The Music Den

You may have heard a lot about Microsoft's new Zune quite recently. Unfortunately for us based in the UK the Zune is not yet available to us and may not be for at least another year (the expected launch time is currently late 2007 or early 2008). So if you want a Zune you'll have to get one imported from the US, the problem with doing this is that you'll have difficulties with warranty claims and you'll be unable to purchase music online as their store is currently US only. Beware of websites that are offering the Zune in the UK, only buy from sites you trust.

Apple's iPod is well established in the UK and is available in three main models. The main iPod comes in 30GB and 80GB versions and designed to hold your entire music collection and can also play videos, play games and display photos. For those who want something smaller the iPod nano offers a reasonable amount of storage (up to 8 GB) in a tiny design. It doesn't do video but is so lightweight that you may not even notice you're carrying it. The iPod shuffle is the smallest iPod and is smaller than a box of matches and about as light.

We've shipped over a Zune from the US to write a review. Is it worth waiting for or should you dive straight in and buy an iPod?

Click here for the review

If you want a good player before Christmas, the Zune is not an option. It's very unlikely to be available in the UK until the end of 2007.