Sony NWZ-B135F Walkman (2GB, black)

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Sony B-Series Walkman

Features come and go in the rapidly evolving MP3 player space. One that has enjoyed fluctuating popularity is the built-in USB interface, which allows a device to connect directly to a computer without a cable. This "plug-and-play" capability is currently out of fashion, but Sony is trying to keep the dream alive with the B-Series Walkman. The entry-level offering is aimed at active users and is priced competitively at $44.99 for the 1GB model and $59.99 for the 2GB. Battery life isn't as impressive as other Sony Walkmans and the screen is tiny, but the B-Series hits the mark with an array of features suitable for on-the-go use.

The Sony B-Series Walkman is slightly larger than your average thumbdrive, measuring 3.5 inches long by 0.8 inch wide by 0.5 inch thick, which makes it ultraportable and suitable for just about any pocket. It comes in a variety of colors--black, pink, red (2GB only), and blue (1GB only)--which align rather well with the typical gym clothing palette. The USB interface is concealed beneath a removable cap at one end of the device, while a standard 3.5mm headphone jack is bored into the other. The main playback controls sit on the face and consist of a play/pause button, track forward and reverse keys, and a back button. Sony includes a variety of dedicated controls on the top edge of the player, including a record key, a volume toggle, and a bass boost button. The necessary hold switch is housed alone on the bottom spine.