Photos: SanDisk Sansa Clip

The Clip's four-line OLED display may lack album art and other such accoutrements, but the menus are easy to follow and the five-way control pad beneath it is large enough for any user to easily click.

The Clip gets its name from the removable belt clip that attaches to the backside of the device. This and the player's ultracompact body make it a perfect workout companion.

The Sansa clip may be cheap at just $40 for the 1GB and $70 for the 2GB, but SanDisk didn't skimp on the sound chip. It offers a 92dB signal-to-noise ratio and it shows: This is the best-sounding Sansa we've heard.

Despite its small size, the player manages to offer the standard mini USB port for charging and syncing, as well as a power/hold switch.

Don't let the size of the Sansa Clip betray you: The player offers several desirable features: support for MP3, WMA (unprotected/protected), and Audible files; integrated Rhapsody DNA; an FM radio; and a voice recorder come standard.

The Clip comes in a variety of colors: sleek black, candy apple red, hot pink, and ice blue. The black version is available in both capacities, while the colors come in 2GB only.

We're pleased to see a dedicated volume here--another surprise, given the player's compact form.

Even if you're not a gym rat, the Clip's clip still comes in handy. It keeps the player handy for easy access--clip it to a bag strap if you're using short headphones.