Is anyone familiar with Ipods?

[footinmouth]

I thought my son might like an Ipod for Christmas. I mentioned it to him and he was thrilled. I just checked Circuit City's website and realize that I know nothing about these.

The Ipod's seem to be Apple. He has a PC, it's an old POS, an HP Pentium III. Does the Ipod work with a PC? It's also USB2/Firewire. I know that machine is still USB1. Is that a problem? I assumed it would play MP3's. He's got a ton of them. MP3 was not one of the formats listed.

I'd love a bit of guidance if anyone can help.

[democracyindanger]

1. There are 2 flavors of iPods

One for Macs, and one for PCs. Be sure to get the PC version. You'll also need a Firewire/USB2 connection. You can buy a Firewire or USB2 expansion card pretty cheaply for the HP.

Don't quite understand the mp3 question.

[cheezus]

2. yes, it plays mp3

but the pc needs a usb2 or firewire (aka iLink, aka IEEE1394) port. You can add a card for that into the pc pretty cheaply and easily.

The iPod works with both Mac and Windows -- when you first use it it will set itself up for your computer.

iPod is great, your son won't be disappointed.

[footinmouth]

3. Thank you both

The lucky son will be getting a new computer and an Ipod now. He'll be one happy camper.

[Prisoner_Number_Six]

4. Shortcomings

IMHO the control 'dial' is WAY too sensitive. You can change things almost by breathing on it (so to speak).

Also, the battery doesn't last nearly long enough between charges, it takes a long time to recharge, and there's no way to switch to a stronger battery (to my knowledge).

[hobbit709]

5. No replacement battery

is available, when it no longer holds charge, the ipod is junk

[welshTerrier2]

6. Don't shop at Circuit City

check this out: http://www.choosetheblue.com/main.php?backlevel=002..001Choose%20The%20Blue.002Retail%20Shopping%20and%20Fashion&prodcat=Retail+Stores

according to this website, Circuit City gave 97% of their political contributions to the republican party ...