Apple claims that the iPod Hi-Fi delivers audiophile-quality sound, the kind of audacious claim that causes true audiophiles to sizzle and hiss and pop like so many overly excited vacuum tubes. Even casual music buffs will be able to hear the system's relative deficiencies.

Would I replace my better-than-average home stereo with an iPod Hi-Fi? No way; I'd just patch my iPod into the receiver. Nor would I replace the Logitech surround-sound computer speakers through which I do most of my digital music listening, even though the Hi-Fi connects to any computer through analog or digital audio cables.

Trey Parker and Matt Stone, creators of the crudely animated cartoon hit, issued a quirky statement, filled with references to Scientology and the science-fiction writings of church founder L. Ron Hubbard, suggesting Scientology was behind the scheduling change.

"So, Scientology, you have won THIS battle, but the million-year war for Earth has just begun," the pair wrote.

"Temporarily anozinizing our episode will NOT stop us from keeping Thetans forever trapped in your pitiful man-bodies. Curses and drat! You have obstructed us for now, but your feeble bid to save humanity will fail! Hail Xenu!!!"

Becoming A Chef