Wed, 27 Jan 2010 Scosche tapSTICK case with integrated controls for iPod shuffle review
Polycarbonate case with integrated controls
- Manufacturer: Scosche
- Pros: Brings new life to iPod shuffle for those who want a choice of earphones, adds built-in controls, some protective qualities, 3.3 ft audio cable for connecting to stereos included, Made for iPod approval.
- Cons: Partially covers controls so case needs to be regularly removed for charging, docking etc, significant investment considering entry level price of the iPod shuffle.
- Min specs: Compatible with iPod shuffle 3rd generation.
- Price: £24.99
- Star rating:
Compatible with the dinky iPod shuffle 3G, the Scosche tapSTICK adds protection, intuitive controls and the ability to use non-Apple headphones to the diminutive music player. If you’re not a fan of Apple's minimalist no button approach or the company’s iconic white earphones then this is good news. The option to add your own preference earphones or headphones can bring new life and detail to your music collection, especially on the move, with the option to choose a more effective noise-cancelling solution for travel.
The tapSTICK clips in place, across one end and one side of the iPod shuffle, with ease, held in place via the 3.5 mm headphone jack. You then need only attach any headphones compatible with the same size jack or auxiliary cable - provided in the box - to get started. The controls - play/pause, volume up/volume down, previous/next track - are easy to master and simple to use on the go, even unsighted in a jacket pocket, for example. The tapSTICK also supports Apple's VoiceOver technology for identifying tracks being played.
The tapSTICK does add a little bulk to the iPod shuffle, and while not ugly, hardly enhances the player’s good looks. The case also obscures both the status LED display used for measuring battery life and the Off/Shuffle switch on the iPod, which means the iPod shuffle needs to be switched on before you fully attach the case. You will also need to remove the tapSTICK for charging and docking although this is hardly a demanding process. The price is also a consideration, over half the price of the cheapest £46 iPod shuffle.

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