I remember that I used my iPod *touch* (3rd generation) with Rhythmbox (as an
iTunes substitute) with no problems.
Try that program, if you haven't already.
(Also, if you end up not being able to syncronize your iPod in GNU/Linux...
You can always just sell it on eBay and get instead a similar player that you
know syncronizes well in GNU/Linux and that you can "free", by installing the
Free Firmware "Rockbox" - www.rockbox.org - in it, that will allow you to do
more things with your device, other than just listening to music.)
