Review: Belkin GoStudio

Review: Belkin GoStudio

As a dilettante musician I enjoy the concept - if not the process - of recording my reedy, whiny voice to digital files. Until recently, that process was fraught with trouble and high quality recording equipment was difficult to obtain and expensive. Now anyone with a six-string and a dream can record fairly acceptable audio with something like the Belkin GoStudio.

The GoStudio records directly to your iPod. It is compatible with iPod Classics, Videos, and Nanos in 16-bit 44kHz stereo. The recordings are stored on the iPod as voice memos which then appear when you sync the iPod. It has two combo XLR/mic jacks and two 3.5mm mini-jack inputs along with two built-in microphones. It has independent gain control on both channels, a main master level control, and a monitor/headphone jack and control.

The recorder works best without inputs. As a stereo audio recorder the GoStudio records with nice depth and quality. Below is a sample taken with the built-in mics:

Download audio file (nowoman.mp3)

This is completely unamped with me about three feet from the recorder. Once you get into add-on mics, unfortunately, things break down.

Because this doesn’t amplify line-in input, you get a bit of a mess. If you increase the gain and the levels, you get fuzz. If you don’t, you get silence. This is the best I could do with an XLR stage mic and a Dean Markley acoustic pick-up:

Download audio file (combo.mp3)

I’m sure with a bit of tweaking I could make it sound better, but I came at this as a novice and without trial and error you won’t be thrilled with the results. In short, the built-in microphones are acceptable and the combo and 3.5mm jacks are slightly less so.

How is this better than a standard iPod voice recorder, then? It’s more robust, definitely, and once you solve the problems I mentioned, it records audio quite nicely. Like the TuneStudio, Belkin is offering fairly high-end technology to entry-level consumers, which is admirable. At $119.99, the device would be good for recording concerts or seminars and even grab a quick musical performance in your bath- or bedroom.

Bottom Line

A nice little audio recorder that records directly to iPods.

(Via CrunchGear.)

Jean-Michel Jarre’s AeroSystem iPod dock

Jean-Michel Jarre’s AeroSystem iPod dock

As iPods grow increasingly popular, more and more accessories pop up.  Many of the sleeker designs are far out of most people’s price ranges, but they are still fun to drool over.  This one isn’t the most outrageously priced I’ve seen, but it’s still not the greatest either.  Either way, it’s worth checking out.  With the sleek tower it could easily get slipped into any style room.  Yes, it will take up a little floor space, but tucked into a corner it’d hardly take up much room.

Jean-Michel Jarre’s AeroSystem has a 450w subwoofer and 200w speakers.  It also of course has a USB port and a 3.5mm jack, so you’ll be able to hook up other audio players besides an iPod.  However, if you can afford to buy this, you could probably easily afford an iPod for whoever it is in the family that doesn’t have one yet.  These are only available in France, so the rest of us will either have to live without or figure out a way to get it shipped our way.  It is being sold for EUR 450 or about $580.  Which is quite a bit, but at least they threw in a remote control.

(Via Coolest Gadgets.)

BLOK Wooden iPod Speaker System

BLOK Wooden iPod Speaker System

The BLOK iPod Speaker System is made of a hand-crafted wooden cabinet on the outside for what manufacturer Revo claims is ‘fundamental in achieving BLOK’s rich, natural sound.’ It has NXT’s Balanced-Radiator loudspeaker technology, 40W digital audio, and comes with a remote known as KONTROL. The system is compatible with all iPods with included adapters, and it charges while it acts as a dock. Find it for a price £199.00 (~$321.00.)

(Via Gear Live.)

iRecorder records live content into your iPod without a computer

iRecorder records live content into your iPod without a computer

Owning a media player has all its frills, music wherever you like, videos wherever you like, but recording is not a functionality that every player has, the iPod does not have it. Don’t you wish that you could somehow capture some new movie or series you see at your friend’s place? Meet the iRecorder, this nifty little gadget will record from analog TV, cable, set top box, satellite receiver box, DVD or your Camcorder. If there is a RCA jack output from your source, you can plug it into the iRecorder’s AV-IN jack. There is also an AV OUT for you to work in reverse and play your iPod video on a larger screen. The USB jack lets you plug in your iPod and store your recorded video directly onto it.
The iRecorder is compatible any other USB device media device that can play MPEG4 files, this little do it all wonder will set you back $190.

(Via Newlaunches.com.)

Useful: iPhone/iPod to USB adaptor

Useful: iPhone/iPod to USB adaptor

Here’s a useful accessory for every iPhone and/or iPod owner - iPod to USB adaptor. Using it you can connect your favorite media player/iPhone (3G) to your computer sans any wires. It’s small and lightweight, hence you can carry it with you all the time — to charge your device on someone else’s computer or to use your iPhone/iPod as an external hard drive. Carrying this adaptor is certainly easier than the original cable. Best of all, it costs only 5 bucks on Brando’s online store. Actually, there’s additional $3 for shipping, but that’s still cheap.

(Via IntoMobile.)

Voix MPX iPod Speaker System

Voix MPX iPod Speaker System

Voix recently unveiled its unique MPX iPod docking/charging system. Each aluminum tower has a height of 3 1/2 ft. with a weight of 4.5 kg. It can deliver 150W maximum from its 4 vertically aligned cone speakers, also made of aluminum. The subwoofer is built into the base. Included in the package is a remote for controlling sound, volume, and iPod functions. Available for £$259.99 (~$450.00,) the MPX also works with MP3, DVD, and CD players, as well as game consoles, TVs and laptops.'

(Via Gear Live.)

CA-IP500: The in-dash iPod dock for cars

CA-IP500: The in-dash iPod dock for cars

Apple introduced the iPod in 2001. That means it took seven years for someone, here, Fusion, to make an aftermarket in-car dealie (‘radio’) with a built-in iPod dock. Wake up, people!

The CA-IP1500, Fusion claims, is the first iPod dock that works inside a car’s head unit. Then you’d be able to control the iPod by using the knobs and dials on the front. It sounds borderline magical, really.

Other than that, it looks to be very similar every 17-year-old’s aftermarket radio: near-garish OLED display, complete with whirring and teenage mystique; AM/FM tuner with radio data system; and the still-around SRS Wow.

She’s about $284, but you’ll be dealing with international shipping and so forth. (It’s a Commonwealth company.)

Car and iPod not included.

(Via CrunchGear.)

Scosche Passport Makes New iPods Work with Obsolete Cars [Apple]

Scosche Passport Makes New iPods Work with Obsolete Cars [Apple]

Chances are, if you have an iPod integration system from a year or two back, it will not be compatible with the iPhone 3G, Nano 4G, or Touch 2G. The Scosche Passport is the first solution to this problem, an adapter that negotiates power, audio and video from new iPods to car iPod hookups. That purpose alone is pretty cool, but we think that it might work to make old iPod docks compatible as well. We'll get our hands on one to test, but until then, you can preorder yours to ship later this month for $30. [Passport]

Oxnard, CA – October 16, 2008 – Scosche Industries (www.scosche.com), an award-winning innovator of mobile electronics and iPod accessories, announces the availability of its new passPORT iPod/iPhone car integration system. The passPORT utilizes a female pass-through connector to attach to any in-car iPod integration system to charge all iPhone and iPod models, including the iPhone 3G and the recently introduced nano 4G and touch 2G. With over 28 years of advanced mobile electronics and aftermarket accessory experience and knowledge, Scosche worked closely with Apple to develop the passPORT to ensure its compatibility and function for both OEM and aftermarket automotive products.

‘The passPORT provides a seamless solution for anyone that wants to listen to their new iPhone or iPod in their car through their integrated audio system,’ said Kas Alves, vice president, sales and marketing, Scosche Industries. ‘Scosche engineers developed a highly sophisticated product that maintains all functionality including audio, video and data of the iPhone 3G and new iPod models.’

With its superior knowledge in both the automotive aftermarket and home accessory categories, Scosche continues to develop and bring to market products for iPhone and iPod models. Scosche is currently developing a similar product for home use that will also allow consumers to use their home accessories including speakers, alarms and docking stations with the iPhone 3G and new iPod models.

The passPORT is priced at $29.99 MSRP.

(Via Gizmodo.)

Over half of 2009 vehicles in America will offer iPod support

Over half of 2009 vehicles in America will offer iPod support

And we're not talking about that 3.5mm-to-3.5mm trick, either. No sirree, we're referring to bona fide iPod integration, and 2009 marks the first year where over half of all US-bound automobiles are expected to offer optional support for Apple's prolific PMP. When looking at 2008 model year vehicles, just 39% offered tight iPod integration, but according to Phil Magney, vice president of automotive research for iSuppli, the 'automotive industry is at the point where in-vehicle technologies -- or the lack of them -- are influencing sales.' Furthermore, Bluetooth is expected to be in 82% of 2009 US vehicles (optional or standard), and just so we're clear, we're talking all cars, not just the luxury brands. Unfortunately, no data was provided for expected compatibility with the DJ Ditty.

(Via Engadget CELLS.)

Transdock iPod Car Charger

Transdock iPod Car Charger

Ok, so there are like a million iPod accessories, but it looks like DLO got it right.  The Transdock is an iPod charger with a built-in AUX output and is void of any FM transmitter gimmicks.  It plugs directly into your car’s lighter socket and features a goose neck for multi angle adjustment - there’s nothing else to setup or install.   Included in the package is a detachable 12V power socket for the feverish smoker riding shotgun.

Costs $60 and official page here

(Via Gadget Review.)

Onkyo CBX-Z20 iPod sound system

Onkyo CBX-Z20 iPod sound system

Just what we needed, an expensive iPod dock to take our minds off failing banks and nose diving stock markets. The Onkyo CBX-Z20 packs in a CD player, AM / FM radio and of course the iPod dock. The amplifier delivers an output of 5W x 2Ch for the 8cms speakers. The unit measures 435×231.5×138mm, weighs 4.3 kgs, comes with a remote control and is clad in shiny black. It will be available in Japan only later this month for 50,000 Yen ($ 500).

(Via Newlaunches.com.)

Onkyo MHP-UW2 iPod Wireless Headphones

Onkyo MHP-UW2 iPod Wireless Headphones

Wires can be pretty annoying, although they have the merit of conveying signals in a better way than many wireless solutions - and it's cheap! So, if headphones wires do annoy you, the Onkyo MHP-UW2 might be part of the solution. It's a pair of Bluetooth headphones that comes with a emitter that attaches to the iPod to broadcast music for up to 8 hours before the battery runs out of juice. I like the headphones, but the emitter blows it - it's too big and too ugly. The real solution to this is to have Apple add Bluetooth into the next-gen iPods.

(Via UberGizmo, the Gadgets News Blog.)

4-Port Charger -Kensington

4-Port Charger -Kensington: "

If your desktop looks like something out of a Stephen King movie, with cords twisting and writhing all over the desk, USB chargers littering the top like so much strewn garbage, you need this handy 4-Port USB Charger for Mobile Devices from the folks at Kensington.

Small and compact, it charges up to 4 of your mobile devices simultaneously, including iPods, PDAs and more and takes leaves your desk looking neat and organized. $29.99 at Kensington and Amazon.

See? Sometimes there is a happy ending.

(Via Popgadget: Personal Tech for Women.)

Woodchuck iPod/Laptop Speakers

Woodchuck iPod/Laptop Speakers

There are wooden speakers and environmentally correct ones, but what if you could combine the two? That’s exactly what Woodchuck’s Woodgrain iPod/Laptop Speakers do. Available in both light and dark models, the speakers are surrounded in heavy duty cardboard and arrive flat. DIY and can they make you look hot without damaging your budget. We found the semi-recyclable devices available for only $13.50 a pair. We figure if the outsides wear out, you can use them as a pattern to make new ones with that leftover shoebox you couldn’t quite throw away.

(Via Gear Live.)

Retro iPod Dock with Clock Radio

Retro iPod Dock with Clock Radio

This retro inspired cherry wood finish iPod dock allows you to charge you portable audio player while listening to music, and it’s also equipped with an alarm clock function.

Features:

• iPod charging dock plays your favorite tunes


• Alarm function wakes to AM/FM radio or iPod with snooze feature


• Digital display


• Size: 9 x 6 x 5 inches

The Retro iPod Dock with Clock Radio is available from JCPenney for $79.99

(Via GeekAlerts.)

Yamaha Audio Systems With iPod Dock

Yamaha Audio Systems With iPod Dock

If you don’t like the Yamaha Wooden iPod Docks that we mentioned yesterday, then check out the latest Yamaha Audio Systems that come equipped with an iPod dock. The Yamaha MCS-1330 boasts two 60W RMS power output, an amplifier, a CD player, 2.5cm tweeters and 13cm woofer. There is also a USB port to connect with other portable devices.

Yamaha also releases three more audio systems in the form of the MCR-330, MCR-230, and the CRX-430. The Yamaha MCR-330 and MCR-230 provide an output power of 2 x 20W, the CD player, USB and iPod ports. Meanwhile, the CRX-430 offers 2 x 25W power RMS outputs. The Yamaha MCS-1330, MCR-330, MCR-230 and CRX-430 are priced at approx. €800, €250, €230 and €220, respectively.

(Via TechFresh.net - Cell Phones, Laptops, Video Games, iPods, Cameras.)

H20 Audio Releases Surge And Amphibx Waterproof Headphones And Armbands

H20 Audio Releases Surge And Amphibx Waterproof Headphones And Armbands

If you're one who can't live without music no matter where you go, even when swimming, then it is without a doubt that you've heard of H20 as well as their range of waterproof products. This time round, the family of H20 accessories has expanded with two new devices - the Surge and Amphibx waterproof headphones and armbands. The latter consists of a range of waterproof cases that boast a clear touch window for easy Click Wheel and touch screen operation even when underwater, while the former features 8mm neodymium drivers that are surrounded by watertight and sound-isolating earplugs, with 5 earpieces to choose from for an optimal fit. The H20 Audio Surge headphones will retail for $88 while the medium and large Amphibx waterproof cases are going for $97 and $115, respectively.

(Via UberGizmo, the Gadgets News Blog.)

Yamaha introduces wooden iPod docks

Yamaha introduces wooden iPod docks

Yamaha Japan has announced the TSX-120 (pictured after the jump) and TSX-130 iPod docks with soft wooden finish. Both share common features except that the TSX-130 (pictured above) comes with USB connectors and a CD-drive which supports playback and recording. Common features include amplifier output of 15W × 2ch, 2 x eight cms speakers, frequency response of 60Hz ~ 20kHz, FM tuner and remote control. Nothing special here except for the wooden finish which gives a classy look. Scheduled to hit Japanese stores by early December the TSX-120 will sell for 30,000 Yen ($ 300) and TSX-130 for 40,000 Yen ($ 400).

(Via Newlaunches.com.)

Sizen iM10 Converts Stereo To 5.1 Surround

Sizen iM10 Converts Stereo To 5.1 Surround

By Andrew Liszewski

While devices like the PSP and the iPhone feature adequately sized screens for watching movies, the pitiful built-in speakers or stereo headphones option means you won’t be enjoying the same surround sound experience you’d get at the theater, or even at home. Or does it? The Sizen iM10 looks to be about the size of 2 stacked iPod Shuffles and claims to upscale regular stereo sound to a 5.1 surround experience. It apparently relies on a ‘bass and treble reinforcement technology’ known as AST coupled with another technology called DBEX to properly ‘balance’ the sound. To be honest I’m not 100% sure how it actually works, and this whiteboard illustration designed to clear things up doesn’t help. But I am curious how the fake 5.1 surround effect actually sounds.

The iM10 uses a built-in lithium polymer rechargeable battery, and on a single 2.5 hour charge you can expect to get about 7.5 hours of use. And it features a mini-USB jack allowing it to be charged from a laptop if needed. It also has 3 different operating modes for regular stereo sound or 2 x 5.1 modes customized for music or movie playback. It will be available in Japan in 6 different colors for about $90.

(Via OhGizmo!.)

Yamaha TSX-130 and TSX-120 Mini Audio System

Yamaha TSX-130 and TSX-120 Mini Audio System

Yamaha introduced another mini audio system and a FM radio both with a built-in iPod docking station: the TSX-130 & TSX-120.

They both provide an RMS power output of 15Wx2 (6 ohm 1kHz 10% THD), a frequency response 60Hz-20,000Hz (0±1dB). The TSX-130 reproduces CD-R/RW, plays CD-DA, MP3, and WMA audio files, and features a USB port.

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Yamaha TSX-130 and TSX-120 Mini Audio System

(Via Daily Computer Electronic Cell Phone Digital Camera Review.)

Bird-Electron EZ-18B iPhone & iPod Touch Speaker Stand

Bird-Electron EZ-18B iPhone & iPod Touch Speaker Stand

Speaking of watching movies on a portable device, this overly-named ‘EZ-18B’ stand from Bird-Electron for the iPhone & iPod Touch features a 60mm full range speaker so you don’t have to rely on their crappy mono speaker if you’ve opted not to use headphones. The stand’s speaker connects to the iPhone or Touch via a simple stereo mini-plug, and while it’s nice that it doesn’t require its own power source, don’t expect the sound to be particularly loud. The front panel where you rest your device also features a 45 degree angle providing a ‘perfect’ viewing angle, and even comes with a silicon seat to protect your toys from scratching against the metal finish. But even with a built-in speaker, the $79.99 price tag from AudioCubes is a bit ridiculous given the plethora of cheaper and even DIY stands already available.

(Via OhGizmo!.)