Mp3 Players

[Van D]

Well, I figured there's a few tech sorta guys on here, so I was wondering if I could get some opinions on an mp3 player.

Basically, i've always been a bit iffy about iPods, since I had once which fell apart and many of my friends have had bad news with them.. Now I know others have no problems with them as well, but i'd rather get something I KNOW isn't going to fall apart on me..

I was thinking about an iRiver, but it seems there isn't much to choose from nowadays from them, basically the e10 is all that appeals to me, and it's only 6gig.

I've also had a creative, which was great and never missed a beat until it was stolen on a family holiday in Sydney from the boot of our car! So I was looking at maybe a ZEN vision W (or M) or something else from them.

Any good site links or opinions on what to go with? I'm looking at the 3-400 range most likely and would rather something that plays video with a good screen (bigger screen the better). If there's nothing that appeals which plays video, i'm fine with just an audio playing unit as I wouldn't watch the movies that much.

I'd also like something that can plug straight into a stereo (whether it be home, or car head unit).. Or are they all like that nowadays?

PS. What would be the best time to get one? In these last few days before the christmas rush, or during the post christmas sales?

Cheers.