In case you missed them, here are the most recent product reviews published by Playlist. (For a complete list of reviews, check out the
Playlist Product Guide.)
Accessories
DLO PowerBug for iPod shuffle ( ): This second-generation iPod shuffle accessory is actually two products sold together—a compact AC adapter with a USB port, and a 4-foot, 10-inch USB docking cable. If you’d like to be able to charge your shuffle away from your computer, the $22 PowerBug is a relatively good deal, considering that it also gives you an alternate docking solution for your shuffle.—DAN FRAKES
Fruitshop Bone iLink ( ): The iLink is a “mini-cable” for dock-connector iPods, featuring a dock-connector plug on one end of a 2.5-inch cable and a standard USB plug at the other. At $14, it’s less expensive than buying an extra dock-connector cable from Apple for your laptop bag, and it won’t take up nearly as much room.—DF
Fruitshop Bone iLink Shuffle ( ): The latest in this growing field of compact docking replacements for the second-generation shuffle, the iLink Shuffle is a 2.5-inch cable with a USB plug on one end and a special data/power miniplug on the other. Its cable approach is a good option if your USB ports are crowded.—DF
iDisguise ( ): A novel solution to the problem of potential theft, the iDisguise looks like a small tin of mints, instead of an iPod case. The idea of disguising your iPod is clever, and it certainly beats leaving your music player lying around in the open.—DAN MOREN
Jabra BT325s ( ): Longtime headset maker Jabra’s BT325s, a Bluetooth headset accessory for iPods and other media players, doesn’t disappoint. While it’s not the smallest nor simplest headset, it does everything well and looks good to boot.—MATHEW HONAN
Lenntek Hookup Lanyard ( ): This slim, attractive, Bluetooth-enabled headset designed is specifically for the iPod nano—though it also worked with a fifth-generation iPod I tested. As with Apple’s own Apple iPod nano Lanyard Headphones, a lanyard loops around your neck, and holds both the Hookup and a connected nano. Three buttons on the side of the Hookup let you control volume and connect to and disconnect from calls on your mobile phone. If you want something sleek and sexy that works with your iPod, the Hookup is a good fit, so to speak. But if you prefer call quality, or want to use your own headphones, look elsewhere.—MH
Tekkeon MyTalker ( ): Tekkeon’s MyTalker plugs into the headphone jack of any iPod—even an iPod shuffle—and lets you easily switch between music and and a Bluetooth phone.—MH
Cases
Fruitshop Bone Nano2 Link ( ): A silicon skin for the second-generation iPod nano stands apart from the rest of the crowd with a flexible, USB dock-connector cable. The cables’ ends fit into two molded-silicone niches on the case’s back, making it a cinch to remove the cable and connect your iPod to your computer.—DM
Griffin Technology tempo for shuffle (armband) (Cases) ( ): One of several exercise armbands for the second-generation iPod shuffle, the Tempo is lightweight, attractive, and holds your shuffle securely. But it’s also among the least-protective armbands out there.—DF
InvisibleShield for iPod Full Body Shield ( ): This protective film for the iPod covers nearly all of your music player and is the toughest film we’ve seen yet. It has a challenging installation process, but it’s worth the trouble if you want to keep your iPod safe from blemishes without having to put it in a bulky case.—DF
Marware Sportsuit Runabout for 2G shuffle ( ): Because of its thin material, Velcro patches, and nylon shuffle-strap, this armband/wristband looks a bit flimsy. But it held up well for me, my shuffle always felt securely attached, and the armband itself is the lightest and most comfortable I’ve personally tested. If you don’t need to keep your shuffle protected during exercise, the Runabout is a comfortable and secure solution.—DF
Mophie Bevy ( ): Mophie’s Bevy is based on the company’s Wraptor clip-on case for the second-generation iPod shuffle. Like the Wraptor, the Bevy is a clear-plastic, clip-on shell that protects the front of the 2G shuffle—except for the control pad, which remains accessible. It’s a novel idea and well-made, but it doesn’t quite succeed due to inconvenient design and below-average cord management.—DF
Vaja i-volution (with hook) for iPod nano (Cases) ( ): More a faceplate than a true case, this leather covering clips onto the nano, but it doesn’t wrap all the way around, so your second-generation nano’s back is left exposed. Although the nano’s anodized aluminum is somewhat resistant to scratching, it can still take a beating if thrown into a purse or a pocket that also contains keys or other sharp objects. And the price and time it costs to get an i-volution means that this is hardly an impulse buy.—DM
Marware Sportsuit Relay ( ): This neoprene case for both generations of iPod is aimed at runners, specifically those using the Nike+iPod Sport Kit. Virtually identical to Marware’s Sportsuit Runabout, it’s great for running, with a wristband and armband that are sturdy and mostly comfortable. The inclusion of the Sensor+ for the Sport Kit sensor (normally a $10 accessory) is a nice touch.—DM
Speakers
Logic 3 i-Station Traveller ( ): The $35 Traveller is just 5 inches wide, 3.2 inches high, and 1 inch deep when folded up for travel, and weighs a little more than 7 ounces (including the required four AAA batteries, provided with purchase). Its best feature is its audio performance. If you’re looking for a compact speaker system on a budget, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a system this small that sounds this good for such a low price.—DF
