I know someone posted about this but I can't get the search engine to find it.

The laptop I used for the original rip and synchronize effort died a long time ago. Obviously, I have new stuff I'd like to load/delete to the iPod plus tags I'd like to correct. Additionally, a bunch of you spent my money on Squeezeboxes not too long ago so I might well start over with re-ripping CDs in a better format.

I'd like to just wipe my iPod clean and start over but I'm not sure Apple will provide any way to synchronize with a new laptop. My guess is that I'll need 3rd party software. Any recommendations and instructions?

As I recall, iTunes is horrible for the data that goes with classical music. I'll go back and re-read my thread that culminated in the Squeezeboxes, but I'd like your recommendations on what to do about sync-ing with the iPod and wanting classical music data where I'm more concerned with the composer than the artist.

Also, best way to rip CDs now? I think BikerZ told me about lossless format on my own laptop. Oh, this is all so hazy now.

Let's see who will respond first: Oakleaf, BikerZ, PedalWench, Irulan . . .