iPod Nano Question

I'm considering to purchase a 5th generation iPod Nano (the one with built in camera) and just had a question - is it possible to copy MP3 files on that thing directly? I imagine I would connect the thing to my computer via a USB port. I have a bunch of CDs that I had purchased (all legal, I don't do bootlegs) and would like to load some of the MP3s on to the iPod. But I am not willing to install any of the Apple bloatware that bloats up the system, causes crashes and just as everything from Apple, is unintuitive to use. Is it possible to load up the iPod directly without use of iTunes or some other f%$kery from Apple?

Also, does anyone have experience using iPods video camera? What's the picture like? Is it worth using or waste of time? How do you download the video onto your computer? Is it possible to directly download or would I be stuck with some stupid Apple bloatware that crashes my computer and is difficult to use because nothing is where you would naturally expect it (like everything else spawned by Apple)?

Thanks

 

Well mates this has been a problem with all Apple I-pod's. We can't download songs directly onto a I-pod, one has to use I-tunes to insert mp3 to the I-pod. As the itunes convert the Mp3 to compatible format and than insert the song onto a I-pod.

 

That's basically a deal breaker. I wasn't too inclined, but liked the fact that it does have a video camera. I won't be buying anything if it forces me to use Apple bloatware.

 

I would say you should do it if the software is the only thing holding you back. itunes is not terrible software, and does not slow your pc down much. The best mp3 players require you to use their software. Zune would be my next choice, and that requires its own software as well.

 

Dynashox, how has it been for you? Does it do everything you need? Can I go completely without iTunes if I get that software? Is it possible to download videos recorded by the 5G onto a computer with that soft?