a couple of notes for those who care:
I can't set up the media center capability because the software wont be released for
download until the system is released (dang).
For the same reason, I can't get one Xbox Live. So I don't have any reviews in those respects.
The ipod connectivity on this thing is really great. No need to install anything, you just plug into the firewire jack in the back and its ready to go, it even charges while connected, regardless of whether you are using it to play music or not.