The iPod is the ultimate symbol of the digital age and only those entirely out of the loop haven't heard about it by now. The iPod is today's hottest gadget. Owning one elevates you to the status of the iPod people--audiophiles in love with their iPods. What self-respecting iPod person would you be if you didn't spruce up your iPod with iPod accessories? Fortunately, there are countless companies who offer the best and most exciting hardware and software iPod accessories to complement and personalize your "baby."

Let's begin with the basics of iPod accessories: iPod skins. The first, second and third generation iPods often had to content themselves with the iPod accessories mostly consisting of cases in leather, rubber, aluminum or fabric to protect the iPod from scratches, dust and moisture. Depending on your requirements, there are covers that allow you to carry your iPod in all your activities. From water-resistant cases to sweat-proof sleeves, these iPod accessories help the iPod be more portable.

The skins can also serve a stylish function.http://DecalGirl.com has a vast array of iPod skins, from loud colors to your favorite anime characters, and almost anything you imagine is possible. You can even satisfy the abstract side of you with graphic designs printed on your iPod skin. Just make certain that the iPod accessories you buy come with a guarantee, in case of an inferior product.

The next essential iPod accessories you will need are headphones or earphones. Although an iPod comes equipped with earphones, there are but a few users who prefer a surround sound experience. Other iPod headphone accessories include the retractable headphones, which is great to use while outside. And then there are the headphones with attached speakers, the infrared wireless earphones and water-resistant earphones for those times when you can't even take a bath without listening to your iPod.

Aside from these basic earpieces, external speakers and carrying case iPod accessories are quite popular. The iBoom iPod player has a dock for your iPod player with speakers attached to the sides. It is perfect for picnics and beach outings where music is a must to liven up the party. Another brand, called the iBag, is an accessory with FM stereo that adds more fun because you have the option to surf through local radio stations for more fun beats.

More iPod accessories are available to the iPod junkie online. A number of websites do product reviews of these iPod accessories and you can get a preview of the items you may want to buy through them. Included in these sites are http://welovemacs.com, and http://connectingpoint.net. They have a wide variety of iPod accessories for all the generations of iPods. They not only provide you with the price, features and product compatibility details but also give you the pros and cons of each iPod accessory.

Other iPod accessories that is a must have for any iPod warrior include the Belkin Voice Recorder that allows you to record reminders, meeting and notes into your iPod. There's also the hands-free accessory called the iPod remote and earphones. With it, you don't have to worry about struggling with the iPod controls as you drive or jog. A stationary variation of this remote is also available. Called the NaviPod IR Remote, it gives you the power to control your iPod's audio from across a room. Another essential iPod accessory is the iPod Dock that recharges iPod at work or at home.

For the car lovers, there are iPod accessories to accommodate your stereos. The first of these is the Belkin TuneDok Car Holder that holds your iPod in place. Another one of these nifty iPod accessories is the Sony Car Cassette Adapter that connects your iPod to the car's cassette player. And, last but not least, is another one of those wonderful iPod accessories, the Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter. You can play your iPod through the FM radio of your car. All it requires to work is the iPod dock connector. It draws a small amount of power from your iPod and doesn't use any batteries.

You can really personalize your iPod in many exciting ways. These iPod accessories not only improve your iPod but is also the number one status symbol for any hardcore iPod lover.