I've noticed the classic accesses the hard drive a LOT MORE than previous generations, I don't think my HD access is abnormal as it only does it when I'm changing menus or switching songs.

It seems like the buffer isn't even there in these models, I mean I can simply go to the next song and the hard drive is working away..has anyone else noticed a intense increase in HD activity compared to previous generations or is it just my unit?

Its not excessively loud but you can "feel" the hard drive going.