Thanks for nothing, folks.
For others with the same wish list, I can now heartily recommend the Cowon iAudio G3. It allows easy on-the-fly playlist creation and much more, including up to 50 hours on a replaceable AA battery. One of the rare instances where CNET's user rating (8.3) is higher than the editor rating (7.7). Trust the users - it's a great machine.
Hi, I'm new to this forum, so forgive me if this is a stale topic. I'm trying to find a 1GB flash player for exercising that allows playlist programming on the fly, i.e. from it's own interface, rather than through a PC connection. I want to fill it up with both music files and audiobooks, and my ideal playlist would be something like 45 mins. of "Song 1..Song 2..Audiobook chapter 1..Song 3..Song 4...Audiobook chapter 2...etc." I'd like to be able to program this quickly just before running or walking.
Other desired features:
FM reception and recording
Line input from my home stereo
Built-in microphone
Automatic recognition as a drive on my PC (no music software necessary)
Can anyone recommend the best unit <$200 with these features? Thanks a lot for your help.
Randy

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic