Apple iPod classic 4th Generation from HP (20 GB) MP3 Player

Pros: Attractive and easy to use...I can see what all the hoopla was about!
Cons: May encounter some software problems initially, battery life

I am always the last person out of my circle of friends (or in this case the world) to own anything remotely trendy or cool. The more likely an item is to inspire an eerie cult-like following, the more likely I am to develop an aversion to it. The iPod ...

Pros: Excellent ease of use, handling and fit. Excellent sound quality.
Cons: Ear-buds not as good as the rest. No WMA support. Scratches too easily.

About the iPod itself: What can I say? It is already a legend, an icon. I can just confirm that it is as good as people say it is. iPod is not a power user's dream digital player, but it is definitely the best that money can buy for a music lover who is not a geek or gadget freak. iTunes and iTunes Music Store that complement the iPod are simply the best and make an unbeatable combination with iPod.

About buying iPod from HP instead of Apple: It is the same Apple iPod as far as the hardware and software goes. But the packaging and options that HP is offering is more attractive for an average PC user than the Apple offering.

I didn't use their tattoo option myself, but I've seen some. iPod tattoos (only offered by HP on-line store) are a really great way to customize your iPod and make it a new medium for self expression.

Pros: None
Cons: See above

I have had problems with the quality of construction of the iPods made by Hewlett Packard.

HP was given rights to make iPods because Apple could not keep up with the demand. I ordered a 20G iPod from Buy.com for a great price about a year ago. The earphone jack was defective. I found this out after taking it in to a local Apple retailer. They found the problem, but couldn't help me because my product was made by HP. I had to ship it back to Buy.com. For their part, Buy.com was great. They paid shipping and send me a new one.

However, I had a drive problem with the 2nd one. It made alarmingly loud "clonks" and wouldn't read. This was, of course, after I spent hours uploading all my CDs into the thing.

I know several people who have "real" Apple iPods and love them. Avoid HP.