Making sure you get everything you need when you buy an iPod isn’t as simple as just going into the Apple Store, grabbing a music player off the shelf and paying. There are some other purchases you should make to ensure you get the most out of your iPod experience.
There are thousands of accessories for the iPod, from speakers to cases to headphones to car kits. What you need will really depend on how you plan to use your iPod, but here are a few ideas for what you should buy to make sure you’re full equipped to rock.
The Necessities
iPod – This one goes without saying, I think. (Read iPod reviews)
Case – You’ll want to get something to protect your new digital baby from getting scratched. There are cases for runners and exercisers, cases for travelers, cases for the very stylish. Get the one that suits you and your needs, but make sure you get a case. Scratches in your screen or Clickwheel aren’t worth the $20 or so you’ll save (Read case reviews).
Recommended
AppleCare Extended Warranty – Some people think these are scams, but for an expensive bit of electronics, I think they’re usually a good idea. The standard iPod warranty runs one year for repairs and 90 days for phone support. Adding an extended warranty (currently about $59 at the Apple Store) extends your coverage to a full three years of repair and support. This will more than pay for itself if you ever need a repair and three years seems like just about the normal lifespan of an iPod.
Optional
Speakers – If you’re going to use your iPod around the house or when traveling, you should look into a set of high-quality iPod speakers. That way you can share the music or just turn it up really loud without worrying about damaging your hearing. (Read speaker reviews)
Headphones – The earbud headphones that come with the iPod have great sound quality, but can be too big for some ears, causing them to fall out or be painful. There are also even higher-end headphones, such as those that cancel ambient noise. Try the earbuds for a few weeks and then decide if you need something else. (Read headphone reviews)
Car Kit – If you want to listen to your iPod in the car, earbuds won’t cut it (and wearing headphones while driving is illegal in many states). Instead, you need something to connect your iPod to your car stereo. Options for this include devices that transmit songs over unused FM frequencies or cassette adapters like those used for CD players. (Read car kit reviews)
Bottom Line
As you can see, you’ll need more than just an iPod to make your experience complete. So, when you’re saving for your purchase, be sure to factor in other costs that can run from $20 more to hundreds more. If you do, you’ll be a lot happier with your iPod in the long run.
