iPod Touch 2d Gen will not synch to iTunes V 12.9.0.164 (MAC OS Mojave 10.14.1)

When I connect my iPod touch 2d Gen (yes I know its old but it works great still) to my Mac Mini running Mojave 10.14.1 and iTunes 12.9.0.164 I get an "invalid response" and am unable to sync the iPod with the latest songs on my Mac Mini. I have tried different cables/ports and I know the cable and port are good because I am able to connect to Photos (V4.0 (3411.5.190)).

I suspect Apple has simple quit supporting sync from this old iPod Touch. Anyone know how to resolve this issue? I hate to give up my beloved old iPod!