I usually try to keep posts on my dA account strictly related to my models and various projects, but I've found myself in need of a larger sounding board than biased online reviews. As the title states, my iPod (160gb 7th gen classic) recently died on me, and given that it's out of warranty, I'm looking for a replacement/alternative.

Since high school, I've gone through maybe five or so iPods, and in my experience, they typically barely out last their 1-year warranty. On top of that, the one time I did have a legitimately defective in-warranty device, dealing with Apple's customer support was akin to pulling teeth.

So I'm curious as to what the populous here at dA uses for their on-the-go musical needs; does anyone actually use anything other than Apple? (die hard Apple-fanboys need not reply )


TL;DR - What would you recommend as an iPod alternative?