iAudio X5
The Cowon IAudio X5 is a class act - from its stylish black case to its bright color screen. The 30GB, iPod-size X5 has everything that ipod does--including music playback, a photo viewer, and on-the-fly playlists. And then it shames iPod with features like video playback, an FM radio, voice and line-in recording, and even the ability to read and save images directly from a digital camera without an adapter.
Sony NW-HD5
Sony may have a winner at hand. The Network Walkman NW-HD5 has several features that set it apart from Apple's IPod. For example, the NW-HD5 runs on a removable and rechargeable battery that supports up to 40 hours of playback. Wicked, huh! Also, the player has a built-in USB connector and power jack, so no dock or adapter is required. Available in silver, black, or red, HD5 will win you over with simple interface, small form factor and great sound.
Philips GoGear HDD6330
Sleekly designed with glossy black body, photo-friendly color screen, and blue-backlit touch-sensitive interface - GoGear HDD6330 could give ipod a solid competition. This 30GB HDD player is fully decked out with features, including an FM tuner, voice recording, JPEG viewing with thumbnail previews, ID3 tag and album art support, voice/FM/line-in recording capabilities in WAV format at up to 192Kbps and compatibility with MP3 as well as both purchased and subscription-based WMA files.
Philips Active PSA612
The 4GB microdrive-based Active Range PSA612 is an exercise-friendly MP3 player from Philips. And no, its not in tie-up with Nike. Still, its miniml design and space-age shape is stunning. The player is MP3 and WMA DRM 9.0 compatible, includes an FM tuner, and features an integrated stopwatch that allows users to measure their progress and receive on-demand voice feedback via the headphones.
Jens of Sweden MP-400 Excentrique
For the ostentatious and those who want a unique instrument, something the all too popular iPod cannot offer. 1GB Jens of Sweden MP-400 Excentrique, the version of the new MP400 line that comes coated in 24-karat gold. built-in FM tuner, line-in recording, voice recorder, stylish and low-power OLED blue and orange screen. And they're about the size of your thumb and are meant to be worn around your neck. And yes, it plays OGG Vorbis too!