Re: Ipod vs...everything else
There are plenty of video players out there (Creative, Zune, Sansa etc), but iPod has by far the most accessories available. It has most built-in compatibility relationships with vehicle manufacturers, receivers etc.
Feature for feature, no doubt, iPod offers less bang for the buck, and some people don't like being chained to iTunes, but there is a reason it is so popular. It has a great user interface, and if you like iTunes, then there is no match with anything else on the market. Battery life certainly is an issue with most Apple products.
A general rule of thumb do your research BEFORE buying, but that once you buy a gadget or electronic equipment, stop checking its price (it always goes down) and don't worry about new versions/updates coming later (you will ALWAYS be disappointed).