Sony MP3 Players

iPods seem to be selling like hotcakes at most electronic stores, but there are many people complaining about how they don't like using iTunes to download all their music and video.  Although the Apple iPod it is a great device, unfortunately the proprietary software forces you to buy from Apple's store.  To fix this you basically have to break your iPod trying to unlock it, but your best bet is simply to go with another brand.  Sony, original inventor of the portable music device, also makes some great MP3 players that don't require any special software or additional installations. 

The Sony Walkman NWZ models are the most popular Sony MP3 players in the Sony line because they play music and videos and feature a large 2 inch screen, which makes it easy to navigate between albums and videos. 

The Sony ultra compact models are very small and light weight and are great for runners or people on the go.  On top of storing up to 2 GB of music they also have a radio and a built-in rechargeable battery.  If you're really picky about the color of your MP3 player, then you be happy to know that it comes in red, black, pink, and blue.  These models cost between $50 and $75. 

The next step up in the Sony line of MP3 players is the 8 GB Walkmans, which not only offer music and radio but they also allow for eight hours of video playback.  These models also come with rechargeable batteries that are built into the unit so you never have to worry about buying batteries again.  Like the ultra compact models, these also come in several colors, such as black, red, pink, and blue.  These models cost between $125 and $175 depending on where you buy them. 

The flagship model of Sony's MP3 player line is the 8 GB big-screen Walkman that carries over the same functionality and the other 8 GB models while also providing a 2.4 inch LCD screen.  Currently this model only comes in one color, which is black, but it is still a very slick looking MP3 player.  Priced at around $200, this model is still more functional and much cheaper than an iPod. 

My favorite thing about Sony Walkman MP3 players is that they allow you to import any kind of audio or video, which means that you can avoid shopping from iTunes altogether if you like.  I like to import my music and video from a lot of sources so using something like a Sony Walkman is a no-brainer for me.  But as the Sony tagline says "it's entertainment to go," and they aren't lying.