This white-hot Sirius satellite radio receiver ($350) doubles as an MP3 player, with 2GB of storage for music downloads. But the Stiletto's real claim to fame is the ability to tap into the satellite feed via Wi-Fi when out of radio range. Combined with a very sleek black iPod-like design, it also has compelling features like ability to tag songs you are listening to for future purchase in Yahoo's music store, and "shadow" radio recording, which automatically records what you are listening to into any free space, so you can rewind or play it back later.

Just what is a MusicGremlin? This $300 handheld music player combines a music subscription service with the ability to load up your own MP3s. You can access the subscription service, which has more than 2 million tracks, directly through any Wi-Fi internet connection, no computer necessary (although the service will work on your computer too). An unlimited number of tracks can be downloaded from the catalog, and played on up to three PCs. You can also share music and playlists with other subscribers. The player supports both MP3 and WMA files, including protected Windows DRM tracks, something no iPod can do.

Microsoft's Zune player ($350) isn't shipping yet, but has already been the subject of much criticism -- notably that its Wi-Fi capability is only good for ad-hoc connections with other users, rather than syncing with your computer or downloading music at hotspots. Nevertheless, Zune will likely capture a fair bit of market share thanks to its 30GB capacity, ability to play Windows DRM protected music files, and its Microsoft parentage. Zune's principal advantage over the iPod is the dual music store model -- it can play both purchased and subscription music, letting you preview full albums any number of times before you buy.

Don't have $300-$350 to spend on a music player? Or simply want a gadget that can do more than just play tunes? Try a Pocket PC or Palm device. For just $200, the HP iPAQ rx 1955 is a full-fledged Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC, with all the usual capabilities: email, web surfing, viewing and editing of Office documents, media playback and much more. It also has built-in Wi-Fi, so you can connect at any hotspot. An SD card slot lets you expand storage to fit your music needs. For a triple-duty device, try a Windows Mobile smartphone, covered in the TV in Your Pocket section of this guide.