WaterField Designs Mini Gear Pouch
Manufacturer: WaterField Designs
Site: Buy from WaterField Designs
Price: $29.00

Overview : The PSP Mini Gear Pouch is for the gamer on the move. Outside protection from Ballistic and Indium nylon, and padded compartments securely kept in place with a self locking zipper. A main compartment for the PSP, which is kept in place with the zipper closed. Two pockets for game disks and ear buds, and extra space in the middle.

Features :

• PSP Mini Gear Pouch - 7.7" x 3.5" x 1.3" 2 oz.

Quality/Usability : The concept of this case is pretty much the same as of that of the Capdase Twin Case that was reviewed. But the Waterfield Pouches take on a whole new look. The cases are made in San Francisco, California..thats right, no overseas manufacturers. Made in the good ole US of A. The PSP Pouches are built from rugged Ballistic nylon, offer ample padding, and secure zippers and seams. Each case has two handy loops for easier carrying or for strapping to your backpack or messenger bag - one vertical loop and one horizontal loop. Both cases (Gear Pouch and Mini Gear Pouch) come in a variety of colors and are priced just as you'd expect.

The Mini Gear Pouch is slightly smaller and measures - 7.7" x 3.5" x 1.3". This is more aimed for those who want to bring only the essentials and not the whole house. The Mini Gear is identical to its bigger pouch with nearly the same layout but lacks an outside zippered pocket. Inside the case, it has a soft, lined compartment for the PSP and an open middle area that can easily hold a USB cord, an extra battery, earphones and memory sticks. The PSP Mini Gear Pouch also has two slots that can fit several UMD games/movies and a few extra things. Unfortunately, since the case is small, there will be no room for the power adapter unless you take out the PSP.

Conclusion : This is probably one of the nicest cases out there. Nothing too fancy and nothing too boring. It does its job and probably more. You dont have to hold your PSP and accessories in here, you can use it for other items such as your digital camera or other electronics, but than whats the point of calling this a PSP Gear Pouch? The sizes of the pouch may turn consumers head away because it does kind of look like a clutch bag that your girlfriend or mother would carry around in their hands. But if you want a nice case to hold your PSP and accessories all in one place, than thats the price we'll have to pay.

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PSP Rechargeable Grip
Manufacturer: PEGA
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $12.00

Overview : Rechargeable battery pack and grip for better comfort when holding the PSP.

Features :

• Adjustable grip
• More controlled and comfortable grip on your PSP
• Built-in Rechargeable Batteries (600mAh)

Quality/Usability : Upon opening the package and removing the grip, you can tell the grip is flimsy and felt like you can easily break it. The grips slide apart and are held by a thing plastic track. Once you snapped and attached the grip to the PSP, the grip is held snuggly.

When using the grip, it felt comfortable and prevented any hand cramping for those who have oversized mits (hands). It kind of felt like an oversized PlayStation Dual Shock control minus the rumble of course.

In addition to it being a grip, included is a built-in rechargeable battery pack that is located inside the grips. This is a great addition for those who want additional playing time when using the grip. Too bad there is no battery indicator to inform you if and when the battery is charged or dead. The battery should get you about 1.5-3 hours depending on if you're playing a game, watching a movie or using it continously.

Unfortunately, if you are using the grip and you're playing a game and want to switch to another game or want to watch a UMD movie, the grip prevents you from doing so. The grip blocks the UMD tray from opening. So inorder to swap discs, you'll have to detach the grip inorder to access the UMDs. Not only does this block the UMD tray, but the memory stick slot as well. For those who swap memory sticks often whether its for emulators or movies, you'll have to detach the grip inorder to access the memory stick slot.

Conclusion : This grip has its flaws especially the blocking of the UMD tray, the memory stick slot as well as the grip feeling a little flimsy. But the extra play time that the rechargeable battery provides kind of makes up for it. But having a rechargeable battery pack with no indicator defeats the purpose. How would one know whether or not the battery if fully charged or dead?

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Official Sony Screen Protector
Manufacturer: Sony
Site: Buy from Play-Asia
Price: $7.00

Overview : Official screen protector for your PSP. Protects PSP screen from dust, finger prints and scratches.

Features :

• Protect the screens of your PSP from dust, finger prints and scratches
• Easy to attach and remove
• Official Sony Product

Quality/Usability : Sony is a little late with releasing a screen protector of their own. But at the same time, people should know that the first thing to get is a screen protector. If you dont, you do now.

Applying the screen protector is fairly simple. If you place the screen protector is placed slightly off and you're anal like me, its easy to lift up and replace again. If there is a bubble or a small piece of dust/dirt inbetween the protector and screen, all you have to do is just lift up the corner where the debris is and use a piece of scotch tape to remove the debris.

When I place any screen protectors, I dont use my fingers. I use two pieces of scotch tapes, one on the top right corner and one on the bottom right (if there is no tap on the screen protector). This allows me to align the screen protector before placing it down.

The screen protector itself is pretty clear. No haziness, cloudness or anything that would disturb your gaming.

Conclusion : Overall, its a great 1st party accessory but late to the scene. If you're a Sony whore, this is up your ally. If you already have a HORI (MSRP $5) or Martin Fields (MSRP $12-15) screen protector, then stick with those. No point in switching to something just for name brand. BTW, this is only available overseas. You would think that Sony would release this stateside as well..No.

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PSP Extra Button
Manufacturer: 3rd Party
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $5.00

Overview : It is perfect designed for PSP. Making you control more comfortable and excellent feeling for playing action/fighting games.

Features :

• Easy to install
• Make you more comfortable for playing action/fighting games
• Includes 2 Analog sticks

Quality/Usability : For those who love playing fighting games but hate the directional pad on the PSP and cant throw a single fireball, this is an option. For those who know, Capcom released a directional pad "mod" when they release Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max (aka Street Fighter Zero 3: Double Upper in Japan) as a promotional item for those who ordered from Capcom. Here is an image of it:


Those who didnt order from Capcom, were screwed and left to use the directional button. The PSP Extra Button is an alternative to those who dont want finger cramps or the annoyance of losing because they cant throw a fireball.

The d-pad is made of hard plastic. Under the d-pad mod are four small stickies that attach to the directional pad on the PSP. Although when they are first applied, they stick. But if you have a case that is near flush to the screen of the PSP, you'll need to remove the d-pad mod. This can be a problem. Each time you remove the d-pad mod, the stickies get worn and dirty and eventually become useless. There is no way to keep the stickies clean once it is exposed. This goes for the same made by Capcom. Overtime, the stickies get worn out.

But for the short time that the d-pad mod sticks, it does a great job. Its not perfect, but its better then the directional pad on the PSP.

The analog nubs isnt really anything special. I prefer the stock analog stick since its rubber. The analog sticks included in the PSP Extra Button are just replacement for those who either lost or broke the original analog nub.

Conclusion : Overall, this is a cheap alternative to fixing the directional pad problems. Only if there was a way to attach the d-pad mod ontop of the directional pad without stickies it would have been better. To me, the analog nubs are useless. For those interested and have double sided tape, you can remove the stickies that are under the d-pad mod and place your own. If you want something more permanent, there are more heavy duty double sided tapes in stores (i.e. car shops, etc.), if not, any stationary store should carry them.

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PSP Analog Stick Armor Kit
Manufacturer: 3rd Party
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $6.00

Overview : Analog stick replacement kit for your PSP.

Features :

• Easy to install and use
• 5 different sizes and height to fit different player
• Soft rubber for comfortable playing
• Pack of 5

Quality/Usability : Here is an alternative to the stock analog nub. These analog sticks will add some height and make gameplay more comfortable. I bet those who first got their PSP was in disgust with the analog nub. It was small and hard to use because you were use to the PlayStation analog stick.

With the PSP analog, it was short, close to the system and uncomfortable to play with. With the analog stick replacements, this will add height and will enable you to use the analog without any discomfort.

Although it says it is made of soft rubber, it feels more like plastic or hard rubber. There are three sizes; 11mm, 15mm, 20mm. With the 15mm and 20mm there are two different types. The analog either curves in thus making a little "ditch" or it bulges (similar to the PlayStation analog). I personally prefer the analog stick that is curved in rather then the ones that bulges up. The 11mm is similar to the stock analog nub but sticks up away from the PSP rather than being close to it.

Installation is simple. Just pop out the old one and pop in the new one. Only downfall when using these analog sticks is that if you have a class that is snug and close to the PSP (i.e. Logitech PlayGear Pocket), you'll have to remove the analog sticks inorder to be able to close the case.

Conclusion : Overall, if you hate the stock analog nub and you're looking for something that will make your thumb feel more comfortable, this may be for you. Although it says its made of soft rubber, its more like hard rubber to me. With cases being produced these days, you'll have to remove the analog stick inorder to fit your PSP into the carry case and be able to close it. If you do detach the analog, becareful not to loose it.

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Pacific Design Gaming Flip Case
Manufacturer: Pacific Design
Site: Buy from Pacific Design
Price: $24.95

Overview : Play your favorite games, and watch your favorite videos, in this feature-packed Sony PSP flip case. The unique open-frame construction gives you access to every control on the PSP. Power your PSP, use your earbuds, even change your UMD disk... all without taking your PSP out of the case. Choose from black with a burnt red racing stripe; black with a bright blue racing stripe; industrial gray with a bright orange stripe; or industrial gray with a yellow stipe.

Features :

• Unique, open frame design
• Full access to all PSP controls, power cord, headphone/earbud cords in case
• Magnetic-closure rear access compartment lets you change UMD disks in case
• Storage slot inside the front flip holds an additional UMD disk

Quality/Usability : Out of the box, the case smells like brand new leather sneakers. OK, enough of my sniffing addiction, back to the review. Nowadays, cases look more and more alike. The case features a back flap cover that also allows you to access the UMD tray by flipping down the magnetic flap closure. The magnetic closures are very strong and will stay attached until you detach them.

The flap cover itself holds one UMD disc. The UMD is held into place very well.

The PSP itself fits into the slot nicely. The PSP is held in place by little tab like features on each side of the case. Once the PSP is in it slots, its not really in there snuggly..at first. The PSP moves around a little bit but it doesnt fall out. With a little adjustment of the tabs, you can move them closer to the PSP. This should prevent any moving around. But if you keep moving them back and forth, eventually it will lose its strength and become weak. But I dont think that will be a problem. The only problem is that the tabs on the left and right side are so close to the circle button and left directional pad that it may hinder playing or be an annoyance to some PSP owners.

When the case is open, there is no protection as like with majority of other cases. But once the case is closed, the flap does a nice job in protecting the PSP.

Conclusion : Overall, its a nice case but there are some minor set backs. Also, maybe the placement of the tabs that hold the PSP can be relocated a little to prevent it from being so close to the buttons. A nice feature that I would like to see are maybe memory stick slots and the ability to prop the case into a stand.

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Blaze Pro Audio Sound System and Protector Case
Manufacturer: Blaze
Site: Buy from Blaze
Price: £39.99

Overview : A dual purpose speaker system that delivers enhanced sound for games, movies and music, whilst also acting as a protective case for the PSP.

Features :

• Provides enhanced sound playback for games, movies and music from your PSP
• Compact design fits snugly around the PSP
• Robust case offers maximum protection for your PSP
• Twin Stereo speakers
• No Need to remove the PSP – just open the case and play.

Includes Xploder Music Studio for PSP:

Import your own Music CDs to MP3. Includes CD Database internet query for album, track and artist details.

Create MP3, AAC and WAV playlists, music folders and more and simply drag onto your PSP for music on the go! Drag and drop your AAC or MP3 songs from iTunes into PSP Music Player, copy to your PSP and listen on the move! Compatible with MP3, AAC and WAV music files.

Presented in the distinctive metal packaging that has become synonymous with the Xploder brand range, the PSP Pro Audio Sound System is the best way to pump up the volume on all your PSP media. The included software ensures you'll make the most of your music collection.

Quality/Usability : This is Blaze’s first attempt at releasing a portable sound system for the PSP is the Pro Audio Sound System (will be known as PASS in this review). At first glance, the outside style looks similar to the Logitech PlayGear Pocket. But what is under the hood is totally different. Lets talk about the outside first. The case is black with a smooth rubber feel to it. On top front of the case, there are two silver rings similar to the one on the back of the PSP. Above those rings is a Volume UP/DOWN buttons as well as a switch to turn ON/OFF the speakers. The front side of the case houses a latch that you push in to open. The front back where the hinges are, are two ports: Line In and DC In. If you have an electronic device such as iPod or CD player, you can hook them up to these speakers. Unfortunately, you’ll need your own audio cable as it doesn’t come with it. The DC In isn’t really to charge your PSP but to power the speakers and possibly charge rechargeable batteries. On the back of the case has a little pull out stand to prop the PSP into viewing position. The case gives you easy access to the left and right triggers on the PSP as well as the headphone port and DC In port on the PSP.

Now lets see what is under the hood. When you first open the case, you’ll see two speakers on the underside of the front cover. Under the two speakers near the middle is a little compartment. This holds four AAA batteries and can power the speakers. The PSP itself isn’t held into place with any latches or screws. The PSP is actually held in place by the rubber insert that is protection the PSP. How you might ask? Well when you put the PSP in to its spot, it doesn’t go in right away. You’ll have to force down into its place. This is how the PSP stays in the case. On the left side of the case, is the audio plug that connects to the PSP from the speakers. The cable itself is hidden under the rubber insert to prevent any tangling or loose wires hanging.

Due to the size of the speakers, the front flip cover doesn’t go all the way back. Speaking of size, the width (left to right) of the case is about the same as the PGP. Now, the height of the case is a different story. Due to the speakers and battery compartment, the front flip cover is huge. It’s about twice the size of the bottom piece of the case that holds the PSP itself. IT’S HUGE!!

In order to access the UMD tray, USB port or memory stick slot, you’ll need to force the PSP out of its spot.

The speakers itself is very clear and loud. With the PSP and speakers volume on full blast, there wasn’t much distortion, humming or crackling in the sound. The bass coming out of the speakers were pretty good as well.

There are flaws to this just like any other accessory. Where to begin? There is no LED to display whether the speakers are ON or OFF. As mentioned previously, the size of the case is HUGE. When there is huge, there is weight and boy is this case heavy. Holding the case while playing will tire your hands and arms. As mentioned before, you’ll need four AAA batteries to power the speakers. There is no way to recharge your PSP through the case.

*UPDATE*

This update is regarding the Xploder Music Studio. I wont go into much of the details since the main purpose of the review is for the PASS itself.

The Xploder Music Studio does what it suppose to do. Theres nothing complictated about it. Its just an all in one program at the tip of your mouse. Dragging the music file and dropping it to the correct folder is simple. It doesnt take a genius what to do. Then again, you can use any other music programs to convert your music and you can probably either drag and drop using the program you used to convert your music or you can just drag and drop them yourself by opening ...

PSP 3800mAh External Battery Power Station
Manufacturer: GameTop
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $20.00

Overview : This battery pack for PSP connects externally to the PSP console and packs a massive 3800mAh of extra power for your PSP console, allowing up to three times the battery life. Acting as an external power source, the highest level of brightness (200 cd/m2) can be used. For convenience, an extra long cable is provided.

Features :

• LED indicator
• Rechargeable Lithium Battery
• This battery can be clip on your PSP and it can be a PSP stand.
• Capacity: 3800mAh
• Provides up to three times the battery life for your PSP
• Can be used with or without Sony internal battery pack
• Enables "Ultra-bright" display mode

Quality/Usability : Technically this battery pack doesnt clip onto the back of the PSP. What is actually clipped onto the PSP is the battery packs "holster". Once the holster is in place, the battery pack can be slipped in and out. This is convenient for those who swap UMD games or movies. If you need to access the UMD tray, all you need to do is remove the battery pack and this will give room for the UMD tray to open. Once you swapped the UMD you want, just place the battery pack back in and reconnect the cable. The holster also acts as a stand. Flip the stand down and you'll be able to prop the PSP up for viewing purposes.

With this external battery pack, you can get about 7-8 hours of additional play..thats roughly 10-12 hours total!

There are two versions of the 3800mAh External Battery Power station. The first one comes with the holster and short cord (pictured below). The second one comes with the battery pack and a long cord (not pictured). If you have the latter version of the Power station, since it doesnt come with the holster, you can just stick the battery pack in your backpack or pocket and still be able to charge and play. This is great for those who have cases such as the Logitech PlayGear Pocket that prevents any additional accessories to be attached to the PSP.

Conclusion : This is probably the most useful external battery pack I have reviewed. Not only does the holster become a stand, but the battery life on this is great. Not to mention the ability to remove the pack to give easy access to the UMD tray.

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Capdase Camouflage Case
Manufacturer: Capdase
Site: Buy from Capdase
Price: $15.00

Overview : Virtually identical to the S-Bracket Leather Case, Twins Case PSP case and Nylon S-Bracket case.

Features :

• Made of water-resistant nylon
• Secure S-bracket attachment.
• Two memory stick pouches
• Flip up inner S-Bracket for easier UMD replacement.
• Inner Cushion for Ultra Protection.
• Belt loop and strap-connectable.
• Easy installation and release.
• Use as Theatre Stand.
• Camouflage Forest color.

Quality/Usability : This case is virtually identical to the Nylon S-Bracket Case and Jean Case. Everything that was featured on the Jean case is also featured in the Camouflage case. The only difference that the Camouflage and Jean case has that the Nylon doesnt, is that now it houses two memory stick slots on the underside of the cover.

This case is also exactly like the Twins PSP case except it doesnt have the accessories case attached to it. The case is extremely light, due to the jean material, but a stiff material has been added between the fabric layers for extra protection. There’s a belt loop on the back, as well as a carabiner attachment (silver carabiner is included).

There isnt much to be said about it as it is identical to the other cases so you can read up on the other reviews.

• Leather S-Bracket Case - Review
• Twin Case - Review

Conclusion : Overall, this is a great case just a minor change to the case (memory stick slots) Other than that, its the same ole case as the Nylon S-Bracket. Nothing else has changed. It would be great if they could fit a UMD slot as well or a zipper pouch on the outside. Keeps dust out and protects the system very well. Whats a good thing about this is that you can use it as a stand to watch your movies. If you're looking for an all-in-one which holds the PSP and accessories, check out the Twins case.

There are other colors available such as: Camouflage Forest, Camouflage Lava and Camouflage Ocean.

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