You people do realize that the new base model hard drive iPod holds 80gb and the upper level one holds 160gb right? When they're like that you might as well use them as back up disks. When it comes down to it the hard drive models are the best value for iPods.
Another thing about the iPods I don't like is that you HAVE to use their accessory standards. It's one of the dirtiest tricks you can pull on your customers. I see no reason the ipod can't have a USB port right on the device itself. You can charge it on your computer through USB OR just as well get a USB AC Adapter, not a very hard thing to come by. It defeats the purpose of calling it a Universal Serial Bus when you force the end user to use your own medium.
It's not like the iPod doesn't come with a USB cord. Pretty much any 5 volt USB supply should do. I've charged mine off a hub before.