T30 Freezing while Loading MP3

[boondocker]

Brand new T30 1GB from JandR Music sale $49.99. Unit came 1.71P MTP. PC is Win XP SP2 with a powered multi USB hub. Immediately recognized and was able to load a few songs. Very good sound. Enough testing... I wanted a simple drag and drop machine. After a few tries of flashing to UMS using iRiver's 1.50 updater, I FINALLY got it to UMS. I had to load 1.60P first and then it would take 1.71P UMS.

Now I tried to fill the T30 up with wma. But it would always freeze after loading x amount of tracks. Sometimes 50, other times 100. Sometimes as few as 20. I was using my reliable powered USB hub. Never had a problem with Creative Zen Micro Photo, iaudio U2 or I5, Samsung MT6Z, or any number of USB devices. Well, after reading this fine forum, I see some folks also had the same problem. Some discussion of using non-powered hubs. So, I reloaded FW, formatted player, and tried a direct USB load. It worked. So, my conclusion...iRiver T30 is VERY sensitive to USB connection.

My overall conclusion of the T30:
GOOD
1. At $49.99 brand new, it is an excellent value.
2. Sound is VERY good. Plays OGG. Decent ear buds.
3. Small, good looking, very readable display.

BAD
1. Very poor battery life. Fresh premium alkaline AAA doesn't last even 10hrs.
2. Extremely sensitive to USB connection. I have to use DIRECT connection.
3. No case. No belt loop attachment. Sliding around in my pocket, the case will surely become scratched quickly.
4. Buttons are somewhat inconvenient. A jog wheel or pad would have been more intuitive.