Two Nifty iPod Light Effects Gadgets That Will Impress Your Friends

Just in time for the holidays, the newest audio gadgets are out, and we have our eyes firmly pressed against the glass window to take a peek at what hopping new iPod accessories and gadgets can really take your portable MP3 player to the next level. Sure the iPod is a great device. But what makes it even better is the plethora of companies that are striving to create the latest and the greatest in iPod accessories and gadgets, so that us 21st century digital beings can better enjoy our 2-gigs of music. Without further ado, we give to you two new iPod gadgets that create a light show for your music. All you have to do is plug them into to your iPod and watch the show.

The iPod Laser Light Show
This sweet, orb-shaped device plugs right into your iPod and will project dancing red laser beams to the beat. You can change the pattern and the style of the laser beams by simply adjusting a knob. The device is self-powered, so it won’t drain your battery life. And when you are not using the lasers, you can use it as a simple external speaker. It comes with a lifetime warranty and free shipping. Finding one in stock is another story, as this audio gadget is extremely popular. Priced online from about: $64.95

iPod E-light Indoor/Outdoor Entertainment Light
This warm and romantic, clip-on and portable, outdoor light is a nifty add-on for your iPod. It features six powerful LEDs that will cast a nice glow on anywhere you take your iPod; excellent for romancing. A sturdy clamp attaches the light to most poles or even table umbrellas. The fixture has two balanced stereo speakers that offer a decent quality audio, there is nothing like some smooth music to enhance a date. It can run for six to twelve hours, depending on if you are running the lights and the speakers at the same time; they can be run separately if desired. You can get your paws on this nifty light for about $39.50 online.

What It All Comes Down To
In the end both of these nifty iPod gadgets are not must-own, but are really freaking cool. The popularity of portable MP3 players has never waned, and seemingly in par with the many different audio gadgets that you frequently see for such devices, these lighting units offer more ways to brandish your songs while showing off for your friends. And with all of these cool audio gadgets constantly being released for the iPod, we find ourselves just giddy with anticipation over what they will come out with next; perhaps an iPod accessory that drives your car for you? Now wouldn’t bars love that device!

A Wristwatch That Stores and Plays MP3’s (What Will They Think of Next?)

Of the many different and unique audio gadgets that we have the distinct pleasure of reviewing each month, this one really made us stop and think twice. If only they had such awesome devices when we were kids, life would have been a bit different. And seemingly we are always yapping our mouths about popularity of portable MP3 players. But this time we have found the next best thing in portable MP3 players, a wristwatch that plays MP3s, and does a whole lot more! Like recording a few hours of your voice, having an onboard 1-gig hard drive and even tuning into your car stereo so you can play MP3 tracks on the go, all from your wristwatch; simply amazing. And hey James Bond, seems like you need to get yourself one of these hot arm bands!

 

Novena V1″ 1GB MP3 Player Wrist watch w/ RF Transmitter
This awesome and sleek wristwatch will scream style when you sport its water-resistant escalade to those whom you keep company with. However, don’t be fooled by its classy exterior. The onboard and massive 1-gig hard drive allows you store thousands of MP3 files, or a few hours of your own recorded voice (for lawyers and doctors and those who love the sound of their vocal chords vibrating.) It supports both WMA and MP3 file formats and can easily USB (Via mini-USB to large USB) into your computer, iPod or other device to capture songs. The battery is rechargeable and lasts about 8 hours when fully charged. It’s also got a nifty RF frequency adapter included so you can easily tune into your car stereo and play your favorite tunes while driving, from your watch! With this many features you may expect it to cost a fortune. Wrong. You can get this beauty for about $65.00 online from a variety of merchants.

Features and Specs
• Memory capacity : 1GB
• Support audio format: WMA, MP3,
• RF frequency range: 88.1MHZ to 88.9MHZ
• All-in-one Port (2.5mm) for earphone, USB plug, 2.5mm to 3.5mm (male to female) plug adapter cable 2.5mm to 3.5mm (male to male) audio cable
• Battery: Built-in Hi Li-ion recycles usage 180mAh/3.7V battery
• Battery life: 8 hours continuous playing time when fully charged
• High quality record: Recording file as MP3 or MAV format
• Recording sampling rate: 44.1Kbps
• MP3 Compression Rate: 32Kbps to 320Kps
• Output Frequency Rate: 20Hz to 20 KHz
• Signal to Noise Rate: >/= 90dB
• Adapter Power: AC 100V-240V 50HZ-60HZ
• System Platform: Windows 98/Me/NT/2000/XP, Mac 8.6 or above
• USB Transmission Rate: high speed USB 2.0

RCA Bookshelf Audio System Allows Ripping MP3s from CDs, Docks Ipod Too!

It seems that the biggest thing to ever happen in the world of personal audio was the advent of the portable MP3 music player, most notably the iPod. As the popularity of this amazingly unique device has soared, audio and electronics companies the world afar have eagerly jumped on the bandwagon, trying to hastily release as many compatible and useful products as quickly as they can. The ensuing results are an over abundance of iPod accessories and gadgets, and compatible interfaces that are currently saturating the market. And we have done our fair share of reviews on nifty iPod accessories, but we have never found something quite as unique as what follows. An RCA bookshelf audio system that delivers solid sound, docks your iPod, and more notably, allows you to rip music directly from CDs that are playing in the CD player, and rip them right to your iPod, and go! Need we say WOW! 

RCA Rip & Go BookShelf Audio System
This system comes in a sleek, silver and black finish with contoured speakers and will fit snugly into most bookshelf spaces. It has an iPod dock that is compatible with most models and will actually charge your iPod back up while it is docking. It will recognize and play all formats of burned discs, so no worrying about that dreaded ‘read error’ message popping up. Aside from quality RCA speakers and a nice finish, this unit also boasts a five-disc changer and AM/FM radio tuner. But the main attraction to this unit is that fact that you can dump from live radio, or a CD that you have playing, directly to your MP3 player, without ever having to connect to a computer. Just pop in your favorite CD and rip it, or rip live radio. Priced online from about: $185.00.

Features and Specs:
• ENERGY STAR® qualified – This model consumes less than one watt in standby mode and meets the standards of the ENERGY STAR Program for energy efficiency
• iPod® Docking – Compatible with all dockable ipod® Models. Charges ipod® while docked. Navigate ipod® using the remote control and TV screen
• mp3, WMA®, CD-R and CD-RW Compatible – Plays mp3, WMA®, CD-R and CD-RW audio discs
• USB Host & CD Ripping – Connect your mp3 player and record/rip from CD or radio directly to the player without a computer. Also play your music on the player through the audio system 160 Watts Total System Power – 2 × 80W @ 6 Ohms, 10%THD, 1kHz
• 5 CD Changer System – 5 CD changer for easy loading with an ultra-compact design. Simultaneous play and load
• Digital AM/FM Tuner – Allows for best possible station tuning and fast channel changing

The Bottom Line
For those who rely greatly upon their portable MP3 player, this unit is worth the dough. The fact that you get a CD changer, radio, quality speakers and a good warranty from a reputable company is a big bonus. Ripping live radio and CDs directly to your portable MP3 player without having to use a computer: priceless!

Two Well-Priced Radios for Singing in the Shower (One Holds Your iPod)

We are always striving to find and yak about the most intriguing audio gadgets that we are able to find. That being said, we are always on the lookout for the next nifty gadget so we have something to tell you about when you stop on by for a few moments. This time we thought that these two shower radios would do the trick nicely. We all got to shower right? Why not enjoy the radio, have a shaving mirror, be informed of the time, and listen to your favorite iPod tracks at the same time? Exactly. These two shower radios allow you to do just that!

Shower Clock Radio with Fog-Free Mirror
This nifty shower clock radio has a fog-free mirror so you do not constantly have to wipe it clean just to shave during the wee hours of the morning, as you are just starting your AM routine. It also has a time-telling clock and also allows you to tune into both AM and FM frequencies. The speakers are tiny, but will blast enough waves into your shower that you will swear you are Rick James. It takes a few AA batteries, so remember to keep them changed out and you can screech in the shower every morning before work. Price online at about: $45.00

Features:
• Water resistant
• Takes AA batteries
• AM/FM radio bands
• Built-in waterproof speaker
• Has a clock on it – never be late for work again
• Fog-free Mirror for shaving

iPod / MP3 Shower Radio
Protect your iPod from the water by nestling it in the nice cove in this awesome iPod shower radio. It has built in stereo speakers and most iPods and MP3 players will fit snug inside of it. The speakers, while small, will easily get the job down in your shower each morning. A handy and large, fog-free mirror assures that you do not show up to work with bits of toilet paper clotting shaving wounds on your chin. The mirror also has 2 LED lights on it for those darker mornings. And, it can attach to most nightstands or end tables. Priced online for about: $79.95.

Features
• Built-in stereo speaker system plays your iPod® & MP3 player
• AM/FM Radio
• Excellent stereo sound quality.
• Oversize Fog Free Mirror.
• Light for mirror – 2 LED white lights.
• Pull out night table stand, hanging strap or wall mountable.
• Water resistant compartment fits most iPOD’s & MP3 players (iPod® & MP3 not included).
• Unit measures: 7.8” x 2” x 9.8”
• MP3 compartment measures: 4.75” H x 2.5” W
• Takes 4 ‘AA’ batteries (not included)

It All Comes Down to This
Most of us like to sing or whistle in the shower, right? Well at least we do. These two nifty audio gadgets full encourage that you utilize your musical prowess and talents while getting clean in the morning. The included clock and shaving mirrors are added bonuses. Imagine being able to listen the radio, tell the time and shave simultaneously, or listen to your favorite iPod tracks while being blasting with hot, soapy water. What will they think of next? We have to say that while shower radios are nothing new, these two gadgets are well-priced and are must-own for any avid music lover that keeps a very strict personal hygiene routine.

Become an iDJ with your iPod

Just when you though that everything that could possibly ever be created for iPod was, think again! Now you can even mix songs between two iPod units. Don’t believe us? Check this iDJ unit out by Numark.

iDJ for iPod
Basically this is a lavish way to mix songs on your iPod and make them all fancy. It features a cross fader and a line fader, two of each, one for each unit, and it does require that you have two separate iPods, both containing MP3’s for it to work. You can also use this mixer on any turntable as it is compatible for that, but why in the heck would you? You get a very standard, three-range, mid-swept EQ with all of the essentials. There is a microphone control panel and headphone control, each with that has its own standard settings. Of course the unit has two RCA inputs and is equipped with USB outputs for docking to any computer. And yes, it is compatible with all iPod models. If you are fancying mixing your own songs, with the obvious limitations of course, then you will be happy to know that you will only have to shell out about: $159.00 to get this unit online.

Features & Specs:
• Two universal iPod docking stations will accept all model iPods with bottom connector and charge while connected
• Large iPod navigation controls
• 3-band EQ with gain control on both channels
• Dedicated microphone input with tone and level control
• Phono/line inputs for adding additional devices on both channels
• USB connectivity (PC and Mac) enables iDJ to function as a music-loading base
• iPod’s recording capabilities supported by iDJ for voice memos, etc.
• Turntable spindle receptacle enables placement of the iDJ on a turntable
• Zero tolerance precision switches/knobs for a tight, precise feel
• Docking Interface: USB 2.0 standard size slave
• Mic Controls: Gain, Tone Mic Input 1/4 inch
• Headphone Control: Gain, source select
• Headphone Output: 1/4-inch, 1/8-inch stereo
• Inputs: (2) stereo line (RCA) with phono – preamp switch and ground lugs 1 mic
• Channel Controls: Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, Source Select, Line Fader
• EQ Rang:e ±15 dB
• Gain Range: Infinty ±10dB
• Line Faders: 60mm
• Crossfader: 60mm
• Outputs: Stereo Master (RCA), Headphone (1/8-inch and 1/4-inch), S-video, Record
• iPod Navigation Controls: 5 button, 1 wheel per channel
• Docking Connector: Standard Apple Connector, with Numark insert
• iPod Models Supported: All Generation 2 and newer except Shuffle
• Power: 9V, 2.8amp

The Bottom Line
While we are certainly impressed by this newer iDJ unit, which allows you to successfully mix songs from iPods, there are some notable drawbacks. One it’s a fairly costly unit, placing it in the hands of most teens, which are the predominant users of iPod, is unlikely. Secondly, it requires two iPods to mix, and the features and functions for mixing do not add up for the bucks.

In end, no self respecting DJ would ever waste their wad on this white hulk, when they can easily stop by the local Guitar Center and get a real DJ mixing board for close to the same price. And to further this notion, there are dozens of open source programs that can be found online that offer free DJ mixing software for all digital formats, which you can then download into your iPod, for free. They have more features and did we say they are free? So while nifty, this one unfortunately does not make our cut. And that’s the bottom line.

iPod Digital Drumsticks For All You Rhythm Nuts Out There

It seems that shortly after the iPod portable MP3 player was released, a flurry of companies hopped on the, let’s get involved with this trend so we can make some seriously easy cash bandwagon, and were able to brainstorm some pretty notable ideas and concepts. Those concepts all amounting to different types of gadgets that can augment and enhance, and be used with, the iPod. And many companies have been fairly successful in their undertakings, bringing to the world an array of useful, if not different, components and accessories for the coveted ipod.

That being said, the latest brainchild of Hammacher Schlemmer – who is known the world afar for being the creative genius behind hundreds of notable audio gadgets and their respective doodads – are the digital drumsticks for the iPod. In a nutshell these are a pair of motion activated and motion sensitive digital drumsticks that you can plug into your iPod, computer speakers, CD player, stereo, TV or anything with an auxiliary input and use. And yes, you can plug in headphones into them to so you don’t annoy those in your household so much that you find yourself confined to the garage for drum lessons.

Without ado, here is the down-low.

Digital Drumsticks
Just when you thought everything possible had already been released for the iPod, think again folks! These motion-activated, digital drumsticks plug right in to your iPod, TV, or CD player, so you can jam along with your favorite songs. They also have a headphone jack so you can thump all day without getting pounded by your brother for annoying the heck out of him. The sticks have fill and combination buttons on them that allow for snare drum, bass drum, tom, floor tom, hi-hat, and crash cymbal combos at the click of a button. You can clip it to your belt via a sturdy plastic clip, and it comes with a standard iPod cable for easy plug-and-play connection. Well priced online for about $29.95 – being good at drums however, is up to you.

Specs:
• Both sticks have buttons for fills and cymbal combos
• Volume control knobs
• Tempo control knobs
• Plugs into any auxiliary input
• Comes with six background rhythms to drum to
• Requires 2 double-A batteries
• Comes with iPod cable
• Comes with a belt clip
• 1 year warranty

The Bottom Line
We find this to be a nifty and intriguing concept. How often do you catch yourself keeping rhythm to songs that you listen to? With these sticks the world is your oyster, and the price can not be beat! So watch out Mickey Hart!

Check Out This Nifty iPod-Controlling Electronics Backpack

We wish that gadgets as nifty as the iPod were readily available when were just kids, even though we are all still kids at heart. Nonetheless, we must now look onwards with awe at the amounts of crazily and technologically advanced doodads that are currently available for the teen and the tween market. Not to extricate all of you lugs who are pushing into your thirties our beyond, hey that’s young and it’s the new twenties, or so they say. But back on par here, we are constantly sifting through the clutter of gadgets that are hyper populating the internet, looking for the latest and greatest in techno gismos that are certain to make life more easy, or at least more entertaining for the few lucky chaps that choose to take advantage of all that the graces of modern day science and its electronic doings have to offer the world as a whole. And with that fancy notion, in enters the next best thing to sit adjacent to the all too usable and very popular iPod portable musical device by Apple: The iPod-Controlling Electronics Backpack.

iPod-Controlling Electronics Backpack
This decently constructed backpack is made to withstand the tests of time, most certainly. Constructed from a highly durable 1680 ballistic nylon, with self-mending zippers galore, you can be certain that your cash wad is well spent on this freak of nature backpack. Of course it comes with all of the things that 21st century digital children require, to both function and survive, in a world that is now ruled by the World Wide Web and its spawning. Six pockets come included, as well as a main pocket that has slots and straps for a laptop and even customized PDA slots for those who just can’t get enough of everything digital. Now on to the technical part, we promise not to bore you. On the left strap there is a five-button panel that allows users to control their iPod; the iPod plugs into a universal jack on the left side of the pack’s interior. The control panel features five buttons: volume up/down, pause, menu selection, and stop buttons. Now that you know what is available, good luck finding it, as most places we saw online were sold out until further notice. Well priced online and abroad from $79-$149.00.

The Bottom Line
This backpack is an iPod addict’s best dream come true. It holds their laptop, PDA, cell phone and obsolete writing utensils like pens and pencils, has a main area for those ancient paper books and allows you to plug in your iPod and control it via the main control panel on the left strap; Nifty indeed.

Convert Your Old Vinyl Records to MP3’s: Here is How!

We know far too many audio nuts, like us, who have vast collections of old-school records that they have been hording all of these years for one reason or another. And the truth told, sometimes that classic sound that you hear on those older records is both nostalgic, and, well…different than modern day digital recordings or other professional recordings. And, finding some of those tracks at the local music store or online in their original and unchanged format is nearly impossible to do. So the dilemma persists: how the heck do you ever get the actual true recordings of that sweet and vintage record collection of yours into that nifty Ipod Touch that you just bought? Well, we though the same things and lo and behold: we bring you a record to MP3 converter that does just this!

The LP-to-MP3 Converter
You are not going to believe this when you see it; we didn’t either. It’s actually a newly built, brand new record player that is constructed for one thing and one thing alone: to convert the audio signal on your record player, as it plays your old collection of records, and is simultaneously hooked up to your computer, capturing that classic vinyl sound and converting it to the popular digital MP3 format. A truly unique oddity of its kind that genuinely warrants an entry into our unique gadgets category. They thought of everything here too. It supports USB audio inputs and most sound cards, includes the 1/8” RCA output for a stereo that has CD or AUX inputs. It also plays your LPs at 3133 and 45 rpm, and it has automated stereo balance via built-in anti-skating controls. Well priced online from: $170.00, if you can find one that is currently in stock. Darn these things are popular!

Features and Specs:
• Plug and Play
• 1-year all parts, all-labor warranty
• Converts records to MP3’s
• Supports USB audio input sound cards. 20 1/4″ W x 3″ H x 17″ D. (8 3/4 lbs.)
• Includes 1/8″ RCA output and cable for connection to a stereo system equipped with either a CD or AUX input
• Plays LPs at 3313 and 45 rpm speeds (adapter included)
• Adjustable anti-skating control/stereo balancing

The Bottom Line:
Just when you thought that the only way that you could ever listen to those old records again was by using an ancient record player, think again. Imagine uploading your entire record collection to your Ipod for easy playback later. In the car, on the go, wherever. And that classic vintage sound that is signature to those vinyl dust grabbers, in your ears whenever you want it. Well now you can, with this unique audio gadget.