Is this legal?

Two weeks ago I attended the "Maine state scholastic chess tournament: Teams" and I encountered some kids from another school who used an ipod and listened to some tunes during the game. My team mate stated that one of the people using the ipod asked before the game began if he could use his ipod and my friend stated that he did not mind if he used his ipod. I am participating in the "Maine state scholastic chess tournament:Individual" tomorrow and I would like to get a clear understanding, is there a rule that does not allow the use of audio devices, because if there is id like to inform my opponet that using an audio device is illegal.

Future thanks to all posters

i guess it's illegal..you could ask the arbiter to request any form of distractions including use of ipod/audio devices, not to be used during the game so you won't be annoyed..some players use these tactics to "gain an edge" on a game...just my 2cents.

Im quite sure it's illegal

Well, when I played one of the players when he was listening to his music he was very distracting. He was tapping his pencil and bobbing his head very annoying.

Thanks for the posts

Not sure of the music thing, but clipping your toenails over the board is a sure-fire way to annoy your opponent. Leaving the toe-nail clippings on the board is not smiled upon by arbiters either.

Lol

Any answer you get here is not USCF legal.  Call the TD.

I just played in the PA Scholastic Chess tournament and they were allowed to be used. I'm pretty sure its 100% legal. And according to my team it always has been at these events.

Doesnt the USCF have a rule book of some sorts?

it is legal in USCF tournaments, however the TD may disallow it

iPod yes. Earphone no.

"Minutes of the Chess Cheating conference in New York 11.01.2007 "

"iPods will still be permitted – but, earphones, needed to listen to an iPod, will not."

Hopefully he has a wireless receiver implanted beneath his skull.