Chabot Spectator

Issue date: 12/14/06 Section: Special Section

Gift cards

Microsoft Zune

Nintendo Wii

Apple iPod Nano

Gift Cards - When in doubt, buy a gift card. Gift Cards enable someone to get the items themselves, essentially taking away the whole meaning of taking the time to get a sentimental gift. If you are feeling too lazy to do something more meaningful, get a gift card. Just beware the consequences of being lazy.

Microsoft Zune - Dare to be different. It's time to show up all those Apple iPod owners what's up. The Zune is Microsoft's first attempt to tap into the Apple-dominated mp3 market. The Zune is a solid mp3 and video player, which also allows people to stream music and share pictures with other Zune owners. Though there are some shortcomings such as having limited storage space (only 30GB), the Zune is a solid first attempt from Microsoft and a great overall mp3 player. ($249 and available in Black, White, and Brown colors).

Nintendo Wii - Guys like games, it's a proven fact, or at least a stereotypical fact. Nintendo has really re-established itself as a software and hardware developer with the launch of the Nintendo Wii. Virtually anyone can pick up and play the Wii, even your parents and grandparents. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on one of these babies along with a copy of Zelda: Twilight Princess, be warned. Your recipient might disappear from the world for a few weeks trapped away in pure gaming bliss. ($249)

Nintendo DS Lite - It doesn't take a hardcore gamer to appreciate the Nintendo DS Lite. With its touch-screen capabilities, portable games have been taken to the next level and because it's user-friendly, a gamer of any level will be able to pick up and enjoy the Lite. Add in built-in Wi-Fi for online game play and game sharing with other DS owners, there should be plenty of space underneath the Christmas tree this year. ($129 and available in Polar White, Onyx, and Coral Pink colors)

Apple iPod Nano (2nd Generation) - It's small, it's stylish, it's the new iPod Nano! These sexy mp3 players are hard to resist with their bright colors this time of the year. The Nano sports a new scratch-resistant aluminum body and a slender yet durable body, which is a major improvement over last year's model. Very competitively priced with great mp3 playback, the Nano is an easy purchase. ($149 for the 2GB model available in silver, $199 for the 4GB model available in silver, blue, pink, green and red colors, and $249 for the 8GB model available in black and red colors)

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