Encross WaveX WV-430C (512MB)

Summary: I just received this WaveX MP3 player. It took TigerDirect.com 8 days from order to package arrival using the standard shipping method (UPS). I had a hard time researching this, the company website was not easy to find (www.wavexdigital.com).

CONS:
The JPEG viewer functionality is not quite what I expected. Instead of being able to drop JPG/GIF images into the player, you must use their provided software (called Logo Edit) to load your images into a single file. Then you must drop this 'special' file into a specific folder on the player. Then you must configure the player to use a screen saver. It is only then, when the screen saver initiates that you will be able to see your photos. No, there is no way to scroll thru the photos - you must watch them only as a screen saver. Also I should note that while the player is attached to the computer, you cannot use it. If you just 'Stop' the device using the icon in the task bar, you can then access the player while plugged in - However, I am not sure if it continues to charge in this state - I could not find any documentation that confirms/denies this. It would be nice if they shipped this with an arm strap instead of neck strap. It does not support WAV playback! Only recharge option is via USB - However you may purchase an adapter that will convert AC/DC to USB and your all set. Last con - I am afraid that the navigation knob may break off easily if pressed too hard, which could happen if you use this during activities.

PROS:
Very small, very cool design. Totally plug and play (using Windows XP, 98 you must install the driver). You can hook this up to any computer with at least XP and not have to worry about configurations. Plenty of accessories come with this (2 USB adapters, neck strap, earphones, cloth sheath, line in cable). Color display is extremely clear - photos look good on this as long as you resize them to 96x96 pixels beforehand. A ton of menu options to play with to customize the look/feel. Navigation is super easy with toggle knob. All recording functionality (voice, FM radio, line in) is encoded directly as MP3 format and comes out crystal clear. I have used other MP3 voice recorders and they tend to have very poor quality. Did I mention sound quality? EXCELLENT sound quality - This has SRS, True Bass, WOW, and EQ presets (including custom) - Everything you need to get just the right sound out of this MP3 player. It is also nice that it remembers the last track and position of a song when you power off/on. Given the setbacks I have with it, I am still very happy with my purchase. 512mb mp3 player with features not to be found on many others for a price, less than $100 - You cannot beat that in 2005.

Summary: I've had this player for 3 weeks now, and I am VERY delighted with it.
After three weeks of research I chose the WV-430c because it offered the best of the features and funtions I was looking for.
I am hoping that I will be able to fine a car charger adapter for this and I also hope they offer a larger memory version in the future.