11. And, Still Not Forgotten

• NOMAD MuVo Slim 256MB...
• • digitaldepot
  • $39.99

We also tested some other memory audio players that are still on sale and might meet your needs.

Samsung Yepp YP-T5

This elegant little player is also very practical to use. Its multidirectional "touchpad" browse button lets you operate it with one hand. And the sound quality is good, though you will have to use the equalizer if you want meaty bass. And Samsung has just put a 1 GB version on sale at $249.

IRiver IFP 1090

With its combination of camera and MP3 audio player functions, this one might appeal to you. The sound quality is worthy of other products in the iRiver line. The camera function, on the other hand, is mediocre, with a maximum resolution of 640 x 480 pixels. The color LCD display considerably improves the player's ergonomics by making navigation easier. Add its 23-hour battery life and you might just be willing to shell out $299 for this device.

Creative Labs Muvo Slim

As thin as a credit card, this audio player remains Creative's quality standard. its battery can only be recharged via the computer. But its ergonomics and sound quality are just as good. Add the fact that the battery life is the same (approximately 14 hours for both units), and some may give in to the lure of its slim elegance ($99).

Conclusion

So which player merits a place on your Christmas or Hanukkah gift list? While we do not recommend the Philips Key015 and the Sony NW-E75 due to their sub-par ergonomics and sound quality, the other devices offer their own mixed bag of good and bad qualities. The iRiver N10 and the MSI Mega Player 516 will likely appeal to those who desire a chic design, despite the poor-quality ergonomics and radio tuner of these players, respectively.

If you don't want spend a lot of money in order to listen to your favorite music anywhere and anytime, the MPIO FY-300 and Packard Bell's Audiokey FM are the ticket. The Rio Forge and Samsung's YP-60 V are more expensive, but are also sturdier.

However, for those who demand nothing less than the best sound quality available in a flash memory audio player, then Creative's Muvo V200 Creative should fit the bill despite its sober appearance.