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All posts tagged "accessories"


Wednesday, February 8, 2012

RCA's USB Wall Charger, Just Plug It In!

Posted by Jeff Campbell in "Apple iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad" @ 05:00 AM

http://www.macworld.com/article/165...l#lsrc.rss_main

"Most modern smartphones, tablets, MP3 players, and other gadgets rely on USB-based chargers. Some of these come with their own AC wall adapters, while others include nothing more than a USB cable-meaning you have to plug them into your computer to get them charged."

The nice thing about this thing is that you just plug it into the existing outlet, so it's basically a cover. No need to replace the current outlet so you don't have to worry about shocking yourself silly. And it goes for the small sum of $15.00 USD at Lowes (currently out of stock in my area), or you can get it at Amazon.com for $12.47 USD (currently in stock with both white and almond colored versions).


Saturday, January 28, 2012

Flygrip Will Ease Your One Handed Fears

Posted by Jeff Campbell in "Apple iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad" @ 03:00 AM

http://www.ubergizmo.com/2012/01/fl...e-handed-usage/

"So you're walking with your iPhone in one hand, and a Starbucks latte in the other, and granted it is possible to use the iPhone in one hand, it could prove to be "fatal" since one hand tends to offer less support compared to two, and we all know that heart wrenching feeling when your brand new gadget slips out of your hand and onto the hard pavement."

Basically very simple, as all this does is attach to the iPhone case or the iPhone itself and you slide your fingers in and can start using your iPhone one handed without fear of dropping it. I can also be attached to the back of your iPad, or any other tablet for that matter. As you can see from the photos, it doesn't have to be an Apple product to work. Three sizes (small, medium and large) depending on the finger size and you can get them for $29.95 USD each from the Flygrip store located here. That seems a bit spendy to me, and I think I would rather just spend that on a better case. What are your thoughts?


Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Reminder: Audioengine A5+ Speaker Contest Closes on Friday

Posted by Jason Dunn in "Digital Home Events" @ 03:00 PM

http://www.digitalhomethoughts.com/...5-speakers.html

Just a quick reminder that our giveaway contest to win a set of Audioengine A5+ speakers (valued at $399) wraps up on Friday at noon, so enter now!


Thursday, October 13, 2011

Audioengine Introduces A5+ Premium Powered Speaker System

Posted by Jason Dunn in "Digital Home Hardware & Accessories" @ 01:31 PM

http://audioengineusa.com/news/Audi...-Speaker-System

"The Audioengine 5+ (A5+) active speakers deliver audiophile-quality sound and features at a price that continues to set the standard for affordable high-quality audio. Connect your iDevice, computer, TV, or any other audio component for great stereo sound. The goal of Audioengine is to give our customers a high-end listening experience at affordable prices with easy to use, high-quality products. The Audioengine 5 powered speaker system was Audioengine's flagship model and has become a best seller, winning numerous awards along the way. The new A5+ incorporates the same award-winning design as the original A5 but includes customer-requested upgrades and features."

Bar none, Audioengine makes the best speakers I've heard at any similar price point. They simply sound incredible - I reviewed the original A5's back in 2007, and they still sound as good today as they did back then (actually, even better since I bought an Audioengine S8 subwoofer and added it to the mix). With the built-in 3.5mm input jack, they make a great accessory for smartphones, MP3 players, laptops, tablets, etc. I love the sound of AudioEngine speakers so much I have three pairs of their smaller A2 units in my home office. You get the point. :-) AudioEngine's release of the new A5+ speakers brings with it a $50 price increase, making them a pricey accessory at $399, but a set of speakers like this will last for years, through multiple computer upgrades.

What's new about the A5+ over the previous A5's? To quote Audioengine, "advance tuned cabinet with rear-ported waveguide, improved thermal management, upgraded speaker connector binding posts,remote control, variable preamp line out, RCA and mini-jack inputs, and new stand-mount 1/4" threaded inserts". I don't see anything in that list that would make me want to replace my A5's, but if I buy another set of speakers, I'll take a serious look at the A5+ speakers.


Wednesday, August 31, 2011

V-MODA Vibrato Headphones Reviewed: They're Worth It

Posted by Jason Dunn in "Digital Home Hardware & Accessories" @ 07:30 AM

If you've ever shopped for headphones, you've likely come across V-MODA. They make a variety of headphones in different price segments, but I've never reviewed any of them until now. I was offered the chance to review the V-MODA Vibrato headphones ($129.99 USD from Amazon), and since I'd heard good things about V-MODA headphones, I said yes. I'm glad I did, though that conclusion took some time to get to. Confused? Keep reading. Read more...


Thursday, March 31, 2011

Look Ma, No Hands! The PodFlexPro Reviewed

Posted by Matthew Shanks in "Digital Home Hardware & Accessories" @ 07:00 AM

Travelling light is a challenge for many people. Travelling light if you're a technology buff is next to impossible. Between laptops, netbooks, cameras, phones, iPods, iPads, cords and chargers, many travellers now carry a bag filled with just their grown-up toys. Add a toddler into the mix and you have a recipe for carry-on luggage trouble. I found myself in this situation not too long ago travelling on vacation with my wife and daughter on a long flight (just shy of seven hours). I knew keeping an 18 month old toddler amused (not to mention myself) on such a lengthy flight would be a challenge, so I stuffed my gadget bag and off we went. Read more...


Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Pose Your Gadgets with the Friendly Neighborhood Spiderpodium

Posted by Anjuan Simmons in "Digital Home Hardware & Accessories" @ 07:00 AM

Gadgets are usually in one of two places: a hand or a storage location (pocket, carrying case, purse, etc.). However, there are many times when a gadgets needs to be in a "third place". For example, a digital camera may need to be put on a table to take a time delayed picture of a group of people. Or, a smartphone with GPS capability may need to be positioned on a bicycle handle in order to measure speed, pace, and distance along a trail. The Spiderpodium ($19.99 direct) by Breffo seeks to be the accessory that you reach for during these "third place” moments. Read more...


Thursday, February 24, 2011

Scottevest Turns 10 and Celebrates With a Sale

Posted by Richard Chao in "Windows Phone Accessories" @ 01:00 AM

http://www.scottevest.com/

"I wanted to let you know about our 10th Anniversary Sale, and to thank you for all your support over the years. In celebration we're holding a large sale offering 40% off some of our most popular products... Again, thanks for the support, Scottevest wouldn't be what it is today without it."

Scottevest, the clothing company that made it possible for us to carry all our mobile tech at one time without having to resort to the Batman utility belt is turning 10. To celebrate, they are having a big sale with up to 40% off on selected items. Products in Scottevest's catalog range from boxers to trench coats and everything in between.

To take advantage of this sale remember to use promo code 10SALE40.


Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Sunny Days: Staying Connected with the Monaco Solar Cell Charger

Posted by Don Tolson in "Windows Phone Accessories" @ 07:00 AM

Product Category: Accessories -- Solar powered cell phone charger
Manufacturer: Monaco
Where to Buy: WirelessGround.com
Price: $79.95 USD (regularly, but may be on sale...)
Specifications: Battery Capacity: 1800mAh; Weight: 93.5 grams / 3.3 oz; Dimensions: 55.5 x 105.8 x 14.5mm.

Pros:

  • Convenient, lightweight;
  • Charges quickly in sunlight;
  • Suitable for almost any type of USB-powered device.

Cons:

  • Regular price is a bit high, but vendor seems to be having discount sales;
  • Depending upon the consumption of your unit, the battery may only provide one day of use.

Summary: There are lots of emergency power accessories and options available for phones, games systems, music players, etc. but most suffer from a common shortcoming -- lack of power when you need them most, far away from a wall socket. Enter Monaco, with a different spin on a solution. Instead of providing just a battery or set of solar cells, why not combine them into a single package - a wall or solar chargeable battery pack!

Read more...


Thursday, September 16, 2010

ABI Review Ringke Zune HD Case by Rearth

Posted by David Tucker in "Zune News" @ 02:57 PM

http://anythingbutipod.com/2010/09/...hd-case-review/

"I am not much of a case kind of guy and prefer to let my gadgets wear like a favorite pair of sneekers or baseball cap. But to each is his own. If I were going the route of a case I do appreciate a simple silicone case to wrap up a player in a light coat of silicone. Even though silicone cases are basically the same, there are some slight differences in material grade and fit. Testing out the Ringke Zune HD case by Rearth, I have found my favorite."

I personally don't see the need to put my devices in cases very often. The Zune HD especially is a very attractive device and its so small that it seems almost criminal to put something over it! That said, there are plenty of people who want or need a case. Grahm over at abi shares my feelings on cases but even with that, he really did like this case. That's as good a recommendation as any! If you're looking for a new case for your Zune HD, you might want to check out his review.


Thursday, June 24, 2010

Maximum PC Sub-$100 Headphone Roundup

Posted by David Tucker in "Zune Accessories" @ 04:28 AM

http://www.maximumpc.com/article/fe...review_six_pair

"If you’re at all serious about the sound you feed your head, you’ve already replaced whatever craptastic headphones (aka earbuds, earphones, or in-ear monitors) came in the box with your digital media player of choice. Now you’re ready for another upgrade, and with the economy in turn-around mode, you can afford to splurge just a bit."

Maximum PC has done a review of six pairs of sub-$100 earbuds. I highly recommend reading the review and if you still use the cheapo earbuds that came with your MP3 player of choice, consider upgrading if you care at all about the sound quality of your music. It's the best thing you can do for your musical enjoyment after upgrading to a Zune.

We've done some reviews here of some really nice Shure earphones like the SE530 and SE210 and I still think if you really want to truly experience your music the way it was meant to be heard, you should step up to some high end cans. If you're not convinced yet at least do yourself a favor and get a mid-level set of earphones.

My first 'nice' headphones were in this price range from Sennheiser and opened me up to a whole new musical experience. So go read all the reviews and then think about it!


Tuesday, June 1, 2010

ABI Reviews Kicker ZKick ZK350

Posted by David Tucker in "Zune News" @ 11:08 PM

http://www.anythingbutipod.com/arch...dock-review.php

"I have used nearly every Zune dock on the market and so far this one is my personal favorite since it combines great sound with portability. The ZK500 certainly does hit harder and louder, but for an 1100 square foot apartment, the ZK350 is way more than enough. I might lean more towards the ZK500 if I were using it outside or didn’t have neighbors to upset. Either way the ZK350 is a great option in the ZKick series of Zune docks."

AnythingButIpod has reviewed the latest iteration of the Kicker series of Zune speaker docks, the ZK350. And as you can see from the quote above, they really like it! I think a portable speaker dock like this would be great for things like outdoor parties, tail gates, and maybe even some car-side camping.

For me the price tag is a little steep for something I wouldn’t get much use out of but if you think a speaker dock would be handy to have around, check out the full review!


Friday, March 5, 2010

Contest Time, Win a Gomadic Charger !

Posted by Jeff Campbell in "Apple Thoughts Site Updates" @ 12:00 PM

http://www.gomadic.com/

The Gomadic chargers are very slick, and we recently did a Quick Look on the 2-in-1 Charger pictured above. If you aren't familiar, the system uses what they call "Tip Exchange" so all you need is one cable and a tip for each device, instead of having to carry around separate charging cables. They pretty much cover every device know to man, or at least it seems that way (the brand list is here).

Now the folks at Gomadic are being generous enough to give away four (4) of their 2-in-1 Charging cables as well as two tips to be chosen by each winner. Since Gomadic has such wide coverage on devices, this is a network-wide contest. To win, all you have to do is go to the Tip Exchange page and pick two of the charging tips you want to go with your 2-in-1 Charger. Post the two numbers along with a reply to this post and you are entered. You MUST post the two tip numbers in your reply or your entry won't be counted.

One post per person, and the contest closes on Friday the 19th of March at 12pm Pacific time, GMT -7. This contest is world-wide with Gomadic providing the shipping. Remember that all first posts in our system are held in moderation, so if this contest entry is your first post, please wait up to 48 hours before getting concerned if your post hasn't shown up yet - it will. Winners will be contacted via private forum message, so have email notifications turned on. Winners will have 72 hours to claim their prize.


Monday, January 11, 2010

22 New Earphones From Sennheiser

Posted by David Tucker in "Zune News" @ 04:43 PM

https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:Campa...0dd78fdcfe39854

"With its expansive new range of earphones, Sennheiser is taking music on the move to another level. Altogether the 22 new models, designed specifically for use with portable players, offer a first-class audio experience and the Sennheiser quality you have come to expect. Each set of headphones features fashion-forward designs to complement any taste."

There is no doubt that the most important accessory that you can buy for your Zune or any PMP is a better set of headphones. And if you were having a hard time deciding which of your options were best before now, well, wait until you check out Sennheiser's new line of headphones! Read more...


The Zune Travel Case (for All Models)

Posted by Adam Krebs in "Zune Accessories" @ 08:00 AM

http://www.zuneone.net/proddetail.a...d=ZuneOneTravel

This week we're looking at the ZuneOne Travel Case for Zune 4/8/16/30/80/120 ($12.95 USD). Similar to the official Zune Gear Bag, this case wasn't designed for day-to-day use—you need to take it out in order to access the screen, buttons, etc.—but rather, as a means of transporting your player or players and headphones, sync cable, and screen wipes in a convenient, protected shell. In this regard, the Travel Case succeeds. Though as with most other cases, it won't suit all needs equally. Read more...


Monday, December 14, 2009

Mobilitysite Reviews Altec Lansing iM414v2

Posted by David Tucker in "Zune News" @ 04:03 PM

http://www.mobilitysite.com/2009/12...v2-for-zune-hd/

"For comparisons sake, they were producing clearer sound, with much heavier base than the previously reviewed Ihome Alarm Clock / Speakers (which also fit the 100$ price point). Built in are options for Surround Sound effect, and Bass Boost. Both are nice additions, but it was the Base Boost I found most noticeable, and impressive considering the speakers don’t have a sub-woofer. For it’s size, it could certainly get loud and had the ability to “fill a room with sound” as advertised."

As I mentioned last week, Altec Lansing has released its new iM414v2 speaker dock for the Zune line. My only concern at the time was that the previous version of the dock I had used with my Zune 80 had produced less-than-impressive results and that didn't make me very excited about the new dock they have.

Well, Mobilitysite did a review of the new dock and as you can see from the above quote, they were pretty pleased with the sound! Check out their full review for more information but it looks like that Altec Lansing has delivered a quality product judging by the review. I'm glad to find out that the dock is better than I expected because the Zune needs all the peripherals it can get!

If you want to get one, you can pre-order it for $99.95.


Wednesday, December 2, 2009

ZLive Speaker Dock for Zune

Posted by Adam Krebs in "Zune Accessories" @ 11:50 PM

http://astore.amazon.com/zunethough...tail/B001BJ8A9W

"The ZLive NS108B speaker system makes sharing your music a snap. This system connects to all Zune players through the certified connection. You also can connect to any MP3 player, cell phone, or video game system through the line input. Control your music from across the room with the remote, and enjoy room-filling sound from the acoustically calibrated stereo speakers."

Here's another Zune speaker dock for your listening pleasure. It's got the requisite charging/play dock, large speaker wall, and remote for playing across the room, but it also features a clock and RCA video-out for using your Zune with a TV. The speaker dock is available at Amazon for $60 (Affiliate link), which seems a little steep to me, but Jason saw it last week for $35, so it's likely to come down in price again soon.


New Music Dock From Altec Lansing!

Posted by David Tucker in "Zune Accessories" @ 08:43 PM

"Today, Altec Lansing introduced the latest member of its inMotion line of music docks -- the inMotion® iM414V2. The inMotion iM414V2 is designed for the Zune HD and Zune in addition to any devices with a 3.5mm headphone jack including CD, DVD and MP3 players. Packed with features including a built-in FM radio, HD Radio technology and an easy to carry design, the iM414V2 is a perfect companion for music on the go."

Well this seems like a pretty nice speaker dock from Altec Lansing. The name, iM414V2, really rolls off the tongue too! It appears to be a pretty straight forward dock. It's advertised to fill the room with sound and bass without a subwoofer. I have to say I tried one of their docks before and I was underwhelmed by the sound it produced. It was suitable for your desk at work if you have an office but definitely didn't impress me as I washed my car to it!

This is a newer dock and Altec Lansing generally makes good sound equipment. It's not inexpensive at $99.99 but its also not out of line with similar products. So if you're looking for a gift idea for your Zune this holiday season, the iM414V2 could be the one! Just make sure you write it out in big letters and numbers so people have some idea what you're asking for.

Check out the full press release here.


Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Zunerama Reviews a Palm-Sized Zune Projector

Posted by Adam Krebs in "Zune Accessories" @ 09:11 AM

http://www.zunerama.com/2009/10/a-p...ized-projector/

"In recent months, I’ve been intrigued by the new, very small projectors that are becoming available. Lately I’ve been looking at the P1 Pico Projector, kindly sent to me from AAXA Technologies. This projector displays pictures and videos on a wall or screen, and it literally fits in a shirt pocket. At a mere 6 ounces, it’s definitely an easy item to carry around. And it runs quietly and coolly - its 6 lumen LED lamp is not as bright as full-size image projectors, but also avoids the loud fans and heat generation that come with those larger units."

Zunerama head Harvey Chute got his hands on a cool looking portable mini projector by AAXA. In the neverending quest for better video options on plane trips and the like, it appears the the Pico holds its own fairly well, although Harvey reports some contrast issues in less than ideal light conditions and the hour-long battery charge could prove to be an issue if you're planning on watching for any extended period of time. Check out the read link for the full review.


Thursday, October 29, 2009

Kicker's Two New Speaker Docks

Posted by David Tucker in "Zune News" @ 11:57 AM

http://astore.amazon.com/zunethough...tail/B002RWJHFI

"While browsing Amazon I noticed a new Kicker Dock I had not seen before. I jumped over to Kicker’s website to get the full details. It looks like Kicker has two new speaker systems designed to be compatible with the Zune HD. Depending on what you are looking for, both look like great alternatives to the ZK500; which is also compatible with the Zune HD."

Wow, these looks pretty amazing! Neville at Inside the Circle spotted a couple new Zune speaker docks coming from Kicker. You have two options. There's the ZK350 which is basically a portable boom box and the ZK150 which is a radio alarm clock. The ZK150 is especially intriguing because there is a dearth of good radio alarm docks for the Zune. Both of these docks are compatible with all Zune models which is a smart move Kicker's part!

They're a bit pricey as the ZK350 will be retailing at $199.95 and the ZK150 will be $179.95. The alarm dock is especially expensive for an alarm clock. But then again a good alarm clock could be pretty important to people (I know it is for me!). Style-wise I think these are also much nicer looking than the ZK500 that's been out for a while.

Jason already reviewed the ZK500 a couple months back and while these are obviously different you can at least get a feel for what Kicker makes. The ZK350 isn't available in Amazon yet but the ZK150 can be pre-ordered here.


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