This falls under the category of “strange but true.” Have you ever been listening to your iPod, Zune or other MP3 player with earbuds (like the Philips ones shown at left), and gotten a shock? Gizmodo points to an Apple document that shows it’s possible.

The issue is static electricity. In low humidity, windy or other conditions, it’s possible for static buildup to occur on the device, and discharge itself through your earbuds and into your ear. It’s similar to what happens when you rub your hand on a balloon.

Apple says it’s a “small, quick” shock, which doesn’t sound like anything too serious. Still, you don’t normally expect to get a shock when listening to your tunes. It doesn’t appear that there is any lasting damage to your device (or your ear).

Apple recommends things like using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air and reduce the risk of this shock. Another way to deal with it is to touch an unpainted metal pole before putting your earbuds in (just don’t do it with your tongue).

The really crucial question in all of this: would the shock be worse if you were listening to heavy metal music?