e.Digital Corporation (fka EDIG)

[DABOSS]

Odyssey 1000 rated A-, RCA Lyra B+...


RCA Lyra MP3 RD2840 -- B+
With a low price and a 40GB hard drive (enough for 7,000 to 8,000 songs, double the capacity of anything else here), the Lyra represents prime value. It supports an MP3Pro format (a variant of MP3 with superior audio quality), and when connected to a computer, it also works as an external hard drive. On the flip side, it's as big as a trashy paperback. $300; 40GB; 800-336-1900; rca.com (Mac and Windows; USB 2.0)

Odyssey 1000 -- A-
While the Odyssey player offers voice recording, an FM radio, and a fast USB 2.0 connection, its best feature is the backlit display. It's bright, legible, and well laid out. The controls are simple, with an iPod-style thumb wheel for browsing songs and adjusting the volume. But files must be organized in an inconvenient folder/subfolder hierarchy, and the Odyssey's voice-navigation system is gimmicky and impractical: Barking commands and artist requests in public places draws odd looks. $350; 20GB; 858-679-3195; edigital.com (Windows only; USB 2.0)

http://www.mensjournal.com/toolsToys/0306/iPodclones.html