PDO Aluminum N2 for iPod nano

PDO’s Aluminum N2 for the second-generation (2G) iPod nano is quite similar to PDair’s Aluminum case (also reviewed on Playlist) for the original iPod nano, with a couple notable differences. Obviously, the interior is shaped to fit the smaller profile of the new 2G nano, but the major difference is that the N2 includes a round silicone skin over the Click Wheel opening, increasing the protection for your iPod.

Using the N2 is simple: the case is hinged, and you secure it using a clasp on the side. Undo the clasp, and the front flips open, revealing a lining of soft foam that cushions your nano. Pop the nano in, close the case, and your iPod is safe and sound in its aluminum sheath. There’s a cutout at the top to use the hold switch, and the bottom is open for access to the nano’s dock-connector port and headphone jack. The nano’s screen is shielded by a clear, hard protector built right into the case. There’s also a small loop in the back of the case through which you can thread the included lanyard.

The integrated silicone “skin” protector for the nano’s Click Wheel is quite slick. It keeps the iPod’s controls protected while still allowing them to function perfectly. The company has even added markings for the Click Wheel’s controls, so you can find the button you want by touch alone.

Quality wise, the included lanyard is pretty good; PDO has wrapped the silver cord in plastic tubing, which adds some robustness to it, but the small thread that connects the lanyard to the case is thin, and a lanyard is only as good as its weakest link.

The hinge and clasp add a tiny bit of bulk to the case, but overall, the protective features of the Aluminum N2, combined with the ease of accessibility and use, make this a hard case (no pun intended) to beat. –Dan Moren