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
Belkin Headphone Adapter ( ): The iPhone’s headphone jack is recessed into the iPhone’s body, which means third-party headphones with larger miniplugs won’t work with this recessed jack. The solution is a headphone adapter that plugs into this recessed jack and then lets you use your headphones of choice. The smallest and simplest of the adapters we’ve seen so far is Belkin’s; plug it into your iPhone’s headphone jack, and you get a standard headphone minijack into which any 1/8-inch stereo miniplug can be inserted.—DAN FRAKES
Silex WiDock ( ): At a price of $150, the WiDock is not cheap, especially considering the lack of a full-featured remote control; the convenience of a wireless dock is in some ways compromised by the need to get up and walk to your iPod each time you want to switch to a new playlist or a different movie. But as a device that offers new, never-before-seen technology, the WiDock works well and is, hopefully, a sign of even better things to come. If your entertainment system is cluttered with too many wires, or if you’re just tired of carrying your iPod back and forth between your desk and your entertainment center for synching, the WiDock offers a unique solution that just may be worth the cost.—BRIAN CHEN
Cases
Bone Collection Bone Skin ( ): This silicone skin for the first-generation shuffle offers a twist: It’s shaped like a bone. It’s an interesting take on the iPod shuffle case, which is functional and protective—as long as you keep this chew-toy look-a-like out of reach of curious pets.—DERIK DELONG
DLO Podfolio ( ): This simple, flip-style case features stark black leather that’s soft to the touch. The Podfolio may not be a flashy case with any special features, but it’s a solid case that works well and has a professional—even office-appropriate—look.—DD
Fruitshop Bone Nano2 Cube ( ): This silicone cases for the second-generation iPod nano is pretty much average. Made of washable silicone, the case has openings for the iPod’s screen and hold button as well as open bottom so you can slide in your nano and have access to its headphone jack and dock-connector port. There’s also a thin, adhesive film included to protect the screen, as well as a pair of silicone earbud covers. The case’s simplicity means that the Cube adds very little in the way of bulk to the nano. The case will keep your iPod well-protected from bumps, drops and scratches, with one exception: the screen. The included adhesive film will prevent casual scratches, but it’s a far cry from the tougher screen protection included with many cases. —DAN MOREN
Incase Special Edition Folio ( ): This leather case for your fifth-generation (5G) iPod features high-quality Nappa leather that surrounds the exterior of the case and the suede that lines the interior. The leather feels nice in the hand and the white and orange color combination is stylish. The one flaw of this particular folio implementation is your iPod’s tendency to slide to the left a bit out of place when the case is opened; otherwise, the Folio is a well-designed case that looks good, feels great in the hand, and offers decent protection.—DD
Marware Sidewinder ( ): If you’re willing to add some weight and girth to your iPod, the Sidewinder offers excellent protection and many, many useful features. It’s significantly heavier than other cases. It also adds girth that, if you’re used to carrying your iPod in the nude, makes the Sidewinder-encased version feel more like a brick than the music player you’re used to, especially when used with a 30 GB iPod with the extra pad included for compatibility. On the other hand, built into that extra padding is a headphone cord wrap, a stand, a door to protect the iPod’s dock-connector port, and a belt clip compatible with Marware’s existing clips. Each feature functions very well, showing attention to detail. The top panel of the case is also thoughtfully designed, with easy access to your iPod’s hold switch and a large headphone-jack opening that will accommodate all but the largest of miniplugs.—DD
Headphone
V-Moda Vibe Duo ( ): Essentially
V-Moda’s original Vibe headphones with the addition of an inline microphone, the Duo lets you make and take calls without having to remove your headphones. But there are no inline controls, which means you have to use the iPhone’s buttons and screen in order to pick up or hang up a call or control playback.—DF
Speakers
JVC NX-PS1 Digital Music Speaker System ( ): Overall, the NX-PS1 is a unique system, thanks mainly to a “minisystem” design that foregoes any audio source of its own, but also due to its diminutive overall size. A USB-audio connection also makes it a good companion for a desktop computer. However, the lack of an FM tuner is puzzling, and the system’s overall sound quality is a bit disappointing given some of the competition at the NX-PS1’s $250 price.—DF
