The problem with the iPod is how much it limits you. Many other mp3 players allow you to use a variety of services to put music onto your player well iPods can only use iTunes. If you don't want to be held down by the restraints of Apple, I'd suggest steering away from iPods. I will admit in years past iPods have been the best choice because of their style and functionability. However, that is no longer true. Other mp3 producers have caught up and there are a great deal of alternatives on the market now. I have a few suggestions based on what you need. I'll sort them by major producers.

Archos-by far the leader in PVR (personal video recorder) if your looking for a player that you can record music, and movies and price isn't an issue, Archos is your best bet. Their huge hard drives allow storage of massive amount of media.

Creative-A broad range of really good mp3 players. Steer away from their multimedia devices(windows based). A good place to start if you really don't know what you want. Also a good place to start if color is important to you. Almost all their mp3 players come in over a dozen different colors. Also your best bet if you are looking for a player with a massive amount of memory.

Dell-If your looking for a hard drive based mp3 player that can really take a beating here's your whipping boy.

iRiver-If you want to be different then everyone else out there, iRiver has got some crazy looking mp3 players.

Rio-A slew of basic yet functionable, affordable mp3 players. Also, if you don't like the traditional look of an mp3 player, they have some rugged designs sure to please your fancy.

Samsung-My suggestion for someone who is looking for a gift for a first time mp3 player user. Simple and stylish.

Sansa-If you know you want a flash based device, this is where you want to start.

Sony-If you want to spend money and really not get anything for it, Sony has a mp3 player for you.

Other-Good luck with the rest, you'll need it.

Choosing a kind of mp3 player. There are only a few details in choosing an mp3 player, its rather simple.

Memory (storage) type-There are only two kinds-flash based and hard drive based. Flash becomes more and more popular by the day because it is becoming cheaper and more durable. If you plan on using the player to exercise or are accident prone I would suggest flash. However, hard drives will give you more space for you money. If you want a 10,20,40, or 100 GB player you will have to go with a hard

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