The most documented issue with the new iPods is how easily they scratch, to a point where the inside of a empty pocket will scuff the delicate finish. Luckily, it was this fault I was most prepared for—I am, if anything, an extreme perfectionist, and any visible marks would drive me to drink. Plus, on top of my own character defects, the iPod will be moonlighting as a test subject for Karissa’s new cases, with all the bumps and bruises to go along with that, and protecting it wasn’t going to be as simple as buying an Agent 18 case and never taking it out.
The only other option was a custom cut iPod sticker film, that is, a transparent sheet of plastic adhered directly to the iPod. As with anything, this was a purchase requiring some diligent research, as there are a number of competing types, including one plastic originally developed to protect helicopter blades. In the end, all types but the Power Support Crystal Film had mixed reviews, so it was easy enough to make a decision. Five minutes later and $16 shorter, I had one coming to me in the mail.
I expected a long wait in receiving it, with it being the holiday season and all, but it arrived less than four days later. Applying the film, however, was a great deal more stressful, what with the plastic magnetically attracting any and all dust in the immediate vicinity. This was cause for major concern until I realized that scotch tape could be used to remove the particles, sticking and pulling like a lint brush. The Crystal Film is made of a reasonably thick plastic, but it’s still flimsy enough to make aligning it on the iPod difficult, especially with any excess handling resulting in more trapped debris—My recommendation for application is a patient girlfriend and a midsession whiskey & Coke.
Be assured, once it’s on and done with, the Crystal Film is exactly what it should be—an invisible, replaceable forcefield surrounding a very sensitive (and precious) device. It’s so nice to be able to handle the iPod confidently, without the previous worry. A totally worthwhile buy, and highly recommended to all 5G iPod owners.
