If you're looking for a portable digital audio player/mp3 player and want something that's different and oozes quality, then this may be of interest. Sure, the iPod is a great product, but it isn't everyone's cup of tea. The Monolith doesn't look impressive on paper. When new, they were expesive and, on the secondhand marked, they can't complete with other solid state players on capacity or user-friendliness.

So why buy one?
1. Outstanding build quality. The solid aluminium case is immaculately finished. They actually ran over the thing in a car to prove the point. If you like shiny plastic then buy something else. If, like me, you appreciate something made out of metal then you'll be delighted with a Monolith.
2. Looks. The brushed aluminium case and two colour LED display make this look like something taken from an 1960's Apollo spacecraft. Nothing can touch the Monolith when it comes to looks - they are unique, retro and extremely classy.
3. Sound Quality. It only supports WMA and MP3 but that's fine for portable audio. The DAC is of excellent quality. I think What-hifi used to rate these players when they were in production.

And the reasons to buy something else:
1. Capacity. Most are 512Mb but there are some 1Gb models around. More than enough for a few hours listening but can't compete with modern players.
2. Ease of operation. This player is a pain to use at first but you do get used to it.

Buying a used Monolith:
They do come up on eBay now and again, sometimes unused and boxed. Expect to pay between GBP 20 and 60. They can be hard to find but well worth waiting for.