Hands on with iPod accessories

One of my favorite Apple products is the iPod. If the company has more digital lifestyle goodies in the works such as this one, my credit card company will be very happy indeed. And for those of us who are iPod fans, there are lots of accessories and peripherals to go with the music/data storage device. Recently, I’ve had the chance to check out a few.

There are several iPod cases available. Willow Design offers the US$29.95 iPod BiFold, which features a removable earplug pouch, as well as standard waist belt clip.

Minimalists may complain that, with the belt clip, the iPod BiFold is a bit too bulky. However, for the most part I like it. It has a foam laminated fabric and reinforced flap that covers the front, a combination that offers good protection. The BiFold also has some well thought-out extras, such as an optional armband holder for running or working out and a business card pocket on the inner flap wall.

And the BiFold actually offers a relatively flat profile when the waist belt clip is removed so you can slip it into your pocket. The detachable earpiece pouch can be secured to the bottom of the BiFold, if you wish. When you’re using the case, you can access the pause switch and FireWire port access via the snapped top flap. The BiFold comes in a variety of colors, as well.

My only complaint with the BiFold is that it doesn’t seem quite roomy enough for my iPod. I have a devil of a time getting the top flap to snap shut when the iPod is inserted.

If you don’t wish to hide the white body of your iPod in a case (or if you would like even more protection for it), you may want to get a $9.95 iPodWrap from the folks at Bookendz.

The iPodWrap is a transparent, reusable, non-adhesive covering that wraps around your iPod to protect it from scratches. It’s made of “cling” material so you’ll have to apply it slowly, making sure to smooth it out to make sure no air is trapped in tiny pockets or that the iPodWrap has an unsightly crease.

BookEndz also makes the nifty $44.95 iPodDock and $29.95 iPodCradle. The former acts as a holder for the iPod, as well as offering audio and FireWire connection ports for instant docking for desktop/home stereo use. The latter allows the iPod to be supported in an upright position on the desktop.

The iPodDock works really well, though I personally never use my iPod with my home stereo. Alas, you do have to turn your iPod upside down to dock it on the iPodDock. If you don’t need the connections, but still want a spiffy looking desktop stand for your iPod, the iPodCradle could be for you. Does it serve any practical purpose? Well, no. But we’re talking aesthetics here, not practicality.