[DarkHelmet]

OK - here's the view from my perspective...

Apple currently sells three types of iPods

1 - The iPod Shuffle - a flash memory based player (512 Mb and 1 Gb) - it does not have a display and plays tunes in playlist order or in a random oder (shuffle mode) - connects via USB and comes with iTunes software. Priced between $ 99 and $ 129 USD - not usually discounted - purchased through "Authorized Resellers" only.

2 - The iPod mini - currently a 4 or 6 Gb mini hard disk based player that connects via USB or FireWire. Comes in a variety of 4 colors. Has a display and navigational controls for tune / playlist selection selection. Small size - overpriced (IMHO) at $ 199 and $ 249 USD - not usually discounted - purchased through "Authorized Resellers" only.

3 - The iPod - currently in it's fourth iteration (hence 4G) - a mini hard disk player in 20 Gb or 60 Gb - available in white only - and featuring a color display. This is (IMHO) the best value for the money - available at $ 299 or $ 399 USD - not usually discounted - purchased through "Authorized Resellers" only.

Typically you would want to buy the unit new, from an authorized reseller, for warranty coverage reasons.

Hope this helps!

p.s. All iPod products work with Mac and Windows computers.

Good luck...