Yes, I recommended a Lyra, and I dont care for the style either. But, your friend is messed, your not SUPPSOED to keep it in a bag, thats irresponsible. I kept mine in the wristband it came with, and its lasted for a year and 2 months now. Only reason I recommend a lyra is because its more compact, and is louder with music. Who would need a radio on there mp3 player anyways when you have your own selection of music? Thats like, the stupidest idea ever. The sound recorder is a fantastic idea if you are in college or are in an important work meeting, but otherwise, it would also be rarely used. Also, the Lyra is less of a battery hog, because it has no backlight, which I see is also unneeded, and is also less picky about the fact when you have a card inside. The ilo complains on a half battery when a card is inside, and shuts off, but the Lyra goes untill the battery finally dies. Overall, I think the Lyra is just plain better.