Chosen Solution
Recently purchased from third party — the sound quality is low, distorts when the volume is turned up. Is this a fixable problem? I’ve compared the audio to an iPod nano, iPhone and even streaming services and it’s just lower.
Is the EQ changed? If you’re daring enough, pop the iPod open and check the headphone cable. Since it’s a 3rd party, it may not be an original headphone amp. If it says “Foxconn”, than it may be the song file itself, board level DAC issues, or your headphones. Try replacing the cable. 30GB - iPod Video 30 GB Headphone Jack & Hold Switch 60/80GB - iPod Video 60/80 GB Headphone Jack & Hold Switch
Either a problem with your jack, or the songs are low quality.
