Just when you think you've found the coolest MP3 player, something smaller with more memory comes out (and the way technology moves, we know this trend will never end). To be the first on your block to get the next big thing, or even to be the first to know about it, you have to stay informed about the latest gear.

Apple iPod Nano (4GB)

OK. By now we all know it's "impossibly small." But is it worth 250 bucks? Well, it is 60 percent thinner than any other player in its class, such as the popular Creative Zen Micro. However, when you consider the ratio of song storage to price (1,000 tracks for $250), you'll find you can get 500 more songs on a 6GB player for the same price as the Nano. So that's something to consider. On the upside, it's a miniature version of the regular iPod with the same user-friendly menu and photo capabilities (we love that scrollwheel). There's no doubt it's a fine product. Just make sure you weigh all your options before laying down the plastic.

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Asono Mica (512MB)

Many flash players are designed to hang around your neck, such as the MobiBlue DAH-1500i and the iPod Shuffle, but this unique offering from Asono drives the concept home. The lanyard-style design is perfect for on-the-go listeners. Compared to the Shuffle (as all sporty players are these days), the main con is that it doesn't have autofill playlist functionality. However, the main pros are that it has a screen and is compatible with both unprotected WMA and AAC files (the Shuffle supports AAC but not WMA). Most music applications don't recognize the player, so your best bet is to use your computer's OS (for example, My Computer on the PC).

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Creative Zen MicroPhoto (8GB)

Oh yeah, the MicroPhoto--we almost forget about this one. Creative teased us with this player earlier this year, and now it's finally being released. It's an updated version of the popular Zen Micro with a color screen and photo functionality. The familiar Creative features are all here, like FM radio and support for portable subscription services. The MicroPhoto is the first 8GB player (4,000 songs) in existence, which puts it in a gray-area category between hard drive and micro drive. Whichever club it ends up in, it will surely be compared to the 60-percent-thinner iPod Nano, which was just released as well (for those of you living under a rock).

Oakley Razrwire Bluetooth Eyewear

Before you get too excited, this isn't an MP3 player. But it is a Bluetooth cellular headset/sunglasses combo, which may be just as impressive to you. Finally, a cell phone headset that doesn't make you look like a martian! (Well, at least now you'll look like a cool, sporty martian.) As with any other cell phone device, it takes a trio of companies to seal the deal. The sunglasses are made by Oakley (of course), the headset is engineered by Motorola, and the service provider is Cingular. Wow, Motorola and Cingular are really making power moves these days.