To compensate, some portable MP3 players, including models from Creative, Haier and Sandisk, offer a subscription service through which you can get as much music as you want for a monthly fee. However, once you stop paying, the music evaporates.
Now there's a new approach - one I find appealing because it is customised to your musical tastes, and songs can be constantly refreshed. The best part: You don't pay extra for music after buying the player.