I have a 2G 10 GB ipod an I love it. However, the ipod is missing a few things considering how much they charge for it. If I had to get something other than an ipod I would get an iriver
http://www.techtv.com/freshgear/prod...520453,00.html It has a built in radio and allows for inline recording. The only bad thing about the iriver is its meager capacity at 256 MB for $200. If you invest another $100 you can get a 10 GB ipod if size is a primary consideration.