The number two in the MP3-players market recently unveiled its latest entry-level gadget, called Sansa Clip, a potential rival to Apple’s iPod Shuffle.

SanDisk’s Sansa Clip has five “subdivisions” but comes in only four colors (black, pink, red and blue), with two black models differentiated by the amount of flash memory integrated under the hood (1G and 2GB respectively). All 2GB models (enough to pack 500 songs for about 30 hours of music playback) sell for $59.99, while the 1GB one is cheaper, only $39.99.

Presented as “perfect for the fitness buff or traveler”, the new Clips also include an FM tuner (with 40 preset channels), a longer lasting battery and a brighter screen, and built-in microphone for voice recording.

The package includes an USB transfer cable, earphones and installation CD, along with promotional materials and a quick start guide. You’ll also need Windows XP or Vista to be able to transfer your songs, with Windows Media Player 10 or 11 available.