Zune's New Tune: How's $99.99 Sound?

Yes, it’s true, second-generation Zunes are en route, due at your favourite consumer electronics retailer within a month (on November 13, to be exact). And yes, the second-gen 80 GByte HDD-based model will be 27% smaller than its 30 GByte predecessor, with 267% of the first-generation unit’s storage capacity, a 14% larger LCD, a ‘Zune Pad’ combination touchpad and click button, etc.

But before you mentally retire Microsoft’s humble first stab at the portable multimedia player market from your acquisition candidate list, check out this blurb from Cesar Menendez’ post:

We value and remember our early adopters: everyone who owns or buys a Zune 30GB will automatically get the new features through a firmware update.

Just what are those ‘new features’? Cesar again:

• Wireless sync: wirelessly updates content on the device when it is within range of the PC with the Zune Collection on it, or on the same wireless network. You can start the sync manually or, when it’s plugged into AC power, sync will automatically start after 1 minute of inactivity. This is so the battery doesn’t get drained by the automatic sync.
• Expanded wireless send capabilities: you can now keep a track for three plays (we’ve taken any time restrictions out of the equation) you can also send a track you’ve been sent on to other Zune owners.
• Lossless playback [EDITOR NOTE: WMA Lossless] will be supported on every Zune
• Podcasting – that is, automatic RSS-based subscription to both audio and video podcasts via Zune Marketplace.
• You’ll be able to sync your Vista Media Center TV content to your Zune and watch it on the go.
• Updated device UI

And why am I telling you this? Because even though Cesar says that the ‘Zune 30GB will continue to retail for 199.99′ [EDITOR NOTE: down from the original $249.99 MSRP], it appears from where I’m sitting that an inventory closeout firesale is in process:

• Brand new brown units are $99.99 at Buy.com, and
• Refurbs in all three colours (black, brown, white) are also $99.99 at Woot

That’s one heck of a deal, folks. Who says it’s too early to do your Christmas shopping?