[restevezes]

Hi there,

My CF modded ipod died... time to look for a new player

These would be my requirements:

- Price: under $100(could pay even more if it's really worth it)
- Size (at least 20GB, more is appreciated, also expandability is a plus)
- Small form-factor: I have the player in my pocket most of the time so i want something thin. iPod mini 2nd gen was nice... looking for something similar and even thinner (Fuze is fine, Cowon D2+ is too thick)
- Good SQ: iPod mini 2nd gen was ok only when using LOD... i would like something with at least decent SQ (Fuze, Clip, D2?)
- Flexible OS: Rockbox is appreciated if available, would like something with enough options (EQ, etc)
- Decent screen: I'd like to see more than the 2 lines on the Clip... I am changing sons all the time so i want to get as much info as i can (Cowon D2 is great for this... Clip is too limited)
- I do NOT need radio or foto or video capabilities
- It is ok used/refurb players, dont need it to be brand new


Based on this, and after reading many threads, i am condering the following players:

- Cowon D2: like the size, but heard some negative comments about being too thick for pocket use and not so convenient if you are constantly changing songs etc. Like the SQ, expandability and price. Could be a potential adquisition.

- Sansa Fuze: like the form factor and expandability, price really reasonable too. But it looks to me like a cheap player, and not big fan of its OS/UI. AFAIK it is not possible yet to install Rockbox, is it?

- Sansa Clip: considered, but had one on my hands and it is too small and screen too limited. Not interested.

- Sony Walkmans: I really like the size of the Sony but i am confused with all models and brands. It looks like they are not expandable and not that cheap, right?

- iPod mini 2nd gen: I could buy a broken one and reuse my 32GB card. Already used to it but would like something different if possible.


Not sure about any other options?
Anyone could recommend me something based on the requirements above and options available on the market right now?

Thank you!

)

 

[B'dole]

The Fuze sounds like an option. BestBuy occasionally marks them down to $45 for the 4GB model, as they did Black Friday.

I'd consider the S-series Sony Walkman. It's the best sound without spending $300 - $400 for the X-series. The 16GB model can be found for ~$100 on sale. (Model S545)

NWZ-S545BLK | 16GB S Series Walkman® Video MP3 Player | Sony | Sony Style USA

 

[NinjaCat]

There has been refurb Sansa Fuzes out there for around $50, and if your lucky they are rockboxable.

 

[Young Spade]

Yea I would say to check out the Sansa Fuze's and the old Sony models. The knew one is good but costs a bit more than your budget..... so the Fuze would be a good choice if you want size and good SQ; the UI isn't my favorite thing about it though (which is why I don't have one).

 

[gideonMorrison]

I vote Sansa Fuze!