I would go with an ipod, simply because they have been redisigned so many times it is hard to find something wrong with it. also in terms of sound quality the ipod is very good. The only reason I can think of getting teh zen is it has a lot more audio options becuase it uses EAX (bass control, etc). just don't buy all the expensive ipod accesories, they are a waste of money and you are just paying for the name. Also do not get the ipod shuffle, it is crap, doesnt even have a screen.