Windows Media Player will not detect devices i.e. phone, mp3

I have always used Windows Media Player to transfer music and video files to my phone. I have used various phones and never had a problem. I have not transfered any music for a while and when I came to do it a few days ago, Windows Media Player will not recognise my phone, it just says "connect a device". I have tried various other phones and mp3 in my household, which have always worked before, but nothing!! WMP will not recognise anything other than DVD Drive, Display and speakers. I have tried various suggestions to no avail, including different usb leads, usb ports, uninstalling drivers and re-installing. When the phone (HTC Desire S) is plugged into the usb it does show up in my computer and you can view all files, but WMP will not recognise it. I know I could copy and paste music, but it's a bit of a ball ache.

PLEASE HELP, AS MICROSOFT ARE USELESS AND BLAME HTC, BUT IT'S THE SAME WITH SAMSUNG, HTC, SONY, WHICH EVER MAKE OF PHONE OR MP3.:cry