Could you make a good-looking iPod nano lanyard out of an old iPod firewire sync cable?
http://todd.dailey.info/archives/2005/09/18/diy-ipod-nano-lanyard/
Allows Synchro record from a set-top box (mine is the Sony terrestrial digital reciever) to a DVD player which dosn't have syncro record.
You can then record programmes automatically by selecting them for record on the set top box with no need to programme the DVD recorder.
You will not need to open either your set-top box or DVD recorder so no warantees or contracts are affected.
http://www.instructables.com/id/ENIWWUOUZ2EP286MHY/
Do-it-yourself wireless networked music player for less than half the cost of a retail model, and with (potentially) more features.
http://devices.natetrue.com/musicap/
Assemble a switch box to switch from listening to music on head phones to listening to answering your phone with your left ear, while music continues in the right.
http://www.instructables.com/id/E82KVFIX7BEP286O1P/