I had a hard time accepting iTunes when I switched from Windows. I was used to Winamp and to organize my music myself into folders that made sense for me. It actually took a while until I really switched to iTunes. I realized it was a lot better to organize the music the iTunes way ... and now I cant live without it.
However we people are not alike, if that Sony player works best for you so why not? It is not like you are FORCED to use the iPod if you are taking part in this forum
How boring the world would be if everyone liked the same things.