I've been comparing the NOMAD Jukebox to the PJB 100. What I found is:

Both have 6 gig of storage.
PJB 100 is smaller, with a sensible rectangular form factor. The NOMAD Jukebox looks like a portable CD player for reasons I cannot fathom other than "it looks cool."
PJB 100 is lighter at 9.9 oz, compared to 14 oz. of the NOMAD Jukebox.
PJB 100 comes with a built in lithium ion rechargable battery for 10 hours of play. NOMAD Jukebox uses AA batteries, of which NOMAD claims ni-cads will last about 5 hours.
PJB is $200 more. ($500 instead of $700)
NOMAD Jukebox is planning on supporting the Mac. PJB 100 requires Windows.
The display on the NOMAD Jukebox is a few pixels bigger.

But, here's a real kicker: The PJB runs Linux, and the source code is available. Not that I will ever use that myself, but on the web site of the NOMAD Jukebox manufacturer in Europe, is this:

"We are currently restricted by SDMI specs to giving users zero access to the D.A.P Jukebox engine. This restricts the possible development of counter measures to the Digital rights management schemes currently implemented and available. We will continue to evaluate this and bring exciting, instead of just functional, user enhancements."

So SDMI makes my life better how? At least with the PJB 100, hackers can add stuff, which I can benefit from. With the NOMAD Jukebox, I must trust the manufacturer to improve the product. SDMI means less innovation for consumers. Don't forget this.

Ok. Now I know which one I will buy. If I do buy one. Which I won't, because I'm not buying any more gadgets. Yet.

posted 2:17 PM | link |