[NittanyLion]

Yes - with a hard drive you get more memory at a cheaper price.

Also, regarding your question about buying connectors...if you get one with a USB 2.0 port (most come standard) a USB cable is readily available in any store that sells PC devices. It may very well come with the MP3.

[redheadtoo]

Thanks again for the info. I will e-mail my niece and ask if memory or ruggedness is more important for her. I also appreciate the cable info.