After having a apple ipod 7th generation for many years the hard drive gave up on me. So I looked at reviews and read that the 5.5th generation has the best audio and it didn't disappoint! Can't believe how much louder and better sound quality it is. Don't know what the battery life is like compared to my 7th generation which lasted ages before a charge. But would definitely recommend a 5.5th generation if your looking for an ipod