Random ramblings on a few things pod:
I use Lossless encoder for almost everything. But then I use pod as a he-man audio system server when appropriate.
I may try some compression for MC use. Home audio dynamic range can be a bit distracting while on a bike.
Stock earbuds cut zero mustard. Grado 60's are a great step up for budget hounds, but look old school & would fit under no known helmet. Plenty of better grade ear buds out there IF you must do the bud thing.
I've yet to work out a good earbud system that works for me when wearing the Arai XD. Experiments continue...maybe I'll try the RiderWhse Catalog mods to my little cheapo Koss buds that blow the Apple buds outta the frame...
I rarely buy music on-line. Habit? No, I hate compression 'cause I have a fairly high rez audio system. Trouble brewing on that horizon. I fear the compression/rack system/corporate barbarian/artless tech creeps may win this one with full rez audio going the way of the dodo bird.
The ipod adapter in the wife's Mini Cooper S is, well- fantastic. Optional audio in Mini has laughably overboosted mid bass. Bass control has to go waaaay down when I put on something with some real bottom to it....
Video on that tiny screen? I've leave that for the young. After all, their presbyopia is YEARS away.