MP3 vs iPod???

[goofy4tink]

Color me clueless....I just figured out how to post a photo. But, my dd, almost 15, wants a new MP3 player...an iPod this time. She has a Sandisk, and has had good luck with it for three years now. But, it's time for a new unit. I've been told by several employees, at various elecronics stores, that the more 'generic' MP3 players have a better track record than the iPods. Surprised me since I figured they would want to make more on the higher priced sale. Now..this was back a few years ago, so that may have changed.
My question?? I really need some imput on what I'm doing here. It's dd's birthday present this year, I want to stay in the $200 range if at all possible.
She listens to a ton of music. So......what do I go with? The more socially acceptable, prestigious iPod or a less expensive, but just as good, more generic brand??
Any insights here?? I really need some help on this one.

 

[bookgirl]

I go with if she asked for an "IPOD", then get her an Ipod. If she just asked for a bigger better music player than buy a generic. No matter how great the generic is, if she really wanted an ipod then the generic is going to be a disappointment, and birthdays are not the time to learn life lessons. At least not most life lessons. Personally if I ask for something specific (which I only do if I'm asked specifically what I want), I'd rather you buy me something else completly than to get me something sorta like I asked but not the exact thing.


On the other hand if you give her a 200 dollar gift card to Best Buy or Walmart with the note to pick out the player she wants and let her debate the name brand vs generic pros and cons she might go ahead and choose the generic, and it will be her choice.