5 comments about Magellan Maestro 4050 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator.

1. I got the Magellen GPS at Costco on a whim for $[...] and returned it the next week. I have had a Garmin for years switched to Magellen for the price. I didn't like the menus, they did not seem to be the most intuitive but with practice, you'd get to know them.
   
   The real problem is that the touch screen didn't work well. I'd poke and poke and nothing would happen, usually on the keyboard. So I started reading the reviews and saw several comments about how bad the customer service is at Megellan so I switched back to Garmin.



2. The Magellan Maestro 4050 is the first GPS I have bought. However I have used the Never Lost Hertz rental car GPS on more then one occasion and was looking for a GPS much the same. The 4050 is that unit. It just works and has all the bells and whistles I could want. If it does or doesn't do something I need or want I haven't found it yet. Price wise it's a bucket of bang for the buck. I had to call their support in order to get my free road advisory service and the free extended warranty given to AAA members up and activated. I was unable to accomplish this on line using the CD that comes with the unit or via Magellan's web site. However customer support had me up and running in no time. Great unit, great price and good support. If your thinking upscale GPS this is a good one.
   BW, Florida ......



3. My other cars all had intergrated GPS. This is my first "portable". I did not like the mounting hardware supplied with unit, as I did not want it stuck to the windshield. The attached Road condition receiver made a bulky package, but the extra info while traveling made it worthwhile.
   I love the voice command. After business is complete in down town, "magellam" "go Home" is all that is needed to route me back home!



4. I bought my Magellan Maestro 4050 about six months ago on Amazon.com. Sofar I am pleased with all the features and its functioning, but still a bit dissatisfied when I was holding my GPS 4050 at point A and tried to get direction from point B to point C. Magellan Maestro does not have that route. So when you have your GPS 4050 in your hand at point A, you can not make a map direction from point B to point C like you can make through Yahoo map or Google map. I don't know why GPS makers do not think about that?????? Another drawback that sometimes the Bluetooth froze and the touch screen doesnot respond. I have to push a reset on side to make it work.



5. This is a very handy little gadget. I have had many uses for it already. The amopunt of information contained in this little unit is amazing! Well worth the money.

5 comments about Hewlett-Packard iPAQ 310 Bluetooth 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator.

1. I debated for a very long time before purchasing the HP Ipaq 310. My usual habit of shopping around for anything I buy requires me to read every review I can find on the web....Need to know the features, need to get the best price...etc. Gotta admit, this process is sometimes excessive to the point of frustration. I've owned and used about 6 GPS units in the last 5 years or so...they included Navman, Magellan, Lowrance, Garmin; that averages about 1 GPS per year. However, in reality, I had been using Garmin 350 for the last 2 years...everything else were fairly brief. Garmin 350 was simply a breeze to use; it does the GPS' primary purpose very well and is the easiest to use GPS out of the box I've had. The HP Ipaq 310 is NOT easy to use straight out of the box. I fully expected this after reading all of the reviews here in amazon, and cnet, and more exotic sites like [...]; Now, I usually would consider myself somewhat of a techy kind of guy (I've always been the one friends and family would consult for electronics advice) and I rarely have to read instruction manual on most of anything I buy in order to operate them. I received the Ipaq 310 from amazon...got in my car, turned the thing on; then for the next 20 minutes could not make it take me to a destination! I was fully humiliated in front of my girlfriend. So, the thing is not very intuitive straight out of the box. It took me a good 1 or 2 hours of "alone time" at home to figure everything out (and I still didn't read the manual). The marked difference between the 310 and all of my previous GPS in navigation is what made the initial learning so difficult. You enter an address and fully expect the unit to just take you there as with all of the other GPS I had before...not the 310; you would have to perform anothe step of assigning the address as either "destination" or "starting point." And repeating entries because you're not sure if the unit registered your destination correctly are simply added onto the route. You would have to go to another menu to edit the route and delete previous addresses. Really, it makes perfect sense now after I've learned the HP interface. And it really DOES provide some really good features that the other GPS lack. Essentially, the 310 allows you to do that route planning thing you do using Yahoo Maps or Mapquest; you can find out the distance/travel time between any two points on the map. Most of other systems only allow you to calculate route from your current GPS position to your entered destination. This is a really useful feature that some newer higher end GPS are starting to offer (e.g. Garmin 700 series). The 310 had quite a few hardware and software issues that are well documented in various user forums, most notably the sound quality and lockups and crashes. But, here's where HP is coming through with some very nice product updates. There had been at least 1 major update and 1 minor update since the product release. Earlier users also experienced unreasonably difficult process with the automatic update. That had improved by the time I did my update; it took less than 1 hour. The sound volume improved to adequate level. However Susan Text-to-speech still sounds annoying and not as clear as I would've liked. Rerouting seems to have improved. The crashes are VERY infrequent now. I think my review of the 310 turned out a bit more negative than I really feel about the unit; All and all, I was so very close to returning this thing back to amazon; but after the update AND after I learn how to use the interface, I find myself liking it quite a bit now. The screen is bright and sharp. I also like the fact that the battery is user replaceable. My Garmin 350 is basically a permanent wired unit now that the battery won't hold charge anymore. Still haven't played much with the video playback, MP3 stuff. But what's very encouraging is that HP is releasing updates...indeed this unit has tons of potential and it's getting better with each update.



2. As above, can't find bluetooth link after you turn it off and on, has to be reset almost everytime it is started to find the satelite.



3. I received this 310 device as a gift 4 months ago. The unit had multiple issues. Battery life was horrible. GPS signal detection was spotty. The directions and routes were off and made no sense. The largest problem was random freezes and locks.
   
   The learning curve was high for me and even now when I know how to use the device it is still cumbersome. For the most part I would keep it in my trunk and if by chance I was in an unfamiliar area I mostly used it to help me find the nearest freeway entrance.
   
   I would give the device a 1 star rating; however I noticed HP posted a map and OS upgrade for this unit in June. The 'update,' is 1.7GB in size, which means it is really an entire install of the OS and maps.
   
   So far the device runs far smoother and no lockups. I feel HP shipped a beta version of the software and it took them many, many months to get the system to a decent point.
   
   However; I have to say I appreciate HP for following through and actually posting an update. They could have just completely dropped the ball and left the unit crippled and angered all the folks who were having trouble, but picked this device.
   
   Now I have to say the unit is a decent GPS and if we have regular updates and the ability to load up non-US regions such as China, Europe, etc., then it would even deserve a 4 star rating.



4. This is my first gps device, so I cannot compare it to any other brand device. However, I am very happy with this device. I purchased it as I was traveling to the north in the US and then to Canada by car. Before I started, I connected this device to my computer and got the free updates to the software from the HP website.
   
   The screen resolution is fantastic. Very clear maps and directions. Reasonable volume (I did not have any trouble hearing the directions as some other reviewer mentioned). This device is not crippled in software as some other devices are. (Simple yet convenient features that are unlocked only for the higher end devices)



5. I love the whole product, really loud voice when they give directions! The only thing that the bluetooth is on and off with receiving calls..its weird but everything else is amazing...

5 comments about Magellan Maestro 4040 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator.

1. I bought this GPS for the bluetooth and street names. If I had it to do over I would buy another brand. It would be nice to be able to change the voice but that's petty. I have bigger reasons for being unhappy with it:
   
   - a major local highway extension built almost 2 years ago not on the map.
   - the unit started having issues with the power adapter, the connection is loose and if the contact isn't perfect I get the message that it is switching to battery power. This blue screen pops up constantly and has gotten so annoying I can no longer use it.
   - Customer Service is horrible. I contacted them about my problem and got a vague scripted reply telling me to reset the unit. I replied that it didn't help and didn't hear back. A subsequent email still got no response. At this point I'm inclined to toss it in the trash but it would be an expensive loss.
   
   I will never buy another Magellan. Buy a Garmin or Tom Tom.



2. This product so far as been reasonably acceptable. One small piece broke off of the docking station within the first week of use, but other than that it is working well.



3. First a Caveat: This product does not come standard with Voice Recognition. That is an add-on that you purchase through the Magellan Website, receiving a code that unlocks that feature. (AAA members can save $15 off the (GULP) $99 Voice Recognition upgrade (ripoff) by clicking on the 3A icon during checkout)
   
   My wife has used this for about 8 months. She travels extensively in the Western US and it has made ONE mistake in that time. She doesn't even question it anymore because it is right so often. The Points of Interest (POI's) feature hooks her up with the nearest Starbucks or Gas Station as needed. She doesn't particularly like techie things, but the interface has never given her any problems. If you get one (or any GPS), spring for the beanbag dash mount for $12.
   Bracketron UFM-100BL Nav-Mat GPS Friction Dash Pad
   
   Now the Cons: The reason you need the Bracktron for this is the battery runs down quick (a bit over 30 minutes if you are using the menus) and the powercord, strung up to your windshield mount is a pain in the butt. The Bracketron lets you get a good position.
   
   Firmware Updates/Map updates/any updates: The website gives clear directions that have no relation to reality. No Mac support, so I used my PC. No Firefox support for the update, but it didn't tell me that, I had to discover it on my own when it wouldn't update. Once I went through IE and got the update going, I never got the dialogue boxes my carefully printed instructions stated I would. I pushed the reset button on the device when everything froze, but I hadn't been prompted to do so. It worked. The online help is called "Maggie". She is a most unhelpful sort with no clue. She would probably be successful working with the Motorola Razr voice recognition crew. Birds of a feather...
   
   VOICE RECOGNITION: Yes, I'm shouting. It absolutely sucks in capability and execution. The functionality is very limited. If you can't speak or program an address by voice, what is the point? and this system lets you do neither. If I only need to get home, it will let me select home, or POI's that it preselects, but no search via voice. As if that weren't enough, it wakes when it hears "Magellan", or "felon", or "chillin", or "gel inserts", you get the idea. The radio will wake it. The kids from the backseat trip it accidentally and it pops into voice mode, asking you to pick a command. Whoever executed this voice execution should be executed.
   
   So, would I buy it again? Absolutely. Would I pay for voice recognition? Puhleeze... Oh, and as a final way of saying thank you, the Magellan website states that activating the Voice Recognition irreversibly alters the device and you can't go back. I now know why Voice Recognition orders are non-refundable. On second thought, maybe I'd shop a bit before I bought it again.



4. Very user friendly and accurate. Takes you all the way to the specific address not like some that just get you to the general area.
   The 4040 also has maps of Canada for our trip to Niagara Falls this summer. Large display screen is easier to see when driving.



5. Magellan Maestro 4050 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator
   
   We originally ordered the Magellan Maestro 4040, but the seller ran out and sent the 4050 instead. We have a 4040 and love it and wanted to give it as a gift to our son. He is directionally challenged.
   
   We did research prior to accepting the 4050. The reviews and descriptions did not state that it had sayware text to speech. Well after several hours of looking we finally found that the 4050 did have what we wanted. The 4050 is a newer version and has the traffic kit. Sign up with 3 months free and then you will be charged a fee. We do not use this feature.
   
   The screen is large and clear. Programming is a cinch. This is a great tool for business travelers that have to hop off a flight and into a rental car to find an address that they've never been to before. We are very impressed with the 4050 and the 4040.
   
   It is a wonderful GPS tool for the money....oh yeah, and the directionally challenged!

5 comments about Garmin StreetPilot 2720 Portable GPS Navigator.

1. I've owned 4 gps's now .. the 2610 was nice (memory slot went bad, and I then bought 2720), this is a big improvment over the earlier 2610 with lots more features. voice and data info, motorcycle friendly (built-in solid state memory), 6 million point of interest...
   even my wife has no problems using it.
   
   this is now discontinied ..



2. We intitally purchased this GPS because we were going to spend a week in the LA/Hollywood area. We used it in the LA/Hollywood area and it was 99% accurate. It was truely a time saver in getting us to the various points of interest. We have used it on other trips in and around Atlanta and the Southeast. So far all of the addresses we have entered into the GPS were there. We have the 08 map update and so far it is sufficient for our needs. However; Garmin comes out with a yearly map update for approximately $60. We love our Garmin GPS and wouldn't travel without it.



3. Considering that I can get lost in a closet, I invested in a GPS. I love it, and I would tell everyone to get something like this in their car. It makes it possible for me to find new routes to various locations, and to get off the main highway with confidence. I have programmed several driving 'vacations' into the GPS. The drives are more than one day - so I love that I can program a week of destinations into the unit and slowly plot my course along - get off the course if I want - and hop back on again to continue my route.



4. I upgraded from the 2620 to the 2720 because this one actually speaks with the names of the streets or freeway so you don't have to look at the screen while you are driving.
   
   Very user friendly!



5. Product is good but not simple to learn. Works well on motorcycle and is water proof. Screen is small bur bright in the day.

5 comments about TomTom GO 920T Portable GPS Vehicle Navigator.

1. Summary first:
   Plus: (1) Quick in recalculation of route; (2) Maps have street names on them; (3) Satisfactory selection of the places of interest.
   
   Minus: (1) Manual (included and online) can satisfy only retarded reader; (2) Some map errors cannot be forgiven; (3) bad customer service.
   
   This is my first GPS. I have tested it on 1000-mile-long trip (North-Eastern USA). Before the trip, I have updated everything - maps, satellite positions, voices.
   First surprise: if you select a human recorded voice for instructions and computer-generated voice for street names, the latter simply doesn't work. There is no place in manuals that would tell you that.
   Second surprise: In Pennsylvania, Tomtom map shows "ghost intersections" on hwys 15 and 81 - there is no intersection in fact, it comes in one-two miles. The splitting of 81 north of Harrisburg is shown later than in reality. This mistake can cost you a lot of time and maneuvers, so cannot be forgiven.
   City of Ithaca, NY and rural Pennsylvania: in a maze of one-way streets, 920T systematically invited me to make forbidden turns and U-turn on a one-way street. So, be carefull and watch the signs before going along tomtom instructions! You will get to your destination because it can recalculate the route before the next intersection, but this won't be the shortest way. In general, 920T routes were not always the best.
   920T has included receiver for traffic information during 1 year. It was less than useful. It did not warn me about 2-hour congestion on 81 south while giving some other warnings which proved to be wrong. Do not pay extra money for it, consider 920 (without receiver) or something else.
   I have bought 920T here, at Amazon.com, and it came with promotion of 1 year free new map release. However, Tomtom site has declared promotion code invalid (how that can happen? - I asked customer service three times - no answer). It took me more than a week of interaction with customer service to defend my rights.
   So, my opinion is that 920T does its service but, most probably, there are cheaper alternatives with the same (or better?) abilities. So, I cannot recommend it. My next GPS will be Garmin - when they will put the names on the streets on their maps.



2. Very powerful, an excellent choice with good navigation. Only one thing missed : Mexico maps.



3. I've had this unit for less than six months and it's malfunctioned. It's stopped charging in the car, the screen flickers on and off and the speakers make sudden, loud crackling sounds. I contacted the company - the warranty is two years - and they refused to pay for the item to be shipped even though it's defective. Then I found out that they plan on sending me a refurbished unit back. If I had wanted to buy a refurbished unit, I would have bought it six months ago for a significant price difference. I've contacted the VP of Sales to deal with the problem, and they have absolutely ignored me. This company does NOT stand behind its product. I absolutely do not recommend any TomTom product.



4. we have used this tomtom on several trips already and are quite happy with the unit. It is easy to use and clear in giving directions. We much prefer our tomtom over the gps in our car.



5. I used my Garmin 2620 since 2005, weekly, as I travel extensively. I have never ugraded the maps. This Tom Tom was a gift, the idea being newer was better. It has good features, it was easier to enter an address, it recovers from route deviations quicker, it doesn't keep shouting "recalculating, recalculating," and the computer doesn't get confused as often. However, I searched for restaurants, and came up with 5 hits. Garmin gives restaurants from here to the next coast. I searched for an historical POI, got nothing. I thought an historical POI, that has been on the map longer than anyone I know has been alive, should have been preloaded as a POI. Garmin came preloaded with all kinds of restaurants, shopping, hospitals, government offices, entertainment, and more. I see Best Buy offers to help you load POI's. Well, Amazon had the better price. I don't have time for all this manual loading. My GPS came on Monday, and Tuesday, I was leaving town.
   
   That suction cup mount is useles. It stuck maybe 3 times for the duration of my journey. It constantly falls off and hits the gear shift before hitting the floor. Being touch sensitive, all the banging on the way to the floor sometimes resets the GPS. Sometimes, it falls so far away, you can't pick it up without pulling over. The Garmin came with a bean bag that sits on the dash.
   
   It was much easier to see my route layout at a glance while on the road with the Garmin.
   
   I lost signal more often with the Tom Tom.
   
   I couldn't use it straight out of the box. The Tom Tom had to connect to my laptop and download info first. I don't know what language it was communicating in, Norwegion, I think. I had to call Tom Tom for help setting up. The Garmin just wanted to know where I wanted to go.
   
   Sadly, someone just broke into my car and stole my Garmin 2620. I am buying a Garmn Nuvi to replace it. This Tom Tom just does not meet my needs.
   
   Go with a Garmin.

5 comments about Sanyo Easy Street NVM-4070 Bluetooth 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator.

1. This GPS had to be the worst one i have yet to use. I used this unit for about a week and i just had to return it. First of all the system crashed consistently. The video playback is terrible, good luck finding the right video and audio bitrate. The Bluetooth was horrible because it doesn't connect to any Smartphone (Windows based phone). This is how i would list the pros and cons:
   
   Pros
   1) Shiny sleek black look
   2) Able to use a HCSD cards (I bought the 8GB).
   3) Bluetooth, video and music playback, realtime traffic
   4) Comes with wall and car charger (very nice).
   
   Cons
   1) Crashes all the time. Imagine your on the road and this unit dies on you're with system or application failed.
   2) The windshield bracket is HUGE. The bracket is heavier than the GPS unit.
   3) Video and audio britrate is hard to figure out. Unless this system doesn't have enough power to keep the audio and video sync.
   4) No map updates.
   5) Software is not for Macs
   6) The Voice (TTS)that pronounces the streets and exits is extremely LOW.
   7) Never got the FM transmitter working right.
   
   I love everything i buy from Amazon but I really dislike this product. If your looking for a GPS, go with Garmin!



2. This gps has been unfairly criticized based on user error or unreasonable expectations.
   
   Yes the date/time must be reset when the main battery if off but no big deal as the gps resets the date and time itself. I found the voice command volume to be quite adequate even with two people talking in the car. I actually had to turn the volume down. Street names and exits are projected on the display assuming one has looked at the directions then its announced when to exit - if the unit is set for female voice TTS then it says the actual street name or number. I contacted customer service by email they responded within 24hrs and were very helpful and stated updated maps will be out at the end of this year. I did get a map update CD with my 4070. Also Sanyo emailed me again to verify that I was satisfied with their response.
   
   I think its a cool gps unit for the money I paid ($189) especially with all the accessories included. Reading the reviews of Garmin and TomTom it seems the Sanyo performs as well if not better condsidering the price difference. I have not tried the FM or bluetooth yet. I will update my review when I do use those features.
   
   Update --A major interstate I35W in MN is mislabeled as MN 65. But reviews of Garmins, TomToms and others all have map problems as well. Bad maps seems to be the bane of consumer-grade gps systems. Is this one worse than others? Once I figured out the mislabeling of the interstate and was no longer confused-- the directions were accurate. Features such as fastest and shortest routes work well. I still havent tried the other features I guess I'm not really interested in my gps playing MP3s, photos and videos or even phone calls!! I just need it to get me from point A to point B accurately and efficiently.



3. I agree with all that BeaBoo said and have used it with MP3's and my new Samsung Blast cell phone. It has performed nobly and has it little quirks (like all GPS's), but once you catch on it is a class unit!
   
   MP3s sound remarkably good through the FM Transmitter and you can listen to them while navigating. Phone auto connects and disconnects when unit is turned on and off. Date and time is adjusted upon satellite link and it's really hard to find anything to complain about, especially since I got it for $188 in a Gold Box special and it does as much or more than the $300-$500 GPS's presently on the market.
   
   The 1st time I turned the unit on I was in my daylight basement and it picked up 5 satellites within 60 seconds. To be honest I haven't even cracked open the manual yet, I just played with it and learned all the functions, but your mileage may vary since I am a confirmed geek.
   
   I've used Garmins, Tom Toms, and a few embedded GPS's and they all have their gives and gets, this Sanyo just seems to give you more when you also figure in the price! It's a no brainer if you ask me...
   
   iNetMANN



4. I bought this product in May 2008 and used it in Dallas TX and in San Diego CA on multiple occasions. Almost 50% of the times, this device gave us fairly bizarre directions - we would have driven 15 miles for a 5 mile drive (which thankfully we knew well).
   
   I would definitely NOT recommend this product. Leaving all the add-ons like Bluetooth and MP3 player, one thing a GPS should be good at is giving directions. And this one is not.



5. I paid $190 thru Amazon. It's a great gps for this price.
   
   Pros:
   1. Nice bright screen (no glare issues)
   2. Bluetooth works well - incoming and outgoing sound is clear with no static; pairs easily with my phones (I have a Motorola Razr and Treo); imported my entire phonebook from the Motorola but not the Treo; unit pairs with phone automatically at start up
   3. Navigation works well, but compared to my Magellan Maestro 4040 - not as intuitive, slower signal pickup, and no signal when I am in my garage (not that I need signal in the garage).
   4. Nice black piano finish and solid stand (mine was made in Germany).
   5. Good Price - $190 for a 4.3" gps unit with bluetooth that works
   
   Con:
   1. Battery life is not 7 hours, you need to keep the charger plugged into the cigarette lighter. Mine ran out of charge after only 2 hours.
   2. This unit has a lot of features and is not as intuitive as my Magellan. You really have to spend the time to play around with all the functions. Once you have it figured out, it works really well.
   
   I highly recommend it for anyone who does not work to spend more than $200 on a gps unit, wants a 4" or bigger screen, wants bluetooth that works well, and who does not mind spending the time to figure this thing out.
   
   Hope this review helps.

5 comments about TomTom XL 330 4.3-Inch Touchscreen Portable GPS Navigator.

1. first of all gps systems i judged, the volume is the loudest of all 3, different of all my tomtoms, it is thinner and lighter and the mount has been much improved over other mounts before this device, even switches to night mode without touching the screen, also has a brightness control, very simple to set up,for 200.00$ you will not find a better gps, my wife and daughter have tomtoms,two of them has blutetooth,which does not interest me but, once again to me tomtom has the best voice and display,that i tested with other brands.the volume control will also link to your speed of driving.customer support at tomtom needs improving but i have contacted crutchfield support to knock out the kinks.onnce again stay with tomtom.you will notice the difference



2. A few days ago I bought this GPS mainly because I loved the widescreen feature and TOM TOM reliability. The XL 330 first struck my eye and I found out that the 330 was the updated version of the XL. This GPS is truly a wonderful product and I could'nt be more happy with it so far.
   Let me tell you what happened to me last week.
   
   Incidentally, I had to bring back the first one I bought at Circuit City,
   because the Volume at the highest setting was barely audible. This volume issue was in response to an early review by Michael Dahlin "Dr D" stating that he ALSO had a volume problem with his unit. I have made numerous attempts at contacting TOM TOM regarding the numerous complaints about the volume, with no response yet. Anyways I went back to Circuit City to exchange the unit for another one. Low and behold the new unit i received worked PERFECTLY with loud and clear sound and great volume.
   
   I have to assume that TOM TOM MUST have released a bad batch of XL 330's.
   I have not as of yet received a response from TOM TOM......but again I want to reiterate this product is really wonderful....great GPS for the money!



3. I've had the unit for about three weeks now and for the most part I like it. The volume issue hasn't been an issue for me. It's very audible at about 70%; maybe it really is a bad batch of those out there that you can't hear. Two complaints: The unit sometimes doesn't recognize street names but will recognize the highway name. Here's an example: I was dispatched to Kit Creek Road in NC. I arrive at the airport and put Kit Creek Road in the GPS - It doesn't know what I'm talking about. Now I'm in trouble and have to make phonecalls back NY to get directions. When I finally get there, I see that Kit Creek is on the GPS. However, it's recognizing it by it's highway number first: HWY 1639 Kit Creek Road. The other complaint isn't so bad. Sometimes it just takes an inefficient route instead of getting straight to the point. That's 1% of the time though. Overall it's a great device. Even with the Kit Creek incident, the XL 330 helped me to get around the back woods of NC and everywhere else that I go. It's very accurate but you sometimes have to know how to enter the info.



4. This product is extremely easy to use - I only found one or two of the very extensive options to be a little unintuitive, but after less than a couple hours of poking around the features you really get a glimpse of the depth of the product. It may not have a few of the features that the $400+ models carry, but for my needs it far meets and exceeds. I was a little disappointed when it wouldn't find a numbered address on a highway ( such as when a smaller state highway runs through a city street ), but the database of points of interest had my destination on file.
   
   I was somewhat concerned about the voice volume issue that I'd read about in a few of these reviews ( after already having put my purchase order in ), but I'd have to say any units with poor volume have to be from a bad batch - even at the default 70% volume it was clearly audible with music playing and a window open at highway speeds. At max volume you really can't miss it unless you have difficulty hearing in general, though I found a few of the default voices were softer than others. Since it seems possible to create your own voice sets, and some voice sets are louder than others, I would assume one could edit a copy of the default voice and increase the gain / volume and reinstall, but there are a number of built in voices that are wholly satisfactory in the volume department.
   
   If I had to list any cons, it would be that base package voices still show up in the menu even if you remove them from the TomTom with the manager software. The inability to find an address on a highway might be a weakness of all navigators for all I know, as I've not had much experience with any others.
   
   If you buy this, definitely spend some time with the management software. There is a goodly amount of user supplied content ( maps, points of interest databases, and even voices ) that are free, as well as the normal software updates.
   
   When I left the store with it the most difficult part of setting it up was getting it out of the evil tough plastic packaging that most of us are familiar with. A car charger was included, so I plugged it in, answered a few basic questions, did a short tour and was on my way to my next destination within only a few minutes. Normally I can't find my way out of a paper bag, even if I'm still outside of the bag, so this is probably the best $200 I've ever spent. A separate data cable is also included for connecting to your home PC ( which will be required to update the software and add new features to the device ).
   
   There is an optional attachment and service you can purchase that will give you real time weather and traffic data. I understand that there is a monthly fee for this additional service, but I've not yet bought the extra receiver so I can't comment on its performance or cost.
   
   In short - if you want a very well rounded GPS navigator for an excellent price, you can't go wrong with the XL 330. I know what a few friends and family are getting for the holidays this year.



5. After a few days of living with my XL 330S I am disappointed that I'll have to send it back.
   
   The audio is barely audible with all installed voices. The supplied "computer voice", which you MUST use if you want spoken street names, is totally inaudible and distorted.
   
   I just wasted an hour trying to get tech support. You have to create an account on their site, go through a number of options that force you down an FAQ path that has virtually no troubleshooting info beyond the bare bones user guide, then you have to follow more instructions to submit an email question, instructions that ingeniously enough seem to try to steer you back to the FAQs! Once you do get to the e-mail form they require your "software version" (with no explanation where to find it) and your "repair number" , which is another required field... hello, I don't have a repair number.
   
   Truly its a shame because there are a number of positive attributes that make this an otherwise nice unit: The mount is convenient and secure, the set-up a no manual no brainer, easy to use interface, clear display, fast routing and rerouting.
   
   The mapping isn't perfect. A couple times so far it has chosen routes that took me down conjested secondary roads with traffic lights and low speeds, though the route was parallel to a major freeway and adjacent to an exit ramp. Pocono Raceway (a major NASCAR racetrack in PA) wasn't listed as a POI and when I entered the address it routed me in an indirect manner. In these cases I would have arrived at my destination, but the most efficient routes they were not. In revisiting some routes I would ignore the TomTom, go "my way" and the unit quickly rerouted itself, usually taking the path I chose. Not confidence inspiring when traveling to unfamiliar territory.
   
   If it weren't for the audio problem and vague support I'd accept the mapping foibles and keep the unit. If this is a batch problem then you would think by now they would have identified and pulled the lot from dealers' inventory. Sorry TomTom, unless you respond to my e-mail with a fix that doesn't entail returning it, I'm going Garmin or Magellan now.

5 comments about TomTom XL 330S 4.3-Inch Touchscreen Traffic-Ready Portable GPS Navigator.

1. first of all gps systems i judged, the volume is the loudest of all 3, different of all my tomtoms, it is thinner and lighter and the mount has been much improved over other mounts before this device, even switches to night mode without touching the screen, also has a brightness control, very simple to set up,for 200.00$ you will not find a better gps, my wife and daughter have tomtoms,two of them has blutetooth,which does not interest me but, once again to me tomtom has the best voice and display,that i tested with other brands.the volume control will also link to your speed of driving.customer support at tomtom needs improving but i have contacted crutchfield support to knock out the kinks.onnce again stay with tomtom.you will notice the difference



2. A few days ago I bought this GPS mainly because I loved the widescreen feature and TOM TOM reliability. The XL 330 first struck my eye and I found out that the 330 was the updated version of the XL. This GPS is truly a wonderful product and I could'nt be more happy with it so far.
   Let me tell you what happened to me last week.
   
   Incidentally, I had to bring back the first one I bought at Circuit City,
   because the Volume at the highest setting was barely audible. This volume issue was in response to an early review by Michael Dahlin "Dr D" stating that he ALSO had a volume problem with his unit. I have made numerous attempts at contacting TOM TOM regarding the numerous complaints about the volume, with no response yet. Anyways I went back to Circuit City to exchange the unit for another one. Low and behold the new unit i received worked PERFECTLY with loud and clear sound and great volume.
   
   I have to assume that TOM TOM MUST have released a bad batch of XL 330's.
   I have not as of yet received a response from TOM TOM......but again I want to reiterate this product is really wonderful....great GPS for the money!



3. I've had the unit for about three weeks now and for the most part I like it. The volume issue hasn't been an issue for me. It's very audible at about 70%; maybe it really is a bad batch of those out there that you can't hear. Two complaints: The unit sometimes doesn't recognize street names but will recognize the highway name. Here's an example: I was dispatched to Kit Creek Road in NC. I arrive at the airport and put Kit Creek Road in the GPS - It doesn't know what I'm talking about. Now I'm in trouble and have to make phonecalls back NY to get directions. When I finally get there, I see that Kit Creek is on the GPS. However, it's recognizing it by it's highway number first: HWY 1639 Kit Creek Road. The other complaint isn't so bad. Sometimes it just takes an inefficient route instead of getting straight to the point. That's 1% of the time though. Overall it's a great device. Even with the Kit Creek incident, the XL 330 helped me to get around the back woods of NC and everywhere else that I go. It's very accurate but you sometimes have to know how to enter the info.



4. This product is extremely easy to use - I only found one or two of the very extensive options to be a little unintuitive, but after less than a couple hours of poking around the features you really get a glimpse of the depth of the product. It may not have a few of the features that the $400+ models carry, but for my needs it far meets and exceeds. I was a little disappointed when it wouldn't find a numbered address on a highway ( such as when a smaller state highway runs through a city street ), but the database of points of interest had my destination on file.
   
   I was somewhat concerned about the voice volume issue that I'd read about in a few of these reviews ( after already having put my purchase order in ), but I'd have to say any units with poor volume have to be from a bad batch - even at the default 70% volume it was clearly audible with music playing and a window open at highway speeds. At max volume you really can't miss it unless you have difficulty hearing in general, though I found a few of the default voices were softer than others. Since it seems possible to create your own voice sets, and some voice sets are louder than others, I would assume one could edit a copy of the default voice and increase the gain / volume and reinstall, but there are a number of built in voices that are wholly satisfactory in the volume department.
   
   If I had to list any cons, it would be that base package voices still show up in the menu even if you remove them from the TomTom with the manager software. The inability to find an address on a highway might be a weakness of all navigators for all I know, as I've not had much experience with any others.
   
   If you buy this, definitely spend some time with the management software. There is a goodly amount of user supplied content ( maps, points of interest databases, and even voices ) that are free, as well as the normal software updates.
   
   When I left the store with it the most difficult part of setting it up was getting it out of the evil tough plastic packaging that most of us are familiar with. A car charger was included, so I plugged it in, answered a few basic questions, did a short tour and was on my way to my next destination within only a few minutes. Normally I can't find my way out of a paper bag, even if I'm still outside of the bag, so this is probably the best $200 I've ever spent. A separate data cable is also included for connecting to your home PC ( which will be required to update the software and add new features to the device ).
   
   There is an optional attachment and service you can purchase that will give you real time weather and traffic data. I understand that there is a monthly fee for this additional service, but I've not yet bought the extra receiver so I can't comment on its performance or cost.
   
   In short - if you want a very well rounded GPS navigator for an excellent price, you can't go wrong with the XL 330. I know what a few friends and family are getting for the holidays this year.



5. After a few days of living with my XL 330S I am disappointed that I'll have to send it back.
   
   The audio is barely audible with all installed voices. The supplied "computer voice", which you MUST use if you want spoken street names, is totally inaudible and distorted.
   
   I just wasted an hour trying to get tech support. You have to create an account on their site, go through a number of options that force you down an FAQ path that has virtually no troubleshooting info beyond the bare bones user guide, then you have to follow more instructions to submit an email question, instructions that ingeniously enough seem to try to steer you back to the FAQs! Once you do get to the e-mail form they require your "software version" (with no explanation where to find it) and your "repair number" , which is another required field... hello, I don't have a repair number.
   
   Truly its a shame because there are a number of positive attributes that make this an otherwise nice unit: The mount is convenient and secure, the set-up a no manual no brainer, easy to use interface, clear display, fast routing and rerouting.
   
   The mapping isn't perfect. A couple times so far it has chosen routes that took me down conjested secondary roads with traffic lights and low speeds, though the route was parallel to a major freeway and adjacent to an exit ramp. Pocono Raceway (a major NASCAR racetrack in PA) wasn't listed as a POI and when I entered the address it routed me in an indirect manner. In these cases I would have arrived at my destination, but the most efficient routes they were not. In revisiting some routes I would ignore the TomTom, go "my way" and the unit quickly rerouted itself, usually taking the path I chose. Not confidence inspiring when traveling to unfamiliar territory.
   
   If it weren't for the audio problem and vague support I'd accept the mapping foibles and keep the unit. If this is a batch problem then you would think by now they would have identified and pulled the lot from dealers' inventory. Sorry TomTom, unless you respond to my e-mail with a fix that doesn't entail returning it, I'm going Garmin or Magellan now.

5 comments about Magellan Maestro 4200 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator.

1. Good looking Nav unit is easy to operate. Its reasonably accurate, and has an excellent database of points of interest.
   
   It isn't feature-laden like more expensive models; this is a no-frills Nav unit.
   
   The map is October 2007, so if you live in an area ripe with development like Las Vegas(well, there USED to be development), then you might be disappointed to find out there are no new map updates for this unit.
   
   Final thought on this unit, and it applies to all Nav units, is that frankly I see very little utility in owning a Nav unit unless you travel often to places you are unfamiliar with. Nav units are no substitute for real knowledge and experience of the roadways.



2. The above merchandise we bought from Amazon is a great way to make sure you get to where you want to go....especially important when you are an older citizen and needing to get to unknown places. Many times we got lost going from Point A to B and now we're assured we'll get there and on time.
   Thanks.



3. The map and directions work okay. The magellan shuts off when traveling, especially in heavy traffic. I do not recommend it.



4. Great product, very readable screen, easy to operate, with all the features needed to navigate.



5. i wish it spoke the name of the streets. other than that it is awesome.

5 comments about Garmin StreetPilot 7200 7-Inch Portable GPS Navigator.

1. We purchased this GPS for use in our Class A motor home. We have now used it for over 1400 miles and it has worked flawlessly even in the trees of at our camp grounds with out an external antenna.
   We love the display size and the ease of use. My wife loves the fact she can stand behind my and use the remote to put in a new address with the remote while going down the road.



2. This 7200 StreetPilot if a real lifesaver to a motorhome pilot who has to navigate alone. It is large enough to see easily and for the most part is perfectly accurate. I would never travel without it.



3. Thanks for the great service and prompt deliver. Purchased from Beach Cameras on Amazon.com. Saved over $200.00. This GPS is fantastic. Great for our RV. Large screen easy to see and program. Also came with remote control.



4. There were a number of reasons that went into my decision to get the 7200, not the least of which was its size. I had previously decided on the 7500 because of the dead reckoning ability, but that is an option that must be hard-wired to a single vehicle and actually makes no sense on a portable unit. Before I go much farther I would like to clarify something: some reviewers have incorrectly stated that there are no street names displayed on the 7200/7500 units. Don't you believe it! As with other units not every street name is displayed, but many are. You will find fewer street names while using 3D mode and more if using 2D mode, but street names are there!!! It's funny, but I knew how large a 7" diagonal screen was before this thing arrived and yet it still managed to look big to me. I think it's because the items being displayed are all large. What I mean is that even though the screen is about twice the size of most other portables you don't get twice as much information on the screen...in fact, you get just about the same; things just look bigger. That, I am sure, is in keeping with Garmin's intended purpose for this unit: large trucks and buses where the unit is located pretty far away from the driver. I purchased the XM radio antenna along with this unit so that I could have traffic updates as well as good programming while travelling. Having a remote control in addition to a touchscreen is a nice thing and should be offered by more manufacturers, but I'm sure it won't be. In case you're wondering, yes you can use this unit with a bean-bag mount. That is precisely what I am using and it works just fine, despite comments by some folks who claim it won't work. Garmin makes a good bean-bag and it's up to the task! The first time you turn the unit on it takes a good bit of time for it to get its bearings, but after that you'll have fairly short start-ups. I purchased a Gilsson external antenna for $16.95 and am quite astonished at the difference it makes. The Garmin antenna is almost $60.00 and will do the same thing. When looking at the GPS details page the bars go from few and small with no external antenna to many and almost 100% filled in with the Gilsson attached. I actually bought the antenna so that I could locate the GPS on the transmission hump rather than on the dash...it certainly works for that. Now that gasoline is obscenely high priced, being able to navigate around traffic jams, via XM and Garmin, is a more compelling argument than ever before; and the 7200 is at a very attractive price considering what you get. Now, if it only had BlueTooth...!



5. I purchased the unit for use in my motorhome. The screen size is perfedt and the unit is very easy to operate. I highly recommend it!