I've already mentioned that one of the most novel features of the YP-55i is that it can encode an MP3 file and store it to memory on the fly - from one of two inputs no less. For example, if you are listening to the radio and a new song comes on, making an MP3 recording of it right then and there with the YP-55i only requires you to slide the 'REC/ENC' button to the 'ENC' side. The recording will automatically begin, and when you slide the little button back towards the 'REC' side, recording stops and the file is saved.

ENC Files are saved under the '/FM_ENC' folder, and are given a generic 'F001.mp3' name. The next time the YP-55i is connected to a PC, it's advisable to go through these recordings and rename them to suit their contents.

Alternatively, if you need to record a track off a friends Discman, a tape deck, another MP3 player, or basically anything with a mini-headphone jack, you can. The YP-55i includes a short headphone line cable and recording input jack. Once the YP-55i is connected to the other other device's audio out, or headphone jack, encoding the music onto the YP-55i is as straightforward as recording a song off the radio.

Files can be encoded at between 32kbps - 128kbps, depending on the quality level you desire, or how much space remains in the memory. Again, recordings through the ENC jack are stored in their own directory, '/LINE_ENC,' and are given a generic name like 'L001.mp3.' Recoding quality is pretty good, but slightly detracts from the original file. On the plus side, I had expected background static, and fuzz to work its way into the recording, as with the voice memo's, but none was present! Overall, the recording of MP3 tracks from another portable music device at 128kbps is good.

The huge drawback to both of these two otherwise awesome features is that the YP-55i will not allow you to immediately listen to any of the recorded files. Only files stored in user created folders are accessible for playback when the YP-55i is in music playback mode. Bummer.

The third method of recording on the fly is by using the integrated microphone at the top of the YP-55i to record verbal messages, reminder notes, or whatever.

The unit must first be set to 'Voice' mode, but after that, just key in the 'REC/ENC' button to start up a voice memo. Files are stored with the same generic 'V001.wav' naming structure as before - but in WAV format, not MP3.

Sound quality is respectable given the small condenser microphone, though a bit muffled. Unlike the previous two recording methods, the YP-55i will enable users to immediately play back voice recordings.