I'm considering buying an iPod classic 160GB... ?

I seriously dislike the iWorld but I need an mp3 player with a LOT of memory. Is an iPod my only option? Have we really fallen this low? Also, how invasive is iTunes? I’ve always been afraid it would ruin my computer if I installed it…

I have two indestructable Creative Zen Vision M MP3 players I’m really pleased with, but they’re only 30GB (29 effectively). I was thinking of buying Creative “Zen” (new product, old name) and an SD card but Apple has bought every single Creative “Zen” in the world.

Has anyone figured out how to use an iPod without iTunes yet?
Lastly, what exactly are the playlist options on an iPod? (Repeat all, Repeat track, Shuffle, Add to playlist)?