Customer Reviews

Archos AV380 80 GB Personal Video & MP3 Jukebox Player / Recorder w/ Digital Video Recorder

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Finally, Archos gets it!! With this model, Archos has addressed most of the drawbacks of previous models. This product is actually in a class of its own! It does everything it claims to do, and does it well! The interface has also been drastically improved, though it is not obvious how to use the 3 "soft" buttons at first since the buttons are aligned vertcally at the right while the functions are listed horizontally at the bottom of the screen. However, a quick glance at the button descriptions in the quick-start guide is all you need to understand how everything works. Yes there is actually a quick start guide in addition to the well-written manual. The interface is much improved by the addition of a joystick. Also, the Operating System now allows file-handling functions such as rename, delete, etc to be done right on the jukebox, whereas a PC was required before. Also as with previous models, the jukebox looks like a hard-disk when connected to the PC which means transferring files back and forth is as easy as drag-and-drop (as opposed to using proprietary programs). The USB 2.0 connection is extremely fast and definitely a plus.

AUDIO: My biggest problem with previous models from Archos (as well as most competing products) was that they needed pre-amplified mics to make live recordings since the only audio input was line-in. Also live recordings in previous models tended to pick up hard-disk noise when using the internal mic, and some hum while using the line-in input. This model finally adds support for non-amplified mics. The audio input jack doubles as line-in and mic-in. Live recording is now very clean with no hard-disk noise, even when using the internal mic. I recently recorded a live concert with fantastic results. This model adds official support for playing WMA files. UPDATED: The latest OS update (free on their website) adds support for playing AND recording in WAV format (in addition to the MP3 format), which took care of the only major complaint I had with this model. You now have a full blown DAT recorder in your pocket! This update also allows you to do some basic audio and video editing on the unit itself. Way to go Archos!!

VIDEO: Video looks very good indeed on the large 3.8" LCD screen. May not exactly be DVD-quality as they claim, but its darn close! The included DVR module allows you to record MP4 video on the fly or you can convert videos to MP4 on your PC and transfer them to the unit. You can also use an optional camera accessory (AVCam 300) to capture live MP4 video to the hard-disk, in effect converting the jukebox to a VHS-quality camcorder.

PHOTOS: Pictures look great! The unit supports both JPEG (non-progrssive) and BMP. You can use the optional memory card readers to upload directly into the jukebox bypassing your PC, or you can download pictures from your PC. Or use the optional camera accessory (AVCam 300) to take live photos to the hard-disk at a 3.3 Megapixel resolution.

DRAWBACKS: The main problem is that battery life is less than 4 hours when watching videos. And since the battery is a proprietary non-removable Li-Ion battery, you can't just pop out the old battery and put in a new one. Of course, if you (like me) use it mostly for music, then the battery life is a healthy 8-9 hours especially if you allow the LCD to stay off (it goes off automatically after a few seconds). Also for the hefty price tag, Archos should have included the optional wired remote that adds FM Radio support. The lack of an included carrying case is puzzling especially since the cheaper Archos models all came with cases. Go out and buy a case right away to protect that huge LCD screen. A final (minor) complaint is the increased size as compared to the older models and the much smaller iPod. In an effort to save some money Archos uses standard 2.5" notebook drives instead of the 1.8" hard disks used in the Apple iPods. However the upside to this is that if you fill up the hard-disk, upgrading using a standard notebook hard disk is not too difficult or expensive. There are many sites online that give you detailed instructions on how to do this. Of course, opening the jukebox will void your Archos warranty ..

VERDICT: Overall, the ease of use, the features, as well as the quality is miles ahead of any other competing product as well as older Archos models. Despite the minor drawbacks, Archos has done an outstanding job. If you want to save some money and are fairly tech-savvy, get the AV320 (with a 20G hard disk) and upgrade the hard-disk yourself when you start running out of disk space.

The archos AV300 series is a portable computer in addition to an awesome personal video player. All you need to do is install windows to a partition you make on the hard drive and you can run your computer from anywhere where there is a USB connection and a monitor. The simplicity and speed of the file transfer method is un-matched unless you need to install an upgraded USB hub. All you do is drag and drop. Immediately upon plugging in the Archos to a computer it recognises it as a USB mass storage device and you are ready to do your bidding. And get these while you can. The main problem is that battery life is less than 4 hours when watching videos. And since the battery is a proprietary non-removable Li-Ion battery, you can't just pop out the old battery and put in a new one. The unit does have a ability to turn off the LCD backlight while operating each time you skip a song or mistakenly press a button in your pocket. It has an excellent record timer, A nice surprise,so you can record a weeks worth of your favorite reruns. It is easy enough to get video recorded into it with the provided cables and DVR attachment, and easy to connect to your TV for playback. If you read the specs and don't have a problem with the size and other features, you will be very satified. Don't expect DVD quality playback on your TV. It has the wonderful AV recorder which comes inside the pack, makes video recording very easy. you wont need a video anymore. connects easily to the TV or VCR, but you should be careful of the cables connecting the AV380 because they turn out to be too plenty. The remote control (wireless) is excellent and makes life easier when placing the AV380 away from you. Finally, Archos gets it!! With this model, Archos has addressed most of the drawbacks of previous models. This product is actually in a class of its own! It does everything it claims to do, and does it well! The interface has also been drastically improved, though it is not obvious how to use the 3 "soft" buttons at first since the buttons are aligned vertcally at the right while the functions are listed horizontally at the bottom of the screen. However, a quick glance at the button descriptions in the quick-start guide is all you need to understand how everything works. Yes there is actually a quick start guide in addition to the well-written manual. The interface is much improved by the addition of a joystick. Also, the Operating System now allows file-handling functions such as rename, delete, etc to be done right on the jukebox, whereas a PC was required before. Also as with previous models, the jukebox looks like a hard-disk when connected to the PC which means transferring files back and forth is as easy as drag-and-drop (as opposed to using proprietary programs). The USB 2.0 connection is extremely fast and definitely a plus. The audio input jack doubles as line-in and mic-in. Live recording is now very clean with no hard-disk noise, even when using the internal mic. This model adds official support for playing WMA files. The latest OS update (free on their website) adds support for playing AND recording in WAV format (in addition to the MP3 format. You now have a full blown DAT recorder in your pocket! This update also allows you to do some basic audio and video editing on the unit itself. Video looks very good indeed on the large 3.8" LCD screen. May not exactly be DVD-quality as they claim, but its close! The included DVR module allows you to record MP4 video on the fly or you can convert videos to MP4 on your PC and transfer them to the unit. Pictures look great! The unit supports both JPEG (non-progrssive) and BMP. You can use the optional memory card readers to upload directly into the jukebox bypassing your PC, or you can download pictures from your PC. Also for the hefty price tag, Archos should have included the optional wired remote that adds FM Radio support. The lack of an included carrying case is puzzling especially since the cheaper Archos models all came with cases. Go out and buy a case right away to protect that huge LCD screen.
The Arcos is quality is miles ahead of any other competetors products.
Recommendation:If you like having alot of movies on hand, alot of photos on hand and the ability to play hundreds of song, then this is for you. I am a chauffeur for a living and this definately kills the sit and wait time assosciated with my job. Excellent for long trip, plug into the vehicle dvd player or music into the tape deck. Makes for a shorter trip.

I bought my AV380 a few months ago (on 6-15-2004). I expected it to be a good gadget but it is not good, it is great!

This gadget is everything you'll ever need to store all the information you have. From music, photos, videos, and all kinds of data; it is the best Media Player I could ever find. You can vew your videos or photos right on the screen or use the cables that come with the unit to watch them on any television (with video and audio inputs). You can listen to all of your music, record your voice directly to the unit, record FM radio (with the optional FM Module), or even edit your own recordings (like removing some parts of the recording without affecting the original). When you record from the FM Module, you can decide to record the past 20 seconds of broadcast (which is great for recording music after it has already started); you can always edit the music later and take only the parts of the recording you want. Also, you can edit the videos you record from any of the available sources to the unit.

You can also browse all the information you have in the unit by using the Browser. In the Photo Viewer, you can select a Slide Show of your photographs (you can change the Picture Pause) or watch them individually. In the Audio Player you can play MP3 or WAV files, create your own playlists, browse other music while playing a file, change the bass, treble, loudness, balance, bass boost, and pitch (which is the speed of the music). You can also change the settings on the Play Mode (Single Song, All, Folder, Repeat, Shuffle, etc). In the Video Player you can slow the playing in 4 different Slow Modes. You can also record directly from your VCR or DVD into the unit. It also has a Clock and a timer to start and stop recording at the time you want. You also have the ability to change most of the settings (like if you want to turn off the screen after a few seconds of inactivity to conserve battery when not using DC-Power).

The AVCam 300 (optional) could be used to take pictures and videos to be stored in the unit. If you have your own digital camera, I recommend you get the Card Readers Adaptors to transfer your photos to the unit without the need of a computer.

The only thing missing from the unit is a speaker to listen to movies when showing it to your friends. Also, the unit does not come with a carrying case, you'll need to get one from Archos to protect the screen when not in use. Otherwise, the unit is perfect!

It works as advertised and then some. I would say video quality on NTSC TV is about that of a VHS tape. It is easy to navigate and name folders when you connect it to your computer like a hard drive. A nice surprise feature is the record timer, so you can record a weeks worth of Seinfeld reruns, just like a VCR. It is easy enough to get video recorded into it with the provided cables and DVR attachment, and easy to connect to your TV for playback. If you read the specs and don't have a problem with the size and other features, you will be very satified. Don't expect DVD quality playback on your TV. Need to find a case, any suggestions from future reviewers? Also there is an aftermarket spare battery you can interchange but don't know how it works. Probably voids the warranty but just involves removing one screw for the battery compartment.

The preceding reviews of this product already adequately describe the benefits of the product.

For what it's worth, I concur: the AV-380 is indeed function-rich, eminently useable and a top buy. I'd also add that its upgradeable firmware renders it reasonably future-proof. Archos have already demonstrated their willingness to improve the player through this means.

If rating the product alone, 4.5 stars.

That said, woe to those of you unfortunate enough to have to turn to Archos for post-sale service.

My unit developed a minor power problem four months after purchase, in Feb 2004. It is now June and I still have not received my repaired unit.

I have contacted Archos on several occasions, to no effect.
The fact that their customer service centre is completely separated from their RMA processing centre does not aid matters.

Quite frankly though, I don't care about the cause of their non-reponsiveness. Any such debate only distracts from the fundamental point that no modern retail company should be operating a warranty repair service with a 14 week (and counting...) turnaround.

All of this makes for a bitter aftertase that threatens to ruin an otherwise very tasty piece of kit.

This is the ultimate toy. The Mother of all Gadgets! The best I have come across so far. Will bring friends with Ipods to tears. Bought the AV Unit first, than the AV Cam as well. What can I say that hasn't been said yet. Well, there's one downside; you can start throwing away your digital camera, MP3 player, portable HD, VHS player and half your stereo. The damn thing does it all. Still waiting for my credit card to stop smoking though and would love to see Archos come out with an underwater housing, so I can take the thing diving.

The archos AV300 series is a portable computer in addition to an awesome personal video player. All you need to do is install windows to a partition you make on the hard drive and you can run your computer from anywhere where there is a USB connection and a monitor. The simplicity and speed of the file transfer method is un-matched. All you do is drag and drop. Immediately upon plugging in the Archos to a computer it recognises it as a USB mass storage device and you are ready to do your bidding. And get these while you can. Archos is already under fire from the media industry for being able to record directly from your tv to the Archos. All you need to do is plug it in with the included adapter and press record.

The only issue I have with this is the low battery life and the lack of ability to turn off the LCD backlight. The screen turns on and wastes the battery every time you skip a song or mistakenly press a button in your pocket.

Ever since i got my Archos Jukebox 20 Multimedia, i was hoping that i could find some more reliable mp3 player with more extra space, and more features. When the AV380 was out, it was the thing i was looking for. The AV380 is an excellent tool that has the space anyone requires, its 80 G! and it has a very nice display much more better than the Jukebox's display. Big and clear display. It has the wonderful AV recorder which comes inside the pack, makes video recording very easy. you wont need a video anymore. connects easily to the TV or VCR, but u should be careful of the cables connecting the AV380 because they turn out to be too plenty. The remote control (wireless) is excellent and makes life easier when placing the AV380 away from you. I usually connect the AV380 to my surround system, and connect it to the TV so that i get to see the display on the big screen, and then i choose what i want to listen, or choose to play any video using the remote control. The negative thing which i didnt like was the camera. I paid 199$ for the camera, but its not worth it. The still pictures are not good, and the video camera works very bad. and the zooming makes a loud sound which gets recorded in the background of the video you are recording. Just too bad.. You can pay 200 $ for a normal 3.3 mega pixels digital camera.
generally speaking, the AV380 is excellent for movie recording and for MP3 playing. Way better than the IPOD or any other brand in the market.

There is so much hype over the ipod based solely on marketing. This unit surpasses the ipods wildest dreams. The Archos has twice the capacity of the biggest ipod, plus has video capabilities. You can view photos, watch movies, etc.
This thing can even act as your portable Tivo and record TV where ever you can plug it in. If you travel, you can load up DVD's, music, and you don't need to carry anything else. Plus you can be responsible and load up computer information, because you are carrying an 80 gig hard drive.

This thing is exactly what I was looking for to take on long trips. First, it replaced a portable DVD player and the need to take all my movies on DVD disks with me. Next, it replaced an electronic film vault as I can load JPEGs in from my CF cards, and the screen is much better to share photos with friends. And the size and weight of the AV380 compared to lugging around a laptop is pure joy!

I was concerned that movies would be "jerky" or "pixilated", but nothing could be further from the truth. Maybe it's not DVD quality, but it's so close I can't tell the difference.

This product is going to turn heads wherever you go. I see that Archos is releasing the AV400, which has CF built in, but it's not hard to do with this unit. Synchs right up to Win XP, and the USB 2.0 is great for moving files around.

Anything I don't like? I believe we'll see these PVPs really take off in the next year. On my wish list would be removable battery packs, a speaker, and a built in CF reader (all now available on the new AV400 which should be shipping soon, and more file acceptance TIFF, PDF, etc. A flip cover for the screen would also be nice, as the unit doesn't come with a case. Recording movies into the unit is a snap, but the process of doing file conversions on movies I've made with Pinnacle was more daunting than I was prepared for (no, I didn't major in computer science). Much easier to just output to disk or camcorder and then re-record into the AV380.

All in all, the coolest product I've bought since the first portable DVD players came out a few years back.