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e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 8:03:39 AM   
LillyBoPeep


Posts: 6873
Joined: 12/29/2010
Status: offline 		how many people use e-readers these days?
which one do you use, and why? which one do you think is the best?
is there a particular file type that they're all compatible with?
if you don't use one, why? do you just prefer physical books?

i went into Borders last night with a friend and saw that they now have one called the kobo. everyone knows the kindle and the nook, too, plus there are all sorts of others by other general technology companies.

i keep thinking about getting one because they can hold a boatload of books all in one place, but also -- you can't loan a book out to a friend, without loaning your entire library and your expensive little device. i'm also a bit of a touch fiend, and i like the physical feel/smell of a book, turning pages, different textures of paper used for pages, blah blah blah -- which would obviously be lost with an e-reader. that said, i do like touchscreens and pushing buttons. =p PLUS i like that downloaded versions of books tend to be less expensive.

    


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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 8:56:02 AM   
peppermint


Posts: 5175
Joined: 10/18/2005
From: Montana
Status: offline 		I've had my Kindle for about a month now.  Like you I wasn't sure I'd want to give up the feel of a book.  I've found that I don't miss it so much.  As far as lending books, most will allow you to loan a book to a friend for 2 weeks.  Of course, your friend has to have the same type of device as you to receive the loan.  Now that I have the Kindle a couple of my friends are going to get Kindles also. 

The Kindle is great for travel.  I downloaded several books when we took a short trip.  As the commercial says, there is no problem reading in the bright sunlight. 

I would not pay the extra to get the Kindle 3G.  That just means you can download books at any time, anywhere.  That luxury costs an extra $50.  With all the places that have wifi these days I don't see the need to pay the extra fee.  You can surf the internet using the Kindle but it's a bit difficult.  In a real pinch I might use it to check my email but wouldn't want to do much more than that with it. 

You do have to have a credit or debit card number before you can download a book.  I did get an Amazon gift card and they take the money out of that first.  There are many free books to download.  Most are the old classics such as Little Women.  There are more modern books such as the first book of a series.  They hope you get hooked and will purchase the other books in the series.  You have to be a bit careful about choosing the books to download.  I could have had Little Women from several different sources.  Some required a fee of 99 cents or more for the book.  However, I looked around and found that I could download 7 of Alcott's books for 99 cents and went with that one. 

I'm still looking for a protective cover for mine.  Most are really expensive for what litte material they contain.  I may try to make my own as we have tons of leather here.  There is also a waterproof cover which is supposed to be good to one meter of depth.  That would mean I could take the Kindle to the hot tub or pool. 

What I like most about the Kindle is the small size.  We live full time in a motor home and space is at a premium.  I can only have a small number of books here at any time or the place just gets too cluttered.  With the Kindle I can have 100s of books here in one small device. 

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 9:17:42 AM   
LillyBoPeep


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Joined: 12/29/2010
Status: offline 		ohhhh i didn't know about that 2 week loan feature. =) that's very cool (now i'm looking at B&N and seeing that the nook also has that feature), but the requirement to having the same device is part of why i'm waffling. are there different file types for all the devices, or do they all just read a variety of file types?
one friend has a nook, and another has a kindle, and they both love them madly. i don't imagine there's a huge difference between them. i'm tempted to go with kindle just because it was the original one i heard about first. there's a color version of the nook, now, but is that even necessary? do any of the e-books have illustrations and such?

a waterproof cover would be great if you like reading in the bathtub...

there's a kindle 3G that includes free 3G service for $189...


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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 9:40:43 AM   
slaveluci


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From: Little Rock, AR
Status: offline 		I have a Kindle and have had it a couple of years. I enjoy it but if I were buying one today, I'd probably go with a Nook Color.

I am a librarian and my home is bursting with books. I still prefer "real" physical books. I use my Kindle as a supplement to all the other books. It's convenient to carry around for when I need a read and don't have a stack of books with me. It in no way is meant to replace books I can hold in my hand and turn the pages of.

I work for a large library system and we have free downloadable e-books and audio books for our patrons. This past year, we have seen a huge increase in the number of patrons with e-readers of all types. Those same patrons still check out physical books but also use our downloadable service as well. I've seen a variety of readers but it seems like most people use the Sony reader or the B & N Nook. Kindle owners, unfortunately, can't make use of these free downloads since we have to download from Amazon only.

There's no one around who loves "real" books more than I do but I love this new technology of allowing us to read e-books also. It's totallly an enhancement and doesn't have to mean physical books are being replaced. They aren't - at least in our library system.

luci

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 2:27:50 PM   
soul2share


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From: somewhere out there.....
Status: offline 		I'm also one who loves the feel of the book.  I've thought about getting an e-reader, but for now, I have to watch my pennies.  I know all of the pluses of an e-reader, but I'm sort of tough on books, I drop them, KB pulls them off the bookshelves when he wants attention, I usually leave my remotes on the floor for the same reason......if I'm not dropping them, KB is.  I've never dropped one in the bathtub, I don't takes baths, but I have had one fall into the potty......clean, but still got soaked!  I had it on the sink, and turned to get something out of a cupboard and "SPLASH!".

As far as getting the books, I'll borrow them from the library to read, and when it comes out in paperback form, buy it then.  I am constantly re-reading my books, they are like old friends.  I have gotten some pretty good prices online at places like Overstock.com on hardcovers, so I do have some hardcover books of the series books I read.  And I love searching thru thrift stores and places like that for books.

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 2:44:45 PM   
LillyBoPeep


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Status: offline 		i think the new technology is great, and i think the added portability is pretty awesome; sometimes if i have too many options, i get overwhelmed and go with "none," but being able to take all my books with me would kinda solve that problem. =p
thrift stores are great sources for books, i agree.


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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 3:33:52 PM   
Aylee


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Status: offline 		I have a Kobo and I realy like it. I have it because it was bought for me. I also have over 5000 physical books in my house (5000+ was the count over 9 years ago, now I have no idea). What I really like about the e-reader is traveling. It does not get destroyed during travel and if I run out of books to read I can just downoad another one. Figure a book a day for me while actually traveling and then a book every two days the days I am in a city working. That adds up to a lot of books to have to carry with you.

I have the first generation Kobo.

In addition, we have a Baen webscription account. This means that there is a ton of science fiction books (my favorite form of fiction) that we already own. My Baen books can be downloaded to any of the e-readers or onto a friends computer. I also have the option when I purchase something new to send it to two friends for downloading. Baen LIKES you to share their books. They have found that they sell more copies this way.

While I do not class folks that have no desire for an e-reader as Luddites, there are some advantages in some situations.

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 5:23:19 PM   
CreepyStalker


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quote:

ORIGINAL: LillyBoPeep
i went into Borders last night



Borders still exists?! :-D
That's awesome, I thought it died.

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/5/2011 6:53:53 PM   
shallowdeep


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From: California
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quote:

ohhhh i didn't know about that 2 week loan feature. =) that's very cool

Be cautious about making a buying decision on the strength of the lending feature; it's quite limited. Specifically, you can only make the 14 day lend of a book once. As in once ever. Even with that restriction, lending is only allowed with a relatively small subset of books where the publishers have agreed to it. So, it's not really close to being a substitute for the flexibility of lending physical books.

quote:

Is there a particular file type that they're all compatible with?

Not really. The Kindle uses it's own .AZW format which is completely incompatible with other readers. Most other devices, including the Nook and the Kobo, support the EPUB format, but the DRM schemes employed on top of that for purchased content may differ and limit compatibility. Unfortunately, the Kindle doesn't directly support EPUB files, even the ones without DRM.

On the bright side, most e-book stores do offer applications to let you read your purchased content on computers, phones, iPads, and the like, so you aren't completely tied just to one device. Also, most devices have some sort of support for ordinary PDF files, but it isn't always wonderful.

quote:

there's a color version of the nook, now, but is that even necessary? do any of the e-books have illustrations and such?

E-books definitely can have color illustrations, but the choice between color and grayscale isn't just one of aesthetics and cost – there is big tradeoff in device capabilities that comes with the choice. Grayscale E-Ink displays work well in sunlight and require no power to maintain a static image. This allows for very long device battery life (thousands and thousands of page turns, weeks without needing to recharge). Color readers use standard LCD screens that require active backlights. Those drain the battery much more rapidly; for example, the Nook Color claims a maximum life of only 8 hours. And, unlike E-Ink, the screens become washed out in sunlight. On the plus side, LCDs have a much faster refresh rate than E-Ink, allowing for more versatility, e.g. decent web browsing.

The tech is neat and there is a very nice convenience factor, but I haven't personally gotten one yet despite being tempted. I guess I'm not all that keen on making much investment in material with no resale value that might effectively have access cut off at some point. I mean, is Border's really going to be around and providing support for purchases in a decade? It's something to consider.

At least with the early DRM-laden music downloads you could always burn a CD – the book side seems to lack an equivalent, convenient backup method. Music eventually moved away from DRM; hopefully e-books will at least standardize more at some point. Better library lending support could sell me, but the current e-book selection and availability from my library isn't great and they don't support the Kindle at all. A Kindle would otherwise probably be my first choice for device since I think Amazon will be around for a bit and they seem pretty invested in the platform.

< Message edited by shallowdeep -- 3/5/2011 6:56:16 PM >

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 9:15:44 AM   
LillyBoPeep


Posts: 6873
Joined: 12/29/2010
Status: offline 		i know a lot of the companies archive your books so that if you delete one or something, you can redownload it for free.
the lend feature is an up and down thing now i guess. =p haha "yay!" that you can lend, but "boo!" that you can only lend ONCE ever in forever... hrm. i did read that it was limited to books that publishers have given the "ok" on.

the nook color briefly scored points with me because of the interactive kids books, but i don't think a kid really needs a device like that, and by the time i have kids, if i DID want to go device hunting for them, there'd probably be something snazzier out by then. i dont imagine it's something a kid should use unsupervised (it's expensive and breakable!) so if i'm there, why not interact with my kids myself and read to them myself? doing voices is fun! bwah ha ^_^

i'm still leaning heavily towards the kindle -- there's some software called "calibre" that i read about that people with kindles use to convert EPUB to a kindle-happy format, and yes -- the e-ink screen lends itself to reading outdoors (which i like to do), to using less battery power, and to a lessened chance of eye fatique. i also don't think i need to be able to browse the web on every single device i have.

one thing i like about the nook is that you can go into an actual B&N store, get help, and have other in-store experiences, which you can't do with the kindle. the longevity of Borders as a physical store is something i've thought about. Amazon is a pretty strong company, and i have plenty of faith in them.


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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 2:23:05 PM   
Aynne88


Posts: 3873
Joined: 8/29/2008
Status: offline 		Lilly, I recieved a kindle 3G for Christmas, I love it. My favorite gift actually. I love books of course, but I have built in bookshelves in my library and they are full, along with at least 3 large bookcases and countless boxes in my garage storage. I mean think of it like albums, then tapes, then cd's, then e-music. I mean people still can collect and buy cool albums for the sake of it or the artwork and still modernize how they listen to and transport the music.

Can I recommend though to purchase the kindle leather cover with built in booklight? I didn't get it until about a month after I had my kindle and wish I got it sooner, the light is kind of needed if you read a lot in the evening and lowlight like I do.

I just love it, the portability and the amount of books are awesome. Best thing ever. I sat here today and downloaded a bunch of "singles" and the Sunday times, while enjoying my coffee and sitting on the sofa. Nice :)  

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 4:15:10 PM   
kdsub


Posts: 12180
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Status: offline 		I have a kobo...mine can hold over 10,000 books... it comes with over a 100 free classics...and holds a 240 straight hours of reading charge. I can read three novels easily without charging. I paid $99 at my local Borders.

It is very light and rugged and much easier to read than a book. You can adjust text size...the pages don't flip loosing your place... can be propped up as read...has a built in dictionary. ..and is wireless enabled.

I've owned it for 3 months and it has already paid for itself. Best sellers are less than $13 many paperbacks are $3 or below and there are many free books to download.

Ebooks are downloaded to your computer then you synchronize to your reader so you have more than one copy.

There are many free apps on line to download ebooks if you don’t want to use kobo’s. Yes there are standard file types so you can buy ebooks from many suppliers.

I bought a $35 protector from Borders that came with a 2 year all inclusive replacement coverage… so if you drop it in the tub when reading you can get a free replacement.

The kobo is not backlit but has a clear print that can easily be read in low light.

I don’t need the bells and whistles that lower reading time so if you want a backlit screen and music then look for a different more expensive one.. I bought mine to read period.

< Message edited by kdsub -- 3/6/2011 4:19:29 PM >

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 6:12:52 PM   
Aynne88


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Status: offline 		I looked at Kobo and Nooks too but the main drawback for me besides not having 3G or wireless, was that you had to be on a computer and go to the Kobo store to buy a book, whereas with a kindle you can just buy anything from a magazine, a paper, one of their free (lots of free) reads, or books, anywhere with the actual device.

Also, the kindle isn't backlit at all, it very much mirrors the "book reading" experience, that is why I recommended the lighted cover so it's easer to read at night.

For me, being able to do everything on one device is so much easier. Of course it's personal preference, but I like wireless connectivity, and also being able to multi use the kindle, like I downloaded the app on my smartphone so I can read my kindle books on that as well if I get stuck somewhere on don't have my kindle, I can just read my selections right on my blackberry or android.

Oh and single charge lasts one month with the wireless off, that's crazy long. Also you can connect to wi-fi hotspots with it. Like I said I really enjoy multi function capability, it was worth the small price difference. Oh and I love the fact you can quickly share passeages to on Facebook if you read something that you think others might like.

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As long as people will shed the blood of innocent creatures there can be no peace, no liberty, no harmony between people. Slaughter and justice cannot dwell together.
—Isaac Bashevis Singer, writer and Nobel laureate (1902–1991)



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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 7:03:53 PM   
LillyBoPeep


Posts: 6873
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Status: offline 		the kobo now has wi-fi and can be synch'd with other devices. i also reeeeally like that it has expandable storage (which nook also has). it has a unique look with the quilted back -- next time i'm in borders, i'm going to see if they have a display model i can fiddle with.
decisions to buy things are usually incredibly drawn out for me. =p this is one example...


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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 8:00:30 PM   
kdsub


Posts: 12180
Joined: 8/16/2007
Status: offline 		Aynne you are wrong.. it is wireless and you don't need a computer to buy ebooks and pdf files ...check it out at their site... I buy wireless all the time.

Butch

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< Message edited by kdsub -- 3/6/2011 8:07:54 PM >

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I don't see any use in having a uniform and arbitrary way of spelling words. We might as well make all clothes alike and cook all dishes alike. Sameness is tiresome; variety is pleasing

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 9:33:45 PM   
SweetDommes


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Status: offline 		This is a good thread for me - I've been looking at them lately too. All the reviews I've read have said that most e-readers are a bit slow in terms of what people are used to, but the Nook is really slow. There is a Sony reader that looks pretty awesome, but it's larger and heavier than the others. rob uses his iPod touch as an e-reader ... but I'm not sure I'd use enough of the other features to justify paying $250 when I could get an e-reader for $150 or less.

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 9:57:51 PM   
peppermint


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From: Montana
Status: offline 		Everything I have read online says that ereaders such as the Kindle and Nook should be down to $99 by Christmas 2011.  They are expected to be THE gift of the season. 

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 10:35:49 PM   
SweetDommes


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Status: offline 		That would be great for me - I might even be able to talk my parents into getting it for me LOL

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/6/2011 10:49:12 PM   
SpiritedRadiance


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Status: offline 		I got the kindle for Christmas last year and im in love and obsessed with it.

As for e book format Kindle supports Mobi as well as AZW and PDF. Most other e readers only support their file format and epub.

Kindle has the ability to send things you by from any store to your device with little to no work, most of my non tech friends can do as such with ease. No other ereader does.

While Kindle doesnt have expandable memory you can if your friends also have kindles Share your ENTIRE library or just some books by a simple usb hook up.

You connect your e reader open the kindle drive that appears in my computer go to the folder documents and poof....

Drag drop and place the book where you want and just do the reverse to put the file on someone elses kindle. They now have a full version of the book forever.

Also ebay has most of the covers and cases for 75% less then what you by from amazon.

And its just amazingly awesome the pages look like pages in a book and because it is the longest standing e reader, it has the fewest glitches and the largest support base.

Its extended warranty is cheaper then the other e readers and covers more...

and its awesome....





< Message edited by SpiritedRadiance -- 3/6/2011 10:50:02 PM >

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RE: e-readers? (spin off thread!) - 3/7/2011 3:38:45 AM   
LillyBoPeep


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quote:

ORIGINAL: peppermint

Everything I have read online says that ereaders such as the Kindle and Nook should be down to $99 by Christmas 2011.  They are expected to be THE gift of the season. 


holy schnikies.............
i think i'll wait a little bit. =p


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