Xclef HD-500 vs. Creative Zen NX Xtra..?

[noaxark]

I've been scouting for a good mp3 player that sells for a reasonable price. The ones I've found suiting my needs best are the Xclef HD-500 and the Creative Zen NX Xtra, so I'm currently trying to choose between the two.

It seems as the Xclef leads when it comes to features, such as FM radio and a highly functional portable hdd function which doesn't require you to carry a installation cd with you at all times. How does the NX's hdd functionality compare to this?

I've heard the Zen NX Xtra being praised a lot for it's sound quality, while I've heard nothing about how the Xclef sounds. The Zen NX has a Signal to Noice Ratio of 98 dB and an Earphone Out of 60 mW, while the Xclef has 90 (or 95) dB and 20 mW respectively, but just what does that mean?

Is there any other mp3 players that you'd like to recommend instead of these? Anything else I need to consider? Thanks in advance.

Edit: The two can be compared here (for example):
http/www.advancedmp3players.co.uk/shopping/pages/buyhd500.html
http/www.advancedmp3players.co.uk/shopping/pages/buyjukeboxzennx.html

Never mind the prices, they are better elsewhere.<P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1><EM>Edited by noaxark on 02/26/04 08:28 PM.</EM></FONT></P>

 

[noaxark]

Also, Creative recommends using the NX with an Audigy card. I've got an Audigy 2, but just what extra features does this give me if I purchase the NX?