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Hang on to that. It turns out that AA or AAA powered players are gone and will not come back. Demand is for thin players, and not for batteries on the go. Only the cheaper players will be using replaceable batteries.


Exactly. I just did a fairly extensive search for an MP3 player that would be an improvement (i.e. smaller and lighter) over my older Somy Walkman MP3 player. But everything I found with good quality and size required a built in proprietary battery.

The new second generation Ipod shuffle is a good example. It's extremely small, weighs only half an ounce, and has built in clip. But I would have to carry another 4-5 ounces of connectors and a portable USB power source to keep it charged on a long trip. My old player with 2 extra AAA cells weighs only 1.7 ounces.

I'm hanging on to my Sony.
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If you only travel on sunny days you will never reach your destination.*

* May not apply at certain latitudes in Canada and elsewhere.