Welcome to the Next Generation in Reading!
Written: Jul 08 '01 (Updated Jul 08 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Large/Small Print, multiple books, rotating screen.
Cons: it is very fragile and is not for taking to the beach
The Bottom Line: This is a good product. Don't drop it or take it to the beach. Can hold 3-5 books at a time.
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| PsiQueue's Full Review: Thomson Consumer Electronics RCA eBook 1200 Handhe... |
I am a purist. I believe that books should be made of paper and ink and glue and fancy covers.
But, I am gadget freak as well. And, I am a book fanatic. As my wife and my family will testify, I ALWAYS have a book with me. (My family likes to tease me about having a book with my during my graduation ceremony. And the wife threaten not to merry me if I had a book in the tux during our wedding!). So,when the library decided to purchase 4 eBook readers, to test out, I knew that I had to be one of their "guinea pigs".
The day after the library got the book, I was called and told to come up and learn how to use it. And I love it. The one they gave me had various sci-fi novels downloaded onto it. And after a 5 minute demonstration, I was off!
Now, during your first time with the product, don't expect to read alot. If you are like me, you will want to play around with it, sort of kick the tires and take it around the block for a spin. But, after figuring out all the cool little specials, I sat down and read the two books that interest me- Star Wars: Darth Maul Saboteur and Around the World in 80 Days.
As for the reader, it does have some draw backs. First, and for most, it is electronic, so there is no way you can take it into the bath tub or to the beach with you. Second, the thing weights as much as a Tom Clancy/Stephen King hardback. However, to help offset the weight, the reader has a slight bulge on the bottom, so you have something to hold onto. (Also, you can use this bulge to help prop up the reader on a desk or table). Plus, the book is a bit hard to read when there is alot of light around, like outdoors. And, it is bigger than a paperback, but smaller than a hardback, so you can't put it in your pocket or purse.
As for the pros, first, the reader can hold multiple books at a time. Second, the reader I have has a built in dictionary. Third, you have the choice of having either small or large print. (Trust me, at times, the large print can be a life-saver). You can also rotate the screen, so that reader can be read like a book or like a pad. There is a backlight built in, so that you can read it in the dark without having to turn on another light. (My wife likes this alot, since I tend to read in bed in the mornings, while she sleeps.) And, you can use the multiple bookmark/ memo to help keep you make notes and get to parts that you want to look at.
Overall, I am VERY satisfied with the eBook...but with a cost in the $200- 400 range, I will be waiting a while before getting one of my own.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 350.00.
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Epinions.com ID:
PsiQueue
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Member: Ross Vincent
Location: Arlington, Tx
Reviews written: 120
Trusted by: 9 members
About Me:
With over 5000 books & over 200 movies, I am sure to have a epinion
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