MP3Pro vs. Regular MP3 for a Nomad Zen Xt

I have a Nomad Zen Xtra and I use Musicmatch Jukebox to rip my CDs. Does anyone have any experience with this combination of hardware and software, and if so, would you recommend that I rip CDs in MP3Pro format at the highest quality (96) vs. ripping in straight MP3 format at 60 or so? Thanks.

MP3Pro works by layering two pieces of data, or something like this (Google will turn up the exact details). It uses a standard 64kbit/s section, and then the additional higher quality data on top of this. So an MP3Pro file will play on something that doesn't support it as a 64kbit/s MP3. So it doesn't play perfectly, but it will play some of the data.
Ironically the person who posted about this before in another thread failed to realise it was playing just a 64kbit/s MP3 (they thought it was the full MP3Pro file) so I'm not too sure I would trust their ability to judge sound quality Message Edited by SSR on 05-08-2005 06:56 PM

Similar Messages

Converting M4A to MP3 for use in Zen Mi

Can anyone recommend a good utility program (no spyware) that I can use to convert M4a files to MP3 for play in my Micro? Currently I am burning to cd then ripping again in MP3 format which is a hassle and I believe the quality declines during this conversion process. Any recommendations?
Apple had to screw it up with having their own proprietary format...

It would not be the file format conversion that would be the issue, but the DRM (digital rights management) that is in the AAC (M4A) format. Also that is not a proprietary Apple format. AAC is the audio layer of MPEG-2; Apple used it as it could carry DRM which in turn controls how you can use the music track. AAC is also quite good at high compression, ie low bit rate, but gives way to mp3 as the bit rates get higher.
You are stuck in doing what you are doing, that is burning an audio cd from your aac file then ripping/encoding to mp3 or wma to play on the Creative players.
(Makes you think about the cost of a CD vs downloading a compressed file doesn't it's)
jake

How to move mp3 files from NOMAD ZEN JUKEBOX to PC???

Hello there!
I have the creative nomad extra jukebox zen 30gb player. I have big trouble to move my mp3 to my pc! Is there any way to do this? I can do it with sync but some of the songs have the same name ( 0,02,03) and even when those songs are in folders,the software ( media source) dont recognize it this way-so it will skip the ones with same name and Ill loose some of the tracks. Is there any other way to move it all? or also to choose only certain mp3 files to be moved other software maybe? thank you very much!

Part numbers beginning with P are usually promotion items.
You can buy a stack of 'em & give to employees, grand openings, etc.
They are the same as regular retail iPod, just a different model number. http://www.apple.com/ipod/imaging/
Looks like you have a black, 30GB video iPod.
Here's a great place to start to learn how to use iTunes and the iPod.
http://www.apple.com/support/ipod101/
I went to preferences and set the music file address to the folder which contains all of my MP3 files. I
That will tell iTunes to use this folder. iTunes does not "watch" this folder to see if anything is added. You have to add it to the library yourself and iTunes will put it in this folder under Artist -> Album.
If you IMport a file, it will convert it to the format set in teh iTUnes prefs. If you Add a file, it will simply add it to the library in the format it already is.
To get music into iTunes;
- insert a CD and select Import.
- click on iTunes Music Store and purchase songs.
- go to iTunes menu - File -> Add (Folder or file) to library and select the file/folder.
- Drag songs onto iTunes.
To get music onto the iPod;
- Plug it in.
Yeah, it really is that simple.
Easiest way to manage your library is to use iTunes.
Edit the ID3 tags, add delete songs and put them onto the iPod.

HELP! Can Creative build a Windows Vista driver for my Nomad Zen USB 2.0

Hi there,?I just upgraded my operating system to the Windows Vista 34-bit thinking that I would actually be keeping up with the times but instead found myself leaving behind some old "toys" that no longer work with this computer...help!?Fingers crossed that Creative will come up with a solution to this problem. I love my NOMAD!?Thanks.
~Alex

It's multi-voltage (00-240V), so the voltage is not an issue. All you need is the plug adapter, as you mention.

Nomad Zen Extra for Apple iMac Intel Dual C

I've looked in the FAQ, tried the download section of support, and cannot find any software for my Nomad Zen Extra to run on a new Apple iMac Intel Dual Core. The new machine uses OS X 0.4, and there seems to be nothing at all.
I also tried loading the software from the disk, and it didn't work (no surprise there since it's all Windows software).
Can anyone offer any suggestions, or do I have to go buy an Apple iPod?
Thanks for your help.
Dave
See my website http://home.earthlink.net/~dc999/

Catherina-CL wrote:
The players are only supported on Windows OS's. For community/unofficial information, check out sites like this one.
Cat
Why wasn't I warned about this when I purchased the device? There's nothing on the packaging or inserts to point out that the device WILL NOT WORK if one switches to an Apple iMac.
The company's website is equally obscure.
I certainly expected to need new software for the iMac, but not that my Nomad was now a door-stop and wouldn't work.
How do I get my money back from Creative, given that the Good Guys store has been absorbed into Circuit City.
I appreciate your help.
Dave Clark

NOMAD ZEN XTRA 30GB & WINDOWS VISTA & D/L SOFTWARE ISS

I was hoping someone can please help me out here in Forum Land ?I just bought a new computer with WINDOWS VISTA and my Installation disk is not compatible. I have tried d/l from this site with no luck. It will go to the WIZARD part but won't finish the installation. I need to get the Software on my new puter for my NOMAD ZEN XTRA 30GB MP3 Player.Namely I guess the Creative MediaSource and it's amazing Organizer.Any links or steps in how too would be most appreciated I have emailed the Creative team but I keep get stuck at what to do next. They said something about installing and completing the firmware update, your player will be using the PlaysForSure software, but on the same sentence he/she says "However you will need to do this on an XP system".. and I have Vista so I am totally confused. I also checked out the site he/she suggested about installing this FirmWare and that site says "Back up all audio, video, image or data files stored in the player to a secure location before changing the firmware. All contents in the player will be lost when you install a new firmware"? -- How can I back up when I can't access it's And surely, I don't want to lose my over 2,500 songs ! Yikes... This was under Solution ID # 4789?I am hoping I can get your help out there as I dearly love my MP3 player and want to continue importing songs ?thank you in advance for any advice you can offer me ?cheers Lisa

Hey Lissa,Did you find any solution in your problem because i have the same problem and i dont know what to do.Plz let me know if u downloaded any thing in your Vista Computer. Thanks alotSuzy

Zen Sleek Photo and Nomad Zen X

I posted earlier about problems with Vista and the Zen Sleek Photo mp3 player. The Zen software is not compatible and won?t install.
After receiving some information from Creative, and after some further experimenting on my own, I have put together a procedure that will, in fact, do a full install of the Zen Sleek Photo on a machine running Vista.
I have also discovered that this installation procedure also works for my Nomad Zen Xtra ? a nice bonus!
I will send this info, in Word document form, to anyone who requests it. Just email me at:
[email protected]
It worked for me, and I have received feedback from several people already who have used this procedure with 00% success, so I know that it works!
Dave McClay

Hey Chickybabe,
I also own a Zen Sleek photo, and while I haven't had any of the problems you have mentioned with Napster; one problem you should watch for (currently experiencing it for the 2nd time!) is trying to play your music from Napster and not being able to because you get a message saying that "No license to play this track". And it's a huge problem, as it doesn't just affect one song, but your ENTIRE library. I fixed it once and am trying to find out how to do it again. Once I do, I'll probably leave Napster, but I will probably have to download ALL my music again.
Ross-

Is it possible to replace a rechargeable battery of Nomad ZEN Ver. USB

Hi,
is there a possibility to change the build in battery for a Nomad ZEN Ver 2.0 USB
Does any one know where i CAN (BUY ONE)
tHANKS
zENGIG

You can try Googling for sources, although I noticed yesterday that all the Touch battery sources seem to have gone.
In theory Creative have a battery replacement service, so check with support.

Helpful hints for new Creative Zen MP3 2/4/8/16/32 GB (flash) Users On

Summary of helpful hints (from this forum and me) for new Creative Zen MP3 2/4/8/6/32 GB (flash) Users Only!
Rev..
Date: 4/28/2008
Author: ZenAndy
Creative terminology:
MP3 Player Recovery Tool - A program that resolves the majority of player problems quickly.
One click is all it takes to update your player to the latest available firmware, and to give your player a clean bill of health.
Link: http://www.creative.com/products/mp3...me.asp region=
Note: You can also go to "Creative" "Support" "downloads" choose your MP3 Player type to obtain the latest firmware and software releases.
Note: On your Zen you can look under "System" & "Information" and then compare the firmware download
releases OR you can have the "MP3 Player Recovery Tool" (above) do it for you automatically.
Note: Creative Zen 4/8/6 GB "MP3 Recovery Tool" DOES NOT stop on a firmware comparison match.
Note: All firmware releases/revisons for the 4/8/6 GB Zen also works (is the same as) for the 2 GB & 32 GB Zen.
Recovery Mode - If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, it is recommended that you boot the player into its unique Recovery Mode, and then clean up, format or reload the firmware.
. The player is not detected in Creative MediaSource or Windows Media Player
2. The battery does not last as expected
3. Your computer stops responding during file transfers
4. There is a power outage during file transfers
5. There is an error about firmware
6. LCD displays a "Firmware Problem" message
7. Your player is not responding.
8. The player is performing erratically.
Getting Started
. Load your Creative Zen software from CD FIRST and BEFORE plugging the Zen MP3 player, using the short cable, into the PC USB port to charge it.
2. Try charging the Zen MP3 player directly from the USB port on the PC. If not, make sure the USB Hub you are using is adequately powered to provide full charging current to the Zen player. Also, try to have the Zen MP3 player as the only USB device, if possible, on the USB hub.
Some/most Creative Zen flash MP3 Music players come "fully discharged" so, in the mean time, just read the manuals.
FULLY charge the Zen MP3 player for several hours (~4.0 hrs max) until the battery symbol is NOT flashing AND the battery symbol/icon has a small plug/key symbol in the middle.
After the first full charge - additional charging is much quicker about 2 /4 hours. (From 0% empty to full)
3. Go to Creative/Support/Downloads and check for the latest software releases for the Creative Zen. Then check on your Zen MP3 player under System/Information for your firmware revision. Make sure you have the latest software downloaded on your PC and firmware on your Zen MP3 player. < Latest revision [.2.0] 28Feb08>
OR
You can run MP3 Player Recovery Tool - see above.
4. In some cases you might have to do the Recovery Mode "paper clip reset" to get the Zen MP3 flash player started.
See the Zen User's Guide FAQ. The paper clip reset hole is on the bottom edge below the music pause/run switch.
(Not the slotted mic hole on the top edge of the player near the earphone jack and SD card slot!!!)
5. My preference is to have the player shutdown/off before inserting and removing the earphone/headphone plug.
Recovery Mode Using The Paper Clip OR
Alternati've Method For Recovery Mode Without The Paper Clip.
Why use it's
If you experience one or more of the following symptoms:
. The player is not detected in Creative MediaSource or Windows Media Player
2. The battery does not last as expected
3. Your computer stops responding during file transfers
4. There is a power outage during file transfers
5. There is an error about firmware
6. LCD displays a "Firmware Problem" message
7. Your player is not responding.
8. The player is performing erratically.
Save a copy of your player's content, if possible, before cleaning up the memory!
Recovery Mode Using The Paper Clip Reset Method
#. Turn off player if not already turned off
#2. Press/hold play/pause button. If you accidentally release
the button, start this reset procedure over again.
#3. Gently push the end of a metal paper clip into the reset hole on
the botton edge below the play/pause switch.
(Do not use the slotted mic hole at the top edge near the earphone jack)
#4. Slide the on/off/lock switch towards the on position - slide it to the botton hold
until the display lights up and then release.
#5. The recovery mode screen appears and four menu items are shown - see below
<Alternati've Method For Recovery Mode Without The Paper Clip>
#. Turn off player if not already turned off
#2. Press/hold play/pause button. If you accidentally release
the button, start this reset procedure over again.
#3. Slide the on/off/lock switch towards the on position - slide it to the botton hold
until the display lights up and then release. Be patient and wait!
#4. The recovery mode screen appears and four menu items are shown:
< Clean Up> - cleans, rebuilds and reorganizes your player's memory and restores it to optimal efficiency.
When the cleanup is complete, select Reboot. Your player restarts and starts rebuilding its music library.
Note: Your player's firmware is reset to default settings after your player's memory is cleaned up.
Note: This procedure the hide/show password is reset.
<2 Format All>- Warning - Formatting your player erases all content on your player's memory and resets your player's firmware to default settings. If possible, back up all data on your player before proceeding.
Also, you can do this from the PC see Zen User's Guide. FAQ
<3 Reload Firmware> - Caution !!!! Selecting Reload Firmware erases your player's firmware.
DO NOT select Reload Firmware unless you have downloaded a newer firmware version for your player, or have been advised to do so by Creative Customer Support.
Note: My advice when loading/replacing firmware is to connect directly
to the PC USB port without using a USB hub.
<4 Reboot> Restarts the player just like the "on/off/lock switch" when switched ON.
Note: Having NO battery energy/charge/juice this procedure will not work.
Lithium-Ion Polymer Battery Hints
Ref:
http://www.omnica.com/omniview_electronics2.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium_ion_battery
. Allow the battery to completely discharge from time-to-time then recharge it fully.
2. Lithium-Ion batteries loses about 5%- 0% capacity per month.
3. Lithium-Ion polymer batteries have about 300-500 discharge/charge cycles.
4. A half full battery indication (50% @ /2 the battery color) used up about 24 hrs worth of battery. Below 50% the indication goes fairly fast to the max of 30 hrs. Note: The battery level indication seems non-linear through out its range.
5. Battery is Empty~0% - warning screen will appear on LCD and player might shutdown.
6. Battery is Full- 00% with battery symbol NOT flashing AND plug/key symbol in the center of the battery.
7. It takes about 2 /4 hours to charge the battery from empty to full.
8. It takes about 4 hours max to charge a "New" Zen player shipped from the factory.
9. There is a battery manufactuer's failure rate, which is normal ~ % or less, in which the Lithium-Ion Polymer battery refuses to charge. Creative, ships the Zen MP3 players with some or no charge so there is very small probability that you could have one. I call it the "Deep Six Discharge Battery" Contact/call Creative for replacement.
Documentation
There are several pieces of documentation you might need to read to fully understand and use your Creative Zen MP3 flash player to its fullest capabilities.
#. Zen Users Guide "English" - For Zen MP3 Player - download from Creative/Support/Product documentation
#2. Zen Quick Users Guide /Front/Back - download from Creative/Support/Product documentation
#3. Sync Manager (Creative Zen) Click on sync symbol on PC task bar then help
#4. Creative Zen Media Explorer - Just look under the main help menu
#5. Windows Media Player <if used>(Microsoft)Use the help files with this program.
General Tips to increase/decrease the playing time on your Creative Zen flash player.
<Creative Battery Spec: 5 Hrs. Video & "UP TO" 30 Hrs. Audio/Songs>
Please do the following:
. Volume control lower/higher - higher volume settings will decrease playing times. This is logical. More output "volume power" decreases the battery juice.
2. Audio Settings: EQ, Smart Vol, & Bass Boost will effect your playing time but I believe they are not critical as the Volume & Bit Rates(28 kbsp and others) / File Format (MP3,WMA) & Lock Switch.
3. Bit Rates & File Formats Do Matter. Bit Rates and File formats will increase/decrease your playing time.
Per Catherina-CL
"WMA files will use up more power than MP3 files, and higher bitrates more so than standard ones (like 28kbps MP3). Best thing to do is rip an album in 28kbps MP3 and leave it playing in a loop on a normal volume level. See how long the battery lasts then."
Please Note: The main difference between MP3 and WMA is the compression. According to Microsoft a 64KBPS WMA file is the same quality 28KBPS MP3. This is of course up to a person's preference but you may find you can get better compression out of WMA.
4. FULLY CHARGE your Zen. This means the battery symbol is NOT flashing AND there is a plug/key symbol embedded within the battery symbol. The battery is 00% FULL under BOTH conditions. Having just the battery symbol all green will not do it.
From the link:
http://www.omnica.com/omniview_electronics2.htm
Regarding lithium-ion shelf life, one of our engineers recently met with a battery-house representati've. It has come to their attention that repeated charging and re-charging of a less than fully discharged Li-ion cell affects the battery "gas gauge" included with many devices. Over a number of cycles there is a resultant loss in accuracy. Frequently, the indicated remaining charge has little relationship to the actual amount of life left in the cell! Fortunately, according to the battery expert, the gauge will reset itself if the battery is allowed to completely discharge from time-to-time.
5. Having different types of earphones/headphones will increase or decrease the playing time by how much "electronic load" the earphones/headphones create on the Zen player. There are some power hungry earphones/headphones out there.
The 6 ohm earbuds conserves battery power more than the 32 ohm earbuds supplied by Creative. (About 0% more)
6. Always, always lock your Zen player while playing music. This cuts off the power drain from the color 2.5" LCD and blank the LCD screen. After all, you can't read the LCD screen if it is in your shirt pocket and playing music!
7. Make sure you have the latest firmware upgrades in order to get the best of your Creative Zen Flash MP3 Player.
Troubleshooting
Your Creative Zen is extremely complex.
Check this link to peek inside player http://www.anythingbutipod.com/archi...isassembly.php
Also, this link:
http://arstechnica.com/journals/hard...ssor-behind-it
There could be a million things that could go wrong with your player so you will not be the FIRST or LAST to have a problem. Keep in mind, there are many, many others that have the Zen with no problems whatsoever. Things happen, but Creative is there to help.
Dropping a Zen or any other player might/will/possibly ruin the player for good!!!
Since this player is solid-state (no moving parts e.g. mini-disk dri've) then the only thing that will keep it from running for years is the non-user replaceable Lithium-Ion battery. I will concentrate on some troubleshooting tips which are battery related but I hope you have already the latest firmware downloaded and installed on your player
Battery - Lithium-Ion Polymer
#. Battery won't charge "out of the box" new player.
A. First, read above "Getting Started"
B. Next, try a different USB mini cable.
C. Next, there is a battery manufactuer's failure rate < %, in which the Lithium-Ion Polymer battery refuses to charge.
Creative, ships the Zen MP3 players with no charge so there is very small probability thatyou could have one.
I call it the "Deep Six Discharge Battery" Call / Contact Creative.
#2. Battery won't charge properly after using the player for some time.
A. When you plug in your player into the USB port via mini USB patch cable, the connection resets the player to the "docked screen" with the battery level gas guage , in the right hand corner.
Sometimes this action does not reset the player properly but there is no indication to you that the player is charging.
Just disconnect/connect the USB cable again.
B. Sometimes, the Zen player gets confused and you have to do a Recovery Mode "paper clip reset" which forces the player into a "special menu screen" to clean-up the player and to reset the player which allows showing the "docked screen" while charging the unit. See Zen User's Guide for explicit instruction und FAQ.
C. Since the Zens came out late in 2007, the maximum of 300-500 charge/discharge should not apply YETbut users beware, as with any other Lithium-Ion Polymer battery it will not charge fully "like new"because of a " fixed shelf life" (2-3 yrs) OR too many charge/discharge cycles. A battery replacement is in order.
Methods of charging the Creative Zen MP3
. The short mini-standard USB cable provided by Creative from the factory. Plugs into a PC USB port.
2. Uni'versal Power Adapter (Creative) plugs into the wall. Works "anywhere in the world"
Note: Different countries have different wall AC voltages and hertz requirements. This has adapters for different countries/locations wall outlets and a uni'versal power supply for all voltage and hertz requirements.
Note: This is a heavy duty high/fast charging wall outlet charging adapter. (2400 ma)
3. Auto/Vehicle 2 VDC charger (Creative) or other compatible vehicle 2 VDC to USB charger.
4. EARHUGGER IPOD POWER POD - MP3-8370 (White compact module)
http://www.earhugger.com/powerPod.html
http://www.amazon.com/Earhugger-MP3-.../dp/B000QTTKSS
This compact module will solve all the following travel modes and conditions:
. Camping, hiking or outdoor travel - no PC or noAC or maybe no auto/car.
2. Airplane travel - no PC or no AC or no auto/car.
3. Train/subway travel - no PC or no auto/car
4. Car travel - no PC or no AC
5. Foot travel - no PC or no AC or no auto/car
It uses 4 ways to charge the Zen:
. Retractable mini-standard USB cord for PC charging. <--- does not communicate with PC! - only for charging
2. Retractable mini USB cord for auto/vehicle charging (Fused)
3. Retractable mini USB cord for wall 0-20 VAC 50/60Hz charging. (non-international use plug style)
4. 9 VDC battery terminal for using standard alkaline 9 VDC or high ma Lithium 9 VDC to charge the Zen via
mini USB cable. Note:You might need several alkaline batteries to charge the internal 550 ma hr Zen battery!
Great for remote destinations.
5. Rechargeable portable battery packs.
Black & Decker has several "Power To Go"models CPI0B-C & CPI20XB (not for international use because of 20 AC 60Hz only charging wall wart)
Note: There are other brands that also do this method of charging.
http://www.blackanddecker.com/Produc...Path=4033.4040
You charge this portable NiMH battery pack from the AC wall outlet so you can carry with you on trips to charge the Zen.
6. Mobile phone chargers. Some have a mini-USB plug for charging the phone but it could be used to charge the Zen BUT BEWARE IT COULD RUIN THE ZEN IF IT IS NOT COMPATIBLE! The output should have a voltage of 5 VDC +- 5% (4.75-5.25 VDC) ON THE PROPER MINI-USB PINS and a charging current at least 200 ma to 2400 ma. See this forum for the recommend phone phone chargers to use with the Zen.
Note: You are charging an internal Lithium-ion polymer 550 mahr battery in the Zen so the lower the charging current the longer it takes to charge.
Note: You will find that charging the Zen from the wall charger is much faster than the "current limited" charging on the standard PC USB port.
Note: For diagnostic purposes and emergency charging of the Zen it is wise to have an external (non-PC) charging device for your Zen.
Note: Only the battery charging symbol shows up on the Zen when using an external charger.
Scratches
All plastic screens will scratch, doesn't matter which type you have.
For minor scratches you could use the Novus three part cleaner, polish and scratch remover system. Do not use the #3 coarse abrasi've in this system! Be extremely careful in using this product !!!! Please check the web.
OR
Low abrasi've toothpase <--- some say this works
OR
CD scratch remover/repair kit <---- have not tried this.
The Zen (Flash) MP3 glass LCD screen is covered by the overlay plastic you see on the front. Worst case, you can have only the outer shell repaired and replaced by Creative.
To prevent scratches in the first place:
Use the Zen cloth bag which comes with the unit (sometimes ) to prevent scratches.
OR
Buy the Zen clear plastic case (Clear Case #70AB2600002). Sold by Creative.
OR
Buy an clear plastic overlay. (Screen protector #70AB2600003) which goes over the LCD protector screen for protection. Sold by Creative.
OR
Also, you can cut up a "generic" PDA screen protector to fit the Zen.
OR
Obtain a "digital camera lcd screen protector" from a camera store or internet
OR
"Invisible shield" -The best protection money can buy
http://www.zagg.com/invisibleshield/...ns-shields.php
How to destroy your Zen - WHAT NOT TO DO
. Leave it in the auto/car/vehicle - the vehicle inside heats up 20-35 F higher than the outside temperature.
2. Leave it outside in freezing temperature 0C 32F. The LCD will freeze/discolor/absorb water.
Note: It is remotely possible it could recover when warm-up at room temperature.
Note: Just keep the Zen near your body heat when outside in freezing temperatures.
3. Dropping it might cause the LCD screen to crack or loosen up the internal connections to the electronics or short out the internal electronics.
Note: Use a protecti've case to cushion the blow from dropping the Zen.
4. Dropping or submerging or getting the Zen wet in water might short out the electronics and battery.
You could prevent destruction by immediately shaking the Zen vigorously in open air to dry it out.
5. Sitting on it could flex the electronics and short or open circuits which would cause a defecti've/faulty Zen.
<A bit of humor ... There is No Santa Claus, Easter Bunny or Tooth fairy and Creative does NOT give away money. If you destroy or damage your Zen you will pay not Creative>
How can you tell if your Zen is defecti've/faulty
. A "white screen" or a "totally blank black screen" shows up on the Zen LCD.
2. You cannot force the Zen into the special "Recovery Mode" menu screen.
3. The Zen refuses to "take a charge"(To charge up the internal Lithium-Ion Polymer battery)
4. The Zen LCD is cracked or distorted due to dropping or handling abuse.
5. The Zen clock does not keep accurate time (within 2 mins max per month)
Contact Creative if any of the above faults occur - the Zen is bad and nothing you can do will fix it!
WSOD "White Screen of Death"
The "White Screen of Death" is really caused by a hardware problem. You see, the internal Freescale/SigmaTel STMP3700 MP3 processor has to write to the LCD. If this operation is prevented by internal electronic opens or shorts, bad STMP3700, locked-up firmware, bad LCD or any other electronic component failure then the CPU might/will halt and refuse to write to the LCD which will be reflected in a "white screen of death" I cannot cover all the causes of the "white screen of death" but rest assured Creative should pick these problems up in their quality control manufacturing process with a 99% success rate. Problems do show up after the manufacturing process but Creative has warranty protection for this other % fault rate. (Which is normal in electronics manufacturing)
Media Content
Listening to the built-in music on the Zen is OK but after a while your question now becomes "What else can I do with my Zen "
Note: The "How to" instructions for adding Media content can be found in the Zen documentation.
Terminology:
Album: Collection of tracks or songs under one "album" title.
Artist: Track or song artist
DRM: Digital rights management - copy protection scheme - Zen cannot use music with this music protection scheme. (itunes) (But "itunes plus" will work)
Genres: Type or kind of music
<The following genres are defined in ID3v>
Blues,Classic Rock,Country,Dance,Disco,Funk,Grunge,Hip-Hop,Jazz,Metal,New Age,Oldies,Other,Pop,
R&B,Rap,Reggae,Rock,Techno,Industrial,Alternati've ,Ska,Death Metal,Pranks,Soundtrack,Euro-Techno,
Ambient,Trip-Hop,Vocal,Jazz+Funk,Fusion,Trance,Classical,Instru mental,Acid,House,Game,Sound Clip,
Gospel,Noise,AlternRock,Bass,Soul,Punk,Space,Medit ati've,Instrumental Pop,Instrumental Rock,
Ethnic,Gothic,Darkwave,Techno-Industrial,Electronic,Pop-Folk,Eurodance,Dream,Southern Rock,
Comedy,Cult,Gangsta,Top 40,Christian Rap,Pop/Funk,Jungle,Nati've American,Cabaret,New Wave,
Psychadelic,Rave,Showtunes,Trailer,Lo-Fi,Tribal,Acid Punk,Acid Jazz,Polka,Retro,Musical,Rock & Roll,
Hard Rock
<The following genres are Winamp extensions>
Folk,Folk-Rock,National Folk,Swing,Fast Fusion,Bebob,Latin,Revival,Celtic,Bluegrass,Avantg arde,
Gothic Rock,Progressi've Rock,Psychedelic Rock,Symphonic Rock,Slow Rock,Big Band,Chorus,
Easy Listening,Acoustic,Humour,Speech,Chanson,Opera,Cha mber Music,Sonata,Symphony,
Booty Bass,Primus,Porn Groove,Satire,Slow Jam,Club,Tango,Samba,Folklore,Ballad,Power Ballad,
Rhythmic Soul,Freestyle,Duet,Punk Rock,Drum Solo,A capella,Euro-House,Dance Hall
<A bit of humor: I think the above Genres lists are missing two - "elevator music" & Crying and Whining e.g. Country Western>
ID3 Tags: Internal file information associated with an Mp3 or wav audio file. This format contains
Track number, Album name/title, Genre, Artist and Song Title which can be sorted and indexed by
the Zen device.
IPTV: Is a system where a digital television service is deli'vered using Internet Protocol over a network infrastructure, which may include deli'very by a broadband connection. http://zencast.com/
JPEG: Is a commonly used method of compression for photographic images.
This is the only photo format used by the Zen.
MP3 and WMA music tracks: Music format used by the Zen.
Note: Having the wrong bit rates will drain the Zen battery faster. (See above)
MP3: Is a digital audio encoding format using a form of lossy data compression.
Non-protected AAC: Files are regular AAC files without any DRM: they can be converted to other formats (like MP3) and can be played on an unlimited amount of devices and burned an unlimitd amount of times. They have no restrictions.
Podcast: Is a series of digital-media files which are distributed over the Internet using syndication feeds for playback on portable media players and computers. http://zencast.com/
Protected AAC: Files are AAC audio files that contain DRM (Digital Rights Management), most often music purchased from the iTunes store. The Creative Zen cannot use these files.
Note: "Itunes Plus Store" have songs without DRM which the Zen can use.
Ripping CDs: Copying tracks from an audio CD on a PC and downloading tracks to the Zen.
Note: Use the Creative Zen Media Explorer for ripping audio CD is one method.
Song Title: Name of song or track
Track Number: Numerical number of track of CD album.
Track: General name for song or song title.
Unprotected AAC format: Music format used by the Zen
WMA:Is an audio data compression technology developed by Microsoft. The name can be used to refer to its audio file format or its audio codecs.
WAV: (or WAVE), short for Waveform audio format, is a Microsoft and IBM audio file format standard for storing an audio bitstream on PCs.
Note: The Zen's built-in microphone produces this audio file format.
Zen Audio Format:MP3, WMA, WAV, non-protected AAC (.m4a), Audible (2, 3, 4)
Zen Media Content: Video, Music, Audio, Photos/Images transferred/dowloaded into the Zen
Zen Photo Format:JPEG
Note: You can copy/drag/paste JPEG photos from your PC to your Zen for viewing.
Note: You can import photos & view photos from the SD card.
Zencast Organizer: Seamlessly integrates ZENcast media files with Creative portable media players and/or your computer
Zen Video Format:MJPEG, WMV9 and (with transcoding - MPED4-SP, DivX 4/5 and XviD)
Warning - In some countries (including the US) its illegal to do:
Copying audio DVD & DVDs
Defeating DRM MP3 Music (Digital Rights Management)
Intercepting/copying (non purchased) music.
Downloading music/songs from an illegal or "free" rouge website.
General Media Content links:
http://pro-music.org/Content/GetMusi...lineStores.php
Note: Check to see if your music files/tracks contains ID3 tags.
Note: ZEN also supports iTunes Plus tracks from the iTunes store,
Note: The following media content is only a small fraction of means and ways
of collecting/dowloading media content to the Zen.
Media Content from Creative Website(s)
Note: The Media Content can be found under "Fill your Zen" on the bottom of the Creative Zen product page.
http://zencast.com/
ZENcast is the ultimate source for free IPTV channels, video blogs and podcasts on the Internet. It provides quick and easy access to a wide range of interesting and entertaining video and audio content online.
http://www.audible.com/adbl/site/cre...seBVCookie=Yes
Audible.com - Audible.comis the Internet s leading audio provider of bestselling audio books, comedy programs and today s most relevant magazines and newspapers
http://creative.vongo.com/
VONGO is the video download service that gives you instant access to over 2500 hit movie and video selections from Starz .
Watch movies whenever, wherever on your ZEN. A great entertainment venue for watching movies while on the road or on the go.
http://www.napster.com/creative/
Transfer unlimited music to your ZEN without paying per song.
With Napster To Go you can:
Choose from over 5 million songs, plus new releases every week
Play music instantly from any internet-connected computer
Find old favorites and discover new music by exploring playlists, radio, Billboard charts and more
Create a library of your favorite music and build custom playlists.
http://www.emusic.com/ZEN
Choose from over ,500,000 songs
Burn unlimited CDs
Compatible with every MP3 player
No confusing restrictions-Own your music!
http://www.lala.com/frontend/action/...=user:2672@223
Why pay 99per song when you can get the whole album for $At lala.com, you can trade your used CDs for new music.
.8 million titles available for trade. CD quality guaranteed.
Every CD you receive is yours to keep - no restrictions.
Pay only $ per CD received. No monthly fees or commitments. Sign up is FREE.
http://www.amazon.com/b/ &node=62663
Buy or Rent Movies Online
Watch DVD-quality video downloads on your PC or ZEN
Conveniently download from your PC at work to your PC at home
Discover thousands of TV shows & movies available for download
I started this thread in April 08 to help other new Creative Zen MP3 (Flash) users. If there are common threads that are posted from new users then I try to make a section to inform other new users in solving their similar problems. I cannot believe that this thread was viewed over 0,000 times! Thank you for your "viewing" support.
Please note: This thread is constantly changing so check back for any new helpful hints, problem solving, troubleshooting and practical solutions for the Creative Zen.
"The Creative ZenR O C K S"
Zenandy
Message Edited by Zenandy on 08--2008 08:26 AM

Hi,
I'm from germany so no 'best buy' but I think I will lock around sleeve/bag for a different product with same measures. Any tip?
The clear plastic case is not what I want. I would like to use the player without such protections. I just want a sleeve to protect the player while its in my jacket/pants.
Btw, i have bought this version: Creative Zen (maybe european version?). I also doesn't seem to have your mentioned sleeve. I also couldn't find it on the website.
Anyway, thank you,
Chris

Nomad Zen Xtra 40 gig Problems - Looking for Redemption and OS - Do not want to convert to I-

 I've been having issues with my player. It has only been about 8 months, I think, since I have had it. I have wanted a Nomad since the first gig came out, junior in high school. I just now started college, but would be a senior had I started right off. I have been bragging about Creative's Nomad forever and encouraging my friends to go Nomad and not I-pod. They laugh and tell me I do a better job advertising for Creative than Mac does for I-pod. I used hamster logic to con myself into spending the money for a Nomad when my last audio device died because I just about never go without headphones on. Peers from class and almost anywhere tell me they recognized me when I?m out doing errands because my player and headphones. My friends all joke about being a little worried when I stopped wearing my headphones, Nomad, and a lot have asked why. I will let them know if this is not solved. I accept that all my audio players eventually break, but 8 months or so for a 260 dollar player. My RCA Mp3 player lasted longer, was cheaper, and only broke because a friend living with me borrowed it and stepped on it. The reason my nomad is not working seems to be software related on top of things. It has its own protecti've case (Not the one sent with the player-a better one), the plastic film on the screen has never been removed. I take care of it. I would flip if anyone got so much as a finger print on it. My point is I'm a little shocked by its lifespan and the problems it'ss giving me. Other players seemed to keep having similar problems as I have read your forums.
 My player started with playlist transfer issues then stopped transferring Mp3's. After trying to attempt new transfers it started to take forever to turn on and off. It would rebuild its library quite frequently. I also noticed it was not keeping accurate information about how much hard dri've space it used. I do not have the internet on my home computer, the only computer the nomad ever connects to, and all my Mp3?s were created by your software from the original cd?s. The chances of a virus or corrupt file seem low though I am going to reformat my computer as it seems a little slower. I tried to reset my player, scan disk, erase my files, and just recently reload the OS. Funny thing is none of those things worked; however I have not finished with the OS reload because I cannot seem to get a copy of the OS. My first assumption was that a kind of BIOS would have a re-loadable version. The forums were vague on where the new OS would come from and certainly they would have an OS for it with the software they sent if not built in. Neither place has it. The internet where I have read vague advice for similar problems is where I have turned to next, and yet I can only find an update. I think that your web page is better built than most, but some of it could still use improvement. Your media software is awesome. I have wasted money on a few Mp3 softwares trying to promote memberships, sell higher versions of itself, and do everything but the reason I bought it for. I am pleased with your ripping software and player. The AOL promotion really drags down its style.
 I want Creative to redeem itself and customer care by showing me excellent customer service. Please help me get a new OS. I also recommend that you make downloadable backup copies available along with your updates if you do not start including them on your software package. I say this because if I could not get it to work after all the troubleshooting I have done I was going to use a Best Buy Warranty to purchase a new Nomad, but from all the forums and software hunting I?ve done, I find Creative inadequate in customer care, mainly the OS availability. I will not waste anymore time other than waiting for an OS. Meaning even if I can still get it shipped in I won?t. My bitterness is surfacing, but I still very much support Creative. I want to start promoting Creative again, but if left with a blank 260 dollar hard dri've I will use the Best Buy Warranty to get an I-Pod if not given a reason to maintain my strong faith in Creative ,and I will share my negati've experience with others. This is a warning and not a threat. You guys rock and don?t let me forget that!
 Your hardcore fan left dangling, Tripoli

The New OS/Firmware fixed my issue. I had trouble finding it. It says update. I assumed update & not full OS. Once I had it I was unsure if it would work. I could not get it to run on either of the two computers it was pulled from. st from my schools comp. They prob. have a protection of some sort. It is a little wiggy using their com
ps.
My friend's comp? whatever. He never gets rid of old software on his comp. so Something kept it from working. I got it home to my comp. it it worked great. Thanks!!! My ears are no longer naked & I will trust creative more so.

Nomad Zen Xtra prob

Well, I just emailed support again but overlooked the (faster?) forums until now. Maybe someone can help me out... ------- EMAIL SENT -------- Hi, I emailed the customer support a while ago and got a generic reply as how to reset my mp3 player's OS. *This is not a software problem, it is a hardware problem... I want to send my Nomad Zen Xtra in to Creative to get it fixed and I will pay for the repairs.* Here is an original copy of the message: Hello, about a year ago I purchased my Creative Nomad Zen Xtra. Only a couple months into using it, I dropped the MP3 player on the headphone jack where my headphones were plugged in and the sound stopped working correctly. I think maybe that the soldering that is keeping the headphone jack on the circuit board is messed up or disconnected. Some sound does come out of one earphone when I wiggle the plug around a bit. How much do you think this would cost me? The player is no longer under its one year warranty, either. Thanks in advance. - Steve ----- Originally answered by Technical Support, Creative Labs Americas ----- Thanks, Steve-oMessage Edited by Jeremy-CL on 0-2-2005 0:08 AM

I?ve posted it before, but here we go again:
Two or three months after buying my 40GB zen xtra, the same thing happened to me. I deduced it was a battery problem and prepared myself to expand U$29 on a new one (I li've in Rio and it would be impossible for me to send it back for warranty). While I was looking for the new battery, I kept using it in my job and at home, with the power cord hooked up. I did it some times and one day, without any apearent reason, it started to charge the battery and ever since it never happened again. I friend of mine mentioned that these Li-Ion batteries can have this kind of problem. By that time, he suggested some charging manouveres to recover it but it was no needed. What I suggest you is to keep trying to charge it. You may be as lucky as me!

Nomad Zen Xtra using Windows 98 (Not 98

Good day,
I thought I'd share this information since I couldn't find anything about it during the past few weeks when I was looking.
I decided to leap into the MP3 world and after much research concluded the Jukebox 3 was the player for me, only to find out it was no longer manufactured! So I continued my hunt and decided on a Nomad Zen Xtra 30GB unit.
The only problem is it says it needs Windows 98SE and I unfortunately am still running 98 (laugh if you must). So when I got the unit I thought I might as well try and see if it works before going through all the hassle of upgrading an operating system.
It works! I was able to install the CD and update the new drivers, firmware and Nomad Explorer files off of Creative Downloads. The only thing that does not work is Creative MediaSource/Organizer software. This isn't too big a deal from what I can see as it is the MP3 ripper. I downloaded a freeware program called CDex (which is great by the way) and I rip all my CD's using this then use NOMAD Explorer to load it on the dri've. FYI, I also had to download the latest Adaptec APSI driver as well so CDex would work.
Nomad Explorer can also set-up the playlists although I understand it is somewhat easier using the Creative software. I am not sure if I am missing any other big features but it seems to be doing everything I want of it and I love it.
Anyhow, I'm about 8GB into it and all is working very well and I am happy that I didn't have to spend hours on a operating system upgrade.
Hope this helps someone!Paul

I have a Zen Xtra 40GB and I'm using Windows 98SE and I have not been able to get things to work. I tried using the installation disk and it could not complete the install....it would hang up at the point where the drivers were being loaded. After some playing around I got the drivers installed, but Nomad Explorer did not see that the MP3 player was connected. I also tried MediaSource (it loaded on just fine) and it recognized the player, but would crash when the program tried to "read" from the player. I plan to return the player and get my money back.

Problems downloading between Nomad Zen Xtra 40GB and PC (XP S

Help please
I've a new Zen Xtra and have installed all the software that came with it and then reinstalled as per the instructions given in another post.
I can see no sign of the drivers under the device driver although, not always, the PC pops up a message saying 'do i want to organise'. I can see my Nomad files in Nomad Explorer and Windows Explorer. i can even, sometimes, after each software reinstallation, even transfer a few, about 0 to 20, files before i get an error message telling me thw player is busy or disconnected. I have left the connection in place overnight but still no celarance.
Any ideas as I really feel like throwing the bloody thing out the window!
Thanks
Mark

Guys
Thanks for your responses. Sorry I haven't got back - been away a few days.
Situation is this.
new Nomad Zen Extra and Dell 3000 running XP SP2 52mb ram 40gb dri've.
Loaded software with Nomad and unable to sync or transfer. PC could 'see' nomad and read preloaded files but when any form of transfer tried I either got 'device not connected' or, occasionally, a few files would transfer before 'hanging'. Erroe message stated'device busy or not connected'.
Since then I have followed these instructions given in another reply on this forum to the letter.
Here is a step by step of what I would do to try to get back to square one and get MediaSource and the Driver installed.

) Disable any antivirus and background programs on your system and disconnect the Jukebox from USB
2) Go to control panel/add remove programs and remove both Mediasource and the Jukebox Driver
3) Reboot
4) Ensure AV and BG programs are still disabled
5) Search for any updated Chipset drivers for your motherboard (if you need help with this tell me your computer Mft. or your motherboard mft. and I will find out what you will need) and install them.
6) Reboot
7) Repeat step 5
8) Go to www.nomadworld.com and go to downloads/drivers and applications. Select the Jukebox Zen USB 2.0 and your version of Windows. Click get files. Download four files:
Jukebox Driver version .26.02</LI>
Creative MediaSource Software Update version 2.03.29</LI>
NOMAD JukeBox Type 2 Version .0.03 (English) Web Release</LI>
Creative NOMAD Explorer (Version 3.0.0)</LI>
9) While these are downloading, go into rescue mode on the player and run a cleanup. A reload OS will hopefully not be needed.
0) Install the files in the above order. You will plug the Jukebox Zen in at the end of the driver install to complete the install. Leave it connected all the way through the remaining ste
ps.
Disconnect after the last file is installed.
0) Reboot, reconnect the player and test.
Jeremy"
So I think of all the up-to-date firmware etc...
I've also loaded and installed WMP 0 - which can also see the Nomad and has transferred a few files before hanging as above...
I can also see the driver in my device drivers under usb controllers. the driver listed is Creative Labs .26.2.0
I have managed to transfer my tracks (3500+) to the Nomad by burning as MP3 cd's and loading through my works laptop (Win2000). I used the Creative Media Source on the original software which came with the Nomad to do this. This is not a great solution as my company aren't thrilled about such use of their lappies and it only has a 0gb hd and, therefore, doesn't / can't hold my music library.
I really want to get it working properly on my main PC so I can get the max from the Nomad.
Any ideas?
Sorry this is a bit long...
Mark

The Back Panel of the Creative Nomad Zen X

Is it safe to take out the two screws and remove the back panel of the nomad zen xtra? Besides voiding the warranty. follow-up question, would it be safe to spray paint the removable front panel and the back panel? Follow-up to the follow-up queston, what do you think about Gun-metal Black?

well, the back part shouldend have any bad effects if you spray it. Except your warrenty.
The front will not void your warrenty if you paint it. I painted mine.
Hopefully they will release custom face-plates. i'm starting to get annoyed at the lack of extras for there mp3 players. and of course the one i want (FM remote) isnt available for the Zen Xtra.. for some stupid reason. Why would they add the feature then remove it, then add it again to a later model?
Ugh.
Please Creative. Custom Face-Plates. You did it for the Jukebox3 and the Muvos.

Creative MediaSource doesnt recognize Nomad Zen X

Hello,
I'm using the latest Creative MediaSource Version 3.30.2 and when I plug in and turn on my Nomad Zen Xtra it isn't recognized/listed in mediasource (however windows detects it, the latest drivers are installed and nomad explorer also detects it). What can I do to get MediaSource to recognize my player?
Thanks...
Foochuck

Did your previous MediaSource detect your Zen Xtra?
For MediaSource to detect your Zen Xtra, you need to install the MediaSource plugin for your Zen Xtra. It should be available from your product CD. Alternati'vely, you may download the following plugin from the product download site:
NOMAD JukeBox Type 2 Version .0.03 (English) Web Release
I am not sure whether the plugin in your product CD is newer than the one in the Web download. Do visit the Web download regularly for new updates to MediaSource and the plugins.

MP3Pro vs. Regular MP3 for a Nomad Zen Xt

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