Steven R. Rochli
Member of the Trade: Enjoy the Music
- Joined
- Jan 6, 2003
- Posts
- 238
- Likes
- 68
Yep, those where the days! Nowadays we pay a small fortune for a device that actually costs a few dollars to manufacture but the fancy UI costs a fortune to develop and these costs are passed on to the consumer. Perhaps some manufacturers should start to manufacture a few products without the fancy UI and just use simple buttons for commands, this will surely cost a lot less. I immediately think of the Shozy Allien that is very straightforward without the fancy screens and UI and it apparently has very good sound from all accounts. This used to be the norm a few years ago. Just my 2c worth. Cheers.
Oh, I remember those early years... and in the 1980's sold 'high-end' portable audio devices at a specialty store. Like you said, UI development and GUI / touchscreens add to the cost of development / manufacturing. BTW, tried the original Shozy Alien and also had the newer II version for quite a few motnsh (got it in Singapore back in February 2015) and at this point the sound is excellent, yet could not deal with the lack of GUI / screen and (limited) memory card situation. Punted reviewing it on the grounds that the 'install base' would simply be too small combined with my review probably being a bit 'sour' due to UI limitations. i could sum up my review in seven words, "Great sound, frustrating as f--k to use". Most 'normal' people are demanding more with their PMP and, as such, devices needs to deliver what the customer wants. These wants add to the retail cost of a device. The Alien MK II is great, yet show me any 'normal' consumer who would accept all the limitations given today's possibilities? Yes indeed, there is a price to pay for convenience.