Just get a generic mp3 player for much less than $200.
Then you can share your cds and mp3 files on all your players and computers without being restricted and anchored to apple's business model.

And then instead of an expensive dock (at least another $100) just use a pair of $20 powered pc speakers.

(or, if the whole ipod usability thing is important to you, then go ahead...)

iPods work fine with MP3 and there are plenty of after market extras which are really cheap and not apple. In addition if you do purchase from iTunes, spend a little extra and get iTunes Plus which do not have DRM.

I would never go a non-ipod mp3 again, they are awesome and they just work.

Cheers
Jason

I know this is the case because I manage my iPod on Ubuntu Linux without using itunes software at all!

The CD player is one thing but how do you keep the dust away from the TV ??????

It is like a bloody dust magnet.

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That is why you just want a simple sound system that connects to the iPod via a standard 3.5 mm plug.

Shove the iPod into an old/cheap spectacle case or alternatively a case from a Parker pen or similar if the infiltration of dust into the flat socket on the iPod is a concern. You just have to charge it up every day or so by plugging it into your computer overnight.

The benefits of an iPod include not only that you can store hundreds or thousands of songs but also that you can listen to podcasts from your favourite radio or TV programs if they are available or even listen to audio books whilst you work.

They are indeed a very versatile little animal.


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You can also buy a USB adaptor for $25 (and you can probably find them cheaper), so you can have it powered up in the shed. I have mine running all day at work, but don't have USB access, so I bought one of these power adaptors - you can get a generic one for USB devices don't waste money on the apple one!

I'm pretty sure that's not a feature unique to ipods...
But hey, if you like the whole expensive ipoddy thingy, go for it.

If Jake wants the cheapest option, then I'd get a $50 mp3 player.
Mine just plugs into the pc, you drag and drop your mp3 files into it, and they play. Not exactly complicated.

That's got me interested. I don't suppose there's a windows equivalent?

I use gtkpod

gtkpod alternatives for Windows - AlternativeTo.net

Disclaimer: I have never tried any of these! I don't have windows at home...

You are correct, of course.

'Tis no different to why some people like to drive BMWs when a Hyundai will get you there just the same. Likewise, some of us like to buy Makita or even Festool whereas for others, Ozito is just the duck's guts.


I am on my second iPod and third Apple computer over several generations of these things because, whereas my mates are spend heaps of time trying to get box "A" working with box "B" or their video card to work with their whatsit, or getting Vista to work at all , with an Apple product, you just plug it in and turn it on and it works. Pretty well immune to viruses etc also.


Ah - I also watch stored TV programs and other vodcasts on my "iPod thingy". I'm not sure that a $50 mp3 player will do that but nonetheless, an mp3 player is a viable option and indeed if workshop dust does wreck it, the cost of the failure will not be too much to deal with.


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