What is best audiophile MP3 player?????

I use a 60GB iPod but not for MP3s (for the reasons already stated). I use uncompressedf file format (CD "Quality") which will only allow me to carry 3,000 tunes vs. 15,000. Of course, I rip my own files, since the download community is MP3 based.

The other nice feature of the iPod is that it has an optical digital out, which I can plug into my outboard DAC or straight into my Meridian gear. It make a nice jukebox!

optical digital out on an iPod?

ok so whats the best portable digital music player for a lossless format?

Ckrody. . .good catch! I am embarrassed to say that I got my "wires" crossed, and you're absolutely right that there is not an optical digital out. There is one on the AirPort which I use with the outboard DAC (streaming wirelessly from iTunes)--clearly, I made a mistake.

I just got a 60 G Ipod today and cant figure out how to load Cds into I tunes in a wav or lossless format - can you help?