Maybe you’re looking for a case to protect your new MP3 player, or perhaps searching for a way to play your device’s tunes through your car stereo. Many accessories on the market can improve your overall listening experience, but it can be confusing to know exactly what’s out there–and hard to find just what you need. This guide gives an overview of the different kinds of MP3 player accessories. And to make it even easier to find the right product, we’ve created a shopping experience that allows you to browse MP3 player accessories by type and player compatibility. Use the menu on the left-hand side of the screen to guide you to the product you need.

Cases

Many of us have invested a fair amount of money into purchasing our MP3 or PMP player. These small devices can be fragile, and they benefit from the protection that a case can provide. You can find cases for just about any brand of player on the market, and many add significant protection without introducing noticeable bulk. Silicone cases keep added size and weight to a minimum and protect your player from being scuffed, but do little to prevent them from being crushed. The greatest protection comes from metal or hard plastic cases, which can significantly increase your player’s durability but add a few ounces to its weight. And remember, even the smallest scratches can permanently mar the screen of an expensive MP3 player. Make sure you add a creative skin to protect the body, and a screen protector if your case leaves the player’s screen open to the elements.

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Armbands

It’s a hassle to have an MP3 player bouncing around in your pocket if you’re trying to run or work out. An armband case eliminates this problem by securing the player to your upper arm with an adjustable strap. This makes it easy to control; plus, you don’t risk losing or damaging your player. Some armbands also include cable management systems that keep excess headphone cords from snagging on objects.

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Speakers and Docks

At home, work, or in the hotel room, external speaker systems let you enjoy your MP3 player without being tethered to a pair of headphones. You can share your music with others without having to worry about missing conversations or outside sounds. Small, travel-sized external speakers are highly portable and let you relax on business or vacation trips. Larger external speakers are also available for home or office use. Usually, these are paired with a dock that will recharge your MP3 player and allow it to connect to your computer.

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FM Transmitters

Most current automobiles have done away with the cassette deck in favor of CD players. Apart from a dedicated connection to your car audio system, the only way you can enjoy your MP3 player’s music in newer cars is with an FM transmitter. These devices plug into your player’s headphone jack and broadcast your music on an unused FM frequency. You then match your car’s FM radio to the frequency on which the transmitter is broadcasting. Some newer FM transmitters will automatically select an empty station to broadcast on, making your listening experience that much easier. Many FM transmitters also come with a charger that will power your MP3 player through your automobile’s cigarette lighter.

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Chargers

Some MP3 players come with a USB cord only that simultaneously charges the device and transmits data to and from your computer. This works well at home, but you’re out of luck if your batteries die and you don’t have access to a computer. Fortunately, there are a multitude of ways to provide power to your player. A separate A/C charger will allow you to charge your device from available power outlets. Automobile chargers can use your car’s cigarette lighter outlet to recharge your MP3 player. There are even battery backup devices that use regular alkaline batteries, giving you a highly mobile power source for your MP3 player.

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Remote Controls

Remote controls can make selecting songs and controlling volume significantly easier. In-line remote controls plug into the headphone jack of your MP3 player, and then you plug your headphones into the remote. This lets you control your music without having to dig your MP3 out of your backpack, purse, or pocket. Some in-line remotes also are equipped with a tiny FM radio tuner, perfect for MP3 players lacking that feature. Wireless remotes act much like television remote controls. They have a sensor that plugs into your headphone jack, and a separate control unit that allows you to change volume and tracks. These are very useful for controlling MP3 players that are primarily used in-car, attached to an armband, or docked and across the room.

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Waterproof Accessories

If you long to go for a swim with your favorite tunes, now you can. Accessory makers have created waterproof headphones and cases that let you take your MP3 player into the pool. Some waterproof cases slip over your MP3 player like a second skin, while others act more like a hard plastic safe that locks your player away from water. These cases are rugged enough for everyday use and do an excellent job of protecting your player out of the water as well. Be aware that most of these cases aren’t rated for SCUBA depths.

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Headphones

People upgrade from the stock headphones that came with their MP3 player for many reasons. Some people find the earbud style that many manufacturers use to be uncomfortable. Others look for greater clarity and purer sound. Still others want headphones that block outside noise. Whatever your reason, a new pair of headphones can give you a fresh take on your music. Need help deciding? Check out our Headphone Help Guide that offers advice on finding a pair that’s right for you.

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