The tiny Brennan JB7 stands out from the crowd with a built-in hard disk and CD-ripping features. Pop a CD into the sleek slot-loader and it'll rip it at 12 times playback speed, either in lossless format or MP3 at 128-,192- or 320kbps. This 160GB model has enough space to store around 1000 CDs as 320kbps MP3s, but 80GB and 320GB variants are also available. Track names are taken from a pre-loaded database that's a little behind the times, and has no way of recognising new CDs without subsequent updates that can be bought on CD from Brennan for extra.

Name: Brennan JB7 160GB.jpg Views: 315 Size: 19.8 KB

The ability to plug in a Wi-Fi USB dongle or connect to a network via Ethernet could have avoided this becoming a source of increasing irritation in future. Thankfully you can transfer pre-ripped and tagged music from your computer to the JB7 via the frontmounted USB socket, or just play them directly. The aux-in also allows you to record audio to the hard disk.
The other good news is that the JB7 is an entertaining listen, with decent balance through the tonal range, tight bass and nice dynamics. It'll go loud without sounding shocking, too. There's a little bit of clatter in the treble, but given the fun, unique nature of the wee beastie, we're still very keen on it.