14.1 Cases

Once you get your iPod loaded with music, you'll want to take it with you without worrying about scuffs and scratches.

Apple includes a basic black sheath-type case (with belt clip) for some models. Unless you use the iPod's remote control, however, you have to keep taking the player out of the case to operate the controls, which is not only a drag but also an opportunity to drop the iPod on the sidewalk. An iPod taking a face plant onto the concrete is a horrible sight.

When selecting a case, keep in mind the situations in which you tend to use your iPod. If you use the iPod for running, you may prefer a waterproof neoprene case with an armband; if you take it on business trips, you may prefer a more professional-looking covering. Some cases make the scroll wheel and controls easy to get to, while others conceal the front of the iPod to protect it. So take into account how often you use the controls for changing volume, skipping songs, or checking addresses.

Here are a few cases that stand out.

NOTE

Some cases are specially designed for 2001 and 2002 iPods, whose buttons surround the scroll wheel. Cases for the 2003 and later models must accommodate the four small buttons across the middle instead. Inquire about which cases fit which models before you buy.

14.1.1 DLO Action Jacket

If you take the iPod along for every walk, run, or workout, take a look at the DLO Action Jacket, a case that cushions the iPod in a thick layer of waterproof neoprene fabric. The case has a clear plastic window that lets the iPod's display screen show through and cutaway panels that make the scroll wheel and controls easily accessible. The Action Jacket, which comes in different versions for old and new iPod models, costs $30 and comes with a belt clip and a Velcro armband. It's available, along with several other iPod cases shown in Figure 14-1, at http://www.everythingipod.com.

Figure 14-1. The neoprene Action Jacket by DLO (left) protects the iPod both front and back. The company makes cases for all models of iPod, and in a variety of colors and fabrics including molded rubber (center) and leather (right). You can find an iPod jacket for just about any occasion at http://www.everythingipod.com.

14.1.1.1 iSkin

If fear of scratches prevents you from taking your iPod out much, check out the line of form-fitting silicone iSkin sleeves, available in a rainbow of vibrant colors. The washable rubber iSkin cases feature heat- ventilation pores and tiny raised feet on the back to help air circulate around an iPod laid flat on a desk. The new iSkin eXo2 case includes a rotating belt clip and scratch-resistant screen protector. Other case colors in the iSkin line even glow in the dark, making it easier to find your iPod at 3 a.m. Prices range from $15 to $30 at http://www.iskinprotect.com.

14.1.1.2 Belkin iPod Leather Organizers

The Belkin case for the original iPod resembles those dapper leather cases for Palm organizers. It opens up to reveal the iPod nestled in a black leather sleeve, alongside a pocket for the earbuds and slots for cash and credit cards. The $30 case, which fits the original iPod design, is available on the Belkin Web site (http://www.belkin.com) or in retail stores. The company also makes leather cases for the newer iPod models, including a $25 holster-style belt-clip case and a $30 flip- open sleeve.

14.1.1.3 Matias iPod Armor

The iPod Armor ensures that nothing scars your iPod ”even if you fall off your snowboard and tumble downhill over rough terrain. As shown in Figure 14-2, the hard aluminum case completely covers the iPod front and back, leaving only a small hole for the earbud cord; a layer of foam protects what's inside. Your iPod winds up like Han Solo encased in the carbonite block. The company also has a version of the armor that's designed to resemble newer iPods.

Figure 14-2. The iPod Armor seals in the iPod and keeps out dings and dents with its sturdy aluminum shell. Just pop off the front plate to get to the controls. The iPod Armor fits all models and sells for $50 at http://www.halfkeyboard.com/ipodarmor.

NOTE

A case is intended to protect your iPod's surface, but scuffs, smears, and scratches can still happen (like when you're pulling it out of the case).

If you accidentally gouge your iPod's surface, try the iCleaner Scratch Remover, a nonabrasive solution that can help restore the smooth surface of the iPod. The iCleaner package comes with enough polish for about 20 buffings, plus a cleaning towel and instructions. You can get it for $15 (and often less) at http://www.photoline.com.

14.1.1.4 OWC Pod Protector

The iPod Protector is a snug, black leather jacket ”with or without a swiveling belt clip. The no- nonsense look of black leather makes the Pod Protector look at home everywhere from an engineering major's belt to the streets of New York's East Village. It fits original iPod models, and you can find it for $30 at http://www.otherworldcomputing.com.

14.1.1.5 XtremeMac Xtremity iPod Case System

If you use your iPod for both walking and driving, consider a multifunction case like the Xtremity case shown in Figure 14-3. It hitches to your belt or mounts on your car's dashboard, and even has room to store accessories. A flexible plastic cover shields the front of the iPod from dirt and weather. It also comes with a plug to keep dust out of the dock connector. The case sells for $30 at http://www.xtrememac.com.

Figure 14-3. Seen here from the front, from the back, and with all its various snap-on sections, XtremeMac's Xtremity iPod Case goes to extremes to protect your iPod. The company also sells designer iPod cases in everything from preppy plaid to military-style camouflage.

14.1.1.6 Marware SportSuit Convertible

Some activities are higher impact than others, and the SportSuit Convertible case comes prepared for a variety of sporting occasions. The neoprene case has a hard removable lid that you can snap on when the going gets rough. The SportSuit Convertible comes in six different colors and includes an armband and a belt clip. It sells for $40 at http://www.marware.com/iPodType.html, where a handsome leather "CEO Classic" iPod case is also available. Most case styles come in versions for old-style iPods and the newer dock-type iPod models.

14.1.1.7 WaterField Designs iPod Cases

The WaterField case design features a pocket for the earbuds and a protective flap that shields the iPod's controls. The iPod's ports are accessible through a slit in the top or bottom of the case, which comes in red, white, or blue and sells for $40 with sizes for all iPods. The company also makes small Gear Pouch bags (useful for toting things like iPod docks, remotes, and cables) for $35. All are available at http://www.sfbags.com.

14.1.1.8 iSleeve

Crafted from molded rubber, the iSleeve from Terforma (Figure 14-4) doesn't slow you down with flaps, snaps , or zippers that get in the way of the iPod's display screen and control panel. The case's raised edges and rounded corners protect all sides of the player from a drop at any angle, yet leaves the headphone jack and Hold switch exposed.

Figure 14-4. Terforma's iSleeve creates a protective rubber bumper all around the iPod and has a place to tuck away the earbuds and headphone cord. The iSleeve comes in black or white and sells for $50 at http://www.isleeve.com . It's available for all iPod models.

NOTE

Many women find the belt clip option just doesn't work with their wardrobe, especially the clean lines of a Donna Karan suit. Enter the Groove Speaker Purse for iPod, which not only serves as an iPod carrying case, but also incorporates built-in speakers into a large handbag. Two different purse styles are available, and each costs about $145 at http://www.welovemacs.com/ipodcarrybags.html.