The other benefit of the pod is the same one that exists for Windows. Being the biggest one out there means there is a ton of accessories, third party utilities, and help out there. The integration between the pod and itunes is a powerful and easy to use combo that pretty much blows away the competition.
With plenty of referbs and sales out there it is not neccisary to pay full price for the pod. The one I just got recently was 40gig for 225 bucks.
Heh, I am looking at the $50 price range. I don't really need one... it would just be nice...
And I would definitely look to buy refurbed or used. Well I'll keep my eyes open.