Cases help iPod commune with nature

(Credit: Miniot)

As much as we appreciate the aesthetics of natural wood finishes when done well, the idea doesn't always work for all things technological, especially the iPod. But sometimes, concepts work best when they're integrated less with the design of the core product.

Miniot's "iWood" line, for example, borrows from some retro designs we've seen recently to create a cigarette-style case for Apple's media players made of various hardwoods. The sylvan look is available in maple, walnut, mahogany, cherry and oak, Red Ferret says, for 75 to 175 euros (about $102 to $237). We're not exactly sure why these cases seem appropriate, but we suspect it has something to do with the iPod's natural zen-like qualities.