I was pretty excited when I got the 3rd-generation iPod nano; the possibilities for running were great. However, I lacked one critical accessory: a good protective case and armband.
I soon found that the DLO Action Jacket solved my problems. The neoprene case is designed specifically for the 3rd generation (4GB/8GB) iPod nano, and comes with a 180-degree rotating belt clip and an adjustable armband. The Action Jacket retails for $30, but I was able to find it for as low as $18 (plus free shipping!) on Amazon.com. Colors are available in black, white, or pink. I personally like the black.
To me, a mark of a good armband is that it makes no impression on me. In other words, I won’t know it’s there, leaving me free to think about my run and enjoy the music! The Action Jacket succeeds in this with its simple design. The neoprene case with clear viewing window protects the iPod from the elements, and a “cut-out” in the case allows me easy access to the nano’s Click Wheel. I actually ran with it during a snow storm, and it did its job.
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Want the gear that will go the furthest, last the longest and do the most to improve your performance? Want to buy the perfect holiday gift for the runner in your family? Want the newest, most advanced training tools on the market?
Then look no further! The Final Sprint’s Top Picks of 2006 is your ultimate guide to running gadgets, hydration devices and much more! We have put hours into testing and comparing each of these items and take pride in recommending each of our top picks.
TRAINING SYSTEMS (HRM + Training Assistant)
Overall
- Top Pick: Polar / adidas Project Fusion
- Best Value: Timex IRONMAN Bodylink System
GPS Training System
- Top Pick: Garmin Forerunner 305
Non-GPS Training System
- Top Pick: Polar / adidas Project Fusion
MP3 Player
Hydration Device (short/moderate distance)
Hydration Device (long distance)
Injury Prevention and Treatment Products
MP3 Players and their accessories can be really helpful training and motivational tools for runners and other athletes.
iPod nanos, for example, can be extremely helpful - but like many electronic devices out there have a plethora of accessories.
The problem is that if you want to get the most out of the paper thin nano - you end up having to lug around 10 huge accessories. This can become a very prohibitive issue for runners - especially marathoners who are out there for hours at a time.
The DLO nanoTune attacks the route of the problem with their new nanoTune by combining the following accessories into one item: FM radio, FM transmitter, headphone amp, is a protective case, allows dock and power through puts, and has a built in desktop stand.
Do you love using a mp3 player with your favorite songs to pump you up in training or during a race? Do the first few notes of your favorite song get your adrenaline pumping? If so - then try the DLO Transdock Micro FM transmitter that I reviewed for Gadgetell to get you psyched for your next race . . .
Product: DLO TransDock micro
Price: $69.99
Rating: Very Good 7.93/10.0
Pros: Superior performance, direct connection for iPod shuffle, operates on all frequencies, AC plug-in powers the transmitter and charges your iPod, supports any 1/8″ device (other MP3 player, PSP, etc.)
Cons: No direct connection or holster for the iPod and iPod nano, hard to operate while driving, difficult to view screen while plugged in.
Overall: Extremely useful and reliable. A “breath of fresh air” in the realm of FM transmitters. Aside from some minor design flaws, a great buy and a product you won’t regret purchasing.
This DLO FM transmitter is a small, black device that connects directly to your vehicle’s AC adapter. A dock on the top portion of the device allows for a direct connection for an iPod shuffle via USB. An included adapter is available for use with the nano, iPod mini and iPod as well as a 1/8″ auxiliary port for use with other audio devices such as your PC, PSP, or non-Apple MP3 player as well as a tape deck out if you choose not to use the FM transmitter. Push buttons to change frequencies are located on either side of the unit. A small, rectangular screen displays the frequency in use. Supports 4 preset stations for quick station changes as your drive. Finally, DLO promotes the fact that the cable can be used to charge your iPod in home (a $20 value) via your PC but that did not seem to be the case. My computer did not recognize the USB device leaving me with a drained iPod.
Continue reading the performance and design aspects of the review as well as our overall final impression.
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