I bought a 5th Generation 30G Apple Video Ipod in white back in 12/05 for 299.99 with free shipping. Within two weeks I had to send it in for repairs because the hold button slipped below the metal casing and I wasn't able to move it without a pin to pry it back and forth.

Fortunately, I sent it in for repairs under the 90 day warranty and they sent me a brand new one within about 10 days. Unfortunately, I had it engraved the first time and to speed up the return process, I opted to not have the replacement engraved.

Then in January 2006, I added a lot of songs and album art to my ITunes like normal. I placed my Ipod on my docking station to update it and about 1/2 way through, it errored out and locked up. I tried absolutely every suggestion found on the Apple site to reset it and ultimately, once again sent it in for repairs. Like the first time, the replacement came quickly.

Needless to say, I quickly purchased the extended warranty program from the Apple online store to help deal with future problems. (approx $60 USD)

Next, I would HIGHLY recommend that you buy a skin and/or screen protector immediately! It scratches unbelievably easily even if you are VERY, VERY careful. I was able to buy some scratch repair cream on eBay and it worked like a charm. Currently I am keeping the protective plastic cover that it comes with under a pink skin.

Overall, even though I've been unlucky and gotten some bad Ipods, I still really like it and don't want to give up on it. It's small, has an easy format that most anyone can use. I love watching TV shows and videos but a full charge only lasts about 1 show. So it won't be a good replacement for a DVD player on a long trip.

If I have any more problems with it, I may consider selling it. I thought buying it from Apple would mean it would be reliable, but that hasn't been the case.

Now, for people looking to buy an Ipod, FIRST check the Apple website. I can't believe how much MORE they are selling on eBay. That's crazy!

A 30G 5th Generation Video Ipod sells for $299 on their site. Right now on eBay, this Ipod can sell for more than that. Plus, by buying it from Apple, you get their warranty options that are not available from an eBay seller.

I love ITunes, I doubt I'll ever buy another CD in a store. I recommend buying all of the accessories from eBay as the savings is unbelievable!

UPDATED DETAILS: 12/12/06

So, it's been a while and I thought I'd give you an update on my Ipod. Fortunately, I've had no other problems with my Ipod. I've still got the plastic over the screen and using the pink skin as well. Now, I've graduated to using LimeWire to accumulate more music and it's great. It's tough to figure it out, but it works.

Also, my daughter has bought an Ipod Mini. It's only got 2G memory, but it's a cool little MP3 player. She hasn't had any problems with it, but I'll admit that having 2 Ipods hooked up to my Itunes is a bit cumbersome. As best we can figure, she can't have play lists on her Ipod.

Regardless, it's been a year since I bought it and I'm pleased. One of the best electronic investments I've ever made. It's well worth the money spent.  I'm considering buying the 60G now and giving the 30G to my other daughter.

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