In my search for just the right iPod, I’m going to start with the Classic. This comes in four models — one with 80 gigabytes and the other with 160 gigabytes, each in either black or silver. No pink here.

The larger capacity iPod can hold up to 40,000 songs, 25,000 photos or 200 hours of video. It weighs in under six ounces, and the battery lasts about 40 hours. Charge time is about four hours. The display is 2.5 inches (diagonal) with an LED backlight.

When the Classic was first released, complaints surfaced regarding the use of “legacy” connectors that people used to dock their iPod to other equipment (for example digital cameras) that wouldn’t work anymore. Likewise, performance in some areas was sluggish — particularly when showing album covers or switching menus. But Apple has provided firmware driver updates, which address some of the niggling problems.

So the general consensus among reviewers is that the latest Classic has a beautiful screen, provides a much longer battery life than older models, and the additional memory is really useful — particularly when you’re a music aficionado who prefers not to download smaller (read downgraded) sized files simply to fit them onto your device. Also, most of them recommend getting a carrying case to prevent scratching your iPod.

Reveiwer boudge reports trouble with the earbuds that come in the box; but those are easy enough to upgrade. All you need to do is figure out what your budget is and go online to order a new pair. A few people have commented on the price (from about $280 to $400), but that seems like a reasonable gift price range for a spouse, so that’s not a turnoff to me.

The question is, should I spend a bit more money and go with the iPod touch or choose an iPod nano, with less capacity but that ever-important pink case? More next time!