MP3 players forum: download direct from CD to MP3 player

Actually, I think that's exactly what I was asking for - a solution that could work via the computer. (Although if someone could figure out another way, I wouldn't object.) I don't mind using the computer as a flow-through device, which would convert the music to mp3 (or whatever) format, before transferring it to the mp3 player.
What I object to is storing the music on the computer before transferring it to the mp3 player. It seems like I'm introducing a 'middle man', not to mention a lot of extra work, into the process. Let's remember that I'm not downloading a track here or there. We're talking an entire music library - larger than average. And I don't want to clutter the hard drive on my PC with all that - if I even have room. Besides, loading it on one electronic device so I can move it to another seems rather redundant to me.
In the end, I think what I'm really looking for is a software solution. But I want a bundled software solution. I don't want to buy the mp3 player from one manufacturer and the software from another and then be left holding the bag when they don't work together.

Thanks for that thought. It had not ocurred to me. I just figured an mp3 player was sort of a semi-permanent device. I tend to think long term where TVs, stereos, etc. are concerned. (One of the TVs in my house is over 20 years old and I still have a stereo I bought 20+ years ago.) But electronic devices do break and become out-dated. Still, doesn't that take up a ton of space on your hard drive? And how do you back it all up? Also, one of the things that I don't like about some of the software that comes with the mp3 players is that it does a 'stare and compare' between the music on your hard drive and the music on the mp3 player, then updates based on the differences (iPod, for example). I'd really rather be in control and tell it what to download and what not to. Not sure you've completely changed my mind, but it has given me pause.