Well, i have a 128 MB Memorex player, which is really nice for going running and stuff, but prolly a lot smaller than what you want.
However, I am purchasing a Dell Digital Jukebox (or whatever its called) tomorrow, because it has a nice battery life (20 hours
) and it is just a friendly player. The ipods are almost as good, but they cost a decent bit more. So i would go with the dell if i was you.
Irivers are the best, in my opinion, but they cost the most by far (as far as ive seen)
Hope i was a help