[sclug] using iPod nano with Linux PC?

[alan c]

John Stumbles wrote:
> Son & heir covets an ipod nano but we're pretty much a Redmond-free zone 
> here so what are the options? Google 'ipod nano linux' turns up lots of 
> install ipod-linux links: this sounds cool but does it work? I'd hate to 
> shell out on one and find it makes a rather lightweight doorstop :-|
> 
> Are there ways of driving an unmodded ipod from a linux PC?


I have a ipod video (30gb) and although I used it very initially on a 
doze machine, to sync immediately with wifes stuff, I then plugged 
into kubuntu with amarok and I think rhythmbox. Both seemed pretty 
good and basically worked in a sophisticated way, but I did not have 
time to follow it all up yet.

I will need to know both doze itunes and linux apps various. From my 
limited experience with itunes it is a very well integrated app, no 
doubt. Amarok and rhythmbox  look excellent but they are not 
equivalent to itunes in all respects. IPOD is easy to use though 
without doze. I had believed that the initial setting up (format?) of 
purchased ipod was hard without doze, but I think they are now shipped 
already formatted (?).

Initial itunes use for cd ripping produced .mp4 files which them 
needed conversion to mp3 to play (other) players.
I did not really enjoy the itunes complexity - they make it easy they 
think, but as with doze, hidden functions and smart stuff can cause 
confusion. It did in our house. I prefer the amarok/rhythmbox 
approaches - more visible I think. I need to do more research yet though.

Good luck
-- 
alan cocks
Kubuntu user#10391