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If there is something in particular you want to do with your iPod, there is probably an iPod accessory that will help you do it. There are so many different speakers, headphones, cases, adaptors, chargers, battery packs and more that the whole array is referred to as the "iPod ecosystem" by some.
With so many brands and choices available, I can't possibly mention them all. If I mention a brand or supplier here, that doesn't mean it's an endorsement as the best choice. It's just a place to start looking. When you have in mind what you need, look around in local stores and online to find the accessory that's right for your purposes.
Many iPod accessories also work with iPhone. Think speakers, car accessories, chargers, docks, and protective carriers or holders. If you have one or both devices, the same accessories may work for you.
Of course, the Apple Store sells iPod accessories, but don't limit yourself to that one site, because a plethora of stores sell iPod accessories.
Docks and chargers
Everything that makes noise seems to come with a built-in iPod dock these days. Radios, speaker systems, home stereos, car stereos. You can find a $20 model at Target or a high end model from Logitech or Bose. Docks that connect to sound systems usually allow you to broadcast your music while charging the iPod.
There are also various types of docks are mainly for charging your iPod. They may be added to anything that you plug in, such as a lamp or a clock. Or you may find a dock such as the Power Dock from Griffin Technology that does nothing but charge two or four iPods/iPhones at at time.
Be careful when selecting a dock. There are different sizes of iPods; each needs a specific size and type of dock. Apple does have a 'universal' dock, as do others, but make sure you're getting the right size if you don't get a one-size-fits-all dock.
Don't forget that you can charge your iPod while it's plugged into your computer to be synched with iTunes. You don't need to spend any extra money for that, because the cable comes with your iPod.
Speakers
Speaker systems and docks are often one-in-the-same, as I mentioned above. I like to play the music I have in iTunes with my computer speakers. That won't work in the bedroom, or during a party that fills the living room and kitchen with noise. But there are speakers that will handle the job. You may also want speakers that will serve in a dorm room or in your workspace. Target, Best Buy, Office Max, and online sources like Amazon, Bose, Lansing or Logitech all sell these.
Think about where you want to music, and then you'll be able to narrow down the choices. Would it be better to have an iPod play through your clock radio or your home theater mega-decible sound system? Do you want to be able to switch between cassettes, CDs and the iPod? A stereo system is out there that will give you those options.
Carriers and cases
You want to protect your beautiful new toy from scratching and make it easy to tote around. Maybe you want to strap it on your arm while you exercise, or hook it to your waistband so you can walk around with it. Cases and covers come in everything from plastic and rubber to leather. They include hooks, velcro, snap-on-rings and all sorts of ways to keep the music tethered to your body.
Decide where you want to carry the device. Your arm, your waist, your bike frame, your pocket. There's a case or carrier out there designed for that use.
Carriers and cases also permit different amounts of the iPod to be exposed to your reach. Some cover both the screen and the controller with a plastic protector. Some cover only the screen but leave the controller unprotected. Some cover just the back and sides and leave the entire front open to the touch. A decision about what you need depends of the type of iPod and you own self-knowledge about how rough you are on things. Sometimes it's a little harder to tell if a carrier you choose online (as opposed in in a local store) is going to let you manipulate the controls in a way that works easily.
Power boosters
You may need to get a lot of life out of your device between charging sessions. You might be on a long flight or stuck in an airport or out hiking the Appalachian
