So Much Gear: iPod Accessories Reviewed

Tons of iPod Accessories, So Little Time

The amount of iPod gear I get to review here at PowerBook Central would literally blow your mind. And we don't even have the word 'iPod' in our name! Don't get me wrong - the iPod ecosystem is a wonderful thing, providing designers, PR folks, and writers with ample opportunity to strut their stuff. So in the interest of getting the word out about the good and bad points of some of the gear I've been testing out over the past few months, here's a handful of quick reviews of goodies for your Pod.

Pacific Design iPod nano Flip Case

Pros: Simple but Hip Design, Good iPod Protection, Beautiful Color Schemes
Cons: Belt Loop's Velco/Snap Closure is Unwieldly, Case Material is Vinyl not Leather
In Sum: High Style Protection for a High Style iPod
Pricing: $29.99 (list)
More Info: Product Page

Pacific Design "American Idiot" Flip Case for iPod 4G

Pros: If the Style Appeals to you it will Really Appeal to You, Good iPod Protection
Cons: Case Material is Vinyl not Leather, Only Available for iPod 4G
In Sum: iPod-Owning Green Day Fans Rejoice!
Pricing: $29.99 (list)
More Info: Product Page

Nyko Universal Car Mount for iPod

Pros: Clever Design Accomodates Most iPods, Mounts on Dashboard or A/C Vents
Cons: Poor Build Quality, Bottom Cradle too Narrow for iPod inside Case
In Sum: Great idea, but mine broke (A/C vent clip fell off) on the first use
Pricing: $19.99 (list)
More Info: Product Page

Smoke Starter Kit for iPod nano

Pros: Includes enough cables to connect any iPod to a home or car stereo.
Cons: AC Adaptor requires iPod cable, Sleeve only fits nano.
In Sum: Decent quality, inexpensive collection of cables, plugs, and adaptors.
Pricing: $29.99 (list)
More Info: Product Page

Edge Dock & Multi-Flash Card Reader for iPod

Pros: Space saving design, audio/video out jacks.
Cons: iPod sync and flash card reader require separate USB cables.
In Sum: If they'd combined this functionality into a single USB connection it'd be killer. They didn't.
Pricing: $45.95
More Info: Product Page

SendStation smartCharge iPod Car Charger

Pros: Functional and stylish design, built-in audio out jack, works with all iPods.
Cons: A little pricey, non-shuffle iPods require iPod USB cable for charging.
In Sum: Smart, stylish, functional way to use your iPod in the car.
Pricing: $29.99
More Info: Product Page

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Get the best price for your new iPod at PCPrices/iPod.

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Noah Kravitz is the Reviews Editor for PowerBook Central. A writer, educator, and musician, he lives in Oakland, CA and is the author of Teaching and Learning with Technology.