iskin! at last!

Does it protect the clickwheel? It doesn't look like it does...

is there an armband for the iskin? that would make it perfect in my opinion.

i hope to god there is an armband option...

Torn between the Claro and the evo4. Had the evo3 before & it did an great job of protecting my old ipod but the Claro sounds interesting.

Might wait a few days to see what other users thoughts are about the new cases. The total comes out to be about $43 (w/ shipping)...a tad bit more than I want to spend. Am I the only one that thinks it's a little too expensive when a new 80gb comes in at $200 already?

Sigh, guess either way the ipod needs to be protected and these are generally accepted as the best. Anyone know if they sell these in stores? Rather not pay shipping charges.

I ordered the black evo case this weekend. Hopefully, I'll get it by this upcoming weekend.

JDRM, I eagerly await your review of the iSkin, as I'm returning the crappy Malware case I bought. Any idea when it should show up?
i still havent ordered it dude!

im really torn between the shades case or the iskin... but the iskin costs a bomb with shipping to the UK

i wait to see some reviews on the shades case first though

Torn between the Claro and the evo4. Had the evo3 before & it did an great job of protecting my old ipod but the Claro sounds interesting.

Might wait a few days to see what other users thoughts are about the new cases. The total comes out to be about $43 (w/ shipping)...a tad bit more than I want to spend. Am I the only one that thinks it's a little too expensive when a new 80gb comes in at $200 already?

Sigh, guess either way the ipod needs to be protected and these are generally accepted as the best. Anyone know if they sell these in stores? Rather not pay shipping charges.

If I were you I would try to stay away from the Claro unless you like your Classic bulking up in size to what a 1st Generation IPod would seem to be. I have a similar case right now from Belkin that is essentially made for the video 30gb, but adds 2mm on each side at least. And what was your 10.5mm thick Classic, becomes a 16mm travel book.

I am sure the Claro having the same acrylic plastic would be similar to the belkin product I bought to tie me over until I got the iSkin evo4. However if you want your Ipod to become 50% more thick get the claro.

Well I finally got mine today just when I came home from work. And I must say the colour is not exactly what I was expecting, it is a little closer to maroon, which is not bad, but definitely not the Deep Red they show on the website. It is a blend between what is shown in the gallery and what is on the website. I will attach pictures below.

The iSkin evo4 looks very nice, very clean with distinct lines.

The Silicone

The silicone case that is the first layer of the two is semi-transparent, which means the click wheel is perfectly visible through it, so depending on the colour of your Ipod Classic, you might want to choose your evo4 based on that. The grip on the silicone on the rear of the case remains perfectly the same as the evo3; however the plastic revoclip base can now be swapped out for a silicone insert that takes care of the thin gap in between. This is a good addition because for myself, not being a revoclip user can maintain a fairly flush backing for my Ipod without having two plastic notches jutting out. The Silicone at the back of the case is much thicker than the front, mainly due to the fact that with the Visor in place, there is no need for a thick silicone layer to protect the front.

For those of you concerned with the Clickwheel sensitivity, and those who purchased a evo3 and needed to cut out the silicone over the clickwheel to get it to function, the evo4 has solved the problem. The thinnest area of the silicone is the Clickwheel, however functionality of the clickwheel is not lost or hindered in any way. The issue of the Clickwheel being less sensitive and not being able to be controlled through a intermediate surface "i.e your pants" has not been solved, but what case could solve that hardware issue.

The VISOR

The Visor is a very nice addition to this case compared to the insert that was in the evo3. Although the colour doesn't match what I was expecting from the CGI images iSkin displayed on their site, I am perfectly fine with the Crimson Colour, a Maroon/Burgandy Color more than a Dark/Deep Red.

The SIZE

Compared to the acrylic plastic cases, the case is smaller, the width growing by 2mm on each side bring the overall width to 14.

Conclusion

I am very happy with this product and what iSkin has come out with, my main concern was click wheel functionality with the iSkins and that issue has been solved so I am very pleased. The colour is a little bit if a let down, but by no means is it ugly; could just be me cause my school colours involve maroon so I am use to it. But take a look at some of the pictures I have snapped and judge for yourself.

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/1796/Untitled-4.jpg
http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/7223/Untitled-52.jpg
http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/3143/Untitled-1.jpg
http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/6528/Untitled-32.jpg

Yea the color kind of grows on you, I actually like it a lot now...kind of weird. Probably first expectations of it being like it looks like on their homepage...but now...It looks good to me. BUT for sure its pure marketing that iskin will sell visors maybe not in bulk, but in rare colors or designs for the future.

Does anyone know if the eVo4 will fit the 30GB iPod Video (5G). The iSkin website states the eVo4 is for the Classic, but according to the dimensions on the Apple site, the 80GB Classic is only very slightly thinner than the 30GB Video I own.

30 GB Video: 4.1 x 2.4 x 0.43 inches
80 GB Classic: 4.1 x 2.4 x 0.41 inches

Anyone tried this case on a 5G iPod yet? Thanx.

I have a black classic, and I just noticed that according to your photos that yours is silver/white.

This is just me being impatient, so there really is no need, but if you have like a friend or something that has a black classic and take pictures of it with it on, then please post them.

Or maybe you already sort of know how it would look? Perhaps tell me your opinion on how it might look on a black one.

Thanks!

I have a black Classic and ordered the black case, but it's still in transit. Pics when I can, then...?

I have a crimson one coming that I just ordered. I can't wait for it. Can anyone vouch for whether or not it works in the Universal Dock with the skin?

Hey Kharani, would it be possible to post pictures of the case on your iPod? I have a black one as well, and want to see how to crimson looks on it. Thanks!

I just received my eVo's (one black and one blue). I really like how it looks on my iPod. i decided to cut off the dock connecter and earphone jack covers tho

Could you upload some pics please mate? Is your ipod black?

Thanks.

I have the black iPod. I'll try to take pics later tonight.

I got my Evo4 today for my 160gb Classic (Black). I do like the new silicone - much less 'sticky' and dust attracting then what previous Evo's were made of. The visor is a decent color, but I wonder how much wear/tear it can take - I had an Evo2 on my iPod Photo for two years and it worked wonders, but the two piece design makes me think the Evo4 won't last as long. The visor does grip well to the silicone jacket, but can be time consuming to pry on and off. The click wheel loses a slight bit of sensitivity, but it is fairly minor and I'll take the inconvenience to get what is basically a way of me feeling the iPod to go to the next track, etc. as the click wheel resides in a slight indentation in the visor. Before (without a case) the click wheel was so flush with the body that I couldn't tell if I was touching the screen or what when I would reach in my pocket. Anywho's - here are some shots of the black classic in the case.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/Cubensis1/ILounge/DSCF1737.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/Cubensis1/ILounge/DSCF1740.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/Cubensis1/ILounge/DSCF1743.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/Cubensis1/ILounge/DSCF1741.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/Cubensis1/ILounge/DSCF1742.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/Cubensis1/ILounge/DSCF1747.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/Cubensis1/ILounge/DSCF1746.jpg

Oh well I guess there's no need for me to post pictures since I have a black iPod and Crimson case also.

Also I'd like to point out some other things.

-The "air bubble" that I talked about earlier in which I said wrinkled the skin is gone now. I suppose the skin has tightened up a bit, which I am happy about.
-The color really DOES grow on you ;D
-I think the skin could have been more colorful perhaps to match the case. The case is a bit thin around the click wheel because of the sensitivity issues and the black underneath shows which I don't really like.
-The headphone jack cover really isn't necessary and I may cut it off.
-The headphone jack is a bit small, so my L-shaped headphone jack pops out pretty easily.
-The dock cover is very helpful
- And as stated above, my visor screen was a bit scratched, but not too noticeable I guess.
-Very good protection it looks like on the back, although the VISOR does look safe, it looks like it could crack(I would test out it's durability, but I don't want to risk any serious damage).
-The case is a so-called "thin" silicon case, but it does add some thickness.....The depth is now about .52"/14 mm. So now it's just as big as a 180gb. Although I suppose that's not too bad compared to some other cases.
-The clickwheel had some sensitivity issues still at first, but now it works pretty dandy.
-The VISOR was a bit of a squeeze to get on, and I was glad to see that it didn't tear. This means it probably won't fall off.
-The silicon layer is pretty good protection on the back, but not that great on the front, which I guess is where the visor comes in handy. You probably could use the silicon layer by itself(although I don't see why you would), except for the screen is left uncovered.
-I think the hold switch is fine, but others may not be able to get to it without using your fingernail.

Overall the case is aesthetically good to look at, and looks like it protects well.

Sorry, the links were working yesterday. Picasa sucks. Here you go:

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee112/whatchokesbegin/DSCF2508.jpg
http://s233.photobucket.com/albums/ee112/whatchokesbegin/DSCF2509.jpg

Its a metallic color, which means its shiny. Those "dots" were just reflections off the flash I guess.

Thanks for posting the pics of them whatchokesbegin and Mind Expansi0n. I think I have decided on the crimson. Does anyone know how long it takes to get one if you are in the UK?

Cheers. :D

Thanks for reply

Ufff, now i don't know what to do. I don't like much that specks. Are very visibles or only with a shiny light?

If black colour is out, i have to decide between Crimson or Sienna. Why iskin web doesn't show real pictures instead that gallery of touched pics with Photoshop??

iSkin finally put more pictures up of the evo4 in their gallery. While they aren't as realistic as they could be and they certainly don't show any signs of silver sparkles (see black onyx, wtf?), it's better than just the one picture they had up before.

http://www.iskin.com/evo4_gallery.html

No, it looks as though the "glitter" is infused throughout the polycarbonate material, so the specks are highly visible in nearly all light.

In fact, I'd hafta say this case is a disappointment overall. There are definite pluses: the fit is excellent; the silicone portion is thick and has lots of raised bumps for grip; the belt clip is well designed and seems strong.

However, the cons are, to me: the glitter-effect is just cheesy for my taste (I thought the finish was more of a matte.); the plastic shell seems thin, yet the case as a whole adds considerable girth overall; getting the poly shell over the silicone correctly takes some persuasion; the click-wheel cover doesn't seem to give consistent results (however, I suspect I would become accustomed to the feel over time).

Most disappointing, though... The screen cover had several very noticeable scrapes (not rubs, dirt, or anything other than scrapes), even under the little plastic film, and I can see adhesive between the entire screen protector and cover. Also, there's a sizable paint flaw on the cover near the click-wheel opening on the lower right side--I'd say roughly the size of a pencil's eraser. The poly also seems a bit brittle. Very poor quality control... I expected considerably more for the price.

In the end, I'm covering a flat black aluminum body with a disco-glitter plastic one, which seems pointless for my wants/needs... I really think I'm gonna have to return it and just squirrel the cash away for some other accessory...and just keep using the Griffin flip case for protection... There's no glitter in leather...usually... ;) I can't get over the iSkin's sparkly effect... Yuck.

I pretty much feel the same way, although I don't know if I want to spent the time and money required to return it. Maybe you should send that rant to iSkin customer service and see if they have something to say for themselves other than "you can exchange it if you want." I wasn't expecting more features, but I certainly was expecting fewer flaws.

So for everyone else who owns the Evo4, do you think it's worth buying? My poor classic doesn't have a case yet, and I was hoping that the Evo4 would be the one for it, but according to these reviews, that doesn't quite seem to be the case.

Overall, its not terrible, and I think some people are having better luck than others. If you get one that's not misshapen or dented, then it's probably worth the money. The people here who bought the red one seem pretty happy with it. I still don't know why they come with scratched screens, though.

I contacted iSkin and they stated that they are "aware of the issues most
of our customers have been having with the new eVo4, and are working to
correct it." They also say that the turnaround time for an exchange is 30 DAYS! How can it possibly take that long?

I got another response from iSkin. Apparently, new visors are going to be available "later this week" to replace the ones they shipped that were messed up (ie, scratch, dented, misshapen). They made it sound like this has been a common problem for evo4 customers. So if any of you have such a problem, they will replace it. The only problem is that you have to ship your old one back, which means that you have to pay for shipping and then wait for your replacement. If I do decide to exchange mine, I'm going to ask if I can buy a new one and then when I get it, if I can then send the old one in for a refund. The last thing I want to do is go another 30 days without a case on my iPod during the exchange process.

Long time listener First time poster.

I had EVO2's for my 40GB iPod's. Those were a fantastic case and protected the iPod so well, Best Buy nearly thought it was unused when I took it back 3 years later for service plan updates. So, going into the EVO4 purchase my expectations were pretty high.

Having said that, here is my review:

Initial purchase was on release day. Called iSkin days later as I selected the 2 day shipping and still did not receive the EVO4 for my 160GB Classic. They commented that they had not received from manufacturer yet, so they were not sending them out until the manufacturer sent them over. This added an additional 3 days, so they stated they would wave the shipping cost. :) I received the EVO4 today.

I ordered the Crimson for a 160 Classic. After unboxing, it took approx 20min while following the directions to install the 160 into the new EVO4.

On Color: It's Crimson, but only in a white hot light. If you glance at it sitting on a desk etc. it appears more wine colored with a metal flake. Think car paint. My iPod is black, and looks good in the silicon. The silicon layer is about the color of glad press and seal.

On Fit: It's snug. Most of that 20 minutes was spent on massaging the silicon into position and then trying to snap on the visor. You will have to manipulate that visor for a couple minutes in order to get each of the side pieces into place so that the silicon is popping through completely.

On Belt Clip: Didn't use it, but replaced it with the silicon retainer disc. This process left alot to be desired. The belt clip came off without a hitch, but the silicon retainer disc doesnt "snap" into place. It's more about aligning the silicon disc and then holding it while placing the iPod into the silicon case.

On Ports: Hold is good (yes you need a fingernail, so if your a sausage fingered person without nails this could present an issue for you), iPod charge/data port is good works like previous versions, Headphone jack is weird. Theres a small pieces of silicon which dives into the headphone jack, and it's sort of flimsy, so you have to wiggle it to go into the port. Not sure if that piece will make it long on my case.

On Visor: My visor was fine. No scratches, no dents etc. It was shipped with a thin layer of plastic protecting the visor screen, which I peeled off to reveal a clean screen. The Visor fit is really tight, but seems tough, and I believe will ultimately keep the iPod safe.

On Silicon: It does put a little beef back into the size of the iPod. Not a ton by any means, but it basically goes from lean and sleek to 2nd year college chick. Not bad at all, but a little thicker than what you had originally.

On ClickWheel: The silicon on the click wheel has not affected me adversely yet. In fact it has registered all of my tests. I was very suprised by the responsiveness. For those with air bubble issues in this thread I would suggest starting over, and spending additional time lining things up. Again, it took me about 20 to get this together ... maybe 30.

On Visibility: I was happy to see that the Visor did not impact the clarity or the brightness of my screen. In fact, to the untrained eye or iPod n00b they might think this is how they come from the factory.

Conclusion: Overall I was impressed with the fit and function of this iPod case. Having used one of the dLo Neoprene cases in the interim, I find the EVO4 to be far superior. The dLo case was sold as Classic compatible, but IMO was a poor fit and even worse design. The iSkin EVO4 will leave you 20-30 shy on time the day you receive it as it does take much massaging to get it in place. However, once in place the results are satisfying and the cost much more justified. As a development need, the Headphone jack needs a rethink, and it does sound like there have been some users on this thread who have experienced issues with dents or scratches, so don't disregard those experiences either. I was fortunate to not experience either. I would recommend this case to friends or family who have iPod Classic 160GB drives. It seems both durable and functional, and does add some pizazz to the appearance of the iPod Classic, and a strong departure from the "Out of Box" appearance of the iPod.

Overall Opinion: Recommended (B+)

It's interesting how everyone who posted a review of the crimson case had no problems. It seems right now like the problems have maybe been limited to the black ones. weird. And yeah, the headphone jack hole should be bigger, as even my original ipod headphones created some minor bulging, and those things are thin.

Damnit and i ordered one of the black ones!. I just contacted iskin and asked if i could change it to blue. Hopefully it gets there in time before it ships.

I've just realised one thing, and have a doubt. Is possible to use an earphones with a plug in L shade? With the case, the jack port looks so fit.

I've just realised one thing, and have a doubt. Is possible to use an earphones with a plug in L shade? With the case, the jack port looks so fit.

I have L-Shaped earbuds and they fit fine. It's not the tightest fit in the world, but it does the job. Hope that helps

Ahem, i wrote shade instead of shape.

Thanks for the replies

Does the "Specks' in the black evo4 look like the metallic color of the black ipod classic?

Not really. It just kinda looks like glitter.

Admittedly the clickwheel on this classic model has been finicky from the start, but now there are times with the iskin on that it won't work AT ALL. Nothing. I took the case off and the wheel worked again. I can't figure out if the iskin is the problem or the wheel itself. Oddly enough, it does work (begrudgingly) with the skin on SOMETIMES.

I think we have a case here of 2 inferior products.

Anyone else experiencing this?

Take Care,

Mike

I have noticed that it generally responds well when you use the whole pad of your thumb. Unfortunately, there is no excuse for making a case that inhibits the use of your fingertips by making it unresponsive to such contact.

Also, congratulations to everyone have no problems with this product, but I certainly hope those of you who have not been so lucky have been contacting iSkin customer service. It would also help if Apple would release a firmware update that makes the clickwheel more sensitive.