Apple has crippled an otherwise brilliant device. It can be so much more if they were just not so single minded about its functionality ...
Summary: Due to the built in limitations Apple has crippled an otherwise brilliant device. It can be so much more if they were just not so single minded about its functionality and dependence on iTunes. Of course they are trying to make money but there are now alternatives that make this single mindedness a real handicap. I would never buy a Classic again nor would I recommend it to anyone who is not going to just mindlessly buy from iTunes. Their self-imposed limitation is going to be their biggest drawback in the long run as more and more competitive models come out with more flexibility and functionality.
They really need to open up the database/firmware to third party software companies at a reasonable licensing fee so the unit is not so single purpose and not married to iTunes. Cell phones are even becoming a viable alternative to it.
In my opinion the Classic line is doomed unless they open all it's possible features - at that price point it should do something unique or be super versatile and it does neither anymore. Once the capacity of the iTouch grows then who in the world would buy a Classic? Actually I returned an iTouch for the simple reason of it not having a dedicated volume and pause control I could use without having to look at the screen - an obvious form over function decision - do these guys even use their devices in the real world?
It really kills me how they've created such a fantastic user interface on the Classic but have neutered it with their firmware and software design decisions. At least the scoundrels who make printers sell them ridiculously cheap since the ink is the real cash cow. Apple won't even give you that break.
Despite all this pummeling I really really really like using the unit as a portable player - it sounds good and is very intuitive to use and is very robust. I cannot find fault at all with the actual player.1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
cnet.... your WRONG!!!!
by elriod on November 14, 2009
Pros: it does have a glass screen
http://support.apple.com/kb/SP498
look it up.....Cons: cnet why don't you look this stuff up!!
Summary: idk....cnet failed this product review!!
Summary: idk....cnet failed this product review!!
-
Well... it's an iPod with a 120 GB hard drive.
by x.killeddestiny.x on September 3, 2009
Pros: Space, ease of use, design, size, battery life, packaging, iTunes, genius, podcast support, video playback
Cons: Screen cover is easily scratchable (but still scratch free) My iPod hasn't left my house without it's case and the back looks terible already. Sound quality could be better but it's livable.
Summary: I think all I need say is it's a great, easy to use, high capacity personal media player basicaly. iTunes is amazing software supirior to any jukebox in my ...
Summary: I think all I need say is it's a great, easy to use, high capacity personal media player basicaly. iTunes is amazing software supirior to any jukebox in my opinion. It does what I want it to do, it does what I need it to do and although there's players that are cheaper and sound better then iPod's in general and they wont scratch as easy either, I just can't help but love my iPod.
-
Video wont work thru dock
by ipodzsuck on May 9, 2009
Pros: Its shiny but it does less than the previous model, its declining technology.
Cons: CNET review says "some older iPod video accessories may not be compatible" well basically the new classic wont allow you to play video through ANY aftermarket docks.
Summary: Apple needs to stop restricting its product functionality, before the feds decide its time for another FTC lawsuit. It is really not that difficult to have the user be able ...
Summary: Apple needs to stop restricting its product functionality, before the feds decide its time for another FTC lawsuit. It is really not that difficult to have the user be able to select the video output format, rather than require docking devices to have an apple authentication chip. I found 9 other forums complaining about the classic not playing video out to other docks.
-
Not to bad.
by caubool on May 7, 2009
Pros: Great sound and obviously fantastic storage.Videos are also very well for such a small screen.
Cons: Far too impact resistant, and scratch. I've gone through 2 in 3 months just barely being bumped. Also iTunes has quite the hustle going on with the limited way to put certain music and video on the device.
Summary: Good despite the amount of money they pay to manufacture the product.
Summary: Good despite the amount of money they pay to manufacture the product.
-
Itunes Isucks
by gsayler on April 25, 2009
Pros: The controls and sound quality of the Ipod are terrific
Cons: The Itunes software blows, doesn't find much album artwork but tries to sell Isuck stuff instead
Summary: Won't buy any more Apple icrap
Summary: Won't buy any more Apple icrap
-
I finally joined the Apple Family.
by repo33 on March 8, 2009
Pros: Storage capacity, style, easy to use, lots of accessories (like the cassette adapter for my car).
Cons: Cosmetically fragile...other than that...none (so far)
Summary: I was avoiding ipods for years, don't like new stuff that kids understand before me...haha. However, after finally giving in to my silly quirks, I am happy to ...
Summary: I was avoiding ipods for years, don't like new stuff that kids understand before me...haha. However, after finally giving in to my silly quirks, I am happy to report that this thing is an awesome invention. I guess now I have to put my 1986 Sony Walkman on Ebay (its probably a collectors item now!!!). I will NEVER get a ipod touch and here's why: I had a Samsung Glyde (VerizonWireless) that was full touch controls...and at first it was nice but then it started annoying me daily to the point that I downgraded myself to a RAZR and sold the Glyde for $200.
Just a added not for those complaining about having to buy everything from itunes...i have spent $20 on itunes. However, i have 1422 songs, 14 music videos and 16 movies (so far). i imported all my cd's and friends cd's (itunes lets you import...) and videos and movies you can import as well but they must be converted to ipod format. then just drag and drop into itunes from pc. pretty easy stuff really.
Updated on Apr 18, 2009
I am still totally in love with my black 120 gigger. I have a body glove "wetsuit" for it (looks awesome!!!!) and it clips on perfectly to a a/c vent in the car. That, with the cassette adapter, now I can watch movies (or videos) on the road. BTW a 2000 Taurus has amazing surround sound...seriously...its almost as good as my home theater rig.
This ipod was given to me, brand new, as a gift and 99.9% of the content on it was imported into itunes. If you roll like i do (just get real lucky sometimes!) you can have you ipod and feed it for free too.
P.S. I still have 87GB to go! -
excellent...
by ddkew123 on January 29, 2009
Pros: cover flow, good design
Cons: EQ system i think!
Summary: It is very tempting to get an ipod touch!
One complaint about iPods is the lack of user-programmable EQ.
Apple allow you to change EQ settings only in iTunes, isn'...Summary: It is very tempting to get an ipod touch!
One complaint about iPods is the lack of user-programmable EQ.
Apple allow you to change EQ settings only in iTunes, isn't it? :(
I want standard adjustable EQ, such as Samsung and Sony Walkman... (I heard Samsung P3 has DNSe 3.0 and provides haptic feedback also_ ) Which one should i choose?! -
awesome. but don`t know where can buy cheaply.
by jason8213 on December 10, 2008
Pros: cool shape and appearance and excellent functions.
Cons: just for the a little bit high price.
Summary: i `ve visited lots of sites, and find ipod cool shape and appearance and great functions, but the price is a big problem for me. i found a site named ...
Summary: i `ve visited lots of sites, and find ipod cool shape and appearance and great functions, but the price is a big problem for me. i found a site named lightinthebox. there are
so many MP3s to choose from, and all so cheap. i just bought http://www.lightinthebox.com/4GB-2-8-inch-Touch-Screen-Mp3---MP4-Player---Digital-Camera-M4008_p20363.html
this one and it play perfectly. just cost me around $72. it`s said to be the most popular one in the site.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Apple
- Part number: MB565LL/A
- Bottom Line: The iPod Classic refines the formula that put the iPod on the map. Few can match its combination of storage capacity, battery life, and intuitive user interface.
General
- Product type Digital player
- PC interface(s) supported Hi-Speed USB
- Digital storage Built-in 120 GB Hard disk drive
- Weight 4.9 oz
- Dimensions (W x D x H) 2.4 in x 0.4 in x 4.1 in
- Body material Aluminum
- Color Black
- Included accessories Docking station adapter
Digital Player / Recorder
- Supported digital audio standards AAC, MP3, WAV, AIFF, Audible, Apple Lossless
- Playback modes Playlist, One track repeat, All tracks repeat, Random play / shuffle
- Response bandwidth 20 - 20000 Hz
- Supported bit rate 16 - 320
- ID3 tags support Yes
- External hard drive function Yes
- Additional features MPEG-4 playback, JPEG photo playback, Variable bit-rate compatible
Built-in Display
- Audio system built-in display LCD
- Diagonal size 2.5 in
- Resolution 320 x 240
- Backlight display Yes
- Display menu language Czech, Dutch, Greek, Danish, French, German, Korean, Polish, English, Finnish, Italian, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish, Japanese, Hungarian, Norwegian, Portuguese, Chinese (simplified), Chinese (traditional)
Audio Features
- Sound output mode Stereo
- Timer Wake, Sleep, Stopwatch
- Built-in clock Alarm, Stopwatch, Digital clock
- Additional features Notes, Calendar, Cover Flow, Phone book, Hold button, Date display, Photo wallet, Built-in games, Volume limiter, Upgradeable firmware, USB 2.0 compatibility, Playback speed control, Battery level indication
Equalizer
- Equalizer type Digital graphic
Remote Control
- Remote control None
Headphones
- Headphones type Binaural Ear-bud
- Sound output mode Stereo
- Response bandwidth 20 - 20000 Hz
- Impedance 32 Ohm
- Connectivity technology Wired
Connectivity
- Cable(s) included USB cable - External
- Connector type 1 x Docking station, 1 x Headphones Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm
Battery / Power
- Battery Lithium ion Rechargeable Player batteryIntegrated
- Mfr estimated battery life 36 hour(s)
- Recharge time 4 hour(s)
- Power device type None
System Requirements
- Peripheral / Interface devices USB port (compatible with 2.0 specification)
- Operating system Microsoft Windows Vista, Apple MacOS X 10.4.11 or later, Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition SP3, Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP3
Sustainability
- CNET Labs: Battery drain test / Video playback 532 min
- CNET Labs: Battery drain test / audio playback 2378 min
Product series
-
Apple iPod Classic (second generation, 120GB, black)
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Digital player, AAC, MP3, WAV, AIFF, Audible, Apple Lossless, 120 GB, Lithium ion Rechargeable Player batteryIntegrated
-
Apple iPod Classic (second generation, 120GB, silver)
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Digital player, AAC, MP3, WAV, AIFF, Audible, Apple Lossless, 120 GB, Lithium ion Rechargeable Player batteryIntegrated
Accessories
Manufacturer info
- Apple
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Apple products on Shopper.com
-
- Website: http://www.apple.com
- Address:
One Infinite Loop, Cupertino, CA 95014 - Phone: 1-408-996-1010
%20-%20Compare%20prices,%20reviews,%20user%20opinions%20-%20Shopper.com&srcUrl=http://shopper.cnet.com/mp3-players/apple-ipod-classic-second/4014-6490_9-33247198.html%26tag%3Dcntv){kind=small}