
Because this year's changes to the iPod classic were subtle, many top reviewers haven't bothered to update their coverage. However we did find excellent reporting at CNet.com and Macworld, and an incredibly long and detailed report at iLounge.com, an iPod-centric website. Consumer Reports also includes the latest iPod classic in its most current ratings, though discussion is very sparse. Amazon.com has a good selection of user reviews.
Apple has trimmed down the iPod classic line to one model, and added a few nifty features as well. Those include a Genius feature that can create a 25-song playlist based on a selected song. Voice recording has also been added, but you'll have to spring for your own compatible microphone. There's still no FM radio, however, and you'll need to upgrade to iTunes 8. Thanks to its wonderful user interface, the iPod classic is a great choice for someone looking for a high-capacity MP3 player, but there's little reason for someone who's perfectly happy with their existing iPod classic to upgrade. PC users may also want to consider the Microsoft Zune (*est. $230 for 120 GB) as an alternative; the user experience is not quite as nice -- but its not bad either -- and the Zune has lots of nifty features of its own, including some basic ones missing on the iPod classic.
Strength :
* Huge capacity for music and video
* Easy-to-use interface and software
* New features work and are worthwhile
* Good video performance
Weakness :
* Non-user-replaceable battery
* Requires upgrade to iTunes 8

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