Mac Forum / General / Hardware / October 2004

While the standard case is OK for protecting the iPod. The main problem is
one can't see the iPod's screen with it, or use the skip, pause, etc.
controls, unless you use the remote.

I use the leather case which came with my Pure PocketDAB radio. It's a
little too big for the iPod so I pack it with a bit of paper at the
bottom. This case has a large square cut-out at the front, so I
can at least see the screen and operate the four touch controls. This
case seems to be a lot more robust than the standard iPod case, and the
belt hook is better.

http://www.videologic.com/Products/product.asp?Product=VL-60689

RE/

I think it depends on how you will use the iPod.

My standard case was bundled with the device, so I wound up using that one.
I like it because:

1) The iPod has never even come close to slipping out - albiet you'd darn well
better have a safety lanyard from the clip to a belt loop because it *will* come
unclipped from time-to-time.

2) I don't have to lock the iPod when it's in the case.   The buttons never get
pushed accidentally.   This means that to operate it, I just slide it up and out
and operate it held in one hand - then slip it back in.    When I want to stop
it, I hit Pause; then lock it.

Somebody at work trashed their standard case - couldn't make it work for them.
They opted for a rubbery thing that semi-permanently encases the iPod and allows
a view of the screen at all times.    So I guess it depends on how you use the
thing.

$39?   Geeze!!!!

I use mine at the gym, so the Marware Sportsuit Convertable was perfect for
me. Includes an armband and a belt-clip. You can access the click wheel
without the clamshell top, or use the top and make it very durable.

I like the cases I've had from XTreme Mac. Plus, their customer support
is excellent.