Alternative PMPs - The Day My iPod Died

I just found out that my 4th Generation iPod Nano died.

While I felt a tinge of sadness but I think now is the time to find an underdog when it comes to Portable Music Players (PMP).

Here are some brands that I found out as an alternative to the Apple iPod as being the best in its class.

Archos

Creative
 
iRiver

Samsung

SanDisk

I am thinking the following features should be available in search of that PMP:

• Full video, picture, audio support on both proprietary and open alternative formats
• MTP support on most sync software found in both Windows and Linux,
• 24 hours battery life when in continuous playing mode
• USB and WiFi support for synching data and installation of apps (latter could be waived)
• Small and thin form factor
• Digital recording function 
• Support for 3.5 mm connectors

So far, Creative is on top of my list. I have yet to explore which models are fit  for my needs. I'll have to research a bit more and get some ideas. It looks like I'll be thinking more during trips than just let wind vibrations distract and capture the attention of my brain!