I just returned a Vaio laptop b/c the fan was too noisy . . . I'm back to using my old powerbook, and thinking positive thoughts about apple.
never had any problems w my iPod, and use it to watch movies in airports, listen to music while working out, fishing . . . etc. imo, well worth the price, and i've never had any issues w iTunes either.
The fan must have been pretty loud to cause you to return the laptop, my desktop has 8 fans and it's pretty loud but it also stays cool. From my relatively limited experience with MAC's I'd say they are a superior product to PC's. I'm just not so sure if that superiority isn't due to the fact that Windows isn't their operating system as opposed to any real hardware superiority.
My main issue with iPods is their absolute reliance on iTunes and their inflated price. I think the reliance on iTunes is a design flaw. I also think it's sole purpose is to ensure a constant revenue stream for Apple.
Someone please explain to me the wisdom of iTunes being the only way to manage an iPod? It makes absolutely no practical sense. Nearly all other MP3 players show up in Windows as another drive that can be used in anyway you choose. iPod's do not show up as another drive, in fact without iTunes Windows doesn't even recognize them.

If you ever get the chance and gumption you could try an install of Linux and Rockbox on your iPod and see the difference not being reliant on iTunes makes. I bet you'll love how much more freedom you have.
The only easy to use, integrated solution. iTunes and the iPod. One thing for you iPod, iTunes basher- if it wasn't for Steve Jobs and Apple computer you would be paying a lot more than 99 cents per tune. In fact, if it weren't for Jobs and Apple you wouldn't be able to download anything but complete albums. Apple has great leverage over the record companies and he has fought tooth and nail to keep songs capped at 99 cents and the ability tyo buy tunes individualy.
No offense but put the crack pipe down. Perhaps you can sing that bullschit song to someone without any practical knowledge but it's not going to work with someone that actually knows what they're talking about.

You wouldn't happen to work for Apple now would you?