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Creative Zen 4GB 99

website: uk.europe.creative.com | sales: n/a
ecause the technology within portable media player devices can easily lend itself to photography playback, the functionality is often added as an afterthought. Little in the way of format compatibility and the kind of tools the average photographer needs, relegate the function to a packaging bullet point and little more. The Creative Zen has a few advantages over the chasing pack though, and should be more prominent as a result. The SD slot at the top of the unit allows for the 4GB supplied internal memory to be expanded, or images saved on it to be read. The player can accept SDHC as well, making it capable of doubling the memory capacity via a single card. Reading straight from the card is a separate process from the usual photo viewing though, and it seems a little strange that a secondary card access option isnt included within the photo
The Creative Zen 4GB has a few advantages over the chasing pack
menu. Add to that the fact that there are little or no control options over the image and the lack of an option to transfer files from card to internal device and the Zen isnt looking particularly well focused towards photo viewing. Working from the hard drive is a different matter though, as images can be zoomed up and rotated easily. Even the larger-sized images are dealt with easily, and can then be placed into a music-backed slideshow. The controls are kept reasonably simple, with a D-pad and five buttons doing the bulk of the work. Each is responsive and, surprisingly for such a small device, not impossible to use with adult-sized fingers. The screen is also clear and stands up well once the zoom tool is used. Creatives software offers some intelligent assistance to the user as well, as it interjects if an incompatible file type
is being dragged across. A utility can then convert the file as necessary, and place it back in the originally selected folder. Where most players have an annoying tendency to simply refuse to play anything but allow them to be dragged across, the Zen prevents lengthy repeat journeys to and from the computer.
Verdict but A few annoying aspects,

Overall score

a useful little playback device which has some decent photo viewing options
Nissin Speedlite Di622 116
website: www.kenro.co.uk | sales: 01793615836
s proved in last months flashgun grouptest, thirdparty equivalents dont necessarily mean poor quality. Many of the better known brands produce some very worthy options, carrying the recognition of a history in producing the same accessories for film cameras. Nissin may not be considered in the same breath as Sigma and Metz in terms of its history, but a decent showing with the Speedlite Di622 and the fickle world of digital photography may well embrace a new variant on the big names.
The physical attributes of the Di622 make all the right noises of a flash that will challenge for bag space. Boasting both bounce and twist options, the resistance is such that it needs more than a little force to move. Without a button lock, the head needs to be sturdy enough to withstand a knock or two and not move out of position, which the Nissin manages perfectly. The rear is something of a throwback, as the now-standard LCD is dropped in favour of an LED lights-based setup. As with any flashgun the most import light is the pilot light, informing the user that the flash is ready to fire. In the case
Nissin will stand up well against established brands

92 Digital Camera Buyer

of the Nissin the light is prominent and clear, so even in a darkened club or church the indicator is easily seen. The power level indicator, which is mostly used when the flash is being triggered manually, is obvious to spot as well, even though it isnt hugely important. As theres no mode display, the Nissin relies on the camera to relay the flash info, which is no great issue to modern DSLRs with LCD panels capable of displaying reams of information. Charge times are standard for a third-party flash, and it isnt feature packed, but the Nissin will stand up well against the more established brands without embarrassment.

Verdicta flash gun A solid attempt at
that is simple on the surface, but does the job without letting down the photographer