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About to buy an iPod, what are your recommendations on cases, accessories, and other?
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
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I'm probably going to buy an iPod pretty soon before Christmas, and I figure that I might as well buy the accessories at the same time to save on shipping charges. I'm looking for your opinion on some of the best cases and accessories as there's really not a place around here for me to test out Apple stuff except the Baton Rouge CompUSA, which doesn't have a whole lot.
In a case, I'm looking more for ruggedness as I'm planning on taking this walking with me and want to be protected if it accidentally falls. Is the Contour Showcase the best option for me, or is there a better one? I'm not really concerned about different colors.
In accessories, I'm really looking for a quality cable that I can use to hook it up to my car stereo and home stereo. I know that Monster makes one, Belkin makes one, but are they any better quality wise than something like this from PCCables ? Has anyone ever done a direct comparison?
What about headphones? How good are the iPods included earphones? I'm definitely not an audiophile, but if there are better headphones/earphones out there for a reasonable amount, I'd be interested. I know that there are $500 plugs, but that is way too much for me...besides, I know I'd break 'em! 
Any other cool accessories that may fly under the radar, but turn out to be great pickups? The iPoDonut is an example of what I'm talking about. Anything that will help me protect my new iPod and/or help it sound great will be considered.
Thanks to everyone who responds!
Keith
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Dedicated MacNNer
Join Date: Oct 2004
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Make sure you get some kind of a case. The mirror finish is very delicate and susceptible to scratches & smudges.
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
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Yeah, I just bought a 4G 20GB iPod off of a guy for $215. He says that it has slight scratches, but I'd like to prevent any more. I'm thinking the Contour might be the way to go.
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Clinically Insane
Join Date: Nov 1999
Location: Where Airbus babies hatch
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I don't like any of the cases/sleeves.
My iPod is a thing I use often, and I don't mind things looking used - Apple has a knack of making things that age well. My first-generation 5GB iPod is scratched to hell, but it still looks and feels great. It has patina.
Which brings me to the point: a large part of iPod's appeal to me is holding it in my hand - it feels nice, the smooth metal and the plastic finish on the front. Putting it in a rubber sleeve or a plastic case kills the tactile aspect of iPod.
-s*
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
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Spheric Harlot, have you ever dropped yours? I wouldn't plan on dropping mine, but if I want to use it for walking/jogging, I just want to make sure I don't break it if it accidentally drops!
I see your point, but I'm just a bit weary of plunking down $215 for something and not having any way to protect it...
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Mac Elite
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: New York City, NY
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Originally posted by Silly Burrito:
Spheric Harlot, have you ever dropped yours? I wouldn't plan on dropping mine, but if I want to use it for walking/jogging, I just want to make sure I don't break it if it accidentally drops!
I see your point, but I'm just a bit weary of plunking down $215 for something and not having any way to protect it...
cargo pocket, it's never dropped for me. it'd have to unbutton the button, jump out, and jump over the clothing, then it has to pass by my quick reflexes before it hits the ground. pretty safe eh?
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iamwhor3hay
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Clinically Insane
Join Date: Nov 1999
Location: Where Airbus babies hatch
Status:
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Originally posted by Silly Burrito:
Spheric Harlot, have you ever dropped yours? I wouldn't plan on dropping mine, but if I want to use it for walking/jogging, I just want to make sure I don't break it if it accidentally drops!
I see your point, but I'm just a bit weary of plunking down $215 for something and not having any way to protect it...
Actually, I have dropped mine - once -, and the plastic front of the case has a very slight crack at the top now (1st-generation; I don't think one of the later ones would have cracked due to different case design).
I think once I get a new one (not for a while), I might opt for a slipcase - like the iSock or something, where it's protected but still "naked" when I actually operate it. Probably not the iSock, though - the "six-for-one" approach is too reminiscent of back when Apple insisted dealers buy equal numbers of each gumdrop iMac. "Whatever your mood..." - yeah right. 
-s*
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
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The iSock doesn't look like it's too protective, but it will keep your iPod cozy and snug!
But, I could probably pick 6 of something similar up at Wal-Mart for $4.99...the only problem is that they'd only be white, but then it'd match my iPod! 
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Senior User
Join Date: Mar 2002
Status:
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Originally posted by Silly Burrito:
In a case, I'm looking more for ruggedness as I'm planning on taking this walking with me and want to be protected if it accidentally falls. Is the Contour Showcase the best option for me, or is there a better one? I'm not really concerned about different colors.
I just pulled the trigger last night on a 40G (non photo) and picked up the iSkin case. Good and rubbery and seems to protect well with a hard screen protector. You can get clear, white, or colors....
In accessories, I'm really looking for a quality cable that I can use to hook it up to my car stereo and home stereo. I know that Monster makes one, Belkin makes one, but are they any better quality wise than something like this from PCCables ? Has anyone ever done a direct comparison?
For the most part, the Monster stuff is way overpriced. And those who claim to tell, I would call BS. On your typical stereo with comressed source, you won't be able to tell the difference. Just don't pick up one of those $0.99 Wal-Mart specials and you will be fine. I'm using an old cord that came with a portable CD player I got a long time ago. Worked great for my Minidisc player and I'm sure will work great with the iPod.
What about headphones? How good are the iPods included earphones? I'm definitely not an audiophile, but if there are better headphones/earphones out there for a reasonable amount, I'd be interested. I know that there are $500 plugs, but that is way too much for me...besides, I know I'd break 'em!
Dono about the stock earbuds - my left ear is a little "different" and doesn't have a place for buds to rest. (the 'notch' is very small) On a reccomendation I've heard echoed all over the net, I picked up a pair of Shure e2c sound isolating canalphones (paid a lot less than retail of $99) and they are fantastic. Block out almost all the noise of surrounding areas and sound PHENOMENAL. I can hear things in the music that I never thought was there. The only downside is I had to re-rip my music to 236k AAC because the 128k MP3's sounded so bad (had 5 computers working (2 Macs, 3Win boxes and it took an evening + morning to do 125 CD's). Look around - they supposedly can be had for $75 or so. Definitely reccomended.
Other than that, enjoy the iPod - it's a fantastic little machine....
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
Status:
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Originally posted by mbryda:
Dono about the stock earbuds - my left ear is a little "different" and doesn't have a place for buds to rest. (the 'notch' is very small) On a reccomendation I've heard echoed all over the net, I picked up a pair of Shure e2c sound isolating canalphones (paid a lot less than retail of $99) and they are fantastic. Block out almost all the noise of surrounding areas and sound PHENOMENAL. I can hear things in the music that I never thought was there. The only downside is I had to re-rip my music to 236k AAC because the 128k MP3's sounded so bad (had 5 computers working (2 Macs, 3Win boxes and it took an evening + morning to do 125 CD's). Look around - they supposedly can be had for $75 or so. Definitely reccomended.
Other than that, enjoy the iPod - it's a fantastic little machine.... [/B]
Thanks for the e2c recommendation. I'm thinking of either the e2c or the e3c. The only bad part is that I don't know if there's anywhere to test, so I'll just have to go on recommendations...
If you don't mind me asking, where did you pick them up from less than retail? Ebay?
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Senior User
Join Date: Mar 2002
Status:
Offline
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Originally posted by Silly Burrito:
Thanks for the e2c recommendation. I'm thinking of either the e2c or the e3c. The only bad part is that I don't know if there's anywhere to test, so I'll just have to go on recommendations...
If you don't mind me asking, where did you pick them up from less than retail? Ebay?
I was looking at the e2c or e3c or the Etymotic e6ri's. Glad I settled on the e2c - my wife flipped when she saw I spent $70 on headphones. I could only imagine if she saw I spent $150-200!
But, my story is simple - on the side I do PC consulting work and have an account with one of the large distributors. They also happen to deal in audio/home electronics. So, I sold myself a pair at cost.. But, there are a few places that have them on the 'net for $70 ir so. Head over to ipodlounge.com and you can get $30 off a set of any headphones $99+....
The only other thing I can say with the canalphones is experiment with all the tips for a good fit. The first night with the e2c's, I went with the smallest silicone and my ears ended up killing me (lots say the Shure silicone ont he e2c isn't the most comoftable thing) and I switched to the foam and they are the most comfortable things I've used. They sound awesome and are worth every penny!
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
Status:
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Yeah, I know that my cheap self is balking at paying $100+ for canalphones, but I figure if I rerip all my music to Apple Lossless and have it on the iPod, why not get the best sounding headphones to match? Heck, I'm even thinking of plunking down the money for Monster Cables just for the stereo connection to make sure I have the best sound possible...yes I know that some people think it's hype, but if I buy them locally, I can test them and see if I notice any difference.
Thanks for the iPodlounge hint. It looks like I can pick up the e3cs for $149 with free shipping. I wish I had bought them when Amazon had them on sale a few weeks back...maybe around Christmas.
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
Status:
Offline
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Originally posted by mbryda:
I was looking at the e2c or e3c or the Etymotic e6ri's. Glad I settled on the e2c - my wife flipped when she saw I spent $70 on headphones. I could only imagine if she saw I spent $150-200!
But, my story is simple - on the side I do PC consulting work and have an account with one of the large distributors. They also happen to deal in audio/home electronics. So, I sold myself a pair at cost.. But, there are a few places that have them on the 'net for $70 ir so. Head over to ipodlounge.com and you can get $30 off a set of any headphones $99+....
The only other thing I can say with the canalphones is experiment with all the tips for a good fit. The first night with the e2c's, I went with the smallest silicone and my ears ended up killing me (lots say the Shure silicone ont he e2c isn't the most comoftable thing) and I switched to the foam and they are the most comfortable things I've used. They sound awesome and are worth every penny!
Well, I ended up buying both the e3c headphones and the Monster iCable at eCost, and the Contour Showcase 4G at MacMall. I was amazed at how fast both orders came to my house, and it appears that they use the same drop shipper in Tennessee. I ordered Sunday morning and they were on my doorstop on Tuesday afternoon, and that was with the free shipping option, no express needed. In fact, if you consider that they wouldn't have shipped it until Monday anyway, I got an amazing deal on next day shipping, and the phones cost $114, and the iCable cost $17. Even Apple's site today with their Black Friday ad has the iCable for $18, and there's no free shipping on just that.
I am extremely pleased with the Shure e3c. I haven't even used any of the inserts except for the foam, and it's pretty darn comfortable. The Showcase is great as well. The iCable was on backorder, but I hope to test it out soon...
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Senior User
Join Date: Mar 2002
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Glad to hear you're enjoying your iPod and E3c's - I've found that good headphones make the whole portable audio experience much better and more lifelike.
As for eCost/MacMall - IIRC they use Ingram Micro or Tech Data to drop-shop their orders. Actually, Mac/PCMall and eCost are owned by the exact same company....
Anyway, keep on rockin'
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Grizzled Veteran
Join Date: Feb 2003
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You might also consider a Griffin iTrip. $35 and lets you play your iPod over any FM stereo... so you can listen to tunes in your car. Another nifty device on my christmas list is a Belkin TuneDock which basically is an overpriced piece of plastic (that I still want) which holds your iPod and fits into a cup holder in your car so that you don't get your nice iPod all messed up when using an iTrip...
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Mac: 15" 1.5ghz PB w/ 128mb vid, 5400rpm 80gb, combo drive, 2gb ram
Peripherals: 20gb 4g iPod, Canon i950, Canon S230 "elph", Canon LIDE30, Logitech MX510, Logitech z5500, M-Audio Sonica Theater, Samsung 191T
PC: AMD "barton" XP @ 2.3ghz, 1gb pc3200, 9800pro 128mb, 120gb WD-SE 120gb
Xbox: 1.6, modded with X3 xecuter, slayers evoX 2.6, WDSE 120gb HDD
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Fordoche, Louisiana
Status:
Offline
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Originally posted by wuzup101:
You might also consider a Griffin iTrip. $35 and lets you play your iPod over any FM stereo... so you can listen to tunes in your car. Another nifty device on my christmas list is a Belkin TuneDock which basically is an overpriced piece of plastic (that I still want) which holds your iPod and fits into a cup holder in your car so that you don't get your nice iPod all messed up when using an iTrip...
Thanks. I already have a hard-wired FM modulator, and I just got it to work with the iPod, so I'm going that route. As for the Tunedock, it looks nice, but from what I hear, you can't use it and an iPod in a case at the same time. Fortunately, my truck has a holder for 8 CDs which I really won't need any more, so I can just stick the iPod in there.
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I bought a doughnut and they gave me a receipt for the doughnut... I don't need a receipt for the doughnut. I give you money and you give me the doughnut, end of transaction. We don't need to bring ink and paper into this. I can't imagine a scenario that I would have to prove that I bought a doughnut. To some skeptical friend, don't even act like I didn't buy a doughnut, I've got the documentation right here... It's in my file at home. ...Under "D".
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Fresh-Faced Recruit
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: NYC
Status:
Offline
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Originally posted by Spheric Harlot:
"a large part of iPod's appeal to me is holding it in my hand - it feels nice, the smooth metal and the plastic finish on the front. Putting it in a rubber sleeve or a plastic case kills the tactile aspect of iPod."
-s*
I agree fully. However, I'm pretty happy with the stock black apple sleeve for storage purposes.
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