Building an iPod for 2022 (ellie.wtf)

Article summary

The author refurbished a 5.5th generation iPod Classic to make it more suitable for 2022, replacing the hard drive with a solid-state storage solution and upgrading the battery. The author chose this model for its high-quality DAC and plastic front, which made it easier to open and modify. The refurbishment process involved replacing several components, including the front casing and rear casing, and installing Rockbox, an open-source firmware that allows for more flexibility and customization. The author was able to successfully restore the iPod and install Rockbox, allowing for easy music transfer and playback.

Main themes

• iPod refurbishment
• music players
• Rockbox and open-source firmware
• DAC quality and audio fidelity
• streaming vs. owning music
• refurbishment and DIY projects
• dedicated music devices vs. smartphones and smartwatches

What commenters say

• Some commenters recommend avoiding the iFlash SD card adapters due to file corruption issues, and instead suggest using the iFlash mSATA SSD adapters or transferring files through the original firmware.
• The Apple Watch is a viable alternative to a dedicated music player, with support for offline Spotify playback and Bluetooth connectivity.
• Others argue that using an older device like an iPod or a Garmin watch is still a viable option for music playback, especially for those who prefer a separate device for music.
• There is disagreement over the importance of high-quality DACs, with some arguing that the difference is overstated and others believing that it is worth investing in better hardware.
• Some commenters express nostalgia for dedicated music players and the ability to own and manage their own music libraries, rather than relying on streaming services.
• The refurbishment of old devices like iPods can be a fun and rewarding project, and can help to breathe new life into old technology.
• The use of Rockbox and other open-source firmware can provide more flexibility and customization options for music players, but may also introduce some bugs and stability issues.