The problem with the old zen is that it is like a brick in your pocket. the ipod is nice and small. the new zen fixes this but also it makes you feel sek z to havve an ipod. I am saying that the ipod itslef is a symbol in society of coolness. basicly if you want the to impress your friends get the ipod, if you want to impress your ears with the best sounding mp3s (not that good) get the NJB