its better to use one of the classification nodes, since they natively support multiple fields per item. And you can use the tree nodes or categorize toolbar quickly update tracks.

For example, you can use the 'occasion' node, then create an ipod1, ipod2, ipod3 tag, add those tags to the tracks you want, then create an autoplaylist for each device to use the applicable tag.

Playlists are the best way. Filters won't help much with device management at all.

I have a large music collection on my computers HD.
I have several iPods that have different combinations of songs from the large music library.
What is the best way to manage the song collections on each individual iPod? Is it playlists? Is it filters? Another way?

My concerns are if the iPod becomes corrupted, how can I easily restore the right songs on each iPod?

I struggle with playlists. It seems I always end up with multiple copies of the same song on the device. Filters sounds like a good option but how can I apply the filter on the device. Meaning, having the filter tag in the library on my HD. I know I am not explaining very well. Let put it like this:

Songs on HD. Tag field "Custom 1" = iPod name. Apply filter iPod name and then I can copy all music shown to iPod and iPod is restored. Is this right? Problem is I need to fill in the "Custom 1" field but don't know which songs are on which iPod. I can update the tag on the iPod (I guess?) but not sure if the updated tag will sync with the HD tag.

If anybody has any idea what I am talking about I would be grateful for a solution.