JupiterResearch: Upset over iPod?

Michael Gartenberg at JupiterResearch makes some sensible remarks about the ongoing complaints regarding the Apple (AAPL) iPod. He states:

It seems like some folks are upset over the iPod. It's a theme I hear over and over again but I still don't get it. Let's be clear. The iPod is an open device. I can buy an iPod and never ever need to buy a song from Apple in order to make it work. In fact, the iPod supports the most common format for digital audio, MP3 and the bundled software allows users to easily convert their CDs into music for the iPod in MP3 or AAC format. Second, if you do buy a song from Apple through the iTunes music store (and there's a lot of reason why you might want to do that) you can easily burn the song to CD and then import it back into iTunes as an unprotected MP3 or AAC.

I get that not everyone wants an iPod but these issues that folks complain about are just non issues as far as I'm concerned. In fact, you face pretty much the same issues with just about any device you purchase. The nice part is, no one's forcing anyone to buy an iPod. There are plenty of good alternatives like the Clix, Gigabeat and Sensa lines from iRiver, Toshiba and SanDisk.