Eye-grabbers like the hot pink Creative MuVo Micro N200 had many of us thinking pink was the new black. But with the recent release of many executive black-colored MP3 players, it's now safe to say black is the new black. Who's responsible for this trend? Could it be Batman? Or maybe it's a tribute to AC/DC's Back in Black album? Whoever started it, black remains a universal color that goes well with most technology.

Other similarities among these new players are that they're all hard drive players (20GB-plus), and, aside from the Sony HD5, they all have color screens. This indicates that viewing photos (and album art) has become standard among music devices. Color and design are only skin deep, however, so let's take a closer look at what other functions these players have to offer.

Cowon iAudio X5 (30GB)

Cowon products require some getting used to, but they're great once you do. Highlights of the iAudio X5 include its slick design, color screen, FM radio, and Windows-esque JetShell software. One downside is its navigation joystick. We've seen this tiny knob before, on its counterpart, the iAudio U2 (no relation to the iPod U2--or to the band, for that matter). This type of control makes sense as a flash player, but for a hard-drive player it's simply too small. Overall, if you're looking for an iPod alternative with a color screen, the X5 is a solid choice. It supports MP3, WMA, ASF, FLAC, and WAV.

Creative Zen Vision (30GB)

You may have seen the white version of the Vision in our last New Gear feature. Well, here's the same exact player, in black. The wonderful 3.7-inch SharpPix high-resolution color screen makes storing and viewing photos an enjoyable experience. The Zen Vision Media Explorer software isn't all that exciting; however, that's not such a big deal after you realize that the Vision is compatible with PlayForSure (subscription) and secure WMA compatibility (Rhapsody, Napster, and so on). Did we mention that it plays videos and has FM radio? Heads up, iPod.

Apple iPod U2 (20GB)

From the way Apple has been pulling certain iPods (30GB and 40GB) off the shelf, I'm surprised that the iPod U2 is still in circulation. I'd guess its popularity has more to do with the black-and-red design than the U2 catalog $50 discount, but I've been wrong before. Meanwhile, have you noticed that all new iPods have color screens now (including the U2), yet they haven't raised the prices? Nice move once again, Apple.

Toshiba Gigabeat (20GB)

If Napster To Go support and a color screen are key factors for you, give the Gigabeat a try. It came close to taking down the iPod in our last Player Bout; however, its cross-shaped navigation pad was no match for the scrollwheel. Navigation aside, it's up to par with the other heavyweights on this page. Plus it has excellent sound, and its menu displays unique (and blinking) color graphics.

Sony Network Walkman NW-HD5

Black-and-white screens seem to be phasing out, but we're not surprised to still see them on Sony players (the company has always been a step or two behind when it comes to MP3 technology). Like the iPod and iTunes, the NW-HD5 is only compatible with downloads bought from Sony's Connect music store. Your MP3s will play, but WMAs or WAVs will have to be converted to ATRAC3 using Sony's SonicStage software. Overall, loyal Sony fans looking to make the move from CD to MP3 players will be satisfied with the NW-HD5.