Apple iPod Shuffle (512MB)

Pros: Sleek style and simple operations

Cons: One hundred bucks for the replacement battery

Summary: Let me preface this review by saying that I'm an avid Apple/Macintosh user. I own two Macintosh computers and tons of Macintosh periperals. That having been said ... I have a HUGE beef with this and other iPods that, had I known prior to purchasing, I would not have wasted a hundred bucks. Apple has put it's own battery, warrantied for one year with the option to purchase an extended warranty, in the iPod. You MUST send your iPod to Apple for the battery to be replaced. Bad enough, but you haven't heard the price yet -- $99. Yes, you spend $99 for the iPod then you have to buy a new battery within a one to two year span for $99, then another battery, then .. you get the picture. And, you have to send it to Apple to have the new battery installed meaning that you will be without your iPod for a week or two. Could it be any more inconvenient?! Buy any other brand of player than Apple. I have a Rio that I purchased for myself last year, and LOVE it! Tons of features (including replaceable AAA batteries available at your local drugstore or supermarket) for a few bucks more than this rip-off piece of garbage.