[xanlexian]

I'd say a good 70-90% of vocal folks have a problem with a product. Not necessarily conclusive to ebook readers.

Anyway, just wanted to say that I haven't been on this site in quite some time. I use my PRS-505 daily, and absolutely still love it.

I originally sold a Uniden BCT-396T radio scanner to buy the PRS-505 (and some ham radio gear). Got the dark blue one, and haven't looked back.

Recently, I was thinking of selling my 505 to get a Nook (just the WiFi, have zero need for 3G). I even had my 505 listed on Craigslist. So, again I'm finding myself on these forums. After reading quite a bit on the "Nook vs. PRS-505".

Took my ad down, and am quite pleased I made the right decision a couple of years ago on the 505. I saw there is new firmware available (PRS+ and the other one... the name escapes me at the moment). How pleased I am there is still active development on this thing!!

Anyway, I absolutely love my 505! I REALLY love that it can handle most formats I throw at it. I don't use it for pictures, music, games, or anything other than READING!!

My original idea to get a ebook reader a couple of years ago was when I had two experiences. I should note at this point that I visited my local library about 2 to 3 times a week. Anyway, I'm sitting on the couch, reading a book I checked out at the library. I'm really into the story, my surroundings have vanished and I'm entirely engrossed in the book. Following the characters, deep in the plot, waiting to turn the page... what happens next??? Read faster... faster... get to the next page... OH MY GOD A BOOGER!!!

Then, the second experience was reading another book I checked out. I'm sitting on the porcelain throne. I started thinking, "this is where a LOT of people read... in the can... in the 'ol stink lodge..." I started obsessing over it. Really obsessing over the fart-infused paper pages. It got to the point where I just turned in all of my other library books and went on the hunt for an ebook reader. Something that I *KNOW* where its been.

When I mentioned this to my librarian, she showed me her red PRS-505 and said something along the lines of, "yeah... I've had those thoughts as well. Try being the librarian!!"

I picked up a second silver PRS-505 from Target for the ungodly price of $40, and two Sony lightwedge covers for $3 each. Thought about keeping them, but sold the silver PRS-505 and lightwedge for near $200. Not a bad investment. However, I no longer have the spare parts -- if I ever need them.

This is turning out to be a long, rambling post -- but I just wanted to throw in to anybody considering getting a PRS-505 (I have no experience with any other reader) -- you just can't go wrong. I absolutely love mine and it has gone on many trips, and survived many many many page turns. I never have used the memory card slots (except for flashing firmware a year and a half ago). The internal memory is plenty sufficient for holding a good 80+ complete books. Perfect for me.

Well, there you go. Absolutely no problems out of my reader. Ever. (*knocks on wood*)

--Alex

*EDIT* -- I should also note that I have never used the Sony Library software. I've never even seen it (other than screenshots). Calibre is the way to go. Kovid (I believe that's his name) has done a magnificent job and it marries up to the PRS-505 beautifully. It just works. It handles everything I throw at it.