HD Alternative... (Score 2)

If you have the money for a HD player but don't want one b/c you need a player for running, small pockets, etc. the Panasonic SV AV series ( $400) has some pretty nifty features such as a camdcorder, digital camera, 2" LCD, and an AV cradle for recording TV shows. Sony also has some cool multi-use devices but are quite a bit more expensive.