Griffin Technology Tempo for iPod nano

Griffin Technology’s Tempo is yet another entry in the neoprene-armband space for both first- (1G) and second-generation (2G) iPod nanos. Although its slick, one-piece design might look attractive initially, the case has some flaws that might make you think twice.

Rather than using the two-piece, case-and-armband construction of many of its competitors, the Tempo favors a simple all-in-one design. The armband secures with Velcro and features an additional loop to keep the extra slack under control. Silver reflective strips sit on either side of the clear, flexible-plastic window that covers the entire nano. An orange, plastic cable wrap sits to one side of the nano to store your excess headphone cord.

Once in the case, the “full-body” window of the Tempo shows of your nano to good effect, but I found that the fit was less than ideal. The plastic cover often bulges up, making it difficult to use the touch-sensitive functionality of your iPod’s Click Wheel. I also found that the plastic buckle on the armband could pinch uncomfortably when I used the Tempo on my bare arm (it’s fine over a shirt).

(Side note: The Tempo’s documentation and the pictures on Griffin’s website show that you should insert the nano bottom-first into the pouch. I did this only to find, in complete befuddlement, that there’s no way of accessing the headphone jack in that orientation. Fortunately, it’s easy enough to flip the nano around and insert its top first. You won’t have access to the hold switch, but that’s clearly preferable to not having access to the headphone jack. This way, you’re also able to use the Nike + iPod Sports Kit, since the dock-connector port is likewise accessible.)

Overall, the Tempo looks attractive and simple, but it’s merely an average entry in this space. There’s plenty of competition, and as always, the most important thing is to find an armband that meets your needs. –Dan Moren