Is there going to be an update to empeg software any time soon?

Since I switched to 2.0 beta 11 some time last year, I get frequent UI lock-ups (i.e. the unit suddenly fails to respond when I press any buttons, requiring me to un-dock and re-dock it) and poor USB functionality (i.e. the Emplode software cannot maintain, or fails to detect altogether, a USB connection to the empeg).

So far, the benefits of the 2.0 beta 11 software outweigh these deficiencies, but they have gotten rather old. (Having to upload files via serial port is particularly aggravating.)

The "Plays" counter on the empeg is lame as well. Whose idea was it to make an automatic track change constitute a play? Why not something like half the total time of the track playing without interruption?

Sorry for the rants. I love my empeg, really; it's just that an already fantastic product was steadily improving, and now things have hit a brick wall (presumably because the empeg is no longer in production).

-- Milo --

Never mind about the USB problem, I see in the FAQ that Windows XP screws USB connectivity with the empeg. (Thanks, Microsoft.)

-- Milo --

I'm not sure if it's in the FAQ, and I fully expect Tony to beat me to this ansewer, but the lock ups are easily fixed by installing the hijack kernel (Do a search for "stuck jiffies" if you want an explanation). Get yourself a network card, and you'll have fixed both of your poblems for under $20. There's a also thread on how to eliminate the plays counter text, but it's fairly involved, and won't kill the actual number.

Matthew

Yeah i must say go for a network card if you have a mk2 as it brings in a huge amount more useability to it.

Adding a network card is a complete doddle and get yourself a crossover cable.

network all the way. soooo worth it, you can find a 10mbs one of www.pricewatch.com for around $10

What can you do with a network card?

You can run the hijack ftp and web servers for a start. I find that uploading is slightly quicker as well.

Are you running Hijack? That should fix your lock-up problems. I've not had any USB problems (with Windows 2000) - what OS are you running?

Sorry you don't like the Plays counter. Oh well. If you skip to the next track within a few seconds it doesn't count as a play.

Rob

At least 4 of your 12 original posts on this BBS have been gripes (not really rants.) And 3 of those had the dreaded "mad" face. I suggest getting rid of you player. I'll take it off your hands for the spare parts or sell your player on eBay... you'll get at least $600 for it.