I badly need to buy a new Hi-MD player. I’d prefer Gold, but can’t find on sony’s websites, anyone rec a reliable on-line store? Also, im looking to hook it up with a nice set of earbuds. Can you guys recommend anything under $100?

Do u know that warehouse123.com is now selling both Japanese and World versions of the MZ-NH1: Gold AND Silver. For earbuds under $100, My standard response is the Audio Technica ATH-CM5. The sound is good and the price is pretty decent. Your other options is Sony MDR-E888, and they have has rave reviews in classical, and audiophile magazines.

Can you please give me some comments on these those in-ear phones and compare them to the earbuds. Are the are the Sony MDR-EX71SL good or should i get the Shure E2?

The MDR-EX71SL is a lot cheaper then the Shure E2. The sound great, and the outlook is decent. I suggest you buy the EX71, and save the money for future upgrade.