Sorry for your loss, lasher. My pod serves a purpose that hi res audio can't fulfill, so I'll have to disagree - to a point. You can rip files in iTunes at a quality level that doesn't compromise from CD quality, which for me is a boon when I'm at work or traveling (and DVD-audio is not an option).

On the flip side, there are those who think the pod is the pinnacle of audio quality and technology, but hey, there's still people who'll buy speakers out of the back of a truck, too. But that's also the fault of those in control of the industry: the ipod is all about convenience, whereas hi res audio is anything but convenient ("So, I've also got to buy 12 more cables and a bass management unit? How much for that little iPod over there?").

Those of us who know the value will put up with the extra burden, but those who dont? They just go for the one that doesn't make their eyes cross explaining it.