Hi Milano, I actually like the factthat the Book Port doesn't have a built-in battery pack. I did buy some high-capacity NIMH rechargeable batteries, and with those, I get the best of both worlds. I don't have to buy batteries all the time, but I also don't have to worry about the BP's battery eventually becoming unable to hold a charge. Best, Angie --Original Message Text--- From: Milano Hyacinthe Date: Thu, 14 Sep 2006 15:53:55 -0400 I am not saying that the Bookport is not great since I also own a Bookport. As a blind software programmer, I am aware of the technologies that are out there that can improve in the Bookport speech. I have no problem with the speech but for a reading device I would prefer a more realistic voice. Otherwise, I love my Bookport I wish that it was rechargeable so I wouldn't have to purchase batteries at all time. God Bless All Milano Hyacinthe Bachelor in Information Technology Information Technology Technician University of Central Florida