The laptop just uses Rhythmbox, but you could obviously use whatever player you like. It's the best setup I've ever had. No terrible UI, no syncing, no garbage. I control what music is on there and where it's backed up. And most importantly, it has separated my music from general computer use. Yes it's technically playing on a computer it's the old linux laptop that's hooked up to the speakers. It barely uses any power and the keyboard is in an awkward position to type on. It's not convenient to watch videos or browse the internet on. It's not convenient to type on. It's really only good for listening to music. You can set it on and read, or do chores, or exercise, and never feel the urge to jump on HN, read the news, etc. If it weren't for the podcasts, it'd never even connect to the internet. And therefore it wouldn't matter if it were even updated or password protected.