some have albums copied onto them, and some consist of files downloaded from sites like kazaa, or bittorrent.
As far as sound quality the albums you have copied will be ok but the files you have downloaded will lose quality if converted into mp3. I suggest putting them on your ipod from your pc. As for ripping albums use EAC. It is the best ripper in the world. You can download, configure and set up from this link http://www.afterdawn.com/guides/archive/mydeneaclame.cfm Enjoy