I finally gave in and purchased an mp3 player. I did do some serious looking around before I made the purchase though. I didn’t want to spend an arm and a leg, or conform and purchase an iPod. So this is what I ended up getting.

The Transcend T.sonic 620. Great specs and at an affordable price:
1 GB Space
FM Radio Tuner
Digital Voice Recorder
LED Display
1 X AAA Battery
Supports MP#, WMA and WMC files

Comes with Earphones, USB connector, Hand Strap and Carry Bag.

Its perfect for my needs and for 820 bucks who can resist this great Christmas buy.