Waterproof Music - Headphones, Cases and Skins
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Many people who have already invested a substantial sum in an iPod or similar expensive MP3 player may not feel the urge to part with lots more cash for something that will work underwater. If this is you, all is not lost. Various waterproof headphones, cases and skins are available that will transform your land-locked player into a full-fledged aquatic specimen.
Audiobone Waterproof Headphones - around $190
Using a technology similar to the Swimp3's bone induction, these headphones are suitable for use both on dry land and in the water, and are compatible with all standard MP3 players. The sound is transmitted via the bones of the skull directly to the inner ear, creating what the manufacturers describe as a "safer and more convenient" listening experience. A set of Audiobone headphones will set you back the best part of $200, making them an item for the serious swimmer.
More information from: Audiobone
Aquapac 100% waterproof MP3 player case - around $40
Aquapac is a company that specializes in waterproof cases for electronic devices such as cameras, cell phones and PDAs. It's therefore no surprise that the range includes a number of solutions for MP3 players. The 100% case is a one-size-fits-nearly-all solution for iPods from third generation upwards, Minis, Shuffles and Nanos.
When we say "fits," it's important to understand that this only means the player can be sealed inside what is essentially a waterproof bag with a see-through panel and waterproof headphone connector. The 100% makes no concessions to tailoring, and while some iPods fit better than others, no specific model feels truly at home.
This problem manifests itself in a number of ways. Screens are clipped, some models rattle around inside, and the general effect is off-the-shelf rather than designer. Of course, on the plus side of this equation are significant versatility and price advantages. If you're looking for a cheap and cheerful way to get underwater sound, the 100% is worth considering.
More information from: Aquapac
Otterbox iPod Armor Cases - from around $40
Case specialists Otterbox have a reputation for quality, and the company's Armor range of cases for various iPod models don't compromise on this level. The cases are designed to offer complete protection - waterproof, crushproof, drop-proof, dirtproof and sandproof - by completely surrounding the player in an impact-absorbing rubber membrane. Full operation of the player remains possible thanks to a thinner membrane positioned over the click wheel, and the use of clear rubber for the entire case means that your classy player remains fully visible.
In combination with waterproof headphones, the Otterbox cases create a fully submersible iPod solution that is waterproof down to one meter. This is less than most of the dedicated players in this roundup, but the cost is also much lower.
Otterbox Armor cases are available for most iPod models and are compatible with any headset equipped with a standard 1/8" mini stereo jack.
For the serious water-baby, as well as its armor cases, Otterbox offers the Ego Ice Waterproof iPod Sound case. Waterproof, spill-proof and shatterproof, this $120 floating speaker dock allows you to take your party almost anywhere there's water. It's designed to be able to cope with pool and salt water, and like the armor cases, provides for full click-wheel operation through a thin membrane over the cover. The speakers are a pair of 3W waterproof units, and the case will accept most iPod models.
More information from: Otterbox
Sources:
http://www.waterproofmusic.com/
http://www.nu-global.com/
http://www.otterbox.com/
http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/reviews/entry/aquapac-100-waterproof-mp3-player-case
http://audioboneheadphones.com/
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