THG's Xmas 2002 Holiday Buyer's Guide

Introduction

We do get to review some very cool stuff, and while some of you might get jealous, remember we get to review a lot of really uncool stuff, too. So, it's nice to kick back at this time of year and indulge our whims. We look back on a few of the products that might end up in our personal Christmas stockings this Yuletide.

We have selected products in a variety of price ranges, starting from as little as $20 to as much as $1300. In providing such a wide range of options, we felt that there is something for everyone. Where possible we provide you with links to the in-depth reviews of the products here on THG to make your shopping experience easier. Well, it would be easier if we had a sleigh and a bunch of flying reindeer and could drop them off for each and every one of you, but that Hallmark moment ain't going to happen so, you might want to try the Tom's Low Price Finder option. Go get the best possible price for the items you want and pay for them yourself.

The prices that we list for the product in our Buyer's Guide are the suggested retail price, of course with a little work in many cases you should be able to knock as much as 30% off of this price by doing your homework.

The Editors and Staff at THG would like to take this chance to wish you a happy Thanksgiving. Eat some turkey, and then go forth and become debt laden in shopping heaven.

Music Devices & Consumer Electronics

Apple iPod For Windows

The Apple iPod For Windows Begins A New Legacy

The Apple iPod for Windows. The iPod for Windows has no equal when it comes to selecting the best of the best in portable MP3 products.

Without question the Apple iPod for Windows was my choice for product of the year. It provides an excellent balance between easy of use and performance. Starting at as little at $299 for the 5 GB iPod for Windows, it shows what is possible with exceptional engineering and development. While $299 for the 5 GB is a great starting point, as we pointed out in the review the 10 GB iPod for Windows provides a little bit better value by included another 5 GBs of hard disk space, a wired remote and a case. If that special someone is into MP3s, this is the portable device of choice. However, be aware that the iPod does require a 1394/Firewire interface and if the PC doesn't have one you will require a 1394/Firewire add-on card which can be purchased for as little as $25. Popular 1394/Firewire cards are available from a variety of sources including: Adaptec, ADS, Belkin, D-Link, and others.