We like the triangular look of Kenwood’s AS-IP300 iPod Speaker. It works with all models of the Apple player and charges while playing your tunes in 3D sound. The device features a stereo mini-jack AUX input and comes with a rechargeable remote and adapter, batteries, and AC cord. At a size of 380 x 157 x 221mm and a weight of 1.2 kg, the speaker is available in black or white at a price of $199.95 in Japan.
(Via Gear Live.)
Audiophiles, listen up! XtremeMac has just introduced its next-generation Tango, the new X2, offering a high-fidelity three-way speaker system designed for use with your iPod. It contains two full-range speakers, two tweeters and a subwoofer. The question is simply as follows: Does it offer better performance than its big brother, the original Tango?
Features and Design
Similar to its predecessor, the X2 is a compact, low-profile speaker system. It has a matte-finished black shell finish and rounded sides; plus it still has the familiar single control button centering the mesh-like front grill. As with the original Tango, the X2 also has nice, soft rubber feet to keep the system planted on any surface to help eliminate annoying shakes and rattles.
The Tango remote, which has a shiny face and sports track forward/back buttons as well as volume, bass, treble, power and source controls, works rather well. But be careful not to lose it: There’s no volume control on the unit itself and it’s probably not the easiest accessory to replace.
Also worth keeping in mind: The X2 has a smaller footprint than the original, sizing up at 4.2 x 11.7 x 7.5 inches, or roughly about the size of a shoebox. It offers an AM/FM radio as well, but limits you to just three presets for each. There is an auxiliary line input for other media devices and the bright blue display located behind the grill is a nice aesthetic addition.
Sound
Now comes the tricky part: Unlike with the original Tango, we were largely disappointed with the X2’s audio performance. The sound is shallow, bass response poor and audio generally came across as muffled. Some quick bass and treble tweaks slightly improved our listening experience, but that was only after perfectly centering ourselves in front of the speakers, looking right at them. For the price of the X2, we would suggest picking up a Logitech Pure-Fi Elite instead.
Conclusion
The Tango X2 feels like a speaker system that’s been rushed to market and meant to play off its forerunner’s success. We even encountered problems attaching the FM radio antennae, and there are no iPod docking adaptors prepackaged with the unit, making your MP3 player look incomplete and silly while resting on top of the X2. The included remote control does not control the iPods menus and no auto-scan functions were provided for the radio either. The upshot: If you’ve got $149.95 USD to burn, you may want to see if any of the original Tango systems are still available - this is far from what we’d call a worthy update.
Pros:
• Size
• Aesthetically pleasing
Cons:
• Poor sound
• No prepackaged iPod adaptors
• Limited remote control
• Functionality issues
iLuv kicks out i168 and i169 HD Radio alarm clocks
(Via Engadget.)
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CNET have published a review of the iHome iH12BRClock Radio for the iPod media player.
'Measuring 5.25 inches tall by 5.25 inches wide by 5.25 inches deep, the iH12 comes in a glossy black (iH12BR) or pink (iH12PR) finish to appeal to a range of buyers. The button array on top of the unit is completely rubberized and feels nice to the touch, but it has a couple of downsides. The snooze/dimmer button is fairly small, which may irk those who prefer large snooze bars that you can easily find when you're half asleep. Also, dust particles and little fibers adhere to the rubber and make it harder to keep clean (you can't just wipe it clean like you can with smooth plastic).
As for features, the iH12BR isn't loaded, but at least it has most of the key stuff covered, including dual alarms, an AM/FM radio, and a line input in case you want to attach any other portable AV devices. The product ships with dock adapters that make all iPods fit snugly and securely in the cradle. When your iPod is in the dock and the iH12BR is plugged in, your iPod will draw power from the system and recharge. You choose songs, playlists, or podcasts with the iPod's scroll wheel as usual, but hear the audio through the iH12BR's speakers.'
Alesis Multiport: Recording directly to your iPod
So, picture this. You and your friends have decided to reunite your old highschool punk band for a second coming. A second jab at the musical stardom that you and your buddies dreamed about in history class. Though this time around, you’ll be damned if you’re going to record on a 4-track cassette recorder.
The $200 Alesis Multiport brings the power of recording into the new technological age of portable media. No more clumsy cassettes or memory cards, the Multiport records directly to your 5th generation iPod, 2nd or 3rd generation iPod Nano, or even your PC via USB, sending your tunes directly to your DAW of choice.
The new Alesis Multiport features built-in level meters and on-board iPod controls, so navigating the portable media player is as easy as tapping a button on the main control panel. Twin industrial grade XLR balance inputs with phantom power are perfect for hooking up most pro mics, while 1/4″ stereo outputs and USB support finish off the external audio transfers.
You can even playback from the iPod as you’re recording, which is sure to work wonders on getting your timing down just right. It’s the features like these which really make all of the difference. The integration of new portable media technology with the older form of recordable media is really what the next step of technology is all about. Innovation and integration using the knowledge we already have to create something better.
(Via Coolest Gadgets.)
Scandyna has proven itself as world leader in the field of naturally sounding speakers. These speakers based on cutting edge technology aim at passing on the best sonic sound experience to the listener.Get home Scandyna-The Drop for $849/pair in 6 different colors featuring excellent sound quality. A perfect combination of organic design and acoustics, the Minipod eliminates the vibration and distortion and is available for $849/pair.
The Amp bears an innovative design without compromising the audiophile sound. Shell out $600 and get The Amp home.
Micropod SE features a Kevlar bass/midrange unit, extra durable finish and soft dome tweeter. Available in wide range of colors, the curvy Micropod Se is available for $199/pair. Micropod SE Active featuring integrate amplifier is available for $299 and delivers crisp crystal clear sound.
Meant to dock, play and recharge your iPod, the Dock with 2x15 watt RMS Class T amplifier is reasonable priced at $219. On the other hand, the V Dock is meant for iPod video models, and you can buy it for $249.
(Via Cybertheater.com.)
iPod building block speakers keep your dock connector company
(Via Engadget.)
CrunchDeals: Macally mTune-N iPod Nano headphones
Got a first generation iPod Nano? Wanna look like the coolest kid this side of the Rio Grande? Then plunk down $10.59 for the ultimate head-mounted music system that is the Macally mTune-N.
Just snap your Nano into the left ear cup and rock this town. In fact, rock it inside out. The town, not the headphones.
(Via CrunchGear.)
Sigma APO Dual AC To USB Charger
The Sigma APO AC to USB charger is able to recharge up to two different devices simultaneously via USB plug. Using this device, you can recharge your Apple iPod and Sony PSP at the same time.
(Via TechFresh.net - Cell Phones, Laptops, Video Games, iPods, Cameras.)
WildCharge iPhone and iPod Touch wireless charger reviewed
Our iPhone-obsessed sibling site iPhone Buzz has had some exclusive hands-on time with WildCharge’s wireless recharging pad and the company’s new iPhone and iPod Touch adaptors. Built into gel-coated ‘skins’ cases, they promise to cut the power cord and make juicing up your cellphone or PMP as straightforward as dropping it onto the $60 platter. The best news is, as Vincent found, the system actually works.
We first heard about WildCharge way back in 2006, at which point they were suggesting the system could not only charge small gadgets like cellphones and DAPs but laptops, too. It took almost a year for a retail version to hit the stores, with the first device supported being Motorola’s ubiquitous V3 RAZR. Buyers of that system who have since upgraded to an iPhone (or picked up an iPod Touch) should be able to use it with WildCharge’s new Apple cases. Since then, rival wireless charger company Splashpower was forced to declare bankruptcy.
Individually priced at $34.95, the cases themselves are set to be available in a variety of different colors when WildCharge officially launches them. One charging pad can handle up to five devices simultaneously, and Vincent managed to squeeze some news out of the company regarding which devices are next on the list for support.
(Via SlashGear.)
Gadgetell Peep Show: Kicker iK500 iPod Speaker System
While we are taking some time getting our full thoughts down, we wanted to show off the pics of the latest gadget to make its way into the Gadgetell headquarters. Its the Kicker iK500 iPod speaker system. While we have the iK500 which is made exclusively for the iPod, Kicker also has the zKick ZK500 for the Microsoft Zune.
Aside from the obvious difference that one is made for the Zune and the other for the iPod, they both offer the same features. The systems both ship with a remote control that offers a full range of options, and have two 5-inch woofers, two 3/4-inch tweeters, one 6-inch square reflex subwoofer that are powered by a 40-watt stereo amplifier. In addition they both have a 1/8-inch stereo aux-in jack and stereo RCA out. They both measure in at 8.5 x 19.2 x 8.4-inches and weigh 9.2-pounds.
The iK500 includes eight dock inserts that will allow for just about any iPod to fit snugly in place, and the ZK500 comes with three inserts to fit the various available Zune players. The iK500 and ZK500 both retail for $299.99 and are currently available. During our (so far brief) testing the system sounded great and worked well with a variety of iPods, to include the nano, Shuffle and even the iPhone, while in airplane mode. Be sure to check back for our full review and in the mean time enjoy the pics…
Product [Kicker]
(Via Gadgetell.)
Greenhouse iPod Touch speakers
The Green House iPod touch portable speakers GH-SPA-214CT is a perfect match for the Apple iPod touch.The maximum output is 770 mW × 2ch.The speaker comes with a stand where you can place the iPod touch Vertically or Horizontally. Other features include LED light for both speakers, mini stereo pin for connecting headphone. The Green House iPod touch portable speakers GH-SPA-214CT is powered by the built in battery, which is charged via USB. Fully charged battery lasts for eight hours.
The Green House iPod touch portable speakers GH-SPA-214CT measures 67 × 21 × 120mm and weighs approximately 66.6 g. The speakers are available in Japan for approximately 4,480 yen ($43).
(Via Newlaunches.com.)
First Look: Audiowrapz iPod Case With Built-in Speakers
The DHL man just dropped off the Audiowrapz, a new speaker and case combo for the iPod Nano. The $20 kit comprises a speaker unit (actually three tiny passive speakers) into which you slide a 3G iPod Nano, a silicone case and a stick-on screen protector.
As you can see from the picture, I don't own a 3G Nano, but for testing purposes my 2G model fits perfectly well onto the jack plug. There is also a 3.5mm jack socket underneath, and plugging in a pair of headphones immediately mutes the speakers and lets you listen in private, a nice touch which means you can leave the whole package wrapped up for multiple uses.
So, how does it sound? Well, the back of the pack makes this boast:
No Batteries?
– That's right! The Audiowrapz works just like your headphones and connects into the headphone port
And, you know, that's absolutely right. Just like my headphones, in fact. When I plugged my cans into the passthrough port, the sound was actually louder than the Audiowrapz speakers, and that's when they were sat on the desk. Granted, the headphones are a fairly decent set from Panasonic, but if you're looking for something to rock a party (or even be audible over a normal conversation), the Audiowrapz ain't it.
The case, though, is fine, and the inclusion of a screen protector a nice addition. In the pictures below you can see the extra rubber on the corners, and the case itself is good and thick. An iPod tucked inside should take a few hard knocks without feeling a thing. Worrying, though, are those rubber nodules, which lend the case a kind of 'ribbed-for-her-pleasure' look.
It Audiowrapz will be on sale from this Friday in Walmart.
Product page [ifrogz]
(Via Gadget Lab.)
Earth Day Gadgets: Universal Solar Cell Phone/iPod Charger
With today being Earth Day 2008 here in the United States, I thought it would be good to highlight some eco-friendly gadgets for all the gadget lovers out there who want to do their part for the environment. Doing something good for the environment doesn’t involve having to live in a mud hut, sustaining yourself off wheat grass and tofu and wearing only hemp clothing. You can be on the cutting edge of technology and still be green.
Who doesn’t own a cell phone or an MP3 player? Even my grandparents have cell phones. But these items need to be recharged on a regular basis otherwise they just turn into expensive paperweights or something you use to hold a door open. (See? Recycling!) But why not use solar technology to recharge those items that you use all the time? The Universal Solar Cell Phone/iPod Charger will allow you to do just that. From the website:
The Universal Solar Cell Phone/iPod Charger will charge your iPod and mobile phone in less than 3 hours when exposed to direct sunlight! Small, light, and extremely portable, the Universal Solar Charger Kit can fit in your pocket for easy transportation to almost anywhere.
The kit includes the Universal Solar Charge, 1 mini USB cable, 2 interchangeable iPod adapters, 5 interchangeable mobile phone adapters.
iPod Adapter compatible with: Apple iPod, iPod Shuffle, iPod nano, iPod Mini
Interchangeable mobile phone adapter compatible with: Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Siemens, Motorola, and Blackberry.
And unlike other solar charging stations I’ve seen, this one is actually somewhat affordable at only $89.99. Not bad considering it’ll recharge two of the gadgets that you use the most - at least they’re the two I use the most! So go get one and start saving the world!
(Via Coolest Gadgets.)
Goodman’s iPod Boombox Has 7-inch LCD Display
If you’re looking for a great iPod and then some, then Goodman has a treat for you with their new iPod boombox. The iPod boombox comes with a pair of speakers, 3-in-1 multicard reader, LED accents, iPod dock and a bundled remote, and lastly an integrated 7-inch LCD display for displaying stored clips and photos. If you’re still interested you can pick one of these babies up for about f £89.99 ($178).
(Via TechFresh.net - Cell Phones, Laptops, Video Games, iPods, Cameras.)
JayBird reveals JB-200 Bluetooth Stereo Headset
(Via Engadget.)
Clari-Fi Review – for the betterment of your audio experience
So, I’ve had the Clari-Fi for almost two weeks, I know it’s only been a couple of days since I posted about it, but I wanted to get a feel for whether it was working or not before I said anything. Bottom line, it is working. It is also worth the extra dough.
I went back to just my headphones and iPod earlier today, and the sound wasn’t horrific, because I try and rip my music at 320kbps, but it was decidedly worse. Now I want my Clari-Fi back. So, one concern I had about it prior to receiving it was that it was going to be constantly coming disconnected since it added an extra connection between me and my music, however that is not the case, I can assure you that, so, if you were having the same doubts, I assure you that won’t be an issue.
One thing I tested out and found that it worked was that my FM Transmitter, an admittedly generic unit, would constantly have spikes in it while using it, and it would always have this quiet, but high pitched ringing sound in the background whenever using it. I attached the Clari-Fi to my FM transmitter and tried it again, thinking it might help, and sure enough it did, in fact it was so clear it was almost like as if I had a direct line-in into my stereo. So, if you have an FM transmitter already, and you are going to buy a Clari-Fi for your headphones, I definitely recommend using it with your FM transmitter as well.
Overall my time with the Clari-Fi has been pretty great. It does exactly what it says it does, it will clear up your audio, and I busted out the original headphones that came with my iPod and didn’t notice as much of a difference, so, if you’ve got $60 and are looking to improve your listening experience and you are still using the stock earbuds, I’d recommend spending it on some new headphones, they’ll have a similar effect on your audio as the Clari-Fi. On the other hand, if you’ve already got a nice pair of headphones, and you’ve got $60 that you are willing to spend on enhancing your audio, I’d definitely recommend the Clari-Fi, for that reason, I give it 3 out of 5 gears.
(Via SlashGear.)
alesis imultimix audio mixer adds ipod dock
Musicians who want to use their iPods as an audio source now can easily do so, thanks to this handy new audio mixer with a built-in iPod dock.
Alesis new iMultiMix 9R is a rack-mountable audio mixer which can combine up to five different audio sources into a single set of stereo outputs. While it’s not the world’s fanciest mixer, it offers convenient docking and integration of your iPod as both an audio and video source.
In addition to basic audio mixing, the iMultiMix 9R gives you 2-band equalization for each channel, letting you precisely adjust the tone of each source prior to mix-down. While I probably wouldn’t try and run a recording studio with this thing, it’s capable enough for a lo-fi musical act or a small venue. It’s especially convenient if you want to incorporate music on the iPod as a backing track or to incorporate lo-res multimedia into a performance (thanks to its video outputs).
If you need a convenient way to mix audio, and your iPod is one of your sources, it’s well worth a listen. You can get your hands on the iMultiMix 9R at Sweetwater Audio for just under $300.
(Via technabob.)
Probably the toughest iPod dock on the planet
Just because you work in a rough, heavy-duty place that doesn't mean that you should deprive yourself of simple pleasures like listening to music. At construction sites and the likes, the huge construction equipments around the place dwarf an iPod or radio. This AM/FM Construction Radio promises to belt out sweet music while keeping your MP3 player docked safely. Its hard side frame protects it from damage while you listen to AM/FM radio or MP3/WMA tunes stored on your iPod, USB Flash memory stick or SD card. The dock includes a spotlight, two DC power ports, a 5V DC USB charger for mobile phones and a couple of AC plug outlets to plug in your power tools.
The AM/FM Construction Radio measures 16in x 10.5in x 11.5in and weighs 10lbs. It costs £65 ($129.99).
(Via Newlaunches.com.)
Case Logic iPod Nano & iPod Classic Tin Cases
Altoids seem to be just as popular for their curiously strong flavor as they are for the metal tins they come in. I’ve seen everything from headphone amps to battery backups to even actual iPods crammed into those tins, so it seems almost logical that someone would make one specifically designed for that purpose. Case Logic, who produces cases for nearly every piece of electronics on the market, is now selling a Traditional Tin metal case for the current generation iPod Nano and 80GB/160GB iPod Classic.
The tins are custom fitted for either iPod, and are lined with a silicon insert to cushion the MP3 player while the metal case protects it from wear and tear. There are holes cut in the top and bottom giving you access to the iPod’s ports and controls, and the lid slides up and down so you can see the screen and access the scroll wheel. The cases run $30 each and are available in either black, pink, eggplant purple or silver depending on which version you buy.
(Via OhGizmo!.)
Ruby Pod Rare Is the Beefiest iPod Nano Case, Perfect For Shabu Shabu [Gadgets]
If you're aiming for more 'delicious' than 'protective' for your iPod cases, there's nothing that does it better than this Ruby Pod Rare case from Japan. It's as if the creators tapped into our collective consciousness of combining delicious meat with delicious tunes. Just staring at these finely chiseled pieces of marbled beef makes us want to get set to eat some shabu shabu or hot pot tonight. Careful to keep any beefed up iPods away from your pets.
(Via Gizmodo.)
Put your iPod Nano 3G (Video) in this plastic hard case and set the player in slideshow mode. Voila! You now have a digital photo frame to spice up your desk, or to be worn around your neck.
Features:
- As a photo frame (you can turn your Nano 3rd to Slide Show Mode and put this one as a digital Photo Frame on your desk)
- Protected from bumps and scratches
- Unique ergonomic design
- Light weight
- Perfectly fit
- Easy access to all ports, buttons and sockets
The Nano 3rd Kick Stand Photo Frame Hard Case is available in black, green, pink or crystal clear for $13.99 from the USB Fever website.
(Via GeekAlerts.)
Review: DLO’s VentMount for iPhone, iPod Touch
The VentMount
DLO is a company that makes its fortune manufacturing cool and useful accessories almost exclusively for Apple’s iPod. It makes every imaginable case, dock, cable, you name it. The VentMount is new. It’s a type of case for the iPhone and iPod Touch that clips into your car’s dashboard, allowing easy access to your device when you’re driving.
The Good Stuff
The VentMount works as promised. It clipped quite easily onto the center vent of my BMW and stayed there firmly. I’ve been driving with it for two days now and not once have I felt threatened that it was going to fall off.
It has a neat feature where you can unclip the holster from the mount itself, and then clip it to your belt. I don’t recommend this, as belts are not for iPhones, but it’s possible if you’d like to do so.
At the top are two strong clips you push into the vent. At the bottom is an easel-like support that fits in the vent to give you just the right angle. The mount swivels 360 degrees, which means you can have your iPhone in portrait or landscape mode. It clicks into place nicely and stays there.
It works great with the music playback features. It’s far enough out of the way that it doesn’t hinder Coverflow at all. There’s room at the bottom for your dock connector if you’ve got an iPod car kit. It’s perfect if you use the GPS and mapping features of your iPhone for directions, as it’s sturdy enough that hitting the ‘next’ button won’t shift it.
I know I’m going to be pivoting it to watch movies when I’m waiting for my loser friends who are always late.
Not so good
The only real problem I have with the VentMount is that once I had it installed it was fairly hard to get it uninstalled. I decided it was too low, blocking a couple of my stereo’s buttons, so I wanted to move it up. It took some jiggering, but I finally managed to get the clips into an angle that got them free.
It’s not impossible, just a pain in the ass. Make sure you know where to put it before you commit.
Conclusion
If you’re an iPhone or iPod Touch user with a car, this is probably a must-have item, especially for those of you with car kits. It does exactly what it’s supposed to and not much more, and for $25, I’m totally OK with that.
(Via CrunchGear.)
