A product review of the waterproof housing for iPods and MP3 players from H2O Audio.
It seems as if everyone in the world lives with their own soundtracks. MP3 players and iPods are attached to nearly everyone you pass on the streets. Unfortunately, most personal music players aren’t up to the demands of many sports. Water, snow, dirt and sand can seep into the crevices of your player and ruin the device forever. What a shame when you have to put away your tunes to do your favorite sports! Luckily, H2O Audio has developed a waterproof housing so that you can enjoy your favorite music while swimming, surfing and snowboarding.
The waterproof housing- The H2O Audio Waterproof shells are available to fit a variety of iPod models and MP3 players. The durable, waterproof casing, T-seal and the secure locking mechanism prevent water from entering the housing (the T-seal is good for about one year; replacements are available). Detailed instructions are included with the housing, as well as several yellow “warning” messages about safety and assembly (which made me anxious--mostly about ruining my iPod). The housing went together very easily, even though I had to change the brackets to adapt to my iPod model. The housing locks securely around the device, the locking mechanism is easy to work. It remained completely waterproof during the test period. There was never even a sign of condensation within the case.
A small scroll wheel fits over the touch dial. It works very well once you get used to it; you can’t just brush your finger across the dial as with your iPod. The screen is easy to visualize, even when in the water.
Accessories- An arm band and swim belt are available and are actually quite comfortable. There were no hard edges or seams rubbing my skin. I didn’t like the clear plastic that fits across the face of the unit & iPod. It may be a personal prejudice but I find those kinds of covering make it more difficult to visualize the screen (although I understand their function).
Headphones- H2O Audio also provides headphones to be used with the housing. They are designed to fit securely to the head and outer ears as well as within the ear. I found it a bit tricky to properly position the ear plugs for the best sound and fit. It is necessary to adjust both the length of the plug and the angle of insertion to get the best fit. Initially the sound isn’t as full and rich as with standard earplugs. I found the best quality sound to be when I was fully submerged in the water. The headphones do fit very securely to the outer ears and the back of the head, there was no movement regardless of what I was doing.
Safety- There are some safety issues associated with the H2O Audio system. With a good fit, environmental sounds can be blocked. Also, it cannot be used at greater than 10 feet under the surface of the water or can result in ear damage and hearing loss.
H2O Audio products are available at a variety of retailers including Apple Stores, Target.com, and specialty sport dealers. For more information visit the H2O Audio website.
http://extremesports.suite101.com/article.cfm/h2o_waterproof_housing_for_ipods
