After buying my wife an iPod Nano 3G for Christmas, I can now appreciate how important getting a good protective case for this little gadget is. For those who haven't seen it, the iPod Nano 3G is an amazing device - super thin, small and so easy to use.
The Griffin Reflect iPod Nano 3G Cases are durable polycarbonate shells that present a seamless, mirrored-chrome reflective finish to the world.
Tuck your iPod inside a Griffin Reflect iPod Nano 3G Case; when you wake up your player, the bright, clear screen shows through the chrome faceplate as if by magic.
Frame your iPod touch inside in a Reflect case; you still have complete access to the multi-touch display, and the award-winning industrial design of your iPod touch is perfectly complemented by Reflect's chrome-like finish.
Reflect is available for 2nd & 3rd generation iPod nano, as well as iPod classic and iPod with video.
So you've got a brand new iPod Nano and now don't know what to do with it in the gym - grab yourself a Gecko Sports Armband for iPod Nano 3Gs! This will allow you to jog / cycle / benchpress to your favourite iTunes without fear of your shiny gadget getting damaged. Features of the Gecko Sports Ipod Nano 3G Frost Armband:
- includes Gecko Frost Silicon Case - key / money pocket - Gecko Frost Silicon Case can be used on its own
There's been a huge price reduction on the iRec Real-Time Video Recorder for iPod with Video! Just found out about this yesterday so if you've been eyeing this gadget there won't be a better time to get one than now! Check out the features, check out the specs, check out the system requirements but best of all check out the PRICE!
Features of the iRec Real-Time Video Recorder for iPod with Video: - Real-time recording - Timer - Intuitive LED - iPod Charging - Firmware Upgrade
The XtremeMac Airplay Boost FM Transmitter for iPod (5thGen) Black is XtremeMac's latest FM transmitter for the iPod with Video. They've actually taken a page out of Griffin's playbook and have integrated the tuning with the iPod's own screen, much like the iTrip Nano. It's a great concept and adds to what they call "seamless integration". Also inline with their "seamless integration" is a pass through dock connector so you can charge and sync your iPod without having to take the Airplay Boost off. The Airplay Boost is powered by the iPod itself so if you're using one of these in the car, it might be a good idea to grab a car charger as well.
Features of the XtremeMac Airplay Boost FM Transmitter for iPod (5thGen) Black: - External antenna boosts signal for superior transmission - Seamless integration with on-screen display and tuning - Three programmable station presets - Pass-through dock connector lets you charge for unlimited playtime - Stereo and mono modes allow for selection of clearest transmission - Matches exact width of iPod for video for a sleek look - No batteries needed-powered by iPod for video
Here's another sub $300 iPod speaker system, this time from Griffin, one of the world's most prolific iPod accessory makers. The Griffin Amplifi iPod Speaker System is one of three speakers for the iPod that Griffin have released lately and although this may be new territory for them, the outlook seems fairly good. Enclosed in a wooden enclosure, the Amplifi is reported to put out great sound for a speaker of its size. What I really like about it is its hidden sub woofer design. Unless you actually flip the unit upside down, you won't see it! And much like other iPod speakers out in the market, it wouldn't be complete without its own remote control. Oh and it also has a cool blue glowing light around the volume knob. Not that you probably didn't notice it already.
Features of the Griffin Amplifi iPod Speaker System: - Compact acoustically-tuned wooden enclosure - iPod-ready with docking slot and 6 iPod adapters - 3.5mm stereo input jack supports all players - Two 2.75 inch neodymium high/midrange speakers - 5 inch woofer and bass reflex port - Slim 6-function IR remote - Charges iPod during use - Includes AC Power Cable (100-240V AC)
The ever popular Belkin Tunecast II has now been replaced by the new Belkin Tunecast 3 FM Transmitter. This universal FM transmitter is the third in line of the successful Tunecast series. It features the same great functions as its predecessors but comes in a whole new more techno looking body. The most interesting to note is the new OLED display screen and bigger buttons to more easily choose the right frequency. No more fumbling around and dangerously driving in the car! And with the generous 20-inch cable that plugs into any 3.5mm jack there is no more need to worry if the cable is too short or too long with the Tunecast 3's integrated cable management. Keep the music alive with the Belkin Tunecast 3 FM Transmitter!
Features of the Belkin Tunecast 3 FM Transmitter:
- Delivers best-in-class audio - Works with iPod devices, PDAs, MP3 players, CD and cassette players, or computers (using a headphone jack) - Features easy-to-read, OLED screen - Programs the clearest frequency with preset buttons - Operates on FM channels from 88.1MHz-107.9MHz - Draws power from batteries or car power adapter, not your MP3 player - Positions easily in car with included clip - Lets you use as much of the 20-inch cable as you like, with integrated cable management - Plays your music in stereo or mono audio - Comes with a 3-Year Warranty
Building on the success of the Transpod, DLO have evolved the popular iPod in-car solution into the DLO Transdock iPod Car Dock. The Transdock is an easy way to mount your iPod in your car for charging and transmitting your tunes to your car stereo. But that's not all. The Transdock also includes an AV out so you can watch your iPod videos on your fancy in-car TV screen. And just in case you don't have a copy of Jitterbug on your iPod but your friend does on their mp3 player, the Transdock also has an auxiliary input so you can use the Transdock for your friend's second tier audio device.
Features of the DLO Transdock iPod Car Dock: - Latest generation of the award-winning TransPod - the best-selling way to play, charge and cradle your iPod on the road - Powerful, integrated antenna for even stronger iPod transmission to your car's FM radio - Audio/Video Output for showing iPod downloads on your mobile video system - AV Out also for use with cassette adapters and car audio inputs - Aux In jack for transmitting any other MP3 player, laptop, or gaming system over your car's stereo - USB connection to simultaneously charge your cell phone or other electronic device - Two interchangeable faceplates included; others available for purchase online soon - No installation required; simple to move from car to car - Four available presets to assign as needed
If you fancy yourself as a high-flying musical virtuoso producer like Puff Daddy, P. Diddy, or whatever he calls himself these days but don't have the moolah like he does, then the Belkin TuneStudio might just be your ticket into the world of music producing. The TuneStudio partnered with your iPod lets you record your next masterpiece right onto your iPod. The TuneStudio has 4 channels with 2x XLR connectors or 4x 1/4 inch jack connectors. The XLR connectors are even Phantom-Power enabled for that $400 Sure microphone you just bought. The TuneStage might not be what Bono and his U2 pals use for their albums but for you and I who haven't made it into the top 10 charts just yet, this could be a foot in the door. Just think K-Fed. Baby steps, baby steps.
Features of the Belkin TuneStudio: - Records directly to iPod in 16-bit, 44kHz quality - Streams audio through built-in USB interface to and from a PC or Mac computer - Each channel is equipped with 3-band EQ, pan and level controls - Phantom-power-enabled XLR inputs provide up to 60 dB of microphone gain - High-quality stereo compressor with makeup gain enhances audio dynamics and keeps audio levels within recording limits of the iPod - Features one-knob compression control - LEDs indicate master audio level, power status, peak indication, compressor
No one likes to be abruptly woken, heck I don't even like to be woken up at all! But what I hate about alarm clocks in general is their ability to wake you up from a nice restful sleep to a state of consciousness with an elevated blood pressure and anxiety! If they can put man on moon why can't they make an alarm clock that gently wakes you up? Well they have with the XtremeMac Luna iPod Alarm and Audio System. It's more than just an alarm clock radio, it's also an iPod dock complete with remote control and digital display. The Luna can be customized to however you like to be woken up, even how bright you want the display to be. You can choose to snooze from 1 to 60 minutes (now that is what I call snooze!), choose which track you want to wake up to or if you want to be completely random, you can even wake up to AM/FM radio.
Features of the XtremeMac Luna iPod Alarm and Audio System: - Wake up to iPod, radio, or buzzer with gradually increasing volume
- Outstanding audio from two full-range speakers and powerful two-channel amplifier - User-friendly menu system controlled by multi-function knobs - Easy-to-read display with variable brightness control - Wireless remote with advanced functions - Time and alarm backup with two AA batteries (included) - Universal dock well - Charges iPod while docked
Now here's an iPod dock not like the rest! The iRec Real-Time Video Recorder for iPod with Video in fact does the exact opposite of what most docks do, which is display the video content from your iPod to the TV. The iRec instead records what's on TV, DVD, Camcorder, etc to your iPod. It then synchronizes this with iTunes on your computer. Now you'll never miss an episode of Neighbours, Home and Away or Australian Idol. iPod Docks are usually one way bridges from your PC to iPod or iPod to TV. The iRec puts in the other lane for two way traffic. This might be just the gadget to push those on the iPod/Zune fence over to the iPod side!
Features of the iRec Real-Time Video Recorder for iPod with Video: Real-time recording - Record video on an iPod from all kinds of AV devices such as TV, DVD Player, Camcorder, HDD Recorder, DVD Recorder and VTR - Record videos with high definition and good sound quality - Record videos with 6-hour maximum playing time - Supports widescreen recording - Supports Composite and S-Video inputs Timer - Set remaining time for recording in advance - Extend recording time in middle of the recording Intuitive LED - Check recording status and recording time all at once - Recorded file management - Auto-register new recorded files to the playlist of iTunes - Automatic generation and renaming of the playlist for iRec on iTunes - Auto-Notification for new recorded files - Records quality - Backup recorded files to PC - Auto-deletes recorded files - Changes filenames iPod Charging - Charges your iPod while it's docked Firmware Upgrade - Easy and simple to upgrade to the latest firmware version (when connected to the Internet)
For some great thumping iPod sounds you can't go past the XtremeMac Tango 2.1 iPod Speaker System. This iPod speaker system docks pretty much all click-wheel iPods, ie. 4th Generation and up. It features a wireless remote that controls everything from track to volume to bass and treble so you won't need to get out of your seat that you've already warmed and moulded to your backside. The Tango also has an S-Video and 3.5mm A/V jack if you want to connect it to your TV. And let's face it, most TV's out there have less than thumping speakers. One feature that caught me was it's gradual volume change when powering up. This means you won't jump out of your skin if/when someone decides to leave the last track played on the highest volume setting! The Tango, not for April Fool's day pranks.
Features of the XtremeMac Tango 2.1 iPod Speaker System: - Wireless remote with track, volume, bass and treble controls - 3.5mm audio/video line-in and out and S-video out - Gradually increasing/decreasing volume at power on/off - Universal dock well with 3 inserts - Charges iPod while docked* - AC power cord with 5 international plug adapters
* 4G models and later, earlier models will play but not charge.
Griffin Technology is at it again; introducing the Griffin Smartdeck Intelligent Cassette Adaptor for iPod Dock Connector. It is intelligent because this cassette adaptor "knows" what you are doing via the controls on your cassette adaptor. If you hit rewind, it moves back a song on your iPod; if you hit fast forward, it moves foward one song on your iPod. The eject and pause buttons on your cassette desk stops and pauses songs on your iPod respectively. This means that you can control your iPod through your cassette desk, which not only provides a 'cool' factor to your old cassette deck, but makes changing songs whilst driving that little bit safer! (taking your eyes off the road whilst driving is not recommended).
Features of the Griffin Smartdeck Intelligent Cassette Adaptor for iPod Dock Connector:
- Intelligent design: control your iPod via your cassette deck's controls. - Innovative design: seamless integration between your cassette deck and iPod. - High-quality tape head for clear crystal audio quality. - Compatible with iPod mini, iPod Photo, 4th Generation iPod with Click Wheel and 3rd Generation iPod with touch wheel and buttons
Let's face it, as great as the Apple iPod's are at being mp3 players, they are also as equally great at being scratched up. You could breath and it would have a scratch, even after some colgate, floss and listerine! We now have the Gecko Nano Glove Frost for 2nd Gen iPod Nano on our line up for those of you lucky enough to have a 2nd Generation iPod Nano. I've seen a few cases in my time for iPods and PDA's and the biggest trade off with cases is the bulk they add. Silicone cases like the Gecko Nano Glove are by far the best in terms of protection and keeping the nice slim form factor the iPod Nano's are famous for. They are durable, washable (with the Nano not in the case of course), fitting and look funky. And like the name says, these Gecko Nano Cases have the non-slip Gecko grip!
Features of the Gecko Nano Glove Frost for 2nd Gen iPod Nano: - Non-slip Gecko grip - Super tough and durable - Fits 2nd Generation Apple iPod Nano - Cut outs for easy access to the click wheel and dock - Semi-transparent Frost colour
The iPod is a great alternative to an in-car audio system. Why? Well when you have a bucket load of songs in the palm of your hand, why else would you need CD's? The Belkin TuneCast Auto iPod FM Transmitter Black bridges the gap between the iPod and a car's radio. If your car radio can pick up FM signals the TuneCast Auto will be more than willing to send them. The TuneCast Auto also doubles as a charger for the iPod via the cigarette lighter on the dash of your car. Handy when you're up for a long drive. As handy as having everyone's music taste covered by the amount of songs you can put on your iPod.
Features of the Belkin TuneCast Auto iPod FM Transmitter Black: - Transmits on FM channels 88.1MHz-107.9MHz - Powers and charges through your car's cigarette lighter - Two programmable memory presets - Includes surface mount clip for positioning within arms reach - Compatible with select cases that include access to the dock connector
iPod docks used to be boring white chunks of plastic that sat on your desk. Now they are evolving, some with more bells and whistles than the others. The Belkin TuneSync iPod Dock USB Hub is a simple yet useful incarnation of the iPod dock. If you're after an iPod dock but don't need the wireless streaming, video output and remote control then this dock is probably one of the best value ones out there. It syncs, charges and also acts as a 5-port 2.0 USB hub. And USB hubs we can't have enough of! Now if only these came in black....Belkin are you listening? Features of the Belkin TuneSync iPod Dock USB Hub: - Charges and syncs all your iPods - Charges and syncs your iPod shuffle through the USB port - Includes a stereo-out jack ideal for connecting your stereo, powered speakers or headset - Integrates iPod charging dock with a 5-port USB 2.0 hub - Saves desk space with slim-line design - Guarantees 12Mbps per port for connected USB 1.1 devices
One of the hottest iPod add-ons that I never expected is the voice recorder. But now that I think about it, it just makes sense! You carry around 30GB worth of storage (60GB if you're more fortunate), why not put it to more use than just listening to audio, by also recording audio into it? The Belkin TuneTalk Stereo iPod Recorder features not one but two omni-directional mics so where ever the sound is coming from, your iPod will be sure to pick it up. It also includes an external microphone adapter so if you want to use your favourite mic you can. The TuneTalk unleashes more of the simple iPod's potential! Use it to record interviews, conversations and lectures.
Features of the Belkin TuneTalk Stereo iPod Recorder: - Offers CD-quality, stereo recording - Charges while recording with included cable - Fits most cases - Includes external microphone adapter (3.5mm stereo) - Features one-touch navigation for quick memos - Operates hands-free with included stand - Offers real-time adjustable gain for changing noise levels - Includes clipping indicator
Here's an iPod speaker that completely went under my radar. The Logitech AudioStation iPod Speaker System is a docking station, speaker system and radio clock for your iPod. And because it uses the iPod's dock connection, it pretty much covers any iPod model made within the last three years except the Shuffle. I really like the design of the AudioStation, combining the smooth curves of the iPod with the sharp edges of past speaker designs. The AudioStation is also quiet compact and normally I would expect sub-level audio quality but reviews around the internet suggest otherwise.
Like other iPod speaker systems, it charges your iPod and also has auxiliary inputs in case (gasp!) you decide to plug in another audio source. However, unlike some speakers the same size as the AudioStation, this system comes with an S-Video output. What does this mean? It means you can position this speaker on top of your TV and watch video from your iPod on a bigger screen but still getting the more superior audio quality from the AudioStation. The possibilities are just begining.
Features of the Logitech AudioStation iPod Speaker System: - Charges your iPod - Digital AM/FM radio - Advanced remote control - Touch-sensitive, backlit controls - Digital clock
It's the battle of the titans as it seems there are only two major contenders when it comes to putting wireless on the iPod. The Logitech FreePulse Wireless Bluetooth Headphones seems to have an edge over the compettion though as it can be also used for other mp3 players with a 3.5mm jack. Logitech is quiet the bridge over troubled waters between iPod haters and players in this regard. The FreePulse uses Bluetooth 2.0 so pairing is even faster and easier and range is set at a max 10 meters. Not that you'd want to be 10 meters away from your iPod while travelling to work on public transport!
Features of the Logitech FreePulse Wireless Bluetooth Headphones: - Soft-touch comfort rings Thin, flexible rings cradle your ears; enjoy up to 6 hours of play time in comfort. - High carbon spring-steel headband Ultra lightweight yet rugged construction for a secure, reliable fit. - Compatible with most audio players Patented stereo plug can be repositioned for device compatibility.
iPod what? Zune who? The Sandisk Sansa Connect 4GB MP3 Player is one of the newest line of flash based mp3 players from Sandisk. With its 4GB memory you can store around 1000 songs on average for your pure listening pleasure. And getting to them all is a breeze with Sandisk's intuitive eye-candy menu system. The menu system really is a visual treat compared to other mp3 players out there. The big draw card for the Sansa Connect is its integrated WiFi, giving you the ability to listen to internet radio (which beats our 5 main FM Stations here in Oz), recommend songs to friends and even updating your song lists with out wires! The Sansa Connect, like its other Sansa bretheren, sports a MicroSD slot for expanadability if 4GB is not enough. So again I say, "iPod what? Zune who?"
Features of the Sandisk Sansa Connect 4GB MP3 Player: - Play music and view your photos - Enjoy Internet Radio wirelessly* - Connect to any open Wi-Fi network - Get your music subscription library on the go** - Recommend songs to your friends** - Sleek, attractive profile with large 2.2 inch TFT color screen - MicroSD slot for capacity expansion - Features an internal speaker - Standard Sansa 30-pin connector for compatibility with Made for Sansa accessories
* May require subscription to access content and an open WiFi network **Requires music subscription service and an open WiFi network.
Microsoft is taking a stab and jab at the world's biggest MP3 player with their very own Microsoft Zune. And here at Mr.Gadget, we're stocking up on all things Zune ready for it's Australian launch. In a few days we'll be receiving Microsoft Zune Synch 'n' Charge USB Retractable Cables. Not just any old cable but of the retractable type! Yes that's right, stretching to just under a meter in length, this cable retracts to a miniscule 10 centimeters. Nothing else needed, you just plug and play. Exactly just what USB was meant to do. Keep an eye out for yours!
Hold that thought! Hold it in near CD quality sound with the XtremeMac MicroMemo for iPod Nano 2nd Generation. Now you can record directly to your 2nd-Gen iPod Nano either with the supplied microphone or pretty much anything that can plug into the MicroMemo's 3.5mm line-in jack. The MicroMemo even has an in-built speaker for instant playback. No batterries required, no additional software required. Just plug it into your iPod's dock connector and record all you want. Now you'll have evidence of your wife saying you can buy the new Apple iPhone.... after you agreed let her buy those Prada shoes and handbag. Features of the XtremeMac MicroMemo for iPod Nano 2nd Generation: - Menus and controls display on iPod nano screen - One-touch recording - Flexible, detachable mic for exact positioning - Built-in speaker for instant playback - Records 16-bit audio at 44 kHz and 8-bit at 22 kHz - Accepts other microphones with 3.5mm plug - Records directly from line-in sources - No batteries needed—iPod-powered
After buying my wife an iPod Nano 3G for Christmas, I can now appreciate how important getting a good protective case for this little gadget is. For those who haven't seen it, the iPod Nano 3G is an amazing device - super thin, small and so easy to use.
