Aesthetic and technological alternatives to IPOD

I would like to get a feedback from people who might be using a hard drive based MP3 player that might equal the Ipod in its versatility as well as its sound. There are too many supporters that will advocate the Iking, but there are lingering doubts due not only its battery reliability, but also some defects that plague different generations of the 4 that have just recently been released.

Any commentaries about your choices would be appreciated.