Is there any Linux solution for converting generic mp3 files to AAC based "m3b" files, to take advantage of the shuffles bookmark feature?

Thanks R00ts, for taking the time to write out such highly detailed instructions. I've been thinking about getting some sort of mp3 player, but between what I've seen about certain devices being non-Linux friendly, reading some highly negative reviews on Amazon about others, reading other negative reviews from my running magazine, and reading mixed comments on both gtkpod and gnupod, I had just about given up.

However, thanks to your post, I've decided to go ahead and buy this puppy. I need to wait till next paycheck before I order the thing but I'm looking forward to enjoying some of that same Linux+iPod goodness you describe in your post. -- J.W.

Cinchel,

I have a bootable Linux Distro running on my iPod shuffle. I also have it set up so it works as a regular iPod shuffle where you can still play music on it and it still work with iTunes. It's pretty hot actually. Email me if you wanna know more about it.


-Diztrict

I know there haven't been any posts in a long while, but! I must say I just bought an iPod shuffle (second gen) and it works flawlessly on Ubuntu Edgy 6.10 and coexists peacefully with iTunes (on XP). I use gnupod; it is very easy to use and includes explicit documentation via 'info'. Works as mass storage and mp3 player....yes mp3 (the sales person at Best Buy assured and reassured me that iPods only play AAC files). Does this mean gnupod converts to AAC? N00b question I know...sorry. The only problem I have had came from the necessity to use 'umount' AND 'eject'. I didn't perform these actions and seemed to corrupt the fs temporarily (but was able to restore the firmware on XP).


All is good and I have learned still more about linux in the process! Good luck to anyone who stumbles in here as I did.


::: sudo apt-get install gnupod

:::

ipods can play AAC and MP3 files. As usual the seller doesnt know a thing about the device he is selling.

FYI:

"MP3 (8 to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR, AAC (8 to 320 Kbps), Protected AAC (from iTunes Store, M4A, M4B, M4P), Audible (formats 2, 3 and 4), WAV, and AIFF"

These are the music formats supported by ipods, from apple.com.

Good luck with your new device and enjoy it.