I would like to second that the Zune HD is an awesome device from the spec's and current reviews of it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMnztMaPMoI , but just to add to a few comments...

I really hope it provides an alternative option to the "apple epidemic", that makes ppl go for either the iphone or touch. The specs on the HD should make ppl want to flock to it for the OLED screen alone almost, since it saves on battery power and IS HIGH DIF! but if thats not enough it allows you to try out HD radio for free so I'm not sure how that will be but it cant be bad when its free, and the web experience should be good at least if not great assuming the browser is nice ( i wish the could have show a bit of the web browsing in the video). To say its in competition, or fighting range as you put it with the NIT's is a bit sketchy, I understand what your saying but it just doesnt really seem like it would to me. Even though the touch for some reason does since its like the contract free iphone i guess but maemo is open source and i'm sure MS will have its own restrictions despite the fresh new spin on things. still a solid device though and i cant wait to see it...