After years of longing, I bought my first iPod at 35, just months after Apple discontinued the device. I had been searching secondhand marketplaces for a while, inspired by a friend's tech review.
I managed to snag a 5th-generation iPod Classic for P2,500. The only flaw was a small patch of dead pixels on the screen, but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment.
The Appeal of Secondhand iPods
I never owned an iPod during its heyday because my family prioritized gaming consoles over music gadgets. My portable music experience was limited to a basic CD player.
As smartphones took over, my portable MP3 player served me well, but it lacked the polish of an iPod.
A Resurgence in Popularity
The secondhand iPod market is booming again, particularly among Gen Z. Many seek a break from the addictive nature of smartphones.
Having a dedicated music device is a good way to reduce your dependence on a smartphone…
Ben Wood, CCS Insight
With my iPod, I discovered two main benefits: superior sound quality and the joy of listening to albums in their entirety.
The sound quality from my iPod, especially with Apple EarPods, was remarkable compared to my smartphone.
Listening to albums brought back nostalgic memories of car rides and family sing-alongs, creating a deeper connection with the music.
The Convenience of Streaming
However, my iPod hasn’t replaced my smartphone. The headphone jack is deteriorating, and convenience still favors streaming services.
While the iPod offers a unique audio experience, the instant access and ease of streaming services make them hard to beat.
Despite its discontinuation in 2022, the iPod remains relevant, especially as more people seek a return to analog living.