iPod classic HDD noise & vibration - Normal?

[DickxLaurent]

Hey, fellas. I just bought a 160GB classic to replace my 2G mini (seriously).

This being said, and apparently having never used a friend's 4G or 5G iPod in a quiet environment, I don't know if the very noticable sounds and vibration caused be my new classic's hard disk are normal.

I first noticed the vibration. When holding the iPod in my hand, I can feel the force of the drive spinning up. It kinda caught me off guard, as I don't recall feeling that on other iPods I've used. Maybe I just didn't notice before.

As for the sounds coming from the drive, it seems to be noticeable when the drive first spins up and accesses a new file or fills the buffer. Even more so, it's noticeable when the iPod begins syncing. They're the sounds you'd hear from your average 3.5" drive, I suppose, just at a higher (more nerve-racking) frequency for the obvious reason. I just didn't expect it to be that audible. It made me nervous.

Are these things normal? If so, try not to laugh too hard.

Thanks!

 

[mrbrad]

I could (dead now) hear my 20g 3g ipod in a quiet area but couldn't feel it vibrate.

 

[Amblin]

I can feel my Zune's HDD spin up but unless I hold it up to my ear, the drive is not audible.

Ill lay money that there is nothing wrong with your new toy, and what you are experiencing is totally normal.

 

[Artemio]

I have a 80GB 5.5 ipod, and it is normal in mine as well. have had it for 2 years I believe.

 

[luckypictures]

Your mini was flash based, so you're not used to it, but yes. I wouldn't sweat it. My Zune does it, I've used ipods that do it. Now, if its anything out of the ordinary, and seems to be a bit too loud, or a bit harsh, you might want to have it checked out.
For comparison, go to an apple store, or another electronics store that has them out for demo and check it out.
Cheers.

 

[DickxLaurent]

The mini has a Microdrive hard disk in it. I guess Microdrives are just really quiet.

I should have mentioned that I can clearly hear the drive in the classic when it's sitting on my desk, roughly 2 feet from my head. No need to hold it up to my ear.