iPods

[saxy_jag]

I need some general info, so links to decent info websites would suffice.

Basically, I want an iPod for Christmas, so that I can play all my fave music etc when I'm out and about. But I don't know the first thing about them - what's good, bad or whatever. What should I look for? Will my PC need any special 'converter' software?

Also, these 'podcasts'? Do you need anything special to be able to download them?

Compatibility? Do you have to have a Mac to run an Apple iPod? I run Windows XP home edition.

Finally, is there some sort of device you can get in order to be able to run them from a car stereo (I don't have a CD player in the car, just a decent cassette radio)? I remember I once had an adapter for the diskman that played through the cassette slot, but it wasn't very good, 'cause the CDs kept 'skating'.

Any advice welcome.

[bednobs]

you need a usb 2.0 port on your computer, but nothing else special (you'll need some free space too, but i cant remember how much)
windows xp is sufficient and you dont need a mac to use an ipod
you can buy devices to run them from your cassette in the car http://shop.ipodworld.co.uk/iPodWorldSite/prod uct/all_iPods_Car%20Accessories/PA_CDA/Pama_In _Car_Audio_Cassette_Adaptor.htm
you dont need anything special, or to pay for podcasts either