If I use Winamp + mliPod do I need Apple iPod software?

[MarcLister]

As thread title really? Every time I format my PC I always install the Apple iPod software. But I'm wondering if I need to? Surely the iPod software is just to let Windows Explorer recognise it?

If I use Winamp and the mliPod software am I in effect bypassing the Apple iPod software?

 

[MarcLister]

Yes, it just reads the iPod like an external HDD so there isn't any need for iTunes

Although without iTunes you won't get any of the latest iPod software updates...

I don't have iTunes installed.

And to get the latest iPod software, well I cheats. I downloads latest iTunes, unpacks the exe with 7Z and runs the SoftwareUpdate installer packaged within the exe.

 

[MarcLister]

Just got my edit in

Just read your title a different way and are you asking about the install CD? All that is, is just iTunes

iPods don't even come with an install disc anymore, you have to go and download iTunes over the internet.

I bought my iPod back in the days when iTunes and iPod software weren't merged into a single package. Thats effectively what I'm running. Then whenever I hear about a new iTunes or iPod software release I download the latest iTunes, unpack the exe and run the SoftwareUpdate package and see what my iPod software status is. Nowadays it never gets updated. Think Apple and Jobs are dropping a hint there.