All,
I started with Videora, but could never get consistently good results. I then began digging around for reviews of the many iPod video conversion packages that are out there, and Cucusoft was highly recommended. I purchased the software, and successfully converted several DVDs that I own.
I did start having problems immediately after installing iPod system software 1.1 on my iPod. Video converted by Cucusoft would play for 34 seconds, hang, and then usually continue without audio. I could fast forward and get the audio back, but it was usually out of sync with the video, and would subsequently stop after another 34 seconds.
Some kind soul posted a note that the problem was indeed with iPod software 1.1, and suggested that reverting to 1.0 would fix the problem. In fact, it completely fixed the problem, and the Cucusoft videos play perfectly.
I can only guess about the problem, but it sounds like Apple may have changed something with the codecs on the iPod when they released 1.1. I would like to see Cucusoft update their product so that the videos are the same format and quality as those purchased through iTunes (LOST episodes are amazing, even when connected to a TV).
For what it is worth, the Wall Street Journal reported that Apple sold 14 million iPods before the holidays. That surely must stress support within Apple, along with those iPod-related companies who suddenly saw their customer base explode. Cucusoft has been around a while, and I suspect they will catch-up to the increased support load. My two cents...