My iPod Nano

I acquired my16 gigabyte iPod Nano just over a year ago, paying about 125 pounds in an airport duty-free shop. Although I was at first doubtful if I would be able to master all the jargon and technology surrounding iTunes software, playlists, podcasts, and so on, with a little help from my elder son (who is really into this sort of thing) I got to grips with it and I would now be at a loss without it. I have loaded it with some 50 CDs (mainly classical) and innumerable podcasts from the radio, a few pictures and over 200 bird calls. It is still only half full.

My little blue iPod Nano playing a podcast from the BBC

I bought a stereo speaker system for about 65 pounds into which the iPod neatly docks.
The sound volume would not fill a disco but it is perfectly adequate for domestic use
and the quality of the sound is good.
It comes with a mains adapter, but also will run off six AAA batteries which slot into the back.

Just look how thin the speaker system is when folded up. It slips easily into the pocket of a suitcase and takes up no space at all - it goes everywhere with me on my many travels.

Having nearly lost my iPod twice during fieldwork, I have invested in a little leather case with a lanyard which goes round the neck or can be attached to a belt

An important use for my iPod is in fieldwork. I have some 200 bird voices loaded on which can be used for attracting birds for ringing them. The little speaker cost under six pounds from Tesco, runs off 3 AAA batteries and delivers sufficient volume for most fieldwork purposes.