iPod Classic showing as Connected on device and connected in System Information but not in Finder/Apple Music

Hi all,

I recently tried to sync both of my iPod classics for the first time in a long time. Normally, it takes a while to show within Finder but was surprised when it didn't show at all! After a quick google of some potential issues I got to work and I sit here 3 hours later with the same problem. I've listed out actions taken below with as much detail as possible. I am really hoping someone can help!

Issue:

• Connect fully charged iPod classic 160GB (or my second iPod classic 80GB) to 13" MacBook Pro 2020 M1 Chip
• iPods reflect as Connected on their screen and as connected within the System information application
• iPods are not shown within Finder or Apple Music
• iPods are charging when connected though

Actions taken:

• Updated all Apple software on the Mac to the latest version
• Removed all potential software which could interfere. VPN apps/configurations, profiles, firewalls etc
• Attempted to connect iPod in docked mode (MENU/SELECT hold for 6 seconds and then SELECT/PLAY hold for 6 seconds). Still not recognised
• Attempted to connect via different USB cables
• Attempted DFU restore (not sure if I did this correctly)
• iPod 1 Hard Drive Info:

Retracts: 9

Reallocs: 48

Pending Sectors: 8

Poweron hours; 458

Start/Stops: 66886

Temp: Current 27c

Temp: Min 3c

Temp: Max 51c

• iPod 2 Hard Drive Info:

Retracts: 12

Reallocs: 4920

Pending Sectors: 1944

Poweron hours; 710

Start/Stops: 35975

Temp: Current 28c

Temp: Min 9c

Temp: Max 47c

Suspected Issues:

• I'm not sure from the hard drive numbers whether that could be the issue. The article I was reading suggest my number for iPod 1 aren't the best but they don't seem fatal!
• The cable is charging both iPods but maybe there is now an issue with it transferring date. I'm not sure on this one
• Most likely though is that I started to use VPNs whilst I was working away from home for a while. I have uninstalled all of the apps now and removed all configurations but I'm not sure what further checks I can do to rule this out as the culprit.

Thankyou for anyone who is able to help! I'm at the end of the line now!