Refurbished iPod Shuffle Shines

I recently purchased a refurbished 512 MB iPod Shuffle at the Apple store. I already own a mini, so I got this one out of curiosity and because at $29.99, the price was definitely right.

This is the first generation shuffle that is about the size of a pack of chewing gum. It comes with the headphones (typical iPod ear bud variety), iTunes software and a replacement cover with rope necklace. 512 MB translates into approximately 128 songs.

The plastic case is on the chintzy side, but you can't beat the portability. I pulled off the cover to reveal the USB connector, and plugged it into my USB port. My PC recognized it immediately (I love plug and play) and when I opened iTunes, I was prompted to name and configure my unit. I chose the option to pick the 128 songs randomly. I have to say the program did a pretty good job (of course, that says a lot for my library <laugh>), although there were a few too many Sting and Springsteen selections (and you won't hear me say that phrase too often).

It comes with little rope attachment that replaces the cover, enabling you to wear the unit like a necklace. I have a cassette deck adapter in the car, so I can easily connect and listen to it in the car, or I can wear around my neck to the gym (when I actually go, that is) or coffees shop and listen with headphones.

I don't think I would have paid the original asking price (which if I'm not mistaken was $99), but for $30 bucks, it's a fun toy.