Ipoood Studio

Apple iPod touch 32 GB 4th Generation (White)

2011-12-29T22:47:00.000+07:00

Apple iPod touch 32 GB 4th Generation (White)

On Sale Price: from $283.93 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

The world's most popular portable gaming device is even more fun. Now available in black and white, iPod touch includes iOS 5 with over 200 new features, like iMessage, Notification Center, and Twitter integration. Send free, unlimited text messages over Wi-Fi with iMessage. Record HD video and make FaceTime calls. Visit the App Store to choose from over 500,000 apps. iPod touch also features iCloud, which stores your music, photos, apps, and moreÑand wirelessly pushes them to all your devices.

Customer Review

Senior Citizen Review of Ipod Touch, By Sanjosemom

I purchased my Ipod Touch 8G in January just for fun and to see what all the fuss was about. I use a laptop and have wireless connectivity in my home. But I don't store music on an Ipod and don't have "smart" cell phone. After using the Ipod Touch for a few months, all I can say is "WOW".

This device is like carrying a small computer in your pocket. I can connect to the internet wirelessly at home and anywhere I can find a public connection--library, cafe, etc. I check my email (read and compose), facebook, Meetups, Ravelry, take pictures and movies, and with the Skype App, can video call my kids. I have become hooked on the Angry Birds game, which is fun to do while waiting anywhere. I have also downloaded audio books from my library to take with me when I travel. I knit and have any pattern I am working on loaded on my Touch so I don't worry about losing it. All this in a 2x4 inch little device I can carry with me everywhere.

I considered getting a smart phone instead, but Verizon's additional mandatory monthly cost of $30/month turned me off. It would be nice to have internet access where ever I am, but I don't need it and don't want to pay $360/year for it. I like the fact that the Ipod Touch does not require any additional monthly costs.

I compared my Touch to my friends Ipad. It appears that my Touch does most everything the Ipad does, but the Touch is so much smaller.

My son has a Droid, which does what my Touch does plus it is his cell phone. But games wear his battery down quickly. I don't have to worry about that since my phone is separate from my Touch. And I think my screen is a little bigger and sharper.

If I needed to be connected to the internet at all times and have a cell phone too, I would probably stick with a smart phone and pay the extra $30/month. But if you want a very versatile tool in a small package to carry with you, I highly recommend the Ipod Touch.
So much fun!

More detail @ Apple iPod touch 32 GB 4th Generation (White)

AYL (TM) Portable Mini Speaker System for PC / Phone / Tablet / Apple iPod Touch / iPhone 4 / iPad / MP3 Player (Pearl White)

2011-12-29T17:35:00.000+07:00

AYL (TM) Portable Mini Speaker System for PC / Phone / Tablet / Apple iPod Touch / iPhone 4 / iPad / MP3 Player (Pearl White)

On Sale Price: from $18.50 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

The AYL(TM) Portable Mini Speaker System is an extraordinary audio device. It offers the right balance between sound quality and portability.

Its powerful built-in amplifier produces exceptional sound while its high capacity battery facilitates up to 10 hours continuous playback on a single charge.

Enjoy and share your music, movie and games, presentation, anytime and everywhere.
Compatible with all audio player and multimedia devices with a Universal 3.5mm Audio Jack, connects to your multimedia device through the standard 3.5mm Audio Socket
The portable mini speaker can fit on your key chain and be put on your jeans, bag or backpack for easy travel.

Connect to your iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, MP3/MP4/MP5 Player, Mobile Phone, Games Console, Netbook, Desktop, Laptop, Android and other portable devices for a truly remarkable experience indoors and outdoors! Compatible with all audio players, the 3.5mm plug connects to any device with a 3.5mm audio socket/stereo headset jack, including your Apple iPod, iPhone 4 3G 3GS, iPad, iPad 2nd Generation, iPod Touch 4, PC, Macbook, Pro, MP3 Player, Dell Streak 7, Viewsonic G-Tablet, Archos 101 Gen 9 70, ViewPad 7, ASUS Eee Slate, Aria, HTC HD7, Nexus One, Tilt 2, Touch Pro, Desire, Imagio, Shift 4g,Motorola Xoom, Atrix 4G, Bravo, Citrus, Defy, Charm, Backflip, Flipside,Flipout,Cliq 2 XT with Motoblur,Xprt,Titanium,Atrix 4g,Droid Charge Droid Incredible 2 Droid X Droid Pro Global Pro X2, i1,BlackBerry Playbook, Torch, Style, Curve, Pearl, Bold, Tour, Storm,Samsung Captivate Focus, HTC Inspire 4g EVO View 4G, Pantech Impact Link Pursuit, Galaxy Tab S 4G,Infuse,Vibrant,Thunderbolt,Sony Ericsson Xperia Play X10A,T-Mobile G2 Sidekick myTouch 4G G-Slate

Customer Review

FANTASTIC, By Pavel

I never do review, becouse is heart to write for me, my langvige is not english.
When I resive this speaker, I break my rule - I do review.

This is absolutli fantastic divice !!!!
So smal - so full and strong sound. Very good build, very plegure to toch,very nice to look !!
This is unbeliveble !!!!!!!!!!!!!! SOUND ! SOUND ! SOUND !

I like it more that my digital camera LUMIX ZS5, I like it more that my braed maker
TR 2700, I like it more that my car SION xb (toaster) - becouse
it give me JOY !!!!!!!!!!!

More detail @ AYL (TM) Portable Mini Speaker System for PC / Phone / Tablet / Apple iPod Touch / iPhone 4 / iPad / MP3 Player (Pearl White)

AYL (TM) Portable Mini Speaker System for PC / Phone / Tablet / Apple iPod Touch / iPhone 4 / iPad / MP3 Player (Black)

2011-12-29T13:23:00.001+07:00

AYL (TM) Portable Mini Speaker System for PC / Phone / Tablet / Apple iPod Touch / iPhone 4 / iPad / MP3 Player (Black)

On Sale Price: from $13.50

Customer Review

Side-by-side comparison with the X-mini II and iM-237/227, By rpgboy00 (Florida)

I purchased this item not too long ago along with an X-mini II capsule speaker. I originally had the Altec Lansing iM-237 but then decided I wanted something in addition to it that was smaller and more convenient in terms of power (rechargeable). Upon arrival, I immediately checked both of the products' listed specs. They are VERY similar (spec-wise and physically) except for the following:
X-mini II / AYL
1) Weight: 83g / 63g
2) Height: 44mm closed / 45mm
3) Frequency: 100Hz-20kHz / 180Hz-20kHz

While the X-mini II has a built-in volume control, built-in audio-out plug/cord, and is expandable for bass boost, the AYL lacks these features. They both have the same battery capacity; the AYL does not list discharge stats so I can't completely vouch for battery life, but I suspect the same given their identical specs in terms of power consumption/output.

In terms of sound output, both the X-mini II (closed) and AYL gave more or less similar amounts. This is to be expected as both utilize 40mm drivers with the same shape. However, in terms of sound quality, I preferred the AYL a bit more to the X-mini II (closed). The AYL is not expandable so it cannot be configured to expose the resonator like the X-mini II. Therefore, one would think that lacking this versatility would automatically give X-mini II the upper hand. Not so fast. The AYL speakers actually produced a more noticeable amount of bass than the X-mini II closed. Aside from that, sound was more clear on the AYL, especially near the highs.
However, when the BXS resonator is exposed on the X-mini II, the bass is far more present than the AYL (you can actually feel it beating in you). The X-mini II's overall sound output decreases slightly, but gives a tremendous boost to the bass (use an equalizer, if possible, to balance the bass). Sound quality also improves in the treble parts. But the one main issue I had with the X-mini II was how it moved around in the expanded form; on a hard surface, the bottom of the X-mini II would tap and vibrate and produce unwanted sounds. Getting the bass boost is great, but the degree of unwanted sounds was too bothersome for me to keep the speaker in expanded form at max volume.

I've not mentioned the Altec Lansing iM-237 in the above comparison because in virtually all aspects of sound, the iM-237 blows away both the X-mini and AYL speakers. Although the same driver size, it's larger (more free) and consumes more power so of course, it wins. Where the X-mini II in expanded form had a FEEL type of bass, the iM-237 had both the FEEL and HEAR elements and offered a great balance with the treble output. It was much easier to hear/differentiate the actual pitches of the bass lines (various instruments) on the iM-237. The X-mini II has presence w/the bass but is overpowering w/bass-heavy vibrations that it makes it more difficult to do so. In terms of pure sound quality and output, I'd rate the speakers as the following (from 1-10):
Altec Lansing iM-237 - 10
X-mini II (expanded) - 8.0 (only if you minimize the movement on max volume)
AYL mini speakers - 7.3
X-mini II (closed) - 7.0

Overall, I would recommend the Altec Lansing iM-237 above any other if you have rechargeable batteries for it; being able to use spares for extended playback is a big plus for longer trips. However, some people may actually like the X-mini II (expanded) more than the iM-237 since balance-wise, the bass is stronger and more tangible for select tunes (on the border of being distorted). When deciding between the X-mini II and the AYL, a lot of it is preference in sound, but if you don't want to deal with the moving around of the X-mini II on max volume, then it would be better to get the AYL. The bass is more noticeable than the X-mini II closed and sound is a bit more clear; if you can deal with (or resolve - place the pouch under the speaker?) movement and like the versatility of exposing the resonator, then the X-mini II is the clear winner as the bass is much more significant and the treble sounds more free. I would have rated the AYL 5 stars, but the lack of volume control, built-in audio cable, and bass boost option in comparison to the X-mini II when considering that the two are basically the same price after shipping, gives the 5 to the X-mini II and a 4-4.5 for the AYL. Regardless, these are good speakers and any of them will give satisfying performance results.
*Note: apparently, the iM-237 is the same as the iM-227, just different in color and included accessories.

More detail @ AYL (TM) Portable Mini Speaker System for PC / Phone / Tablet / Apple iPod Touch / iPhone 4 / iPad / MP3 Player (Black)

Samsung Galaxy 5.0 Android MP3 Player

2011-12-13T22:03:00.000+07:00

Samsung Galaxy 5.0 Android MP3 Player

On Sale Price: from $239.99 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Surf the Internet, take photos, play games, and carry your music, videos, and other media wherever you go with the Samsung Galaxy Player 5.0. Powered by Android 2.3.5, the player features a 1 GHz processor, a beautiful 5-inch touchscreen, and front- and rear-facing cameras. It also gives you access to over 250,000 apps including games, productivity software, and more.

Customer Review

Very surprising device, By Biel85

I've owned several mp3 players and tablets from microsoft, apple, sony, etc, but none of them attended most of my expectations.
When I bought my Samsung Galaxy Player I also bought an iPod touch to compare both at the same time.

The Galaxy Player was faster at web browsing, navigating throughout the device in general, etc.

Even the ear-buds that come with it are good quality. Better than Apple's. Deep bass and nice distribution on the trebles and mediums. I had just bought a Klipsch s4i which is a really wonderful pair of ear-buds, but not needed after I tested this samsung one.

The screen quality of the iPod touch is still superior due to the 960x640 pixel resolution, but the bigger size (5 inches) of the galaxy's screen makes it way more comfortable to your eyes (the quality is still really impressive though).

The galaxy's internal stereo speakers are not like the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7 inches' which are wonderful, but they beat the iPod's " mono speaker" without a doubt.

The iPod has an upper class quality microphone to record voice memos and videos. The galaxy's one is not the best, but they still pick up instruments' sounds pretty well. If you want to record a concert with your galaxy player, you can do that with this 5 inches one.

The notification bar in the iPod touch with the new iOS 5 is pretty much not useful. It works better with an iPhone, but the galaxy player's notification bar works well just as if you had a mobile phone.

The super advantages of the galaxy player over the iPod is: - it has a microSD card slot (which you can expand up to 32GB). You can have all your videos, movies, music, and pictures in different microSD cards if you choose to. It is really easy to install in the device. - it has GPS built-in. It works really well with pre-loaded maps. - it has FM-Radio which works really well.

The touch screen of the galaxy is very responsible.

I could find all apps I had in my iPod in the android market and they all work fine. For example, Netflix, Skype, Pandora radio, YouTube, Facebook, Kindle (the screen is big enough to read books), B&N Nook, MySpace, UsaToday. etc.

The Netflix image quality on the iPod is superior, but not very noticeable. The galaxy's quality is still very good.

The 3.2 MP rear camera on the galaxy player is way superior than the iPod's one. Pictures (with flash and videos are really good.

The front facing camera on the galaxy is superior as well, but if you want to record with it, you have to download an app that will allow you to and the quality is not the best. The iPod's front facing camera records just as good as its rear camera.

The battery life in the galaxy is superior to the iPod's one (that is my personal experience). Some people are just lucky with batteries.

The only big disadvantage that galaxy player has compared to the iPod is the lack of a software to sync your files like the iTunes for apple products. I had all my music sorted by genre in playlists on my iTunes that I could just sync with my iPod. I don't have that with my galaxy player yet, but that's not the end of the world. You can easily search for the song, album, or artist you want with the search option in the galaxy music player. Samsung will probably come up with one pretty soon.

Well, that is a pretty long review, but I just decided to write everything that I tried to find, and I couldn't, when I wanted to know which music player would be the best for me.

Just to sum up what I'm saying in this review:

Samsung Galaxy Player 5.0
- Fast web browsing and navigation
- Good quality ear-buds
- Excellent screen size and good quality of image
- Good internal stereo speakers
- Ok microphone to record, but excellent for video chatting
- Useful notification bar (e-mail, updates, facebook, etc)
- MicroSD card slot, GPS, FM-radio
- Diverse and still expanding android market (app store)
- Good video streaming function (Netflix)
- Good quality rear camera with flash
- Good battery life
- No versatile sync software like the iTunes from Apple "yet".

I took my iPod back and stayed with my Galaxy Player very happy so far.

I hope this review was useful to you!

More detail @ Samsung Galaxy 5.0 Android MP3 Player

Apple iPod touch 8GB (4th Generation) - Black - Current Version

2011-12-12T22:26:00.000+07:00

Apple iPod touch 8GB (4th Generation) - Black - Current Version

List Price: ~~$199.00~~

On Sale Price: from $189.98 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

Customer Review

Senior Citizen Review of Ipod Touch, By Sanjosemom

I purchased my Ipod Touch 8G in January just for fun and to see what all the fuss was about. I use a laptop and have wireless connectivity in my home. But I don't store music on an Ipod and don't have "smart" cell phone. After using the Ipod Touch for a few months, all I can say is "WOW".
This device is like carrying a small computer in your pocket. I can connect to the internet wirelessly at home and anywhere I can find a public connection--library, cafe, etc. I check my email (read and compose), facebook, Meetups, Ravelry, take pictures and movies, and with the Skype App, can video call my kids. I have become hooked on the Angry Birds game, which is fun to do while waiting anywhere. I have also downloaded audio books from my library to take with me when I travel. I knit and have any pattern I am working on loaded on my Touch so I don't worry about losing it. All this in a 2x4 inch little device I can carry with me everywhere.
I considered getting a smart phone instead, but Verizon's additional mandatory monthly cost of $30/month turned me off. It would be nice to have internet access where ever I am, but I don't need it and don't want to pay $360/year for it. I like the fact that the Ipod Touch does not require any additional monthly costs.
I compared my Touch to my friends Ipad. It appears that my Touch does most everything the Ipad does, but the Touch is so much smaller.
My son has a Droid, which does what my Touch does plus it is his cell phone. But games wear his battery down quickly. I don't have to worry about that since my phone is separate from my Touch. And I think my screen is a little bigger and sharper.
If I needed to be connected to the internet at all times and have a cell phone too, I would probably stick with a smart phone and pay the extra $30/month. But if you want a very versatile tool in a small package to carry with you, I highly recommend the Ipod Touch.
So much fun!

More detail @ Apple iPod touch 8GB (4th Generation) - Black - Current Version

iHome iA9SZC App-Enhanced Dual Alarm Clock Radio for iPhone/iPod with AM/FM presets (Silver)

2011-12-12T13:11:00.001+07:00

iHome iA9SZC App-Enhanced Dual Alarm Clock Radio for iPhone/iPod with AM/FM presets (Silver)

List Price: ~~$89.99~~

On Sale Price: from $74.71 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

The iA9 is an innovative clock radio for iPhone and iPod designed to take advantage of our iHome+Sleep and iHome+Radio apps. The iA9 allows you to wake to custom iPod or iPhone playlist at different times on different days with our 7-5-2 feature, and to set custom alarms with the iHome+Sleep app. The iA9 also includes AM/FM presets, international radio band select, EQ controls and 3D sound and Reson8 sound technology for an exceptional audio experience.

Customer Review

Great Unit, but the iPhone app is buggy, By Inphinity

Just got this today and played around with it for a while. I was thinking of buying the iP9 last week, but am so glad I didn't because this one has been listed on Amazon since then at almost the same price.

I've tested the alarms, which work as they should. While the unit itself has the 2 alarms similar to the older version of this (iP9), the app, which is free to download through the app store, can have many more alarms. The features I really enjoy on the app are being able to choose "bedtime" music, and choose specific songs to play to fall asleep to or wake up to, and you can even set the volume on your individual alarms. The app also has things like the weather displayed on the alarm screen, which is always nice to know when you wake up. What I also really enjoy about this when compared to the regular iPhone alarm is being able to set the time for the snooze. The unit comes with the docks to support multiple devices, but I like that I can also plug my iPhone in without there being a dock since I have a pretty thick case on my iPhone. Another great feature is that by the press of a button on the device, you can sync the time on the clock to match your iPhone time. The one con I have found in the few hours I've had this is that the time does not remain synced, but is not off by more than a minute (this is stated in the user manual as well).

Overall, the fact that I can set the alarms and more from an app makes this alarm clock definitely worth it. The sound quality is also really great and doubles well as speakers in the bedroom.

The app is called iHome+Sleep (FREE), and there is also another one that you can use to wake up to internet radio stations (iHome+Radio) which costs $2.99, although I haven't tried that one out yet.

UPDATE 11/29/11:
I've had this for a few months. I'm not as impressed with the App as I was at the beginning. I've found bugs in it and it's failed me a few times (luckily I was never late). The alarms on the unit itself work very well. Maybe I just haven't figured it out perfectly, but the app alarms haven't really worked smoothly for me. Regarding other things...I love the nap feature that is both on the app and the unit. Also to note, the alarm DOES go off when the phone is on silent.

I reduced the stars I gave it from 5 to 4 because of the app, but I still recommend this iHome, especially since the former version that has fewer features is more expensive now as it's being phased out.

More detail @ iHome iA9SZC App-Enhanced Dual Alarm Clock Radio for iPhone/iPod with AM/FM presets (Silver)

Apple MacBook Pro MD313LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop (NEWEST VERSION)

2011-12-11T23:03:00.001+07:00

Apple MacBook Pro MD313LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop (NEWEST VERSION)

List Price: ~~$1,199.00~~

On Sale Price: from $1,129.00

Ordering for Christmas? To ensure delivery by December 24, choose FREE Super Saver Shipping at checkout.

Just when you thought your MacBook Pro was state of the art, Apple introduces the MD313LL/A 13" MacBook Pro with new advanced processing power and graphics. New connectivity capabilities potentially speed large file transfers beyond any current connection. All MacBook Pro models are state-of-the-art. This new one takes it out to another edge.
New Thunderbolt technology lets you connect high-performance peripherals and high-resolution displays to one port - with data transfer rates up to 10 Gbps. Thunderbolt is based on two fundamental technologies: PCI Express and DisplayPort. And because Thunderbolt is based on DisplayPort technology, the video standard for high-resolution displays, any Mini DisplayPort display plugs right into the Thunderbolt port. To connect a DisplayPort, DVI, HDMI, or VGA display, just use an existing optional adapter. Take everything from games to CAD to HD video projects anywhere. Time makes full-screen HD video calls that are astonishingly crisp. And thanks to the new widescreen format, you can get your friends in the picture, too. And with Mac OS X Lion and iLife '11, you're sure to get a great Mac notebook - all in a precision aluminum unibody enclosure that's less than an inch thin.
Your creative potentials and dreams are realized with each new generation of MacBook Pro. Life, after all, is ever changing and this very affordable MacBook Pro makes impossible opportunities more possible than ever.
13.3-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit glossy widescreen display, 1280-by-800 resolution Intel HD Graphics 3000 processor with 384MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory 8x SuperDrive (DVD+-R DL/DVD+-RW/CD-RW) AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi Wireless (based on IEEE 802.11n specification) Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR 10/100/1000 Gigabit BASE-T Ethernet SDXC Card Slot FaceTime HD Camera Audio Stereo speakers with subwoofer, omnidirectional microphone Expansions - 2 x USB 2.0, F

Customer Review

MD 314LL/A 2.8 GHz, 750 GB HDD, By Steelers Fan

The reviews here are for the MD313LL/A, yet the computer is actually MD314LL/A, which has a faster processor and bigger hard drive.
The MD314LL/A features a 2.8 GHz i7 processor, integrated Intel 3000 graphics and a 750 GB hard drive. I've never owned an Apple laptop before, so there was a little bit of a learning curve. Now that I'm getting the hang of it, I'm beginning to like OSX Lion better than Windows. Programs can be run on separate virtual desktops, and the computer never misses a beat when several programs are active. Switching between different desktops or open programs can be done by merely sliding three fingers forward on the large touchpad. Control-clicking on words or phrases in Safari brings up a context sensitive menu which allows the user to select to view a dictionary, Wikipedia, or do a Google search in a pop-up window in the browser. You can also ask the computer to speak the word or phrase, if you have any doubts about pronunciation. Safari also includes links to a library of plug-ins at extensions.apple.com, which includes a plug-in for Flash, so you can now watch free Hulu videos and other videos online. The network preferences window makes it far easier than Windows to set up a list of public DNS servers to bypass the sometimes slow, glitchy ISP servers.
This computer is completely silent. I wasn't even sure it had a cooling fan until I downloaded a utility to monitor the fan speed. This computer is super fast, and the base plate never gets more than lukewarm. The light weight, small footprint, lighted keyboard, crisp screen and speed really make this computer shine.
The attention to detail is really outstanding. The cooling vents on the back of the base are completely covered by a sliding plate when the lid is closed, keeping dust out of the innards. The power supply has flip out legs for winding the cord for storage and the prongs can be removed so it can be used as a brick type supply with the supplied AC cord. The computer also has a green LED battery status gauge built into the left side of the base, which is activated by a flush button. The lid snaps shut quietly even though there are no cheesy stick-on rubber bumpers, and it is held closed by magnets. The built in light sensor shuts off the keyboard backlighting and brightens the display in bright ambient light. The computer also has a 3 axis accelerometer to protect the hard drive from damage. The attention to detail is why Macs are more expensive than the various PC clones.

More detail @ Apple MacBook Pro MD313LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop (NEWEST VERSION)

Apple iPod shuffle 2 GB Silver (4th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

2011-02-27T21:42:00.000+07:00

Apple iPod shuffle 2 GB Silver (4th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

List Price: ~~$49~~

On Sale Price: from $44.99 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

The main body of the iPod shuffle is crafted from a single piece of aluminum and polished to a beautiful shine, so it feels solid, sleek, and durable. Thanks to the color choices too it's the perfect fashion accessory. Choose gleaming silver, blue, green, orange, or pink. Hundreds of songs to go Never leave a favorite tune behind. Along with up to 15 hours of battery life, iPod shuffle gives you 2GB of storage capacity, good for hundreds of songs. That's plenty of room for the essential songs of your workout or commute, multiple playlists, Genius Mixes, podcasts, and audiobooks, too. Goes anywhere. And with anything iPod shuffle isn't just portable. It's wearable, too. Clip it to your shirt, jacket, workout gear, backpack, or purse strap, and it stays put—whether you're running an errand or running around the track. Control your music with just a click It's back—the big, clickable control pad on the front of iPod shuffle. It's 18 percent larger than on previous iPod shuffle models, so it's even easier to see and use the music controls. Press the center button to play and pause. Press the outer buttons to skip forward or back and adjust volume. Click, click, click. It's music to your fingers. Play it your way Maybe you're the spontaneous type. Or maybe you prefer a little order. Just flip the shuffle switch to suit your listening style. Flip it to the left, and you'll hear your music in a refreshingly random way. Flip it to the middle, and your songs play in order. Or flip to the right to turn iPod shuffle off. Voiceover tells you what you want to hear Say you're listening to a song and want to know the title or the artist. Just press the VoiceOver button on top of your iPod shuffle, and it tells you. You can even use VoiceOver to hear the names of playlists and switch between them. If your battery needs charging, VoiceOver tells you that, too. It speaks your language It speaks your language. A French love song. A Spanish bolero. An Italian cantata. Your

Customer Review

Great little thing, September 10, 2010 By D. Bodington

I just got my new shuffle in the mail today. I needed something for running and dreadmilling when it is too snowy/icy to run outside.
My initial impressions:
Pros
Great little thing (small)
strong clip
easy to use (hooray for buttons!)
simple, multi-position switch on the top lets you play in order or shuffle. Voice over button is easy to use and works well.
Easy to sync (choose playlists, genius playlists, albums, artists, podcasts, etc...)
Looks good (see my notes about online photos at the bottom)
Long (15h) battery life.
EDIT: A "hold" function has been added, just hold the center button to activate and deactivate, good feature. It would be useful if I had just gotten mine, but I learned how to use it without the feature so I don't end up using hold much.
Cons
None. (As far am I concerned, there are cons like "no screen" and such, but if you order this to get an ipod shuffle, not a nano or other mp3 player, you will not be disappointed. I was not let down at all).
EDIT: After some thought and use, I thought of some cons.
$50 for 2gb is not a great price compared to other mp3 players.
2gb might be limiting to you. This just means you have to choose or let itunes choose what music goes on there carefully.
Because the buttons take up most of the front of the ipod, it can be hard to use the clip while it is turned on without pressing the next button.
Conclusion:
If you know what an ipod shuffle does, need a reasonable music player that syncs with your itunes, and don't need more. GET ONE!!! I can't imagine you will be let down.
One last note: From all the photos online, you can't really tell, bu this is not a matte finish ipod. The finish is shiny, but not mirror-y. And actually, no one will care about this, but the top and bottom are matte silver. It looks good.

More detail @ Apple iPod shuffle 2 GB Silver (4th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Apple iPod nano 8 GB Graphite (6th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

2011-02-26T19:05:00.001+07:00

Apple iPod nano 8 GB Graphite (6th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

List Price: ~~$149~~

On Sale Price: from $134 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping.

iPod nano has been completely redesigned with Multi-Touch—the same technology that makes iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch so amazing. Now it's half the size and even easier to play. And everything you want to hear is just a tap or swipe away. In a sleek anondized aluminum and seven bright colors, iPod nano makes a huge statement that matches your style. The 1.5" color display with 240 x 240 pixel resolution stunningly shows off your album art, photos, and color-coordinated wallpaper. The new built-in clip makes it easy to move to the music. Just clip iPod nano to your sleeve, jacket, or bag. Wherever you go, your favorite tunes are right where you need them. In fact, with the built-in 30-pin connector, you can easily plug iPod nano into your car stereo system, your speakers at home, and many other products made for iPod. iPod nano is 46 percent smaller, 42 percent lighter, and 100 percent made for music with Multi-Touch. It's the perfect size for a tap or a swipe, so fingertips feel right at home. Multi-Touch basics Home screen Swipe left to see additional icons. To return Home from other screens, swipe right, or touch and hold anywhere. Multi-Touch Tap to select items. Swipe up or down to browse lists. Rotate the screen using two fingers. Double-tap to zoom photos. Custom Home screens Touch and hold an icon until it jiggles, then drag it to a new location. Press Sleep/Wake when finished. Song controls Tap an album cover to show song controls. Swipe left to see Repeat, Genius, and Shuffle controls. Shake iPod nano to shuffle songs. Genius Tap Genius Mixes to hear songs that go great together. Or, create a Genius playlist by playing a song you like, and tapping the song control. FM radio Tap to show radio controls. Flick the radio dial to change stations, or tap to set favorites. Swipe left to show Live Pause controls. Play all day and all night The built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives you up to 24 hours of nonstop music. So when you clip on an 8GB or 16.

Customer Review

Nano Gains Touch, Loses Video Playing & Recording, September 6, 2010

By Steve H "books911" (U.S.)

The iPod Nano update on September 1, 2010 is arguably the most dramatic since the iPod Nano moniker was introduced by Apple five years ago.
Several colors are being offered in both 8 GB & 16 GB capacities.
More than an update, this is a new product that simply retains the iPod Nano name. It gains a significant feature, but loses several others.
The big deal is the touch interface on the newest iPod Nano. iPod Nano users will now be "touching," their music as iPod Touch and iPhone users have before them. The click wheel is gone. To find your music, you select a category from the Nano's menu such as "Playlists," or "Artists," and select from there. Less convenient or more convenient than a click wheel? Honestly, about equal. The screen is indeed small, but not unusable.
FM Radio has been retained as well as the Fitness aspects with the ability to use Nike + or simply the built in pedometer. However, the form factor will be a major benefit for those working out with the Nano. The previous Nano required an armband to keep it on you while working out, jogging, or the like. Not always comfortable, an additional expense, etc. However, with this new small, square form factor that need is gone. Now, we can simply "clip," the Nano onto us, with the built in clip, and run to our listening content. A bigger deal than you might think.
The downside? Features have been removed from Nano. The screen is much smaller than the previous generation. Therefore, playback of video content from iTunes is gone. Nano no longer plays video, which was a feature added three years ago. Secondly, last year, Nano added a small video camera to record low quality video, which could be played back on the Nano's screen or synced with iTunes and viewed on your computer. That feature is gone too. The device is too small now for a camera or to watch video. This new generation iPod Nano has many exciting new features, but buyers must be aware that it is no longer a video player. It is something new. Those wishing to play video on an iPod must choose an iPod Touch.
My opinion on this change? Honestly, did I ever watch video on the iPod Nano's screen? No. For me, while they kept trying to make the screen larger, it was simply too small to enjoy more than a once a year video. Likewise, the camera was simply not high enough quality to keep yourself entertained by using on a regular basis. It became a feature unused by many.
The iPod Nano has changed and gone back to being an exceptional music player. There is nothing here you do not need to enjoy music. However, the display and touch interface brings the 21st century "touch," that Apple has made so popular to a more affordable device. The touch function will be limited here to simply selecting songs or bringing up the clock, but nevertheless, touch has made its way to the Nano.
I'm most thankful that the Nano has indeed retained the DOCK CONNECTOR. The dock connector is key to use with iPod accessories such as docks, speaker docks, and built in car iPod connectors. The nano is so diminutive that if you plug it into the factory iPod kit of an automobile, the cable's dock connector will look nearly bigger than the Nano itself. Not a negative, just amusing. Nevertheless, the dock connector is there, and you will be able to use the device in such applications, and that was a significant decision by Apple. Users want and need the dock connector. It is there on this iPod Nano, but still missing from the Shuffle due to its even more diminutive size.
This 16 GB version is the largest size Apple offers in the Nano. It offers no additional functionality over the 8GB, but features twice the storage. Choose the one best for you. 16 GB is great if you have a large music collection. We should all remember though that with Nano no longer doing Video or Storing Pictures, the storage is exclusively for music. This makes 8 GB and 16 GB more appropriate size offerings as music takes up much less storage than video.
Overall, Apple has removed video (both playback and recording) from this iPod Nano. However, it's an equalling good music player. Navigation of music is now completed via touch, which works effectively despite the small screen. It's really hard to believe so much can fit into such a small device and I believe everyone will be a bit shocked when they open up the Nano the first time and see it's size yet primary function as an effective music player retained. The newest Nano brings a nearly Shuffle like size, but yet retains the functionality (touch, clip, dock connector) that serious music lovers and those who use the Nano while working out, demand.

More detail @ Apple iPod nano 8 GB Graphite (6th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Apple MacBook MC516LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

2010-05-30T23:08:00.000+07:00

Meet the fastest, most powerful MacBook yet. It now features next-generation NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics, a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, and 2GB of memory. That means MacBook can handle everything from surfing the web to the most graphically intense 3D games with ease. It also features up to 10 hours of battery life and a glass Multi-Touch trackpad that supports inertial scrolling, right-clicking, and Multi-Touch gestures. All in a streamlined, durable unibody enclosure.

Key Specifications

* Up to 10 hours of continuous use with 63.5-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery. (Learn more)
* 13.3-inch LED-backlit, glossy widescreen display with a widescreen resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels to give you plenty of room to multitask. And the display is greener than ever: power efficient, free of harmful toxins such as mercury, and made of arsenic-free glass.
* Fast 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor helps you breeze through everyday tasks such as emailing, web browsing, and working with documents, spreadsheets, and presentations in iWork or Microsoft Office for Mac (both sold separately).
* NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics processor (with 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory) for an outstanding everyday graphics experience. (Learn more)
* 250 GB hard drive (5400 RPM)
* 2 GB installed RAM (1066 MHz DDR3; supports up to 4 GB)
* 8x slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer DVD support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
* Built-in iSight camera for video chatting
* Wi-Fi wireless networking (based on 802.11n specification; 802.11a/b/g compatible)
* Gigabit Ethernet wired networking (10/100/1000BASE-T)
* Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) for connecting with peripherals such as keyboards, mice and cell phones.
* Two USB 2.0 ports
* Mini DisplayPort video output with optional adapters for DVI and VGA output.
* Built-in stereo speakers and omnidirectional microphone
* Combined optical digital output/headphone output (also includes line-in/microphone jack)
* Dimensions: 13 x 9.12 x 1.08 inches (WxDxH)
* Weight: 4.7 pounds

Customer Reviews

Was a PC... now a Mac., May 29, 2010
By Ena O. Oru (Chicago, IL)
I'm horrible at reviews and easily impressed so hopefully this does good.
Its an amazing machine, what more can i say.
It does much better than the previous edition of macbook because it now has
a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 duo processor,
the Nvidia GeForce 320 M graphics processor, and a 10 hour lasting battery which means its as good or even better than the 13 inch macbook pro released last year.

Compared with the macs released this year it still does well, the only difference between this and a 13 inch macbook pro is that the macbook pro has an aluminum body, with up 2.66GHz intel processor and 4GB ram. I guess thats where the 200 dollar price difference comes from.
I also like the new unibody.

If you require a laptop for regular everyday activities this will be more than great

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Zune HD 32 GB Video MP3 Player (Platinum)

2009-11-27T12:43:00.001+07:00

Enjoy storing and listening to your favorite tunes on this new Microsoft Zune HD player that features a large 3.3" OLED display with scratch-resistant glass and large storage capacity. Loaded with multi-touch, accelerometer, and 3D graphics, Zune HD makes portable gaming even more exciting. All to the sound of your favorite music. HD compatible video - Watch supported 720p HD (at 480 x 272) movies, TV shows, and videos in high definition on your HDTV through the Zune HD AV Dock (sold separately). Quickplay - Your content, your way. Quickplay gives instant access to your stuff with shortcuts to favorites, recently downloaded or played music, videos, and more. Specifications Screen - Size - 3.3-inch OLED color display, 16 - 9 aspect ratio; Type - Scratch-resistant glass with touch input capability; Orientation - Vertical (music) and horizontal (videos); Resolution - 480 pixels x 272 pixels Wireless - Connectivity - 802.11b/g compatible (WEP, WPA, WPA2, TKIP, AES) Battery - Music, up to 33 hours (wireless off); video, up to 8.5 hours (Charge time - Approximately 3 hours when connected to your PC & 2 hours with an optional A/C adapter) Audio support - WMA, WMA Pro, WMA Lossless, AAC (.mp4,. m4a,. m4b) without FairPlay DRM Picture support - JPEG Video support - WMV (transcode HD WMV), MPEG-4 (transcode HD MPEG-4), H.264, DVR-MS (transcode) Audio output - Analog Audio Out; Optical Digital Audio Out (requires additional dock, sold separately) Video output - HDMI or Composite (requires additional dock, sold separately) Radio - Built-in FM/HD Radio receiver Ports - Connector port, 3.5mm Headphone jack Music Service Compatibility - Zune Marketplace Size (w x h x d) - 2.07 x 4.02 x 0.35 (52.7 mm x 102.1 mm x 8.9 mm) Weight - 2.6 ounces (74 grams)

Customer Reviews
Has come a long way since the "brick" Zune, September 15, 2009
By T. Nield

This review is from: Zune HD 16 GB Video MP3 Player (Black) (Electronics)
Zune was the laughing stock a couple of years ago when Microsoft released the "brick" 1st-gen Zune. A joke went around about Microsoft's pathetic attempt to enter the "iPod market." So a year passed, and Zune remained a joke in the consumer electronics world and had to endure the jeers and torment of the Apple crowd. When the 2nd Gen Zunes came out, the Zune brand slowly started to see redemption. The Zune 80gb was deemed the first decent competitor to the iPod, but the brand was still in recovery from its hazing.

But for the first time, Microsoft has developed a Zune player that can finally use the words "downright sexy" to describe it. The Zune brand image is building up quickly with the release of the Zune HD, XBOX Live integration, and much-needed marketing.

With the rapid rise of the iPod Touch and iPhone, it's no surprise Microsoft came up with a touchscreen portable media player of its own. However, this is not a copy of the iPod touch at all. Sure the Zune HD features a touchscreen, accelerometer, app support, a strong web browser and other features that made the iPod Touch so popular.

However, the Zune HD has what the iPod Touch lacks, such as...

-ZunePass (Download all the music you want for $15/month, keep 10 songs per month DRM-Free)
-720p HDMI output
-An aesthetically nice software (Zune 4.0 interface is very pretty to look at, not a dull spreadsheet like iTunes)
-An aesthetically nice device OS (Artist pictures and info float around while playing a song, it's cool)
-OLED screen (brighter, more vibrant than LCD)
-Free HD radio
-Radio "tagging" (If you like a song you hear on the radio, "tag" it to add it to your cart for download)
-XBOX Live integration
-An advanced nVidia Tegra Chip (A couple of graphically-intense 3D games are coming out this fall, like Burnout: Ferrari Edition)
-On-demand music (play music online with your Zune HD, don't need to download it to your hard drive)

Again, the Zune HD is just simply amazing. With the Nvidia Tegra chip and highly capable processor, the potential for this device is endless. The Zune HD is supposed to be a portable gaming platform to compete head-to-head with the Nintendo DS and PSP brands. I'm excited to see Burnout: Ferrari Edition on it this fall. I'm also looking forward to see more apps as well.

Could this device take significant market share from Apple's iPod Touch? With the right marketing to increase public awareness of this product, yes it definitely can. Every large monopolizing entity like Kmart, GM, and even Apple will dominate a market completely for some period of time. However, times change and something better always comes along. Is this Zune HD the better alternative to the iPod? With some more releases in the app store and updates, it clearly will be. The question is will Apple change and copy the Zune's features including the Zune Pass? I don't know, we'll see. The Zune Pass will clearly become the new standard of digital music services and the $1-per-song marketplace model will not be competitive much longer.

***UPDATE***

I've been getting a lot of comments on my review saying that the Zune's HD radio does not compensate for the lack of online radio services found on the iPod Touch (such as Pandora). I believe I already said in my review that with some more app development the Zune HD will be a strong competitor to the iPod Touch, and that includes online radio apps.

I also forgot to add the Zune HD does not have an external speaker. If that's a super-important feature to you, the iPod Touch may suit you for now. However you can always get headphone couplers or battery-powered mini-speakers to remedy this.

Find out more @ Zune HD 32 GB Video MP3 Player (Platinum)

SanDisk(R) Sansa(R) Clip+ 8GB MP3 Player (Black)

2009-11-26T12:35:00.000+07:00

The Sansa Clip+ MP3 player gives you more to enjoy. Enjoy up to 2,000 songs†† with an 8GB* player, FM radio, long-life battery and voice recorder. PLUS now even more! Expand your enjoyment when you add in preloaded content cards** into the new memory card slot, including slotRadio™ and slotMusic™ cards**. Or, save your own music, podcasts, and audio books onto a microSD™/microSDHC™ memory card** to expand your play.It’s brought to you by SanDisk with awesome sound to enjoy your music. Just clip it on and enjoy more music with an incredible 15 hours† battery-fueled fun. See what you’re listening to with the bright, easy-to-read screen and intuitively searchable menus. Color your world in red, blue or sleek black undertones.

Customer Reviews
The Clip+ does everything it needs to, and nothing it doesn't., September 18, 2009
By S. Rysdyk (Michigan)

I owned the first generation clip, and the new 8gb clip+ retains everything that was great about the first while adding all around refinements.

Pros:
- Overall build quality has improved, but especially with the clip mechanism.
- Files on MicroSD integrate seemlessly with the on board memory.
- The volume and power buttons have more ergonomic placement on the device.
- Sound quality remains great.
- Audiobook files can be sped up slightly to save some "reading" time.
- The interface is a little smoother and nicer to move through.
- The square trackpad makes it easier to navigate without looking at the player. (good for runners)

Cons:
- No cap on the MicroSD slot, so that could potentially get dirty.

If you don't need gimmicks such as touch screens and web browsers, then this player is quite possibly the best on the market for value, size, and quality. The Clip+ is definitely worth the few extra bucks over what the first gen clip is selling for now.

Find out more @ SanDisk(R) Sansa(R) Clip+ 8GB MP3 Player (Black)

SanDisk Sansa Fuze 8 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

2009-11-25T12:32:00.000+07:00

Amazon.com Product Description With the SanDisk Sansa Fuze, you can fuse your portable entertainment, featuring 8 GB of storage. Listen, watch, and play all day with 24 hours of battery life and room for up to 2,000 songs**. Watch your favorite video clips on the Sansa Fuze's 1.9-inch color screen. Measuring just 0.3 inches thin, the Sansa Fuze marks the next wave of music and video players.

Customer Reviews
Sansa Fuze, April 4, 2009
By Eli (Florence, OR)

I began the search for the most versatile MP3 video player I could find at a descent price. Yes, my search included the ipod as well. When all was said and done, I choose the Sansa Fuze due to the amount of features, and they happen to come at a better price than the Ipod.

I wanted the ability to expand, in the event I fill my fuze, I can use the micro sd slot. The micro sd cards are relatively cheap and seem to be expanding is size all the time. I bought the 8 GB fuze and can expand as needed.

FM radio is a great feature. You may have all the music you want, but sometimes it is nice to listen to the news or hear new music. And just in case you hear something you like, it can be recorded and played back on your fuze.

The navigation is straight forward and things load very fast. The battery life is great at about 24 hours when listening to music. I have not watched many movies at this point so I can't give an estimate for viewing time.

Sansa releases updates that are easy to obtain when they make improvements to the firmware. I suspect some of the reviews I read before I bought my fuze regarding slow load time were fixed with firmware updates.

If are looking for a feature packed MP3 player at a great price check out the fuze.

Find out more @ SanDisk Sansa Fuze 8 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

Apple MacBook Pro MB990LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

2009-11-24T12:06:00.000+07:00

MacBook Pro brings high performance and precision design to everyone. Every new MacBook Pro features a breakthrough, long-lasting battery that delivers up to 7 hours of wireless productivity on a single charge and can be recharged up to 1000 timesâ€”nearly three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries. The new LED-backlit display has a 60 percent greater color gamut than that of previous generations, giving you richer, more vibrant colors. Every MacBook Pro features the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics processor, which provides an outstanding graphics experience for everyday tasks. Power your way through the latest 3D gamesâ€”including Call of Duty and Quakeâ€”and enjoy improved graphics performance with iWork, iLife, and everything you do in Mac OS X. And with the latest 2.26GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, itâ€™s the most powerful Mac notebook ever. All in a precision aluminum unibody enclosure thatâ€™s less than an inch thin.

Customer Reviews
Not sure why all of the haters keep griping about Compact Flash..., June 30, 2009
By D. Rich (Atlanta, GA USA)

I just got my brand new 13.3" Macbook Pro in the mail. I customized mine with 4GB of RAM and a 250 GB hard drive, but with the entry-level 2.26 GHz Intel processor. I unboxed it in front of my mother and sister, and they were both oohing and aahing about how beautiful and thin it was. They also loved the magnetic connector on the end of the power adapter that snaps the power cord into the computer nearly by itself. I powered the computer up, went through the Leopard setup screens, and within minutes was logged in. While starting up, the light sensor powered on, the screen dimmed, and the keyboard lit-up automatically. Everything about this computer suggests ingenious design and engineering, with great attention to every detail. It is very light, and since I am using this for school, I am very happy with the size and form factor, particularly the charger. Switching from a large Dell that sported a charger that could be used to bludgeon somebody to death, the small white charger that is about the size of a wallet is a breath of fresh air. This laptop will be a pleasure to travel with.

Are there things this computer lacks? Yes, there is no Blu-Ray player, which would have been nice, but for me was not a deal-breaker. I suspect that the next-gen MBP's will phase out the rotary hard drives and switch to solid state as the standard, and will all have Blu-Ray players. Until that time, this little laptop is more than sufficient.

If I had to come up with a gripe about this computer, there is really only one- and this is true for most of Apple's products- the iPod, iPhone, and MBP's- I wish that they would not coat portable products with textures that are so easy to scratch. It is apparent that after a few months of toting this to class, it is going to have some scuffs on it. It seems like a bit of a paradox that a company that puts so much value on aesthetics seems only to care about how the product looks when it is taken out of the original packaging. That said, this laptop feels extremely sturdy, and apart from normal wear and tear marks, I am not fearful that it will fall apart, which is a whole lot more than I can say for my previous piece of crap plastic Dell.

In reading other reviews, people seem to be unable to understand that this qualifies as an ultra-portable laptop. It is simply not going to have a peripheral hookup for every type of flash card and five USB hookups. Are people serious with lambasting Apple for merging the audio jack in/out ports into one single port? Really, who gives a rat's a$$? This is a PORTABLE computer, not a media center. If you are a user who favors those things, then you are free to go out and purchase the necessary adapters, but I would rather have a lightweight computer that I can easily tote around. If you want a laptop that is prepared for any occasion, go buy an 8 lb. Dell desktop replacement, and have fun. I for one think people just want a reason to moan or find something to complain about. The fact is that for the money, you are not going to find a better laptop than this one. It costs a bit more than competing PC products, but I have owned Dell's and HP's, and I can tell you, you get what you pay for. If you use your laptop for at least a couple of hours a day, I think it is worth a couple hundred extra to get a really high quality product that makes you happy, and that is why I upgraded to the MBP.

Find out more @ Apple MacBook Pro MB990LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

Apple MacBook MC207LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

2009-11-23T11:54:00.000+07:00

The MacBook uses a graphics processor that economizes space in a whole new way. A traditional computer logic board contains multiple components: the CPU, two chips that control communication throughout the computer, and the graphics processor. The logic board in the MacBook contains only two components: the CPU and a graphics processor with all of the core logic built into a single chip.Open your MacBook and you're instantly greeted by glorious full screen brightness. Anything you view, including the glossy widescreen display itself, is a spectacular experience. The LED-backlit display is more power efficient. And it's mercury- and arsenic-free, so it's greener than ever.

Customer Reviews
No Reason Not to Consider, Same Punch, Smaller Price, November 1, 2009
By Stephen Hall "books911" (USA)

I had intended to purchase my mother a Macbook for some time now. I wobbled between the several models I considered. However, Apple's late October 2009 update to the white polycarbonate MacBook made the decision much easier.

Reasons for my Decision - With this update to the 13-inch white MacBook, Apple gave its entry-notebook impressive numbers. The processor a 2.26 GHZ Core 2 Duo is the same processor found in the 13-inch MacBook Pro. 2GB of memory? Same as the Pro. Nvidia 9400 Graphics, Same as the Pro. Hard drive? 250 GB, bigger than the MacBook Pro (it has 160GB only).

Yes, considering the larger hard drive, 250 versus 160, this white MacBook actually gives you a higher specification computer in some regards than the $200 more expensive MacBook Pro 13-inch. Remember this updated white MacBook also now incorporates the unibody under its polycarbonate shell. The unibody provides strength, and I must say this notebook is very solid. Furthermore, Apple has incorporated a long-life battery! The only downside is Apple must replace it, though it has a longer life cycle. In terms of performance, my mother reported to me simple usage of nearly six hours on a charge. Impressive. Blows away my older Mac notebook's battery.

Yes, this white MacBook does lack the remote control sensor, Firewire Port, and backlit keyboard that the MacBook Pro would offer, but my mother would likely not use those features and she had an affinity towards the white polycarbonate. The white does look nice, but handle and place it on surfaces very carefully as it will show light scratches easily.

The bottom of the MacBook is a bit strange. It is a rubber seal so to speak like what is found on the bottom of Airport Extreme and Apple TV. I'm not certain I like that choice by Apple. The material does pick up dirt easily. I would recommend wiping off whatever surface you are going to sit the computer on, to remove light dust, if you worry about the computer's appearance.

Overall, I was looking to find a quality Mac, for my mother. I didn't want to compromise performance, and I feel I didn't despite choosing this entry-level MacBook. Truly, with its stats, it can hardly be called entry level. My daily Mac is only slightly faster. These computers are getting faster and faster, and they impress me. Snow Leopard is great, and my mother is enjoying iPhoto and iMovie, all included with the computer.

The price to value of this MacBook is remarkable. At two hundred less than the MacBook Pro you get the same speed and memory, plus a larger hard drive. You can't argue with that. I didn't, and the MacBook has impressed.

Find out more @ Apple MacBook MC207LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

iHome iP9SR Clock Radio for iPod, iPhone (Silver)

2009-11-22T11:50:00.000+07:00

Customer Reviews
Everything You Like About the iH Radios, but Without the GSM Buzz!, January 3, 2009
By C. Dewey "Dynamat Convert" (Greenville, SC)

This review is from: iHome iP9BR Clock Radio for iPod, iPhone (Black) (Electronics)
I had been reading about the IP99 for months but was unwilling to pay well over $120 for it. When I happened across the new IP9 for $79.99 in a local warehouse that starts with "Cost" and ends with "co", I thought I would give it a try.

The sound is slightly improved over my older IH5 and IH6 radios -- which is to say excellent for the money -- and so far I haven't heard the slightest GSM buzz. The iP9's 3D effect is richer than the Sony ICF-C1iPMK2's "Mega Xpand" feature. The overall sound of the iP9 is slightly warmer than that of the Sony but otherwise comparable. The Eq option is a big plus.

The one advantage the Sony has is that it supports an iPhone from the back via and adustable block. That somewhat negates the need for a dock insert. This is a nice convenience for people with an iPhone shell that is small enough to fit in a universal dock as you may not have to remove the shell to dock the iPhone securely. You NEED an insert on the iP9 as you would on any device with a universal dock on top and nothing substantial behind the dock. Fortunately, the iPhone insert iHome includes seems to work as well as an iPhone 3G Universal Dock Insert from Apple... and it's black! The iHome website currently states that the IP9 does not ship with an iPhone 3G insert but perhaps iHome wised-up.

The dual alarms work in a similar manner to the Sony. The 2-5-7 day setting is a plus. I have not used the snooze feature though it is supposed to be configurable. Our dogs do not allow us to snooze, in case you were wondering. At night, one big advantage for the iP9 is that the dimmer allows you to turn off the backlighting entirely. As anyone with a Sony will tell you, their dimmest setting is way too bright. The iHome's numbers are also a little larger.

I have read about some quality problems with the IP99 and am hoping that the IP9 is as solid as the IH5 and IH6 clocks I have had for a few years without any problems. The iP9 seems to be built more solidly than the Sony, particularly with respect the buttons. The dials take a little getting used to, but if you're tying to adjust the volume in a dark room they are much easier to adjust than the tiny Sony volume buttons, which have an annoyingly loud click. I also give the iP9's remote an edge because it includes a few more functions.

In summary, the iHome iP9 is a solid performer with an excellent attention to detail that puts it ahead of the Sony ICF-C1iPMK2, despite its more iPhone shell-friendly design.

Find out more @ iHome iP9SR Clock Radio for iPod, iPhone (Silver)

Apple MacBook Pro MB991LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

2009-11-21T11:49:00.000+07:00

MacBook Pro brings high performance and precision design to everyone. Every new MacBook Pro features a breakthrough, long-lasting battery that delivers up to 7 hours of wireless productivity on a single charge and can be recharged up to 1000 times—nearly three times the lifespan of typical notebook batteries. The new LED-backlit display has a 60 percent greater color gamut than that of previous generations, giving you richer, more vibrant colors. Every MacBook Pro features the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics processor, which provides an outstanding graphics experience for everyday tasks. Power your way through the latest 3D games—including Call of Duty and Quake—and enjoy improved graphics performance with iWork, iLife, and everything you do in Mac OS X. And with the latest 2.53GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, it’s the most powerful Mac notebook ever. All in a precision aluminum unibody enclosure that’s less than an inch thin.

Customer Reviews
Macbook graduates to PRO status!, June 15, 2009
By Nate "bigetan" (MD)

Well I must say I am very happy i did not buy apple's first iteration of the 13" aluminum macbook last year b/c they really got it right the second time around upgrading it to a macbook pro! Its nice to have that "pro" stamp on a 13" now! Apple has listened to their customers adding almost everything we have asked for and more, and managed to reduce the price! Thanks Apple!

CHANGES FROM LAST YEAR
- $100 less
- 13" aluminum macbooks became macbook pros
- 2.53Ghz up from 2.4GHz dual core
- 4GB RAM up from 2GB
- led display has 60% greater color gamut than previous model
- new advanced built-in battery that lasts up to 7 hours vs 4hrs
- FireWire is back (after all the complaints of first model)
- SD card slot (replaces express card slot)
- new models now come with iLife '09
- separate digital audio input is gone
- new model uses the same integrated mic and headphone port as the iPhone

PROS
- finally a price cut with a performance upgrade! i knew apple could do it. i was tired of paying for aesthetics and not performance.
- new Snow Leopard Operating System comes pre-installed! Same great ease of use with much faster performance!
- much better lcd screen! inline with the pro models...still glossy and still some glare but much nicer!
- backlight keyboard on all 13" models now! ( i really enjoy this as it can be controlled from low to high)
- battery life is significantly better than last year.( i get about 6 hours w/ regular use not the 7hrs that is reported)
- the computer is designed beautifully truly a head turner.
- iLife 09 suite is superb for pictures, movies, and music. Good software really does sell hardware.
- SD card slot accepts SDHC, which goes up to 32GB and works like a charm. (can boot from SD card as well)

CONS
- aluminum outer casing does dent easily if dropped. (buy a soft case for it!)
- power cord is short and does not reach as many places as I would like...must sit very close to power outlet.
- battery can't be removed easily
- SD card sticks about half way out of slot. eye sore.
- blu-ray option would have been nice but understandable given licensing fees. (many blurays are offering digital copies which help)

Taking into consideration all the great improvements over last year with a nice price cut I can now truly recommend this near perfect Macbook Pro!

Find out more @ Apple MacBook Pro MB991LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

iHome iH4B Alarm Clock for with Dock for iPod (Black)

2009-11-21T11:45:00.000+07:00

This stylish iPod alarm clock is great for any place where space is limited. Wake and Sleep to your favorite music from your iPod, and enjoy features like an auxiliary input and adjustable accent lighting. A perfect bedside companion.

Customer Reviews
Perfect match!, June 22, 2007
By Rachael Evans (Sewanee, TN)

I got this as a way to listen to my 2g pink nano while going to sleep. I was amazed when I plugged it in in the kitchen and my husband thought the stereo was on all the way from the living room. The sound is amazing for this tiny piece of equipment. The sleep feature is great and the dimmer for the lights is cool too. The fact that it doesn't have a remote is annoying, but the remote is 15 bucks on ihome's site. Since this is a great ipod accessory I will definetly be getting the remote to boot. I just wish it also came in pink.

Find out more @ iHome iH4B Alarm Clock for with Dock for iPod (Black)

Panasonic SC-HC3 Ultra-Slim iPod Docking Speaker System with CD player, AM/FM Radio, Clock, Alarm, and Remote (Black)

2009-11-20T11:42:00.000+07:00

Panasonic SC-HC3 Overview; High Quality Sound:The SC-HC3 achieves high quality sound from compact speakers. The Bamboo Cone Speakers produce crisp, clear vocals. The two passive radiators that are positioned at the front and back of the speaker unit cancel out vibrations inside the speaker thus suppressing unwanted vibrations and delivering robust bass sounds. The system features an AM/FM digital synthesizing tuner, and a built-in CD player. Bass and Treble control and the four present EQ settings (Heavy, Clear, Soft, Vocal) allow you to adjust and customize to your preference. Total output power of 40W; Sliding Door and Universal Dock for i-Pod: The sliding door allows easy insertion and removal of an iPod or CD using any cables. Select your songs from among your favorites with the remote control, or set the wake-up timer to work with your iPod music for a personalized audio experience; Ultra-Slim and Stylish Design:With the same depth as a paperback book, the SC-HC3 can be placed on a desktop, a bedside stand, a bookshelf, or your kitchen counter. At 4 1/2 inches deep, this stylish sound system will integrate easily into just about any home environment.

Customer Reviews
Nice compact ipod speaker system, August 7, 2009
By Katherine Hall (Mount Vernon, WA United States)

My husband bought me this system for my birthday a little while back. I wanted something to play my ipod on that had decent sound quality, but I did not want an alarm clock type system, which was pretty much the only thing I could find where I live (small town). While the description says that this has an alarm clock, thankfully it is not the main function (I'm sure it works fine, but I haven't even bothered to set the time as it usually doesn't show on the screen anyway).

First off, the SC-HC3 has a very small footprint. It is extremely thin for a system and could easily fit on a bookshelf or mantle which was important to me; I didn't want something large and bulky since I wanted to put it in the dining room and kitchen area of my house.

It has an ipod dock and CD player which both are covered by a sliding panel, another plus since I have pets and did not want the fur to get into the ipod docking area when not in use. The ipod can play while the panel is open, so you can scroll back and forth manually or you can use the remote control that comes with the system. And the part that covers the ipod is a dark plastic, but see through when the ipod is on, so you can see what song is playing. The part of the panel that covers the CD is metalic silver and not see-through. There are system buttons on the top so the front of the stereo looks very clean and not cluttered and they're simple and straightforward to use.

Now, I'm not one of those people who can tell you if the music comes across pure or crisp or robust or is highly superior to another system. But I do think that for the most part, it does sound good, not hollow or too much bass and it does sound clear.

The only complaint that I really have with it has to do with the ipod dock, though. It has a pivoting dock connector that pops forward to help you put the ipod in. I have an ipod touch and with it being so thin, it is sometimes hard to get it to connect on the first (or tenth) try. There is definitely plenty of room in there for larger ipods which might fit better. And then (this might be just the system I got) every once in a while the connection didn't fit right and when the music plays, there is sometimes static during the song. At first I thought it was that the song had been corrupted at some point, but the static would happen between songs and when I paused it. And since I sounded like radio static, I thought that something was wrong and the radio was playing through the system while I had the ipod on. Then I realized that it was the dock. When I pulled the ipod out and placed it back in, the static disappeared. Not a huge deal since I try to remember to make sure it is firmly on and I've only had that problem a few times and it's now been a while, and like I said, it could just be the one I got. If it continues, I'll probably exchange it. UPDATE: It's been a few months and it hasn't happened since.

But overall it is a nice system that doesn't take up much room and is mainly for music, not an alarm clock.

Find out more @ Panasonic SC-HC3 Ultra-Slim iPod Docking Speaker System with CD player, AM/FM Radio, Clock, Alarm, and Remote (Black)

iHome LED Color-Changing Speaker System with Built-In Subwoofer for iPod

2009-11-19T11:37:00.000+07:00

A colorful way to enjoy your favorite tunes, the iHome iH15W is a compact, illuminated cube and iPod speaker dock. Set it to one color to match your mood, or cycle through the colors for a little fun.

Illuminate Your Mood
The iH15W is a small, 5-1/2-inch cube with handy carrying handles and internal adjustable lighting. Change the translucent cabinet to match your mood or the current song. Feeling blue? Go with blue. Not easy being green? Try green. A cowardly yellow? Well, you get the idea.

The cube also features four color change settings for cycling through the colors, which is great for parties and other fun occasions.

Enjoy Your Music
The iH15W charges docked iPods, so when you hit the road, your iPod will be ready to go. Two Reson8 speakers provide great sound, and a passive subwoofer covers the low end, so you can count on rich sound from a tiny device.

Auxiliary Input
Use the iH15W's auxiliary input to listen to external devices, like MP3 or CD players.

What's in the Box
iHome iH15W, AC power adapter, iPod dock adapters, manual

Customer Reviews
perfect for dorm or party, not so much for the bass-lover, July 8, 2009
By isha whittaker (transiency, in the USA)

I absolutely LOVE this product. the color changing is sooo fun. I wish the color changing mechanism was capable of changing WITH the music. The "bass" sound is not amazing (I thought it would be because of the sub-woofer thing) and my '91 car stereo rumbles more than this does :( however, for a 5 inch box, it still has good sound, and is capable of being fairly loud. does not come with the chord attachement for MP3/cd plug in! must be plugged in to power source (no battery capability). All things considered (price, sound quality, etc) this would be a PERFECT "dorm" purchase! and I believe that's what the marketing/audio-decisions were geared towards. BUT if you want pristine sound and bass, you'd better be prepared to pay for it

Find out more @ iHome LED Color-Changing Speaker System with Built-In Subwoofer for iPod

iMainGo 2 Handheld Speaker Case for iPod and iPhone (Black)

2009-11-18T11:29:00.000+07:00

You and your iPod or iPhone love going everywhere. iMaingo 2 provides a protective case for your iPod, iPhone and, built into the case, a portable speaker system. Now you can choose to listen by headphone or speaker. Share tunes with your friend or mate. iMainGo goes wherever you go. No Need to plug it in or recharge. Its advanced design gives its four AAA batteries unprecedented life up to 30 hours. Don't be fooled by the size. Thanks to iMainGo's state-of-the-art electronics and speakers, you hear rich full sound you'd expect from systems many times its size. iMaingo 2 is tough. Safely inside, your iPod and iPhone are protected from bumps and other rough handling by iMainGo's sturdy construction. The edge of iMaingo 2 is the sound quality coming from the built-in speaker. What contributes in making iMainGo 2 sound so fine is a combination of a high-quality digital amplifier, high-output stereo speakers, and tuned porting for enhanced bass response. All this and a case too! The iMainGo 2 unit can be held in your hand and offers simple access to your iPod and iPhone's controls. It's both stylish, comfortable and is designed to fit all iPods and iPhones. Got an iPod or iPhone? Match it up with iMaingo - a sound relationship that's sure to last. Up to 30 hours battery life Wake up alarm feature High Quality sewn fabric exterior On/off switch has 3 modes - OFF, MUSIC and ALM. MUSIC turns the speakers on, and ALM is for when you use your iPod as an alarm. When the alarm goes off, the speakers power on and play the alarm Requires 4 AAA batteries for up to 30 hours play (batteries are included).

Customer Reviews
The best ultra-small portable sound system that I could find, November 17, 2008
By David H. Peterzell "Ph.D., Ph.D." (San Diego, CA United States)

Donald Norman (great psychologist and human factors expert) has emphasized that products should be functional, but that they should also be beautiful and have an emotional impact as well. "We know how to make products that work fine; how do we make products that make you smile?" Well, there's something about the design of this little gadget that forces my lips to curve upward. The sound quality, simplicity, compact design, and usability combine to make this both a pleasure to use and a joy to behold.

Well... there are plenty of tiny portable speaker systems out there, and I've tried many of them. Back in the dark ages (early 2000's) I trekked around with Sony SRS-T77 portable speakers and a (gack) portable CD player. Despite being limited to such primitive tools, I learned that I could have a portable blast all over the place -- in homes, cars, planes, parks, hotel rooms, conferences, cafes, beach bonfires, sporting events, and more. And I learned a valuable law of the universe -- If you clunk around with an obnoxious boombox, then you are trying too hard. You'll find more, and better, trouble without the excess. (Amazingly, the SRS-T77 is still on the market, and it really is not a bad choice compared to some of the the junk out there. Mine still works despite years of trying to kill it. Don't mess with the newer Sony SRS-T33; it sounds worse.)

Anyway, I used the original iMainGo for about a year until mine was stolen. It (a) sounded really good (compared to any other tiny speaker system available at the time), (b) was easy to carry without a lot of clutter, and (c) protected my iPod within its zippered enclosure. I liked the fact that the iMainGo was a protective enclosure, and not just a peripheral portable speaker. And I liked the fact that it was really small. And it got plenty of attention, for better or for worse. Once the iPhone, iPod Touch, and Zune came out, the system became somewhat obsolete because these newer products did not fit easily into the plastic inner shell of the iMainGo. Moreover, the iPhone required an an unglamorous adapter plug to connect to its earplug jack.

The iMainGo2 was announced by its parent company early this year, but there didn't seem to be any for me to get one until now. Mine arrived last week, and I've been subjecting it to rigorous experimentation, in the interests of science, of course. The revised product doesn't differ much from the original, except for a re-designed plug, an enlarged storage compartment, and use of memory foam. In particular, the new design uses memory foam to fit the contour of the iPhone, iPod or any other phone/MP3 player. Additionally, the speaker plug is now compatible with iPhones (no adapter needed). The iMainGo2 attaches to any earplug jack with a tiny internal mini-plug cable, making it compatible with just about any brand of MP3 player.

I love the iMainGo2. Like its predecessor, it's loud enough to annoy the really old lady across the street, but clear enough to party for hours with her granddaughters.

If you find something better... let me know! Since losing my original iMainGo, I had been using the new Altec Lansing portable speaker. It sounds really good... but it doesn't have the other features that I've come to appreciate in the iMainGo products.

The product uses 4 AAA batteries. Use rechargeable batteries, and this will save you a variety of headaches. Also, if the batteries are weak, the sound is not very good.

By the way, here is my wish list for the iMainGo3!

1) Make the enclosure/memory foam space even larger. As it is, my iPhone (including my new iPhone 3G) fits tightly into the iMainGo2. I have to take it out of its usual protective case to put it in the iMainGo. It would be better if at least some iPhone cases fit inside the iMainGo

2) Design the iMainGo so that you can answer calls if you are storing an iPhone inside it. The instructions suggest that you shouldn't even try to answer an iPhone when it is stored inside. But this detracts from the usability of the device.

3) Recognize that many of us use the iMainGo unzippered, with the cell phone facing in rather than out. I'm betting that I'm not the only person who does this! Instead of using just one velcro band that crosses the middle of the touch pad, use two - one at the top and one at the bottom.

4) Provide an a/c power option. And while you are at it, improve the battery chamber. The springs are a bit cheap, I think.

Alternatives:

Don't be seduced into buying speakers just because they are tiny. Many small speakers sound horrible, and even the good ones aren't all that much fun to carry around. Also, don't expect some of the larger stuff to be any more portable than a bowling ball.

If you are looking at comparable systems, then take a look at the Sonic Impact i-Fusion (iPods only, I think), LG Portable stereo speakers (MSP-100), Altec Lansing InMotion iM4, Logitech mm32 portable speakers, Creative TravelSound, JBL On Tour, Audio Source DB5, or the Altec Lansing iM-237 Orbit (see my review). All of these are OK, IMHO.

Here are the products I didn't try but wish I had... (1) DLO Portable Speakers for iPhone. They may be more appealing to some iPhone users than the iMainGo2. The speakers fold into an egg-shaped unit and turn the iPhone into a speaker phone. (2) Logic3 portable speakers for iPhone. They supposedly sound pretty good. (3) LiveSpeakR iPhone speakers. (4) LG Portable Stereo Speakers MSP-100. These are very small and reportedly sound good, (5) Kensington 33388 FX 300 speakers. (6) JVC MP3 case with built in speakers. The last two share something of a resemblance to the iMainGo. I doubt that any of these could replace my iMainGo2! I am, however, thinking that I'll need to try (7) the Dada Code M footwear MP3 player... (Check this one out -- it is totally nuts...)

Find out more @ iMainGo 2 Handheld Speaker Case for iPod and iPhone (Black)

Skullcandy S7PIBN-CZ Pipe Speaker Dock for iPod and iPhone (Chrome)

2009-11-17T11:25:00.000+07:00

Product Description - Skullcandy S7PIBN-CZ Pipe Speaker Dock for iPod and iPhone, Chrome

Customer Reviews
Great Speakers- Period...., October 2, 2009
By Daniel Nebab (Daly City, CA USA)

One of the best sounding and looking portable speakers with an iPod dock.

1. Style
- Bought these in Chrome... but all of them are VERY sleek and VERY stylish. The cylindrical tube shape does need a bit of getting used to, and the small size is a major plus for those on the go. The nifty remote control really tops it all off- which I might add: though stated on the manual that the remote is only effective up to about 10ft, I have successfully gotten them to work at about 30-35ft away.... and now the best part...

... 2. Sound!
These are one of the BEST sounding portable speakers availible, up there with the LG MSP-100 folding speakers, which is my personal favorite. Both speaker sets are VERY loud while retaining clarity, but the Skullcandy Pipes do have a bit more on the low end/bass tones.
Running either on the AC wall adapter or AAA battery option, these babies pump out a whopping 5.6 Watts max! (Pretty Good considering their size, the LG MSP-100's only pumped out 4 Watts.)

These DO tend to distort at high volumes, but it's mainly only the low's that cause it. The Mids and Highs are still somewhat clear, but the distortion of the Lows really just ruins the music at those volumes.

3. Overall Opinion
These are GREAT speakers for those wanting to replace that boombox/radio sitting on their desk at home or work, and for those who want to share their music while on the go- at a picnic, or just hanging out at a party on the beach! These speakers do pack quite a surprising punch despite thier decievingly small size. The $69.99 price tag Target and some other retailers give these DOES seem a bit high, but the lower prices seen on eBay and Amazon do make a BIT more sense though sometimes a bit too low. $45-$55 seems a bit more appropriate.

BOTTOM LINE: BUY THEM! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Find out more @ Skullcandy S7PIBN-CZ Pipe Speaker Dock for iPod and iPhone (Chrome)

Coby Travel Speaker System for iPod and MP3 Players (Black)

2009-11-16T11:21:00.000+07:00

Coby CSMP34 Travel MP3 Speaker System, amplified high-efficiency speaker system, zip-up pouch with a convenient clip protects your MP3 player, plays any portable audio device with a 3.5mm jack (iPod, Zune, MP3, cellphone, etc.), 1.25-inch stereo drivers (2W total RMS power), black

Customer Reviews
Works great for me, June 20, 2009
By Under the Shade

If you are looking for a boom box to play your devilish music on then this speaker is not for you as the sound volume will not go high enough to annoy the people around you in all directions.

I ordered this travel speaker to plug into my little mp3 player and am very pleased with the sound quality. I listen to lectures and language learning mp3s so I don't need blasting sound. The clarity of the sound is quite good. I do listen to some nasheeds also and the sound quality is good for that also. I can put this at my desk or by my bed to listen as I don't always like putting something in my ears to hear with. The zipper case unzips and I use 2 AA rechargeable batteries. You can easily throw this in a bag to take with you. This was a little bigger than I expected but that is fine. To get a perspective it is about 1 1/2 the size of my open hand.

Find out more @ Coby Travel Speaker System for iPod and MP3 Players (Black)

X-Mini II Capsule Speaker

2009-11-15T11:17:00.000+07:00

Ever since the X-Mini Capsule Speaker appeared in 2008, we have been completely blown away by the absolutely astounding sound quality and volume that these little gems produce! The X-Mini Capsule Speaker regularly stops customers in their tracks at our retail store, people cannot believe that what they are hearing is eminating from these handy pocket sized units. So when we heard that XMI the company responsible for the X-Mini, was launching a new version, we were suitably excited! We are very glad to report that the X-Mini II doesn't disappoint, again the boffins have succeeded in getting a Quart out of a Pint pot! Retaining all of the best features from the groundbreaking first generation unit, the second generation comes with a number of innovations that combine to create a greater audio experience for the user. Larger Driver. The first and most recognisable difference with the X-Mini II is that it's slighly larger than the original model. The X-Mini II now boasts a 40mm driver, that delivers an even richer and fuller sound. Longer Battery Life. The X-Mini II now boasts an improved battery life, a staggering 11 hours of continuous playback from just one charge. "Buddy Jack" Design. A brand new feature to the X-Mini II is the "Buddy Jack" system. This allows you to connect one X-Mini II to another and another and... well, you get the picture. Capable of forming a near endless "Daisy Chain". Combine your X-Mini II with your friend's for quite simply jaw dropping audio! Built In 3.5mm Audio Connection. The refinement of the original X-Mini continues with the inclusion of an inbuilt 3.5mm audio connection cable. No more running the risk of forgetting to pack the charging/connection lead when you leave... the connection cable is always in reach. The audio cable neatly slips away underneath the speaker when not in use. Box Contains X-Mini II Capsule Speaker USB Charging cable Felt carry bag

Customer Reviews
Great Sound from small speakers, May 23, 2009
By Shiznorak (USA)

I was very excited to see these speakers after reading some reviews about them, although I was highly disappointed to realize that no one in the USA sells them. We took a chance with a new company and order them from England and they came in 36 hours! Digital Audio USA I believe was the name of the company...but enough about that and now onto the speakers.

These babies are great. The sound they produce is amazing and the bass produce is quite impressive for the speakers. You have to yell to be heard if you play two of the speakers at the same time. Although you lose a little quality when the source of the music and the speaker are turned all the way up, but then again, what speaker doesn't. I do believe the loss of the quality is from the rattling sound as the speakers vibrate across the table from it's own bass. I am highly satisfied with this product and I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for portable speakers.

Find out more @ X-Mini II Capsule Speaker

Zlive Speaker System and Docking Station for Zune (Black)

2009-11-14T11:16:00.000+07:00

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.

Customer Reviews
Good value, decent sound, August 28, 2008
By Derrick B. Smith "dSharp" (Chicago, IL USA)

Zlive's first speaker, the NS108B is really a Zune version of the iLive IS208B ipod/touch speaker dock tailored, of course for Zune devices. I bought this from Amazon.com for $59.99, presumably retail, seeing as it's not available anywhere, not even on Amazon for 1-2 months or on the Zlive website. The ipod version maxes out at $51.99 (average $40).
Unboxing: Nice package, all the standards. Just plugging it in lights up the clock display.
What's included: Clips for different Zune sizes, the remote (with button battery already installed), warranty and manual.
Operation: Pretty simple, plug it in, clip in your clip for your Zune device and slide in your Zune to start playing.
Sound quality: Given its size, the Zlive NS108B gets very good volume considering it's size. It's not a full sound and sounds kind of confined, or rather restrained in the bass section and even a bit in the highs; but it's not meant to be a boombox (we're waiting on Zlive's 2nd entry for that). It has an EQ but it's not documented what the settings are - use your own ear for the best setting. Even at what I deemed the flat setting, which is how it starts, the sound is clear and never distorts even at max volume - which is pretty nice. It seems as though the mid range gets the most boost.
Treble - ok and clear; mid-range - good, clear;bass - present, not powerful.
The dock also has an aux in for other devices, an aux out and a video out (assuming your device can send video out) - pretty standard; the video out worked without a hitch.
Also, it's worth noting the remote is just great. Not only is there a back button (finally), but also a Menu button, which jumps straight to the menu - neat. You can do everything from the remote you would be able to on the device/speaker dock except fast-forward/rewind songs. Cool.
Pros: Even though the ipod version is cheaper by $20 on average, it's still the next to cheapest Zune speaker dock on the market, (iHome's first Zune dock has that honor @ $49.99 retail) and the least expensive 2 speaker stereo portable dock with a clock. Great remote control.
Cons: Although there is a clock, it isn't an alarm clock - not really a con. It's small, but constrained to AC power; there's a panel for 2 AAA batteries, but it's really for backup and not for real playing. Strangely enough, as I'm writing this review the sound in the right speaker goes out. I'll have to return it - dang! This t could just be a bad unit - it happens sometimes.
Ratings:
Price - 4.0/5.0 (Could be $50, which would still be $10 more than the ipod version, but still be a good value)
Quality (hardware) - 3.0/5.0 (I reduced my score from a 4.5 because my right speaker just went dead 20 minutes into steady use - what the hey?)
Quality (sound) - 4.0/5.0 - Not high end sound, but you should expect that from a small form portable dock like this. It could be better, because the mid-range is so nice.
Others - 4.5/5.0 - Excellent remote, intuitive design, ease to use
Overall 4/5 - Recommended

Find out more @ Zlive Speaker System and Docking Station for Zune (Black)

Apple Magic Mouse - VDO Clip

2009-10-28T11:27:00.001+07:00

Apple has announced their new Mac-lineup, and with the iMac, a brand new Magic Mouse with multitouch, so that you can scroll on the whole surface and use finger gestures to navigate the screen.

Find out more @ Apple Magic Mouse

Apple Magic Mouse

2009-10-27T23:10:00.001+07:00

It began with iPhone. Then came iPod touch. Then MacBook Pro. Intuitive, smart, dynamic. Multi-Touch technology introduced a remarkably better way to interact with your portable devices - all using gestures. Now we've reached another milestone by bringing gestures to the desktop with a mouse that's unlike anything ever before. It's called Apple Magic Mouse. It's the world's first Multi-Touch mouse. And while it comes standard with every new iMac, you can also add it to any Bluetooth-enabled Mac for a Multi-Touch makeover.

Technical Details

* Laser technology delivers 20 times the performance of standard optical tracking
* Miniature sensors detect even the slightest movement
* Top-shell design matches other Apple products
* Bluetooth technology and Touch-sensitive technology

Find out more @ Apple Magic Mouse

Satechi (Black) Dock Station Stereo Round Speaker for Ipod Nano , Classic, Touch 1st Gen, 2nd Gen with Remote Control

2009-10-10T13:05:00.000+07:00

Transform your music into crystal clear sound from your iPod! The built-in docking station can recharge your iPod while listening to music. Relax with the convenience of a wireless remote control. A secondary input jack enables connection with other audio devices that have 3.5mm stereo jack. Powered by 4 AA batteries, or 6V DC power supply (power adapter is included). The Satechi Dock Station Stereo Round Speaker is ideal for your home or office. The speaker is light weight and portible, carry anywhere you go!

Customer Reviews
Great product, great customer service
By D. Iman II "The iMan" (USA)
THE PRODUCT - I was looking for a middle of the road iPod speaker because I wasn't interested in paying $200 for a BOSE iPod speaker. I wanted something small, simple and reasonably priced. THIS IS IT! Don't expect BOSE quality sound, but it is more than adequate for a desktop speaker in an office or to make your 1st gen iPod touch a great alarm clock (which it has inside it, but no built in external speakers to make it useful) Also, this dock is a great way to charge the touch, which does not come with a wall charging adapter.

THE CUSTOMER SERVICE - The only glitch in my experience was that the speaker/dock did not come with a universal iPod touch adapter. Your iPod will still attach to the speaker and work fine, and for the most part sit on the dock solidly. But the adapter makes it much more solid. I e-mailed Satechi and asked for an adapter. They CALLED me back, that's right CALLED me back, and offered to send one out free of charge. THAT'S an A+ in my book.

Find out more @ Satechi (Black) Dock Station Stereo Round Speaker for Ipod Nano , Classic, Touch 1st Gen, 2nd Gen with Remote Control

Cyber Acoustics Portable Digital Docking Speaker for iPod (Black)

2009-10-09T13:01:00.000+07:00

The CA-461 portable iPod docking speakers by Cyber Acoustics are compact and portable, yet provide the same big sound full-sized stereos produce. This six-watt system has two-inch high excursion dynamic drivers and is ideal for the active person who is constantly on-the-go. It is specifically designed for use with iPod and comes complete with all docking inserts to fit any iPod (excluding Shuffle and 3G). These docking speakers will charge your iPod while you're listening to your music, so you'll never have to worry about having a low battery. The speakers are AC powered or can run on four AAA batteries.

Customer Reviews
Superlative sound, but no remote switch.
By Samuel Chell (Kenosha,, WI United States)
[Update: In answer to some questions, this stereo has a conventional audio input, so you can easily use it with sound sources other than an iPod. As someone has observed, the Cyber Acoustic web page claims the Nano 3g can't be charged by the CA-421 dock. Au contraire! When using electrical power and the included dock adapter, I had no difficulty charging a Nano 3g with this CA-421 dock. In fact, contrary to the company's description, it did the same with a Classic and the Touch (I don't own an iPhone, though.) Since writing the following, I've "gone through" other speakers, including the most popular rechargeable Altec Lansing and Logitech, both of which balk at playing the newest Touch. This inexpensive iRhythms model actually sounds competitive and continues to be the only portable I can depend on (no doubt due to the well-constructed adapters and the provision for using regular AA alkalines). As for the outdoors volume limitation, even the very pricey, much lauded Tivoli iPal falls flat on its face when used outside. These battery-operated machines simply are not backyard party animals.]

After becoming attached to a JBL Micro, I decided I could use another, more affordable version. The Cyber Acoustics dock-speaker seemed like a worthy candidate, especially at a half to two-thirds the price of the JBL. Frankly, I wasn't expecting a unit as good as the vaunted JBL but was willing to sacrifice some quality to save a few bucks.

Surprise. If anything, the Cyber Acoustics sounds better than the On Stage Micro! Tastes will vary, but the CA-421 is slightly warmer, has deeper and fuller bass, and is less inclined to distort when playing files recorded excessively "hot." The Micro is a bit more crisp-sounding with a slight edge in treble frequencies (as noticed while comparing the drum's hi-hats and ride cymbals on the two units). I'm finding the Cyber Acoustics unit "wears" better for extending listening stretches.

Aside from the sound of the two units, the Cyber Acoustics-421 will seem agreeably light and trim--unless you've owned a JBL Micro, which wins on style points (the impressiveness of the Micro's sound is partly due to its coming from such a tiny saucer). The JBL also gets points for finishing touches and detailing--the look and feel are less "plastic" (even though, unlike the boxed CA, it comes sealed in virtually impenetrable plastic laminate). Also, the JBL's carrying bag is supple and cushioned (with interior pockets and velcro straps to keep Micro, iPod, and cords tightly and neatly packed); the CA's is basically a functional "sack." On the other hand, the Cyber Acoustics has clearer labeling of the plastic inserts for adapting different iPod models; the JBL comes with the inserts, but the user has to pick the right one through trial and error.

Even if the cost of the two units were the same, the CA-461 would still be competitive, if for sound alone. Perhaps the most compelling reason to go with the JBL in that case is its inclusion of a remote--admittedly handy for starting, stopping, and changing tunes when the speaker is on the other side of the room. But even without the remote, I doubt you'll find a better value in an iPod dock-speaker than this little Cyber Acoustics overachiever.

Finally, give the Cyber Acoustics people credit for making the power adapter light and compact, easily deployed whenever the user wishes to save on batteries (I returned a JBL On Stage II because the power adapter was practically the size and weight of a small boat anchor, making it clumsy for use even with some electrical installations.)

Find out more @ Cyber Acoustics Portable Digital Docking Speaker for iPod (Black)

Altec Lansing iMT620 inMotion Classic Portable iPod Dock with Rechargeable Battery and FM Tuner

2009-10-08T12:56:00.000+07:00

The Altec Lansing iMT620 inMotion Classic is a "Works with iPhone" and "Made for iPod" certified portable stereo system that includes a digital FM radio. Altec Lansing created the first portable iPod speaker and continues to push the standard with the iMT620, with special attention given to its portability, audio performance, and iPhone compatibility

Customer Reviews
Great Sound, Great Product!, September 3, 2009
By Jeff Kraus (Orlando, FL USA)
I'm giving this product the full 5 stars because it does its job really well. I have found a few minor issues, but nothing big enough to merit the loss of a star. I'll mention those issues below.

So let's start with the good stuff! First of all, the build quality is excellent. No creaking or flexing in the plastic. The hinge that allows the handle to turn into a stand has a smooth motion and good positive feedback for the preset stopping points.

The LCD display works pretty well, though in most cases you won't need it for anything. In iPod mode, it will show you the song and artist information -- the same information available on the iPod itself, a couple of inches to the left, on a bigger screen. The LCD also shows the FM station, mode, and volume level when it's being changed.

The FM tuner and antenna are nice. Reception is surprisingly good and the quality is clear. You are given four radio presets, accessible on the remote. Pressing and holding one of the 4 preset buttons sets the station, and a single press brings it up.

There is also an auxiliary input that accepts a 1/8-inch jack.

The sound quality is fantastic. Certainly better than I had hoped for in a unit so small. It also has a good volume range and distortion is very well controlled at higher volume levels.

Initial charging of the battery was fast. While I didn't time it, I can say this: After taking it out of the box, I plugged it in and sat down to eat some food that I had brought home with me. I checked the unit again about a half hour later, and the battery level indicator was at full. It will charge your iPod/iPhone while it is plugged in, but not when it is running on battery power (which is to be expected).

The remote, while not perfect, is pretty cool. It's really thin and slides into a slot in the back of the main unit when not in use. When in that slot, you can't even tell there's anything there. It runs on a button-cell battery, keeping the profile as small as possible. You can control your iPod/iPhone menus from the remote, change volume, select FM presets, skip tracks, pause, etc.

As a whole, I love this thing. High quality in just about every way. Of course, nothing is perfect. Here are the relatively minor issues I have found:

While the iPod/iPhone connection seems pretty strong, the "basin" that it rests in is bigger than the base of an iPod Classic or Touch, and bigger than the base of an iPhone 3G, even with my case attached. It's good news that you can fit an iPhone with a case in there. But I'm not a huge fan of the fact that since this "basin" is so big, when placing one of these above mentioned products onto the unit, the actual port that plugs into the iPod/iPhone is the only real point of contact. The iPod/iPhone does not rest against the unit, so I'd be a little worried about accidentally bending that port if someone were to push the iPod back towards the base or pull it forward towards them. There are plastic adapters to get a snug fit for the smaller members of the iPod family, but nothing specific to the full-size line.

Because of the small profile of the remote, I always feel like I'm going to break it. And the unit doesn't always respond quickly to the remote commands. Also, when you first put an iPod or iPhone on the system, it immediately starts playing some random song. I wish it would just do nothing until I tell it to play something.

Lastly, if you plan on using this with your iPhone, you'll have to deal with your screen lock settings. Personally, I have my iPhone set to auto-lock the screen after a minute of not being touched. This happens while it is on the dock playing music. It's fine if you're just letting it go, but once it locks, you can't use the remote to navigate through the menus because the remote can't unlock the iPhone. So you have to get up anyway, to unlock it before selecting your new song. This is not an issue with the iPod line, and if you want I guess you can turn off the screen lock on your phone before using it.

Even with a couple of minor irritations, I love this thing. Certainly worth the money, and every one of the 5 stars I gave it.

Find out more @ Altec Lansing iMT620 inMotion Classic Portable iPod Dock with Rechargeable Battery and FM Tuner

Altec Lansing T612 Digital Speaker for iPod and iPhone (Black)

2009-10-07T12:49:00.000+07:00

Listen to rich, distortion-free sound from your iPhone without missing any calls with the Altec Lansing T612 Digital Speaker for iPod and iPhone. Designed to complement the iPhone and certified to meet all "Works with iPhone" and "Works with iPhone 3G" requirements, the T612 won't pick up any of the annoying hum that mobile phones often emit, meaning you can leave your iPhone on and not in airplane mode.

Customer Reviews
For 2G Ipod Touch,
By Scott "Scott K" (Rochester, NY USA)
The current price of 131 is a very good deal. I paid full price for this unit.

Since this does not have a clock or radio, my main purpose of buying this was to get a decent sound on an ipod player. Also, it had to work with 2G Ipod Touch or 3G phone (both charge and play--many unit will play but not charge these new Ipod models).

The choices are few. Some JBLs and Bose (System II), and Polk Audio. I do not know if the more expensive hifi brands work with 2G Touch; I just didn't want to spend 500-600 dollars for an ipod station.

This unit has much more power than the JBLs I tested. The Klipsh units (like IGroove) will not charge IPod touch 2G, although they have excellent sound.

So it came down to Bose SDII vs this unit, which is now less than half the price of the Bose SDII. They are both very good, but this AL unit can get louder with less distortion, and even at lower volumes separates sounds better. I tested both units, using multiple songs/music (classical solo and orchestra; rock; blues; jazz solos and band; folk; acapella like Take6, among others). I'm not sure what to say about people who say the sound is muddled--well, for some recordings this is true, but a modern folk acoustic album, for example, comes out very crisp and alive, or a violin solo, the sound couldn't be more alive. I think I did a fair comparison of these units, and believe the AL unit may be better, and certainly a much better value. The bass/treble control is also quite excellent.

Find out more @ Altec Lansing T612 Digital Speaker for iPod and iPhone (Black)

iHome Rechargeable Mini Speaker

2009-10-06T12:39:00.000+07:00

Customer Reviews
Very tiny package with good sound, June 17, 2009
By R. Evans "RobEvansPhotography.com" (Rahway, NJ)
I had to give this product 5 stars mainly due to the size and sound quality. It is very small, much smaller than expected or how it appears on the website. The rubberized matt finish seems durable and feels good to the touch! Very well built little unit. As far as sound goes, it really packs a punch for a unit this small. I have other good quality mini speakers that are louder, but also much larger and 4 times the price. This unit only charges with a USB port, no AC adapter included(and no input for one either.) However the charge from the USB seems to last a good amount of time. We have listened to it for about 4 hours straight, at near full volume, then again the next day for about the same amount of time and it still seems to have a good charge. Great for vacations, especially if you have a portable USB charger or laptop... or can use the USB charging stations at some malls and airports. Length of charge still undetermined as this unit is still fairly new to me and I gave it to my fiancee. Distortion at the highest volume is there, however when you step back a few feet it is much less noticable and sounds more clear... or you can just turn it down slighty. Fairly clear sound and a nice little bass effect to boot(especially for the size.) I have very expensive taste in audio systems and this in no way will ever compete with a system or even a decent boom box. But for portability and travel, this tiny unit is excellent.

Find out more @ iHome Rechargeable Mini Speaker

Apple iPod nano 8 GB Black (5th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

2009-10-05T12:30:00.002+07:00

iPod nano now has a built-in video camera that lets you spontaneously shoot video wherever you are. And that's just the beginning. It has a dramatic, polished anodized aluminum finish and a larger screen. The new Genius Mixes feature acts as your personal DJ, automatically searching your iTunes library, then making mixes you'll love. Take iPod nano anywhere and the new Pedometer counts your steps. Also making its debut: a built-in FM radio with two amazing features--iTunes Tagging and Live Pause. So the world's most popular music player now has more to play with.

Customer Reviews
Very cool, handy and sleek new toy -- but don't throw away your Flip yet!!, September 16, 2009
By Nathan Andersen "film lover, philosophy profe... (Florida)
When Steve Jobs announced the newest generation iPod nano, he suggested that with its new video capability the nano would easily compete with the Flip Video camcorder. While someday down the line this may be a serious contender in the pocket video camera market, it's not there yet. I took some comparison footage with the iPod nano and the standard definition Flip Mino to show why. My point in all this is not to suggest that you go buy a Flip instead of an iPod nano, but that you ask yourself what it is you really want. If you want to make videos you can upload to Youtube and you want them to look pretty decent, and you don't care much about music or you already have an mp3 player, I wouldn't buy this iPod just because now it has video. On the other hand, having some video capability might be enough to give this the edge over most other music players; if games are more important to you than video, though, you'd be better off with an iPod touch.

One thing you'll notice in the footage, where I shot the same things back to back with both camcorders, is that where the Flip really shines is in low light. I shot the hamster moments at night, in a room illuminated only by a lamp. Not only did the iPod nano take grainy video, it also didn't do any kind of white balancing and the indoor lightbulb added an orange tint to the clip; I'm not sure exactly how the Flip is designed to address this (whether it automatically adjusts white balance or just has a better average setting), but the footage shows that it captured light correctly both outdoors and indoors. If you compare the hamster shots with the Flip and with the nano, I think it's clear that for indoor and lowlight there's no comparison and the Flip has the nano beat hands down. The outdoor images are closer, but I think even this small video shows greater detail in the Flip video. When you blow the images up bigger there's no comparison -- the Flip looks decent even on a big screen TV, the iPod nano footage looks like it was shot with, well, a toy camera. In all fairness, that's all it is at this point. (Note, by the way, that, like the Flip, the nano will only take video and doesn't take photos. You can manually add photos to the nano from your computer, but you can't use the onboard camera to capture stills.)

Another thing that bugs me a bit about the new iPod nano is the bizarre placement of the camera lens. It's nestled down in the corner of the backside below the screen -- exactly where it is most natural to hold this thing if you are shooting with it. Even if you just grasp the thing at the corners, there's a tendency for some part of a finger to accidentally edge into the camera frame. In fact, I found that even after I was aware of this fact I kept doing it anyways -- the way this thing fits in my hands just makes it likely I'll catch an edge of a finger in my shots unless I'm conscientious about avoiding it, and that detracts from the spontaneity this is designed to take advantage of. (I even noticed I'd done it on most of the iPod nano footage for this video comparison -- and I thought about doing it over, but then decided to leave it in just to show how easily it can happen.)

So, to sum up: what you really get with the iPod nano is a toy camera, fun to have in the pocket and very cool to have just in case there's something you want to shoot, but not quite the quality we've come to expect from the handy pocket camcorders like the Flip Mino and the Creative Vado and the Kodak Zi8, that keep getting better and better. Video is a nice new feature on the Nano, but not really a radical innovation and not a game changer.

What makes the iPod Nano worth it is that in addition to video on the fly, you get to listen to music, you get an FM radio that works quite well and even tells you what song you are listening to, you get a voice recorder (a VERY nice feature, excellent for students who can listen to music on their way to class and then record a lecture), a decent quality mini speaker, a somewhat useful pedometer, decent game options for killing time. You don't get any of that with the Flip! Sure, the new iPod nano is a toy ... but it's a very cool toy.

Find out more @ Apple iPod nano 8 GB Black (5th Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Apple iPod touch 32 GB (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

2009-10-04T12:28:00.000+07:00

iPod touch is a great iPod, a great pocket computer, and a great portable game player. Now the 8 GB iPod touch is just $199. The new 32 GB and 64 GB iPod touch models boast improved performance, making them up to 50 percent faster than the previous generation. Listen to a mix of songs automatically put together by the new Genius Mixes feature. Watch a movie. Surf the web. View rich HTML email. Find your location and get directions with Google Maps. Discover games and apps you're sure to love with new Genius recommendations for apps. And since iPod touch now comes with the latest 3.1 software already installed, you can start using fun, convenient features right out of the box.

Customer Reviews
WARNNING for new 8GB 3G owners and ipod touch 3G Review, September 11, 2009
By Hassan B. Bn Hadhram
Before i start let me just tell you "what's New" with the iPod touch Third generation" :

-Faster Cpu/Double the ram/Better graphic (faster Boot time/faster loading is all what i did notice)
-Double the storage for the same old price
-Voice control (I'll explain it in a second)
-Latest firmware for free
-New Earbuds with built in remote+Microphone (So you can use voice control)

And that is everything~ depends on your needs upgrading from 2G to 3G might be not worth it.

*Important Note* : only the New iPod touch 32GB/64GB are third generation ~ (8GB is repacked 2G) Details below.

About the new Voice control function, if you love to take your iPod with you to the Gym the new feature "Voice control" is pretty cool, it does allow you to control your music via your voice, no need to get the iPod out of your pocket you can simply say "Next" to move to next song, say "shuffle" for shuffle , say "Pause" and music playback will stop etc, that is why i recommend the iPod touch over iPod classic for gym users, my friend bought an iPod classic and now he complains that the iPod classic is too heavy for him when he goes to the gym and he will have to buy another iPod "properly Nano" for his Gym, for me i use my iPod touch for the gym, it's so light that sometimes i forgot that it's even in my pocket.

After playing with my iPod touch 3g for a while i honestly did not notice any difference from the outside or the inside compared to my old iPod touch Second generation (It's supposed to be faster but i did not notice anything during music and video playback or the menus, however browsing with safari and loading facebook was faster, same thing with boot time), you properly can only notice it being faster with heavy applications since video/music playback is already fast enough with 2G.

I got the 64GB iPod 3G for [...]$, if you think of upgrading your 2G iPod touch honestly do yourself a favor and save yourself the money unless you really need that much of a storage (I do that is why i bought one), also remember that the 3G battery lasts less than 2G,(3G battery = 30 Hours of music playback versus 2G 36 hours of music playback according to apple official specs)

*VERY IMPORTANT* for the people who wants the new 8GB version, the new third generation 8GB iPod touch is NOT 3G it's a second generation iPod touch but apple did repack it/renamed it to 3rd generation, which seems to be misleading by APPLE and it's not cool at all, it is IPod Touch 2G+Updated firmware and that is it.

The iPod touch 3rd generation 32GB/64GB versions comes with a free mic+remote with the earbuds while the 8GB do not (it comes with normal earbuds), the 32GB/64GB have the New CPU+Graphic (According to apple the new cpu is twice as fast just like the iPhone 3GS) while the new 8GB use the same old CPU/Chip from the old iPod touch second generation.

Here is APPLE description on the iPod touches page about the 32/64GB versions : """Enjoy all the great features of the 8GB model along with better performance, richer graphics and voice control"""

The iPod touch 3rd generation is the same awesome iPod touch second generation was.
You can play your music/watch your videos/play games, even read your kindle books/etc "you can read amazon big description of what it's capable of if you do not know yet, it's better than what would i say because it has pictures and everything.

The iPod touch got the best browser i have ever seen in a portable device, i do not even need to carry my netbook with me anymore thanks to my iPod touch, if you hated browsing with lame browsers that crash a lot or slow (many mobile phones) trust me on this one, the iPod touch browser is not a toy or a gimmick it is a browser you can depends on, it's super fast and smooth and after using it for like a full year it has only crashed on me once!

Short list of pros and cons about the iPod touch

Pros:
-Slick,small and light device
-Great touch screen
-The BEST web browser on a portable device
-Amazing video/music playback
-App Store (Too many cool applications for Free)
-Display screen is clear and bright
-No bugs and annoying stuff a very reliable hardware
-64GB Flash based mp3 player

Cons:
-Not much of an upgrade over 2G (people were disappointed because they did not get upgrades like camera/OLED/etc)
-Weaker battery, only lasts 30 hours for music playback versus 2G iPod touch 36 Hours music playback
-Expensive for the 64GB version
-Still no FM radio without the use of online applications
-Bluetooth is still half locked

I hope my review was helpful :)

Find out more @ Apple iPod touch 32 GB (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Apple M8799LL/A AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem and Antenna Port

2009-08-31T15:18:00.000+07:00

The AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem and Antenna Port is compatible with the industry-standard 802.11b wireless networking protocol, which means all AirPort products, as well as Wi-Fi certified 802.11b wireless products. For higher performance you will need to have both the Airport Extreme Card and the AirPort Extreme Base Station. The range of AirPort Extreme is up to 50 feet at 54 Mbps and up to 150 feet at 11 Mbps. The Base Station can be used in conjunction with an Ethernet connection (such as with a cable modem, DSL modem, or Ethernet network) through the integrated Ethernet port, or with a telephone line through a modem.

The AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem and Antenna Port also supports USB or Ethernet wireless printer sharing. Just plug in a compatible USB or Ethernet printer and with Mac OS X on your computer you can quickly and easily print. You can use the new USB port to attach a USB printer or use the 10/100BASE-T Ethernet LAN port to plug in an Ethernet printer directly into the base station.

With the new AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem and Antenna Port, up to 50 users can work and play on the Internet simultaneously up to 150 feet away from an Ethernet connection or a phone line. The Base Station comes equipped with a built-in firewall to protect sensitive data on your computer and the ability to secure transmissions with support for 128-bit encryption.

The AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem and Antenna Port lets you manage the range of your wireless network. An external antenna port is provided for you to attach an external antenna. There are two types of antennas available: an omni-directional and a directional, which extend the range of the AirPort Extreme base station. There is also a software feature that allows you on reduce the size of your wireless network, down to just a single room for extra privacy.

Customer Reviews
Cross-Platform bliss,
By Vano Chu "grills year-round" (NJ)
Got this primarily so we could work anywhere in the house on our PC laptops. Granted, a Linksys wireless router would have been cheaper, but the Airport Extreme also serves as a wireless print server and that (plus the fact that our primary computer is a Mac) was what sealed the deal for us. Our cabling setup is:
Cable modem -> Linksys Wired 4-Port Router -> Airport Extreme -> Lexmark Optra E312L

Our laptops use Linksys Wireless-G cards and get good reception throughout the house. Our G4 and PS2 are hooked directly into the wired Linksys Router for their connectivity. The trick to using it with an existing router is to turn off the NAT addressing feature of the Airport Extreme so that it acts only as an Ethernet "bridge" to the wireless computers; the Linksys router assigns all the IP addresses for everything on the system including the PC laptops. The PCs can print wirelessly to the laser printer via the Airport and so can the Mac. Bonus!

Setup was very quick - about 15 minutes to get everything plugged in. The hard part was getting the security set up correctly (and yes, you'd better secure your wireless network) as the format for passwords was different on the Mac vs. PC platforms. Had to do some Web searches to find out how to make them speak the same language (hex). Has worked flawlessly since then. If I had to do it over, would buy it again in a heartbeat.

Find out more @ Apple M8799LL/A AirPort Extreme Base Station with Modem and Antenna Port

Apple Time Capsule MB276LL/A (AirPort Extreme Plus 500 GB Storage)

2009-08-30T14:29:00.000+07:00

Introducing Time Capsule. Automatic wireless backup for your Mac. Time Capsule is a revolutionary backup device that works wirelessly with Time Machine in Mac OS X Leopard. It automatically backs up everything, so you no longer have to worry about losing your digital life. Time Capsule is also a full-featured 802.11n Wi-Fi base station. Every computer in your house can work off a wireless network at blazing speeds. And they can back up wirelessly to the same Time Capsule.

Customer Reviews
The Best Way to Backup a Mac Laptop,
By Jeffrey Heaton "Jeff Heaton" (St. Louis, MO)
I've been using Time Machine since I upgraded to Leopard. While Time Machine is great for backing up my iMac, its a pain to have to hook up my Mac Book Pro and new Mac Book Air to an external hard drive. The Time Capsule is great for that. So long as my laptop is open and running, a backup can happen.

Make sure you remember to do your first backup using ethernet. Otherwise it is going to be slow. Apple does not want to bog down your network with backups, so when you are backing up wirelessly, it will intentionally throttle the connection sped.

This device also functions as a wireless router. I was able to remove my previous Air Port Extreme from the network. The large size is nice because you are able to share one large drive and backup several smaller computers. My iMac and laptop all backup just fine.

The device does run a little hot. The Best Way to Backup a Mac Laptop

Find out more @ Apple Time Capsule MB276LL/A (AirPort Extreme Plus 500 GB Storage)

Samsung S3 4 GB Slim Portable Media Player (Black)

2009-08-29T16:42:00.000+07:00

Rock out to your favorite tunes or watch crystal-clear videos wherever life takes you on a 1.8-inch LCD. Available in five cool colors, the Samsung S3 plays audio and video as well as displays still pictures and text. It also comes with 4 GB of memory and the DNSe sound engine for a superior surround sound experience. Packed with multimedia features you can enjoy no matter where you are, the Samsung S3 makes a perfect media partner.

Customer Reviews
As others have said, it's good for the price,
By Peny Lane "musiclover"
I got this after my Samsung YP-K3 went kaput after an incident while working out on the treadmill (don't ask). I've heard a lot of good stuff about this device so I decided to purchase it. First, let me just say that I'm a simple gal with a limited budget. This means that I don't have the moolah to spend 300 bucks on an iPod (I don't care how AMAZING they are), nor do I feel the need to spend money on a device that has everything under the sun. I just want something that plays music. If it has some cool features like games and cool graphics under a reasonable price, then that's fine, too. Which is basically the S3. I got the 4GB one in green. It plays music, has some videos, can read text files, and have some games. I basically use it so far for the music only. Another plus for me is the fact that there's built in space for playlists. There are 5 playlists that hold up to 100 songs, which I think is cool. I have some issues with this however. In the beginning, after I charge it, the playlists would disappear, and then reappear after I add a song to it. That doesn't happen anymore though. It also doesn't recognize playlists I made in Napster. It would go directly to the File Browser but would then split apart the playlists and file the songs under the Artist's name. However, it automatically recognizes the ones downloaded from WMP. Odd.Haven't used the other features in length so I can't really comment on those. I will say that I'm glad I purchased this device, though I'm thinking of getting the 8gb one so I could download more music. All in all, this is a good device for those who don't want to spend alot of money on something whose sole purpose is to give you the pleasure of listening to music.

E.T.A.: One thing I like to add is that I wish there were available accessories for this device. I don't really want the silicone case because it reminds me of the one I purchased for my old sansa device that I had years ago, that ripped apart. It's sad that there's millions of accessories available for the iPod and Zune because these companies assume that those two are the only ones that everybody buys when it's just not true. So, I'm searching for suitable cover cases so that there'll be no more cracks. Any suggestions?

Find out more @ Samsung S3 4 GB Slim Portable Media Player (Black)

Samsung YP-K3JQR K3 2 GB Slim Portable Media Player (Red)

2009-08-28T16:40:00.000+07:00

Samsung's YP-K3 2GB Audio Player is an ultra-thin subscription-enabled MP3 Player. Instead of being limited to one equalizer mode, like some other MP3 players, the K3 has five EQ modes so that your music plays the way you want to hear it. Keeping with the "more than the usual player" mentality, Samsung includes above average headphones. These comfortable bass boosting earphones fit comfortably in your ear and substantially limit extraneous noise for an improved listening experience. With an easy to browse picture menu, photo viewing capabilities and a built-in FM tuner, the K3 truly stands out among other flash-drive based MP3 players.

Customer Reviews
Nano Nanoo,
By Jerry P. Danzig (New York, NY USA)
Well, here's Samsung's answer to the ipod nano, and it's a beauty. Yes, this is the RED Samsung K3 2GB mp3 player with built-in FM tuner. The unit is sleek, stylish, easy to use, and it offers EXCELLENT sound. The earbuds provided sound as good as my Sennheiser earbuds, unexpected performance for pack-ins. Though I haven't filled the K3's memory to capacity, it would appear to hold around thirty albums or 500 songs at the standard 128bit sound quality. There are a number of EQ settings designed for different types of music, but you can also set up your own custom setting using the built-in seven-band equalizer. FM performance is excellent as well, with adjustable sensitivity. The little color screen works great as a GUI but washes out in sunlight and doesn't do the greatest justice to your photos. This unit excels at playing music, not displaying photos. Beyond that, battery life is claimed to be 25 hours. I have been using the K3 with the Belkin mp3 armband designed for nanos and K3's, and it's very unobtrusive and comfortable to wear. For someone who grew up in an era of portable battery-powered record players accompanied by a stack of worn 45's, this is an amazing device!

Find out more @ Samsung YP-K3JQR K3 2 GB Slim Portable Media Player (Red)

Samsung P2 8 GB Touchscreen Bluetooth Portable Media Player (Black)

2009-08-27T16:36:00.000+07:00

The Samsung P2 is a flash-based portable media player with a 3" LCD widescreen (16x9) with slim-style form factor. Capable of video, music, photo, FM radio playback, the P2 will let you carry your media files with you wherever you go. Samsung has also embedded a Bluetooth 2.0 chip into the P2 so users can use right away with other Bluetooth 2.0 devices such as stereo speakers and headphones. Packed with additional features such as datacasts, alarm clock, world clock and calendar functionality, the P2 is an extremely multifunctional media player. Get up to 30 hours of music or 5 hours of video playback per charge of the internal lithium polymer rechargeable battery which charges whenever connected to the PC for extra convenience. P2 is available in Black, White, and Burgundy.

Customer Reviews
Overall good player,
By M. Kanai
Aesthetically, this is a really nice product from Samsung. The player is quite sleek, with nice rounded edges, a decent weight, and sharp piano black gloss finish. The sound quality is superb. I didn't get the same battery life the manufacturer did (they rate 30 hours, I probably average 20), but I would bet that's because I use the touchscreen interface more than their battery testers did.

As for the touchscreen, I have to admit it's pretty nice. I prefer tactile use, so I'm more of a fan of buttons than touchscreens, but Samsung has done a nice job executing this one. There are a couple of odd quirks to the touchscreen. For example, when you "swipe" the touchscreen to advance you have to swipe from right to left, which seems counterintuitive since you are advancing the progress bar from left to right. Obviously, the same is true of swiping to back up, where you swipe from left to right, even though you're going back on the progress bar.

Also, in the default menu setting, you make circular gestures on the touchscreen to advance through the menu. Neat? yes. Functional? not really. The biggest problem I had with this is that my thumb kept obscuring the icons as they moved into view. Ultimately, I found this too annoying and I disabled it in favor of a regular grid menu. Not as cool to show your friends, but much more functional.

The audio player functions are top notch. As a caveat to this, I will say that I could not get this to sync with Winamp 5.5. My Winamp crashed every time I loaded it when the P2 was plugged in. Instead, I did my syncing through Windows Media Player, and it worked fine. It synced playlists perfectly, and did a great job recognizing albums when I copied them directly like a mass storage device. The on-board player functions include a customizable EQ with quite a few presets and a clarity adjuster. There are preset visualizations including a couple of light shows (that do not track the music), album art, track info, and a spectrum analyzer.

The video player is pretty good, but I don't really like watching video on such a small screen anyway. I'm not a big fan of the fact that you have to convert through Samsung's software to get it to run, but I guess that's the case with most MP3/video players. The widescreen playback is properly formated. FM reception is satisfactory. Not sure how the eReader works since I don't have any ebooks for it, but you can see test screens of it.

This is, overall, a good MP3 player, even if it is a bit pricey. It is only $50 cheaper than the iTouch, but it also brings in an FM radio tuner and bluetooth support for up to two bluetooth devices--including a pass-thru for your cellphone to a set of bluetooth stereo headphones like the non-US release Samsung T9. Bluetooth is a great feature if you've got bluetooth headsets, speakers, or car radio. So you're getting more features than the iTouch offers. A major downside for me is the fact that it is primarily touchscreen-only (there are hard buttons on the side: on the left a lock button and a play/pause/power button; on the right, two volume buttons). Since I tend to like to keep my mp3 in my pocket, I prefer to have tactile skip buttons as well.

Samsung has made some great strides with their feature packed MP3 players. And while this one was almost perfect for me, it fell short of the mark only in the somewhat high price tag and the lack of hard skip buttons. I give them kudos, however, for having hard play/pause/power and volume buttons (FYI, play/pause and volume can also be controlled via the touchscreen).

Find out more @ Samsung P2 8 GB Touchscreen Bluetooth Portable Media Player (Black)

iLuv i9200 Vertical Loading 4-CD Audio System with Dock for iPod (Black)

2009-08-26T16:25:00.000+07:00

The i9200 from iLuv is a vertical mini audio system with powerful two-way speakers will make your music really stand out... and stand up. Load four MP3 CDs or Audio CDs, dock your iPod, or listen to the radio with this high-quality system. Stand it on your desk or shelf, or mount it on the wall. It's up to you. Choose how you want your music as well by programming up to 40 audio tracks with several playback options. If you have a favorite radio station or 32 favorite stations, this system can remember as many as 16 AM and 16 FM stations. Navigate all your options easily with a clear LCD display with white backlight. Stand up for yourself and enjoy the music. Features include powerful 2-way speakers, plays and charges your iPod, clock display with sleep function, timer function with snooze capability, subwoofer output, LCD display with white backlight, sliding motorized CD door mechanism. Specs include top speaker with rated power of 10 watts, bottom speakers with rated power of 15 watts and total audio output of 20 watts RMS and 40 Watts Peak, 30-pin male connector, 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack, RCA audio output jack for subwoofer, land eft and right speaker terminals. Works with iPods with dock connector including iPod touch, classic, 5G, 30 to 80GB video, iPod nano 1st and 2nd generation, iPod mini, and ipod 4G. Included in the box is high-fidelity mini audio system, remote control with battery, wall-mounting kit, dock adapters, pedestal stands, AC power cord, and manual.

Customer Reviews
A generally good system, but service was very poor,
By Tucker McClure (Las Vegas, NV USA)
First, let me say that this product offers exactly what I was looking for in terms of functionality. It plays CDs and my (3rd gen) iPod, has a wake-up alarm function, and has pretty good sound. It's also very attractive.

Unfortunately, when I first received the product, only half of the CD trays worked, so, I sent it in to have it worked on under warranty. After paying another $25 to ship it back to the company, I received it perhaps nearly a month later (much longer than was necessary considering that they simply shipped me a new unit). Communication with the company was unreliable and their emails were terse and ambiguous, which is something I really will not accept. So, despite being a good product (when it works), the fact that it was initially broken and the poor service will likely prevent me from buying from jWin any time soon.

Find out more @ iLuv i9200 Vertical Loading 4-CD Audio System with Dock for iPod (Black)

Roth Audio ALFiE Integrated 2.1 Speaker System with DVD, CD, and iPod Dock (Black/Silver)

2009-08-25T16:21:00.000+07:00

Welcome to Roth Audio�s AFLiE. The ALFiE combines all facets of the audio visual world into one sleek, beautiful piece. The integrated iPod dock means the entertainment hub is ready and waiting for your Apple portable�s tunes, while the rear panel�s auxiliary-in socket means you can swiftly hook-up any MP3 player. CDs, of course, are catered for � including recordable discs � while movie fans can drop in a DVD, letting ALFiE provide vision as well as sound. Happy to lounge in any room in the house, the Roth Audio system�s radio alarm and bundled remote control mean ALFiE is especially designed for the office or bedroom application. Where ever you envision this piece within your home, you can rely on Roth Audio to supply high-quality sound and vision. The unit�s built-in audio engine is no slouch, powering out a total of 40 watts, and using a 2.1 amplifier and speaker combination to provide room-filling sound. Sneak a peek under its chassis, and you realize the use of an ever-so-clever downward-firing subwoofer helps beef-up the tracks, while allowing ALFiE to maintain its trim figure. Adjustable bass and treble means you can control your ALFiE specifically to your preference; tone down � or tone up for that matter � depending on your mood. Naturally, for a machine from the tune-loving people that created the sublime-sounding Music Cocoon MC4, this unit doesn�t just pound out a big sound, it also presents a beautiful sound. No home entertainment system is complete � though more than a few claim to be � without support for DVD. So whether you invite Freddy into your bedroom, Shrek into your playroom, ALFiE�s selection of video outputs provide sharp images, while the 2.1 sound engine backs up the pictures with thrilling movie effects and soundtracks. Combined with your preferred TV this stand alone unit will provide all audio and video playback you desire.

Customer Reviews
Performs as advertised; nice design ; fun to use, January 25, 2009
By Vandelay Rules (Queens, NY)
Not being an extreme audiophile, I was slightly apprehensive about how this system would perform and if it would match up to our old multi-component system. So far so good! Plus the ability to use it as our primary DVD player is a nice added bonus.

We are using as the main stereo in our living room (medium size room in an apartment) and it is sufficient. The iPod dock works great with our "old" iPod mini. The CD/DVD function works well as does the Video Out (using old RCA composite port not component; we have an old TV), Aux in, and FM tuner. The AM tuner has not been that good- there is an audible hissing sound even with the "Talk" feature on the remote enabled (though that feature does improve it a bit). So other than the AM tuner, we have been pleased, and didn't have to spend an arm an leg as with the Bose stuff...

Finally, I have to admit the system is quite cute and cuddly while being slick. Alfie is our friend.

Cheers.

Find out more @ Roth Audio ALFiE Integrated 2.1 Speaker System with DVD, CD, and iPod Dock (Black/Silver)

Altec Lansing inMotion iM413 Portable Audio System for Sansa

2009-08-24T16:08:00.000+07:00

Specifically designed to unleash the robust playback abilities of most Sansa portable MP3 players (Sansa e200 series, Sansa c200 series, and Sansa Connect), the Altec Lansing inMotion iM413 is a powerful portable stereo system with surround effect technology. Designed for rich, crystal clear playback with enhanced, powerful bass technology, the iM413 delivers an immersive, surround effect with its custom, full-range twin bass-enhanced neodymium speakers. Powerful bass enhancement technology also is included to deliver high-quality bass without a subwoofer.

With its sleek and modern design, the iM413 is designed to complement your contemporary lifestyle. Backed with enough power to deliver full-range, full-bodied sound in the kitchen, living room, or bedroom, the iM413 runs on three AAA batteries (not included) that can power the unit for up to 24 hours. For those times when you don't want to worry about battery life, the iM413 includes an AC adapter for nonstop playback functionality.

The iM413 also features a built-in FM radio with station memory presets, an easy-to-read LCD, and a telescopic antenna. A fully functional wireless remote is included for added convenience. The iM413 is even compatible with Sansa models that have alarm clock and sleep timer features.

An auxiliary input jack is included so you can use the iM413's powerful speakers with various CD, DVD, and MP3 players. The iM413 comes backed by a 1-year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
iM413 inMotion digital speaker system, wireless remote, AC power supply, user’s guide, and quick connect instructions.

Customer Reviews
Great speaker option for Sansa Connect, January 22, 2008
By MAC (San Antonio, Texas USA)
I own a Sansa Connect and wanted to find a portable and reasonable sounding set of speakers to acccompany it for use at my office, home, and other locations where I might prefer not to use earphones. The iM413 seemed to fit the bill nicely so I bought one this weekend. The build quality is excellent and the overall sound is good for speakers of this size, especially when using the bass boost and surround sound functions controlled by the included remote. The tone is pleasing and easily heard across an average sized room even at relatively low to moderate volume settings. There is some distortion at the highest volume, but I won't be using that level much anyway, so I don't find that unacceptable for my needs. The system looks great with the Connect attached and presents a very clean, high tech profile. I particularly like that the speaker dock also charges the player. The Connect has a short battery life when using WiFi, so being able to stream Internet radio for several hours with no concern for the battery running low is a big "plus". I can listen to and download plenty of music and still have a fully charged battery when I'm ready to go moble with just the player. The iM413's FM reception has been quite good and it is nice having another option for music that my Connect itself does not currently have. Since the system is also compatable with the Sansa c200 and e200 series of MP3 players, both my son (e260) and duaghter (c250) can also make use of the iM413 when I'm not using it. The only problem will be the fighting to get it! My one compliant is the FM antenna which is a single, thin wire. It tends to get in the way when moving the unit around and seems easy to accidently damage or pull off if it were to snag on something, etc. Perhaps a small, fold-away telescoping antenna may have been a better option in my opinion, espcially for a portable system. Overall, however, this is not a big enough issue to stop my liking the iM413 so much. I wish it were not so expesnive ($99 at BestBuy), but as they become more available, I'm sure there will be some great deals out there before too long. For what I use it for, the iM413 is a great product and I would recommend to anyone looking for a solid sounding, portable speaker system for the Sansa Connect, e200, or c200 series.

Find out more @ Altec Lansing inMotion iM413 Portable Audio System for Sansa

iHome iP9BR Clock Radio for iPod, iPhone (Black)

2009-08-23T15:09:00.000+07:00

The iP9 has several unique features, including a full function remote control with menu navigation, AM/FM presets, EQ controls, and even 3D sound for an enhanced audio experience. The iP9 also allows you to wake to your custom iPod playlist at different times on different days with the 7-5-2 features and programmable snooze settings. You'll also enjoy phenomenal sound around the clock with our Reson8 stereo speaker chambers. The iP9 is an innovative clock radio for iPhone & iPod designed to shield annoying iPhone/mobile phone GSM noise. This way the airplane mode is not required and you'll never miss a call again when your iPhone is docked. High-fidelity stereo drivers in specially designed Reson8 speaker chambers deliver astounding clarity, depth, and power Line-in jack Gradual Wake and Gradual Sleep increase/decrease Alarm/Sleep volume Full function remote control controls unit and iPhone/iPod menu functions Dual alarm with AM/FM presets Bass, treble, 3D and balance controls for best sound Extra-large, backlit custom LCD Display with dimmer DST switch for quick daylight-savings time adjustment Power - Universal AC Power Adapter (included) Battery Requirements - 4 AA for battery backup (not included) Unit Dimensions - 10.2 W x 3.1 H x 6.5 D 3G, 4G nano and iPod Touch inserts not included

Customer Reviews
Everything You Like About the iH Radios, but Without the GSM Buzz!, January 3, 2009
By C. Dewey "Dynamat Convert" (Greenville, SC)
I had been reading about the IP99 for months but was unwilling to pay well over $120 for it. When I happened across the new IP9 for $79.99 in a local warehouse that starts with "Cost" and ends with "co", I thought I would give it a try.

The sound is slightly improved over my older IH5 and IH6 radios -- which is to say excellent for the money -- and so far I haven't heard the slightest GSM buzz. The iP9's 3D effect is richer than the Sony ICF-C1iPMK2's "Mega Xpand" feature. The overall sound of the iP9 is slightly warmer than that of the Sony but otherwise comparable. The Eq option is a big plus.

The one advantage the Sony has is that it supports an iPhone from the back via and adustable block. That somewhat negates the need for a dock insert. This is a nice convenience for people with an iPhone shell that is small enough to fit in a universal dock as you may not have to remove the shell to dock the iPhone securely. You NEED an insert on the iP9 as you would on any device with a universal dock on top and nothing substantial behind the dock. Fortunately, the iPhone insert iHome includes seems to work as well as an iPhone 3G Universal Dock Insert from Apple... and it's black! The iHome website currently states that the IP9 does not ship with an iPhone 3G insert but perhaps iHome wised-up.

The dual alarms work in a similar manner to the Sony. The 2-5-7 day setting is a plus. I have not used the snooze feature though it is supposed to be configurable. Our dogs do not allow us to snooze, in case you were wondering. At night, one big advantage for the iP9 is that the dimmer allows you to turn off the backlighting entirely. As anyone with a Sony will tell you, their dimmest setting is way too bright. The iHome's numbers are also a little larger.

I have read about some quality problems with the IP99 and am hoping that the IP9 is as solid as the IH5 and IH6 clocks I have had for a few years without any problems. The iP9 seems to be built more solidly than the Sony, particularly with respect the buttons. The dials take a little getting used to, but if you're tying to adjust the volume in a dark room they are much easier to adjust than the tiny Sony volume buttons, which have an annoyingly loud click. I also give the iP9's remote an edge because it includes a few more functions.

In summary, the iHome iP9 is a solid performer with an excellent attention to detail that puts it ahead of the Sony ICF-C1iPMK2, despite its more iPhone shell-friendly design.

Find out more @ iHome iP9BR Clock Radio for iPod, iPhone (Black)

Sony ICF-C7IP Clock Radio for iPod and iPhone with Hidden Sliding Dock Tray

2009-08-22T14:22:00.002+07:00

iPod & 3G Certified iPhone Compatible, Hidden sliding dock tray, Wake to iPod, iPhone, Radio or Buzzer, Dual Alarm, Digital FM/AM Tuner with 15 Presets, Preset Alarm volume for iPod, iPhone, Radio, Auto Time Set & ADST, Charges iPod & iPhone, Remote Control

Customer Reviews

Best iPhone/iPod Docking Clock Radio, June 4, 2009
By Ken Joy "President/CEO of House of Joy Publis... (Los Angeles)
I searched a long time for a combo clock radio and docking station for my iPhone. Although there are several on the market, I wanted something that took up as little space as possible on my night stand, had a display with large numbers, would charge my iPhone, play music from my iPhone as the alarm instead of the radio, and was easy to use.

I FOUND IT!! This Sony clock radio is great, and has TONS of features. I like the large illuminated display, which has different settings depending on how bright you want the light at night. Setting the alarm is very easy (you can go forward and backward through hour and minutes, without having to run completely through the cycle like most clocks), and there are TWO alarm settings. You can set an alarm for weekdays to get you up for work, and then a separate alarm for the weekend. Pretty cool.

The snooze button is nice and big on top of the unit, and let's you take the standard 10 minute snooze, or you can keep pressing the button and lengthen the snooze time up to 60 minutes in 20 minute increments. A nice feature.

There's a sleep feature timer so you can listen to radio or iPhone/iPod music while you fall asleep. For the alarm, you can have a buzz, AM or FM radio, or a tune from your iPhone, and it works great.

Buttons on the front and side are nice and large so you don't have to grope in the dark, and there are a variety of customizable settings.

The best part is the hidden slide-out docking tray. Pop it out when you want to charge your iPhone/iPod or listen to music through the clock's speaker, and push it back in when you don't need it, making the unit's footprint as small as possible. The docking tray comes with adapters to fit iPhone or iPod. I use mine without either adapter because I have a protective case on my iPhone, but it still fits in nicely.

In reading back my review, I sound like a Sony employee, but I'm not. Have no connection to the product, other than I'm a satisfied customer, and would recommend this unit highly to anyone looking for a docking station/clock radio for their iPhone or iPod. There are too many other features to go into here. Have fun discovering all the great things Sony thought of to include on this unit.

Thanks for a great unit, Sony!

Find out more @ Sony ICF-C7IP Clock Radio for iPod and iPhone with Hidden Sliding Dock Tray

iLife '09

2009-08-18T12:44:00.001+07:00

iLife '09 makes it easier than ever to get the most out of the photos, movies, and music on your Mac. In iPhoto '09, you can organize and find your photos in two new ways: Faces, based on who is in your photos, and Places, based on where they were taken. iMovie '09 lets you make the movie you want in the time you have. With new themes, you can give your movie a professional look in seconds. Or use the new Precision Editor to fine-tune your masterpiece. With Basic Lessons in GarageBand '09, you can learn to play piano and guitar. And you can compose and record your own songs with new guitar amps and stompbox effects.

Customer Reviews
Great, January 29, 2009
By FroggyM (Washington, DC)
There is no way that I could give the iLife suite anything but 5 stars. I switched to the mac 1.5 years ago and have been intensely using iLife '08 for the entire time. The suite of programs is just incredible. I would probably pay upwards of $600 for the suite of programs, and it costs only [...]. Crazy.

The following review covers the new features added in iLife '09 that weren't in iLife '08. There are a lot of new features, and I'll update my review after I spend time with each one.

iPhoto '09
FACE RECOGNITION: My iPhoto library is relatively small at 14,000 photos, most of which feature friends and family. Because I'm a bit OCD, with iPhoto '08, I took the time to label all the photos with the names of the people contained in each picture. I did this by writing the person's name in the "Key Words" field of each photo. For a variety of reasons, my iPhoto library is much more valuable and useful to me when they are properly labeled with people's names. As such, I was intrigued by the face recognition feature of iPhoto '09. After allowing iPhoto '09 to scan my library of photos for faces (which took about 3 hours), I spent a handful of hours training iPhoto to know what everyone's faces look like. This process (if you know how to do it) is indeed easier than the old way (of me typing in people's names in the "key words" field under each photo). The facial recognition is pretty good, or maybe very good. The problem I've discovered is that facial recognition is never going to be perfect. Indeed some of the best photos have friends or family with their backs turned to the camera, or whatever, so facial recognition doesn't notice them. If I were to rely solely on the facial recognition in iPhoto '09, I would fail to properly label all my pictures ... I'd miss some really really good pictures. Then, months later, when I'm looking for a photo with my friend Sam, I won't be able to find certain photos, because it was never properly labeled with his name. Long story short, I won't be using the facial recognition feature. Instead, I'm going to continue to mark all my photos with names in the "key words" field of each photo. Note also, the facial recognition feature cannot find the face of my parents' Dalmatian dog.

PRINTED BOOKS (MAPS FEATURE): the printed books that I've created with iPhoto '08 are amazing. I've had several people say, "I've gotta get a mac" when they see the books I've made. And, a few months ago, Apple announced that the pictures in the printed books are going to be even higher-res (haven't had a chance to print a book since the announcement), so the books should look even better now. A new feature in iPhoto '09 is the ability to add custom maps to your books. For instance, I created a book with a map showing a travel line from NYC-Helsinki-Warsaw-Cracow-Budapest-Vienna-Prague. The map looks awesome (see photo uploaded to amazon). Printed books make the perfect gift or coffee table book. (TIP: after you create the map, right-click on the map for additional advanced options (e.g., changing the connecting lines from _curved_ lines to _straight_ lines). Criticism: while the large-scale maps (i.e., big city to big city to big city) look great, zoomed-in maps (i.e., of an individual city or town) have no detail. (See the photo uploaded to amazon of my map of Warsaw, Poland). Hopefully they'll fix this.

GEOTAGGING: this feature is so cool and totally belongs within iPhoto. Years from now, when all the cameras have GPS built inside, it is going to be so convenient to have this metadata attached to photos. That being said, I cannot imaging spending the time to label my 14,000 photos that don't currently have that data. I did buy the "Amod AGL3080 GPS Data Logger," to carry with me on trips so that I can add GPS data to new pictures I take. I haven't had a chance to use it yet. Update: I've had a chance to manually geotag some pictures (e.g., this batch of photos is "Warsaw, Poland"). It's pretty easy to tag photos. That being said, there's really nothing amazing about having geotagged photos. Hopefully future iterations of iLife will make use of having geotagged photos and movies (e.g., smart slide shows or movies that automatically include maps that zoom into pictures, or something).

GarageBand '09
MUSIC LESSONS: this is the most exciting part of iLife '09 for me. These lessons look _better than real lessons_. Seriously, better than live lessons with a real human. I started the guitar lessons a week ago, and I just love them. I can do the lesson over and over, at my own pace. Apple really slammed this one out of the park. I can't wait until I get good enough to use one of the $5 artist lessons. Note: there are 9 free introductory piano lessons, and 9 free introductory guitar lessons (the lessons feature an acoustic guitar, but they appear to be useful for learning both acoustic and electric guitar ... same principles). Note: Garageband includes a tuner, so that you can tune your guitar via your mac's microphone. Well, it sucks and is nearly useless. (I'm using my iMac's built-in microphone). I'm glad I bought this tuner: Korg GA-30 Ultra Compact Guitar and Bass Tuner (it works for both my electric and acoustic guitar).

I'll update the review when I've had a chance to use the 1-2 dozen new features that are important to me.

Find out more @ iLife '09

iWork '09

2009-08-17T12:41:00.000+07:00

iWork ’09, Apple’s office productivity suite, is the easiest way to create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations the Mac way. Pages is both a streamlined word processor and an easy-to-use page layout application. It allows you to be a writer one minute and a designer the next, always with a perfect document in the works. Numbers, with its' great-looking templates, easy-to-create formulas, and dynamic tables and charts, gives you simple ways to make sense of your data. Use Keynote to create your presentations, and you’ll be a hard act to follow. Its' powerful yet easy-to-use tools and dazzling effects put the show in slideshow. Packed with over 250 Apple-designed themes and templates—including 60 new designs overall—iWork lets you create projects that look polished from the first page or slide. And iWork is compatible with Microsoft Office, so it’s easy to share your work.

Customer Reviews
In`Pages', function trumps flash; office-strength word processor reads MS-Word files, January 20, 2009
By Rudy "pain-doc" (Columbia, SC USA) - See all my reviews
As a Vista-fugue, the main reasons for even bothering with a `Bootcamp' Windows installation were Microsoft "Office" and Intuit's "Quicken/Turbotax", both richer-featured in their PC than in their Mac releases. Disappointingly, iWork '08 'Pages' performed better as an image-based page layout package for the multimedia center crowd, proving woefully underpowered in a professional business office ... crippled by the tediously awkward conversion hassle from *.doc to *.pages documents.

No more! With iWork '09, Apple has virtually erased any remaining barrier to business office `switchers' still on the fence. I have explored and tested Pages '09 since its online release as a downloadable fully functional 30-day trial demo. I was so impressed with the new Pages (as against the flashy eye candy of the '08 version) that I ordered the full boxed version. [The trial software is well worth a test run to see if iWork meets your needs.) The new Pages now easily exports a document in doc, txt or pdf format, and does a remarkably lifelike transformation of even highly complex Word documents, tables, lists, or legal briefs with a mere double-click or drag-and drop.

Rather than spreading myself too thin, I limit this review to `Pages', leaving commentary on `Numbers' to spreadsheet buffs ... `Numbers' capabilities, in the past, were no match for the depth of MS-Excel. If `Numbers` performs as well as `Pages' in this iWork overhaul, then the product will be the best eighty bucks gift for your Mac. `Keynote', an image-with-outline presenter's tool, probably will prove at least the equal of MS-PowerPoint considering the Mac's flair for spectacular graphics.

`Pages' well may be the impressive turnaround software that elevates the Mac from multimedia center toy to serious professional business status. Highly recommended for Vista-weary PC users and Mac loyalists looking for a solid business suite. The detailed crystal-clear manuals and crisp `Help' replies are welcome value-added resources.

Find out more @ iWork '09

Apple Airport Express

2009-08-16T12:36:00.000+07:00

Now with blazing 802.11n, the affordable AirPort Express is powerful enough to run a home Wi-Fi network, yet small enough to take on the road. Share your wireless network with up to 10 users, print documents, photos, and more from any room in the house to one central printer, play iTunes music through your stereo or powered speakers using AirTunes, and more.

Customer Reviews
Airport Express Set-up Instructions,
By S. Monroe "gadgethead" (Pittsburgh, PA USA)
The CD that comes with the Airport Express has been useless to me in setting up a Windows XP computer to work with an AE. The instructions below should get you up and running.

1. First download the latest version of both the Airport Update and Airport Express Firmware Updater from [...]

2. Run the latest version of the Airport Update (4.1 at the time of this writing)

3. Disable your firewalls, plug in the Airport Express (AX) to an electrical outlet and attach it to your computer or router with an ethernet cable. The AX will have a steady or blinking yellow light.

4. Launch the Airport Admin Utility...it should detect the Airport Express in the "Base Station Chooser" within a minute or so and the light on the AX should turn green. You may have to hard reset the unit a few times by pushing the small reset button with a paperclip for about 10 seconds. If, like mine, it does not show up in the Airport Admin Utility leave the AX attached by ethernet and reboot, launch the Airport Admin Utility, and hopefully it will show up quickly.

5. As soon as it does show up, launch the latest Airport Express Firmware Updater (I used 6.1.1) and update the AX...this seemed to make a significant difference in the ease of detection later. This will take a minute or so. The AX will reset and you may have to leave it attached by ethernet, reboot, and relaunch the Airport Admin Utility to detect it again.

6. Once detected by the Airport Admin Utility, click the "Configure" button in the lower right hand corner.

7. A new set of tabs will pop up. Click on the "Airport" tab and select "Create Wireless Network" from the Airport Network dropdown box. This will be changed to "Join an Existing Wireless Network" later.

8. Now click on the "Network" tab and and check the "Distribute IP Addresses", the "Share a single IP address" button, and from IP range drop down list choose the IP range for your router (192.168.x.x being the most common for Dlink, lynksys, Netgear, and other non-Apple routers).

9. Go back to the "Airport" tab and change the "Create a Wireless Network" to "Join an Existing Wireless Network".

10. In the "Network Name" box type in the name of your wireless network (also called your SSID)

11. On the same page rename your AX to whatever you want it to be called in iTunes (often the physical location of the speakers the AX will be attached to, ex: Living Room, Bedroom, Ambient Sound), give it a new password (required), and give it a location.

12. If you are using security click on the security button, choose your encryption settings, and add your WEP key or password, etc. It might be handy to have your router security info open in a window so you can copy and paste the key right into the appropriate box.

13. If you now go back to the "Network" tab you will see everything is greyed out but now your new IP Range settings are visible.

14. With the AX still attached by etherlink, click the "Update" button and wait a minute or so for the AX to update. The changes you made should be reflected in the Airport Admin Utility when the update is complete.

15. Now you can launch iTunes and you should see a button in the lower right hand corner that says "My Computer". Click this button and you will see you have the choice of your computers speakers or the AX. Any further changes you want to make to the configuration such as the name you see in that button are easiest done while attached by ethernet so try to get it the way you want it with further Airport Admin Utility updates before unplugging the ethernet cable. As long as your Airport Admin Utility can see the AX you can update without being connected too.

16. When you are satisfied with the configuration and the AX is updated and is showing up in iTunes go ahead and unplug the ethernet cable. Now you can move The AX to your chosen locations electrical outlet, and hook up the audio cable. The AX light will blink yellow for a few minutes while being detected and then turn green. You can now choose your AX in iTunes and start playing your music as normal. Itunes will show it is busy connecting to the AX for about 30 seconds and then hopefully you will hear your music played from your remote speakers. I hope pulling this information together helps someone a little. Let me know if I missed something and I will update asap. Good Luck!

Find out more @ Apple Airport Express

Apple iPod touch 16 GB (2nd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

2009-08-15T12:30:00.000+07:00

The iPod touch has always been an amazing iPod. And with its groundbreaking technologies--including a Multi-Touch screen, the accelerometer, and 3D graphics--and access to hundreds of games, iPod touch puts an amazing gaming experience in the palm of your hand. It comes in 8 GB, 16 GB, and 32 GB models with new volume controls and a built-in speaker. Play hours of music. Create a Genius Playlist of songs that go great together. Watch a movie. Surf the web. View rich HTML email. Find your location and get directions with Google Maps. Browse YouTube videos. And shop the App Store for games and applications.

Customer Reviews
Updated iPod Touch Delivers Nice New Features,
By Stephen Hall "books911" (USA)
The iPod Touch debuted only one year ago, and this is the first update. I was excited to pick up the new iPod Touch at the Apple Store because I had never owned a first generation, though I do own iPhones.

I want to concentrate primarily on the new features:

First, physical volume buttons are now placed on the side of the iPod Touch as they are on the iPhone. This is very convenient. It allows you to adjust the volume of your music, without having to pull the entire device out of your pocket and activate the screen. A time saver.

Second, many people requested a built-in speaker for the iPod Touch like is available on the iPhone. Apple listened. However, there is one important point to make on this! The iPod Touch is incredibly small, and Apple is forced to put an incredibly small speaker. The speaker in the iPod Touch sounds worst than the speaker in the iPhone. I have compared it side by side, and it's fairly significant, and the iPhone speaker isn't that great to begin with. However, in a quiet room, the speaker is still useful for previewing a song you might want to buy, or for playing games. However, still, if you want great sound, you need to connect your headphones.

Genius - This new feature is really surprisingly good. When you're listening to a song you enjoy, select the genius option. It will create a playlist for you, with songs that go together nicely with the one you started with. It helps you rediscover great music from your collection with a playlist suited to the mood you're in. I didn't think it would do a good job compiling this list, but it has been quite impressive.

Applications - It's great to have the ability to buy (or get some free) applications right on the iPod Touch. Furthermore, with the software update this new iPod Touch comes with, the Application installation process is so much smoother than it had been even on my iPhone. It now works how you want it to, seamlessly. I like having a weather application that includes doppler radar images, and that is free. I also have several games on it. There is a great variety of applications available from hundreds of third-parties right on the iPod itself, so you are certain to find something that interests you. I really like the new release of Spore, for the iPod Touch and iPhone. Apple is really pushing the games and quietly suggest they are challenging Nintendo and Sony. They are innovative and interesting games, but I think they have a ways to go, to challenge those game makers.

Nike + is now built in too, so if you have the shoes and the puck, the iPod Touch is ready to receive the data from it. Battery life is improved to 36 hours audio and 6 hours video according to Apple. I find the audio number fairly accurate if you don't light up the display much, but the video number is a slight bit harder to achieve.

Of course, the new ipod Touch does look and feel even better than the first generation, from my small experiences with the previous one. I also think it feels cooler than my iPhones, but obviously your interpretation may very. I like the metal back on the iPod Touch. It looks classy, though it is prone to scratches.

One of my favorite features continues to be, when in my home on Wi-Fi, to reach down for the Touch, use Safari web browser and look something up. It's great.

Overall, it was a solid update for the iPod Touch. I wish the speaker could be better on it, but I believe that is due to the physical restrictions of the small device. I could have knocked it to four stars for that, but I think most people realize a built in speaker isn't the way you want to listen to most audio on an iPod to begin with. I'm impressed by the second generation iPod Touch, and I think with the third party applications getting better and becoming more popular, more people will consider the Touch.

Find out more @ Apple iPod touch 16 GB (2nd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Zune 8 GB Video MP3 Player (Blue)

2009-08-15T12:22:00.000+07:00

This slim 8 GB Zune device is good to go with plenty of room for your favorite music, pictures, and video. It comes complete with a built-in FM tuner and buy-from-FM capabilities, wireless sync, Zune-to-Zune wireless sharing, video playback, and more--so you get all that Zune power in one tight little package. It holds up to 2,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 25 hours of video.

Customer Reviews
The One,
By catalyst (MN)
Before I start talking about the Zune I have to say that I've had several mp3 players in the past, from flash-based to HD-based. My newest one is this 8GB Zune. I got my Zune about a week ago, after getting rid of my 3G 8GB Nano, that I was not happy with. So this is why I'm more satisfied with the Zune vs. the Nano...

Hardware
-Shape is easier to hold and use than WS Nano
-LCD is glass, more durable and sharper than plastic on Nano
-Zune Touch Pad is more responsive and precise vs. click wheel
-Wireless sharing/syncing option
-Built-in FM Tuner
-Better sound quality even without EQ...I just hated how bad the Nano sounds even with Shure headphones

Software
-Very simple and easy
-Asthetically better than iTunes

User Interface
-No Coverflow but interface is more organized and intuitive
-Customizable background, not an option on Nano
-Easier to read

I have not tested the battery life but it's rated close to the Nano so I'll live with whatever it really is. One thing I haven't checked on but someone else wrote about was the Zune not being a UMS Device when plugged in. Hopefully that's something Microsoft can/will change so that you can store other files on it. Overall, I'm must more satisfied with this player than the Nano.

Find out more @ ลิงค์ 1

Zune 120 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

2009-08-14T12:08:00.000+07:00

Massive capacity in a deluxe device that delivers uncompromised audio and video quality, the Zune 120 GB can fit a huge collection and still have room for videos, podcasts, and more. This major player hooks up with innovative discovery features like Buy from FM and wireless sharing, so you never stop gobbling tunes. It holds up to 30,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 375 hours of video.

Customer Reviews
A Thorough (Long) Review from a Zune 30 Owner an a iPhone 3G Owner,
By Super Mum (California)
No matter your opinion on Microsoft, the amazing fact remains that every time they update a Zune they include a free software update for all past Zunes making them nearly identical as the new Zunes. I am sure one day this may stop due to the fact that the new hardware will require a different type of OS that won't work on the old Zunes (i.e. a Zune Touch or something). Until then, I am have been a very happy past/present Zune owner for this reason.

I owned a Zune 30 for 2 1/2 years prior to buying the Zune 120. My old Zune worked perfectly and was not a factor in my decision to upgrade. Did I need the extra space? Not really... but I wanted to try out the touch/click "squircle" before the new Zune games were launched. I read that some games may not work (or work as intended) with the Zune 30 since it does not have the touch sensitive pad. We'll see how true that is when games are put on to the Marketplace.

My opinion after owning the Zune 120 for a couple weeks:

The Good:

-I am a rabid/avid fan of the Zune Pass. I don't mind renting music, in fact I LOVE it. It really opens me up to new bands without wasting $10-20 on an album I may hate. For $14.99 a month [for unlimited downloads on up to 3 Zunes and 3 Computers] I can download from more songs than I can fathom and not be upset if I pick a few tone-deaf artists along the way. If I love an album enough to keep it I can buy it from Zune or Amazon or whomever. If you think about it, the Zune Pass could save you money by allowing you to test out bands before committing to a purchase. Also, if throwing a house party or having guests over, you can download music for your guests that you might never consider buying for yourself.

-Audible support now available. Not sure how much I will use this feature yet but for now I like it and am happy I am not closed off from this option.

-WiFi: the options are now amazingly more advanced and now having WiFi on the Zune makes sense. Being able to download songs over a WiFi connection is huge. McDonald's is teaming up with Zune and will be offering their WiFi connection to Zune owners in the near future. While iPod does this with Starbucks, there are many more McDonalds than Starbucks in the U.S. Though not sure if this is a good thing ;)

-Channels!!!: I love the new channels built into the software. As a Zune Pass subscriber I love taking advantage of this. The software makes a "channel" once a week of songs it thinks I will like based on a genre (I have a "My Classic Rock" channel, "My Rock" channel, and since I share my Zune Pass with family members a "My R&B" channel). I choose which, if any, channels I want to subscribe to (so I can skip the R&B one if I desire) and it downloads a playlist of sorts that changes every week. Also, I can subscribe to other generic channels (i.e. "Rock" Channel, "Punk/Ska" Channel etc.) not tailored directly to me if I so desire. This has been a great way to sample new bands/music that have relevance to my music style. Of course if you love a song/artist you can always permanently download the songs. If you are an avid gym buff or runner there are some very cool channels titled "Walk" "Jog" and "Run" that have songs which consist of the same range of beats per minute to keep you moving at a constant speed. Very cool.

-Mixview: Much better looking than "Genius" on iTunes since Mixview uses album art and artists pictures rather than plain old text and Mixview's suggestions seem more relevant to me than Apple's "Genius." This can always change in the future as each product develops and I am excited that there is competition in this arena since it can only make this better and better. If you don't know what Mixview is, it is Zune's way of gathering data based on your music preferences (and the preferences of others) to recommend new music to you. Pandora (the Internet Radio website) does a BEAUTIFUL job at this. It's free and I would check it out if you have never used it before. Amazing.

-Battery Life: Much better than the Zune 30 which is a nice surprise. Leave WiFi off for a longer battery life.

-Accessory Compatibility: the charger, dock, remote, car charger, etc. from the Zune 30/80/120 all work together wonderfully. If you have the version 1 dock you will need to remove the plastic insert in order to have the 80/120 fit. It only takes a few seconds and is very painless. I would add a link to websites that show video/pictures on how to do this but Amazon removed two posts in the Zune forum where I did this. Do a search, it's out there. The cases for the Zune 30 do not work with the 120 but the 80 is the same size and both use the same cases. Heard there are problems with older FM transmitters working with the newer Zunes. Not sure how prevalent this problem is as I use an AUX jack in the car.

-The Squircle: This is the only "big" difference between the Zune 30 and the 80/120. It did not take long for me to get used to using this but my learning curve may be shorter than others as I am used to swiping on my iPhone and now clicking seems more difficult for me. (You can turn this feature off if you just want to use the squircle as a click pad.) When I went to buy a case I found that most cases covered the squircle and was concerned it would mess with functionality. I want to report that it did not take away the ability of the Zune to notice my movements. However, the case makes it not as smooth of an action as the bare squircle (I have a silicone cover that makes my finger "stickier" against the case so the glide isn't as smooth). Something to think about when purchasing a case (which I would recommend.. see "The Bad")

The Bad:

-I LOVED the Zune 30 casing. That was one beautiful thing that the Zune had over the iPod. The iPods scratched and showed wear very quickly and the Zune 30's casing was virtually indestructible. With the new casing (party in the front/business in the back... the reverse mullet) it seems that the possibility for scratching is now higher. The shiny front is a fingerprint magnet and the matte black back has a silver/gold metal underneath (as evidenced by Microsoft's Zune Originals website where you can have your Zune engraved professionally.. they "scratch" [engrave] a design and the gold/silver color appears). Not sure how deep you would have to scratch to get to that color and I won't volunteer to be a guinea pig. Sorry!
I highly recommend getting a case and I am a sucker for buying a screen protector as the Zune is nearly all screen on the front and should remain beautiful and scratch-free.

The "I don't care"/ "No opinion":

-The Clock: There is a clock now.. and I don't care. Many did so they will be happy. No alarm built-in, so beware clock lovers. (Microsoft updates the firmware and software quite a bit so you never know if this could be added soon.)

-Buy from FM: I hate the radio in my smallish town. There are only a couple decent stations but they aren't good enough for me to stop listening to MP3s and tune in. For those who have better stations and are in to Top 40 or what is new on the charts this may be an amazing option for you. Getting artist and album info over Zune's FM radio could be helpful if your DJ never states the name of an artist (like so many don't) and, if you really like the song, you can download it immediately or tag it for download later (depending if you are in a WiFi hotspot or at home with plug in hand).

-Headphones: the Zune 30 came with "run of the mill" headphones, the Zune 80 came with "premium" headphones and the Zune 120 went back to the "run of the mill" headphones. I use third-party headphones ($100+) so I don't care what comes in the package. Others might so here it is.

-Games: as of today's date, there are no games available for download on the Zune Marketplace. This is supposed to change soon and I sure hope it does. However, there are two games that come loaded on the Zune when you plug it in to the computer and update (Hexic and Texas Hold 'Em). Apple has the upper hand here and has done wonders with the App store. I hope Microsoft takes note and does something like it with the Zune. Heck, I hope the do something even better so then Apple steps up their game even more... and around and around we go. Competition is great for consumers.

I think here is a good place to mention that I love my iPhone 3G AND my Zune and I need to have both in my life to be happy (in the materialistic sense). I don't listen to music on my iPhone due to limited space (after adding apps, photos, podcasts, etc. there isn't much room for music) and also because Apple does not have a subscription music "rental" service. Ideally I would like to see Zune make a phone similar to the iPhone or the iPhone to have a subscription based music service (both phones would need a large capacity drive) so I could carry around just one device (either iPhone or ZunePhone depending on the offerings). Until that day I live in harmony with my Zune 120 and my iPhone 3G.

Find out more @ Zune 120 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

Zune 8 GB Digital Media Player (Black)

2009-08-13T12:04:00.000+07:00

This slim 8 GB Zune device is good to go with plenty of room for your favorite music, pictures, and video. It comes complete with a built-in FM tuner and buy-from-FM capabilities, wireless sync, Zune-to-Zune wireless sharing, video playback, and more--so you get all that Zune power in one tight little package. It holds up to 2,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 25 hours of video.

Customer Reviews
Zune- bye, bye Zen and Windows Media too,
By R. L. Lewis (Tacoma, WA United States)
I have a couple of Zen MP3 players that have worked well for me for a couple of years now, but both have begun to have problems and I decided to take a chance on the new V2 Zune. It was a good decision. This is a great product. All that comes in the box is the Zune, a sync cord, earphones, and brief documentation. You need to go online and download the Zune software to a PC and then hook up the player before you can get it to do anything. This doesn't take too long and the Zune will provide you with some sample content to try out as part of this process. The Zune sounds great, with plenty of volume and a decent set of earphones. The click wheel is intuitive and masterable in just a few minutes use.

As nice as the Zune is, a pleasant surprise is the Zune software. This is really more than just a tool to sync your tunes with your Zune. It is an attractive, intuitive, easy to use full fledged media player as well. It can easily replace Windows Media Player and is better looking than any other offering out there- Apple included.

Find out more @ Zune 8 GB Digital Media Player (Black)

Zune 4 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

2009-08-12T12:19:00.002+07:00

This slim 4 GB Zune device is good to go with plenty of room for your favorite music, pictures, and video. It comes complete with a built-in FM tuner and buy-from-FM capabilities, wireless sync, Zune-to-Zune wireless sharing, video playback, and more--so you get all that Zune power in one tight little package. It holds up to 1,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 12 hours of video.

Customer Reviews
Zune- bye, bye Zen and Windows Media too,
By R. L. Lewis (Tacoma, WA United States)

I have a couple of Zen MP3 players that have worked well for me for a couple of years now, but both have begun to have problems and I decided to take a chance on the new V2 Zune. It was a good decision. This is a great product. All that comes in the box is the Zune, a sync cord, earphones, and brief documentation. You need to go online and download the Zune software to a PC and then hook up the player before you can get it to do anything. This doesn't take too long and the Zune will provide you with some sample content to try out as part of this process. The Zune sounds great, with plenty of volume and a decent set of earphones. The click wheel is intuitive and masterable in just a few minutes use.

As nice as the Zune is, a pleasant surprise is the Zune software. This is really more than just a tool to sync your tunes with your Zune. It is an attractive, intuitive, easy to use full fledged media player as well. It can easily replace Windows Media Player and is better looking than any other offering out there- Apple included.

Find out more @ Zune 4 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

Zune 4 GB Digital Media Player (Pink)

2009-08-12T12:17:00.003+07:00

Music and entertainment, your way. That's what the Zune 4 GB Digital Media Player is designed to deliver. The Zune easily connects you with your music, videos, and pictures wherever and whenever you want, and unlike the iPod, it even has a built-in FM tuner so you can keep up with local news and sports. Your Zune gives you the power to wirelessly share full-length tracks, playlists, pictures and podcasts with your other Zune-wielding friends, and it is available in four bold colors. And when you receive songs that you just can't get out of your head, you can easily tag the songs and buy them the next time you sync up. Whether you're listening to music, radio, or rocking out to the latest music videos on the bright, roomy screen, the Zune allows you to tailor your entertainment, right in the palm of your hand.

Customer Reviews
Zune- bye, bye Zen and Windows Media too,
By R. L. Lewis (Tacoma, WA United States)

I have a couple of Zen MP3 players that have worked well for me for a couple of years now, but both have begun to have problems and I decided to take a chance on the new V2 Zune. It was a good decision. This is a great product. All that comes in the box is the Zune, a sync cord, earphones, and brief documentation. You need to go online and download the Zune software to a PC and then hook up the player before you can get it to do anything. This doesn't take too long and the Zune will provide you with some sample content to try out as part of this process. The Zune sounds great, with plenty of volume and a decent set of earphones. The click wheel is intuitive and masterable in just a few minutes use.

As nice as the Zune is, a pleasant surprise is the Zune software. This is really more than just a tool to sync your tunes with your Zune. It is an attractive, intuitive, easy to use full fledged media player as well. It can easily replace Windows Media Player and is better looking than any other offering out there- Apple included.

Find out more @ Zune 4 GB Digital Media Player (Pink)

Zune 8 GB Digital Media Player (Red)

2009-08-12T12:14:00.003+07:00

This slim 8 GB Zune device is good to go with plenty of room for your favorite music, pictures, and video. It comes complete with a built-in FM tuner and buy-from-FM capabilities, wireless sync, Zune-to-Zune wireless sharing, video playback, and more--so you get all that Zune power in one tight little package. It holds up to 2,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 25 hours of video.

Customer Reviews
Zune- bye, bye Zen and Windows Media too,
By R. L. Lewis (Tacoma, WA United States)
I have a couple of Zen MP3 players that have worked well for me for a couple of years now, but both have begun to have problems and I decided to take a chance on the new V2 Zune. It was a good decision. This is a great product. All that comes in the box is the Zune, a sync cord, earphones, and brief documentation. You need to go online and download the Zune software to a PC and then hook up the player before you can get it to do anything. This doesn't take too long and the Zune will provide you with some sample content to try out as part of this process. The Zune sounds great, with plenty of volume and a decent set of earphones. The click wheel is intuitive and masterable in just a few minutes use.

As nice as the Zune is, a pleasant surprise is the Zune software. This is really more than just a tool to sync your tunes with your Zune. It is an attractive, intuitive, easy to use full fledged media player as well. It can easily replace Windows Media Player and is better looking than any other offering out there- Apple included.

Find out more @ Zune 8 GB Digital Media Player (Red)

Zune 120 GB Video MP3 Player (Red)

2009-08-12T11:53:00.004+07:00

Massive capacity in a deluxe device that delivers uncompromised audio and video quality, the Zune 120 GB can fit a huge collection and still have room for videos, podcasts, and more. This major player hooks up with innovative discovery features like Buy from FM and wireless sharing, so you never stop gobbling tunes. It holds up to 30,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 375 hours of video.

Product Description
Zune starts with a digital media player and adds a twist. You can wirelessly share selected full-length sample tracks, playlists, pictures or your homegrown tracks directly from Zune to Zune. You can listen to the full-length songs that you receive up to three times in three days, flag the ones you like and easily buy them the next time you sync up. You can discover new music in the Zune Marketplace, and show off your favorite pictures and videos on the big, bright screen. Zune has all that and a built in FM tuner, too. Let your inner DJ run wild.

Customer Reviews
A Thorough (Long) Review from a Zune 30 Owner an a iPhone 3G Owner,
By Super Mum (California)
No matter your opinion on Microsoft, the amazing fact remains that every time they update a Zune they include a free software update for all past Zunes making them nearly identical as the new Zunes. I am sure one day this may stop due to the fact that the new hardware will require a different type of OS that won't work on the old Zunes (i.e. a Zune Touch or something). Until then, I am have been a very happy past/present Zune owner for this reason.

I owned a Zune 30 for 2 1/2 years prior to buying the Zune 120. My old Zune worked perfectly and was not a factor in my decision to upgrade. Did I need the extra space? Not really... but I wanted to try out the touch/click "squircle" before the new Zune games were launched. I read that some games may not work (or work as intended) with the Zune 30 since it does not have the touch sensitive pad. We'll see how true that is when games are put on to the Marketplace.

My opinion after owning the Zune 120 for a couple weeks:

The Good:

-I am a rabid/avid fan of the Zune Pass. I don't mind renting music, in fact I LOVE it. It really opens me up to new bands without wasting $10-20 on an album I may hate. For $14.99 a month [for unlimited downloads on up to 3 Zunes and 3 Computers] I can download from more songs than I can fathom and not be upset if I pick a few tone-deaf artists along the way. If I love an album enough to keep it I can buy it from Zune or Amazon or whomever. If you think about it, the Zune Pass could save you money by allowing you to test out bands before committing to a purchase. Also, if throwing a house party or having guests over, you can download music for your guests that you might never consider buying for yourself.

-Audible support now available. Not sure how much I will use this feature yet but for now I like it and am happy I am not closed off from this option.

-WiFi: the options are now amazingly more advanced and now having WiFi on the Zune makes sense. Being able to download songs over a WiFi connection is huge. McDonald's is teaming up with Zune and will be offering their WiFi connection to Zune owners in the near future. While iPod does this with Starbucks, there are many more McDonalds than Starbucks in the U.S. Though not sure if this is a good thing ;)

-Channels!!!: I love the new channels built into the software. As a Zune Pass subscriber I love taking advantage of this. The software makes a "channel" once a week of songs it thinks I will like based on a genre (I have a "My Classic Rock" channel, "My Rock" channel, and since I share my Zune Pass with family members a "My R&B" channel). I choose which, if any, channels I want to subscribe to (so I can skip the R&B one if I desire) and it downloads a playlist of sorts that changes every week. Also, I can subscribe to other generic channels (i.e. "Rock" Channel, "Punk/Ska" Channel etc.) not tailored directly to me if I so desire. This has been a great way to sample new bands/music that have relevance to my music style. Of course if you love a song/artist you can always permanently download the songs. If you are an avid gym buff or runner there are some very cool channels titled "Walk" "Jog" and "Run" that have songs which consist of the same range of beats per minute to keep you moving at a constant speed. Very cool.

-Mixview: Much better looking than "Genius" on iTunes since Mixview uses album art and artists pictures rather than plain old text and Mixview's suggestions seem more relevant to me than Apple's "Genius." This can always change in the future as each product develops and I am excited that there is competition in this arena since it can only make this better and better. If you don't know what Mixview is, it is Zune's way of gathering data based on your music preferences (and the preferences of others) to recommend new music to you. Pandora (the Internet Radio website) does a BEAUTIFUL job at this. It's free and I would check it out if you have never used it before. Amazing.

-Battery Life: Much better than the Zune 30 which is a nice surprise. Leave WiFi off for a longer battery life.

-Accessory Compatibility: the charger, dock, remote, car charger, etc. from the Zune 30/80/120 all work together wonderfully. If you have the version 1 dock you will need to remove the plastic insert in order to have the 80/120 fit. It only takes a few seconds and is very painless. I would add a link to websites that show video/pictures on how to do this but Amazon removed two posts in the Zune forum where I did this. Do a search, it's out there. The cases for the Zune 30 do not work with the 120 but the 80 is the same size and both use the same cases. Heard there are problems with older FM transmitters working with the newer Zunes. Not sure how prevalent this problem is as I use an AUX jack in the car.

-The Squircle: This is the only "big" difference between the Zune 30 and the 80/120. It did not take long for me to get used to using this but my learning curve may be shorter than others as I am used to swiping on my iPhone and now clicking seems more difficult for me. (You can turn this feature off if you just want to use the squircle as a click pad.) When I went to buy a case I found that most cases covered the squircle and was concerned it would mess with functionality. I want to report that it did not take away the ability of the Zune to notice my movements. However, the case makes it not as smooth of an action as the bare squircle (I have a silicone cover that makes my finger "stickier" against the case so the glide isn't as smooth). Something to think about when purchasing a case (which I would recommend.. see "The Bad")

The Bad:

-I LOVED the Zune 30 casing. That was one beautiful thing that the Zune had over the iPod. The iPods scratched and showed wear very quickly and the Zune 30's casing was virtually indestructible. With the new casing (party in the front/business in the back... the reverse mullet) it seems that the possibility for scratching is now higher. The shiny front is a fingerprint magnet and the matte black back has a silver/gold metal underneath (as evidenced by Microsoft's Zune Originals website where you can have your Zune engraved professionally.. they "scratch" [engrave] a design and the gold/silver color appears). Not sure how deep you would have to scratch to get to that color and I won't volunteer to be a guinea pig. Sorry!
I highly recommend getting a case and I am a sucker for buying a screen protector as the Zune is nearly all screen on the front and should remain beautiful and scratch-free.

Find out more @ Zune 120 GB Video MP3 Player (Red)

Creative Zen Mozaic 4 GB MP3 Player (Silver)

2009-08-05T12:46:00.000+07:00

Buck the trend and create your own style with the eye-catching Zen Mozaic. Available in 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, and 16 GB capacities, the player sports a mosaic keypad--a one-of-a-kind design that helps you stand out from the crowd instantly. Distinctive in form and cool in function, play back your photos in sharp clarity on the 1.8-inch screen while tuning in to your favorite music hits. It’s time to play a different tune; it’s time for the Zen Mozaic.

Customer Reviews
Great player and a great price!, August 14, 2008
By D. S. Oman (SLC, UT, USA)
I've had the Zen Mozaic 4 GB for about a week now, and I love it! Here is just a short list of the pros and cons I have noticed.

Pros:

Price - It's very cost-effective for the tons of features included!

FM Radio - The radio signal strength is unimpressive, but a plus nonetheless, since many don't offer this feature. Note: the radio antenna is built into the headphones, so with just the built-in speaker, there is no radio reception at all. Headphones must be plugged in.

Alarm clock - I love being able to set the song that I wake up to, and with the built-in speaker it works much like a cell-phone alarm clock.

Built-in speaker - Now you can share a song with a friend without sharing your headphones. The speaker sounds better than I thought it would considering how small the device is. I wouldn't listen to it for hours, but it's a nice additional feature.

Battery Life - When they say 30+ hours, they're not joking. Very impressive battery life.

Cons:

Plastic - The whole thing is made of plastic and feels somewhat toylike. Although I hesitate to call this a "con" because it feels very sturdy and well-made. If you want a metallic feel, you'll have to fork out the extra money for a Zune or iPod (twice the price).

Headphones - The headphones are pretty cheap. The music sounds tinny when you use them, but if you use nicer headphones, sound quality is good! Once again, the radio antenna is in the headphones if you want to use this feature.

My overall impression is that I am very satisfied with the product. I don't use it much for videos, but the included software will convert videos to .avi format for viewing, which is nice but the screen is a bit small for using it as a video player very often. I use Media Monkey for syncing, but you can use Windows Media Player or simply Drag and Drop.

Audio quality is great with better headphones and the interface is simple to use. The design, I think, is very sleek and unique, but obviously not for everyone. If you're looking for a nice little player to give as a gift or just to stash in your pocket, this is a great choice!

Find out more @ Creative Zen Mozaic 4 GB MP3 Player (Silver)

iHome iH13B Protective Speaker Case for iPod (Black)

2009-08-04T12:40:00.000+07:00

The iH13B is a portable, trendy, sport speaker case that fits into anyone's lifestyle. It securely holds your iPod in a lightweight zippered case, so taking it with you to the beach, picnic, or party is a breeze. The iH13B also charges attached iPods and incorporates a full-function built-in remote control, so you can use your iPod while it's fully protected in the case.

Customer Reviews
Best Buy for 50 bucks, March 7, 2008
By Charles A. Rose "twainsrain" (Outer Banks, NC)
I bought this system for my 7 year old and liked it so much I bought one for myself. Works well with Sansa Clip and C250 using the patch cord that is included. Can't beat the sound for the size and price. Very easy to use, sound is awesome, you can put all your MP3 and accessories in the speaker case for storage. I love this product!

Find out more @ iHome iH13B Protective Speaker Case for iPod (Black)

iHome iH12 Cube Clock Radio with Dock for iPod (Black)

2009-08-03T12:26:00.000+07:00

This stylish iPod dual alarm clock radio is great any place, especially where space is limited. Boasting full-range Reson8 stereo speakers with a passive subwoofer for detailed, dynamic sound, the iH12 wakes you gradually and lulls you to sleep to your iPod music or digital AM/FM radio.

Customer Reviews
Good but has 2 flaws, September 30, 2008
By Gerald Zaks
Good size, good sound, good basic design..... but 2 problems.
1) The control buttons on top have raised designs to distinguish them, but not raised enough. So you hunt and peck for the right button in the dark searching to turn off the alarm. I've placed a very small blob of clear glue from my glue-gun next to the off button to find it more easily.
2) I have an older version of the iPod mini. Out of the 5 plug-in adapters for different iPods that come with the unit.... NONE of them are for the older version of my iPod mini. It still works... but I have to be careful plugging it in and taken it out and not bumping it when plugged in.

Find out more @ iHome iH12 Cube Clock Radio with Dock for iPod (Black)

SanDisk Sansa Fuze 2 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

2009-08-01T00:18:00.002+07:00

With the SanDisk Sansa Fuze, you can fuse your portable entertainment, featuring 2 GB of storage. Listen, watch, and play all day with 24 hours of battery life and room for up to 500 songs**. Watch your favorite video clips on the Sansa Fuze's 1.9-inch color screen. Measuring just 0.3 inches thin, the Sansa Fuze marks the next wave of music and video players.

Customer Reviews
Fantastic, July 19, 2008
By J. Poulson (Kansas City,MO)
I did a lot of research before purchasing the Fuze. My research led me to narrow my choice to two options. One being the Fuze, the other being the IPod Nano. In the end I bought both units. The Fuze I paid cash for from Amazon, the Ipod I redeemed credit card points to obtain.
After having both for about a month now I don't understand why anyone would buy an Ipod. Other than the beautifully designed packaging and product it is the most difficult proprietary product out there. You have to use Itunes to register the unit and load music. In my case downloading Itunes messes with my Windows Media Player which I use as a player linked to a hard drive which is my in home music server. In order to fix the software conflicts between Itunes and Windows Media I had to resort to uninstalling Itunes which by it self did not solve the problem. Only after defragementing my hard drive did the problem go away.
The Sansa Fuze was so simple to load with music I was amazed. Simplily plug it in and drag and drop. It even gives you the option of specifying what type of music file you prefer (ie compressed or not). With storage expansion via card and an FM player it is fantastic.
So while I appreciate the visual design of the Ipod it is extremely over rated to me. Don't buy an Ipod unless you are only interested in looks over performance.

Find out more @ SanDisk Sansa Fuze 2 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

Creative Zen 8 GB Portable Media Player (Black)

2009-07-24T15:34:00.001+07:00

Bring your media with you wherever you roam with the Creative Zen 8GB player. Watch 32 hours of videos, enjoy up to 2,000 of your favorite songs or share hundreds of photos with your friends. And do it all on a device that's about the width of a credit card.

This credit card-sized ZEN has a stunning 2.5" color screen and is perfect for music, videos and photos. Enjoy up to 4,000 MP31, WMA or AAC songs, watch up to 60 hours2 of videos and share hundreds of photos with your friends. Even expand your portable music, video or photo collection by adding additional content through the convenient SD memory slot.

Find out more @ Creative Zen 8 GB Portable Media Player (Black)

Apple iPod classic 120 GB Black (6th Generation) LATEST MODEL

2009-07-23T16:43:00.000+07:00

Now you can take it with you. All of it. Available in a 120 GB model that holds up to 30,000 songs, 150 hours of video, 25,000 photos, or any combination, the new iPod classic fills your pocket with sight and sound. Available in quintessential silver or striking new black, iPod classic catches your eye with its sleek, all-metal enclosure composed of anodized aluminum and polished stainless steel. The new Genius Playlist feature creates an on-the-fly playlist of tracks in your library that go great with the song you're listening to. And Cover Flow lets you flip through your music by album artwork. Discovering new music, movies, TV shows, games, audiobooks, and podcasts is easy on the iTunes Store. Even rent a movie from iTunes and watch it on the go. To get everything into your pocket, just connect iPod classic to your Mac or PC, and iTunes transfers your music and more in one seamless sync.

Customer Reviews
The Original - Survives, September 9, 2008
By Stephen Hall "books911" (USA)
The updated iPod Classic was probably the least exciting of the new iPods announced in the September 2008 update, but that does not mean it should be dismissed.

I own the 160 GB iPod Classic that has now been discontinued, but there are few differences (perhaps the biggest being the much slimmer shape of this 120 model), and I did get to check this updated 120 GB version out at the store, when picking up the new nano and touch.

Firstly, the 120 GB version is again smaller than the largest capacity available last year, but it is a single platter hard drive, which allows it to maintain the slim shape of the 80 GB version from last year. More storage, a hundred dollars less, and just as small. That is progress despite calls from others that the classic isn't exciting. It still serves its purpose as the original iPod idea. Big capacity in a simple to use device.

Next, the software has been slightly updated on the iPod Classic. It now includes Genius, like iTunes and the other new iPods. This allows you, when on a song you enjoy, to select the genius feature. The iPod will then compile a list of songs (playlist), which goes together with the original song you were listening to. This helps you rediscover music in your library, with a playlist to fit your mood at the time. I have been using the genius feature for a few days now, and it is impressive the way it compiles these playlists. I was skeptical, but overall, it does a good job. Furthermore, as another review mentioned, the iPod does seem more responsive with this update from what I saw at the store compared to my original 160 GB iPod Classic. Some speculation has been that the older iPod Classics will receive the software update of this new one, but I'm not holding my breath on that.

Overall, the original iPod concept was so good, and that is why the iPod Classic is still a solid choice for a music and media player. It will hold thousands and thousands of songs (up to 30,000 according to Apple at 128 bitrate). I also backup some important files to my iPod Classic, in disk mode, so that I have that additional extra copy of my most vital files. When you have such a large iPod, you can do that. It shouldn't be forgotten either that while the display of the iPod Classic isn't as good as the iPod Touch or iPhone, it is still quite good and you can play music videos, TV shows, and movies purchased on the iTunes Store.

Battery life for this new 120 GB model improved over the 80GB model from last year. Apple now estimates it at 36 hours audio and 6 hours video.

I'd recommend the iPod Classic without hesitation, to those who have more than 8 or 16 GBs of music in their iTunes library and want to carry their entire collection. Furthermore, if you have videos and video podcasts you want to always carry with you, again, you can't beat the storage. I have the lower capacity flash devices as well, but the big hard drive based iPod Classic continues to play an important role in my iPod Collection.

Find out more @ Apple iPod classic 120 GB Black (6th Generation) LATEST MODEL
or visit iPod classic

Apple MB763LL/A AirPort Extreme Dual-band Base Station

2009-07-22T13:27:00.000+07:00

The perfect wireless solution for home, school, and business, the AirPort Extreme Base Station blankets your space with a blazing-fast, secure wireless network opening up a world of possibilities for home entertainment, backups, printing, and more. This updated version of the AirPort Extreme now operates in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands simultaneously to ensure top performance for all your devices, and it provides a new Guest Networking option for easy Internet sharing. It also enables you to share your entire wireless network with up to 50 users at the same time as well as turn a USB hard drive into a shared drive that's accessible wirelessly on your network and now over the Internet.

New Features
Some Wi-Fi devices use the 2.4GHz wireless band, including iPhone, iPod touch, and devices using 802.11b/g. Other devices can use either 2.4 GHz or the higher-speed 5 GHz band, such as the latest 802.11n-based Mac computers and Apple TV. Instead of choosing one of the bands, AirPort Extreme now operates simultaneously on both bands, and your multiband devices automatically use the best available band. This means all your Wi-Fi devices get the fastest possible wireless performance and the best possible range.

And with this updated Airport Extreme, it's easier than ever to allow guests to use your Internet connection without sharing your password or giving them access to the rest of your network. Simply enable the new Guest Networking feature using the AirPort Utility application and create a separate Wi-Fi network just for your friends. You can set up this guest network with a different password or with none at all. Your primary network--including your printer, attached drives, or other devices--remains secure.

Customer Reviews
Apple nails it with this dual band router - A/B/G/N - and Guest Access!, March 20, 2009
By Tarun Chachra "Tarun Chachra" (Hillsborough, NJ)
Hi All,

True to my gadget envy, I acquired one of these dual band extreme base stations to see if they held up to the hype. Sure enough, Apple has improved an old mediocre product with a new more powerful hardware engine and improved software abilities.

Features:
802.11 A/B/G/N DUAL Band radios at 2.4ghz and 5ghz simultaneously.
Gigabit Ethernet ports 1x Wan and 3x Lan.
Guest wireless network.
Disk sharing via USB connected drive.
Access to shared disk via MobileMe (apple mobile me subscribers on os x).

The box comes with the router, the power cord, software cd, and documentation....limited documentation.

Time to test.

Setup: Setup of an apple base station is unlike any other in that you cannot access the setup portal via your web browser. You must install the Apple Airport utility (both mac and windows) in order to set the router up. The software is built very well and provides the typical ease of use known to MAC users. You simply walk through a setup wizard and define simple options for your internet connection, your wireless network, etc, etc. NOTE: When setting up your wireless networks you are able to hit the options button so that you can define a 5ghz network as well (example, main wireless network called wifi, the 5ghz is called wifi (5ghz)). Very easy to setup and get going. You are also able to easily define a SECURED (wpa/wpa2) guest wireless network....which simply means that if you have a visitor they can use wi-fi but not get to any of the computers on your home network. Very Secure....and a great feature to boot.

I was using the old Apple Base Station and kept switching between it and a d-link wireless n router.... I got one of these primarily due to dual band and guest access.

Yes, there are other routers out there that can do this for a bit of a lower cost...but the elegance of the Apple Airport Utility make this a router that can be setup without too much hassle. The software will also identify problems in the setup and have you correct them before it uploads them to the router. These abilities alone make this a router for the non-geeks to be able to setup a robust networking environment at home.

Wireless: As I mentioned before, I am comparing this to an older model apple base station that was single band and worked in the N range. Also compared this against a D-Link DIR-655 which is a 2.4ghz Wireless N router. The section on speed below will detail my wireless experience.

Speed: I have Comcast cable modem service which gives me about 15-25mbps down and 2mbps up....I live in an area where there are probably 5-10 subscribers...so my speed is generally GREAT and never experiences a slow down. The first thing I do when I play with a new router is do a speed test....the new base station is comparable to the others and gets the same exact download/upload speeds over ethernet. There is one exception....using the wireless on this unit yielded BETTER results then the older model and the d-link. Normally when doing a speed test over wireless I get about 12-15mbps and 2mbps up....with this router I was able to successfully hit the 20mbps mark and 2mbps UP. WIN WIN!!!! So I figured that this may be an anomaly and thus proceeded to test a download from Microsoft - a 3.4gb file - which normally downloads anywhere between 900kpbs and 1.2mbps. Surprise.....with the new base station I stayed at 1.3mbps and it did not hiccup even once. The same was true when downloading via a wireless connection, albeit the speed was 1.0mbps....faster then I have ever gotten before. WIN WIN again!

Disk Sharing - Not much to be said here...I attached a Western Digital USB hard drive 320gb and shared it. You simply go into the Airport Utility software and setup sharing of the hard drive and define which password should be used. You can either use the password for the router or setup a separate password to use with Disk Sharing. Speed is dependent upon wired or wireless. I tested while transferring 3 files...one was 2mb one was 100mb and one was a 2.5gb file. The two mb file of course went over before I could blink...the 100mb transferred over in about 3-4 minutes...the 2.5gb took about 15 minutes. The first transfer test was with ETHERNET connectivity. I did the same tests over wireless and found that the times doubled...naturally since wireless is a bit slower I expected that and had no issue with the times.

Mobile-Me - I have not tested the mobile me features just yet but will be testing them in the days ahead and post my results here.

So far I feel this router has hit perfection and will now find a permanent spot in my home...at least until something better hits.

Please do leave me comments with suggestions on the review and or any questions you may have.

Find out more @ Apple MB763LL/A AirPort Extreme Dual-band Base Station

Apple iPod shuffle 4 GB Black (3rd Generation) LATEST MODEL

2009-07-21T16:06:00.000+07:00

The third-generation iPod shuffle is the talk of the music world. Not just because it's incredibly small--half the size of the previous generation. And not just because it holds up to 1,000 songs and supports multiple playlists. It's the talk of the town because it's the only music player in the world that talks to you. The new VoiceOver feature lets iPod shuffle tell you what song is playing and who's performing it. It also tells you the names of your playlists. With VoiceOver--and with the controls conveniently located on the earbud cord--it's even easier to navigate your music. You can do it without taking your eyes off your run, your ride, or whatever you're doing.

Customer Reviews
Overlooked Innovation, March 17, 2009
By David Pigg
For what it's worth, I actually own one of these.

THE GOOD:

Most people seem to prefer the $50 price tag of the previous model, and I can't say that I blame them. I mean, other than the much smaller size and the higher-capacity flash drive, what does this new model have to offer that the old model didn't? The answer: it supports multiple playlists, which make up the primary essence of every higher-caliber iPod.

Let's be blunt: if you have owned a higher-caliber iPod, such as an iPod Touch or an iPod Nano, how many times have you really used it to watch videos or to finger-pick a song from your list of thousands? My guess is a few...but that most of the time, you have found yourself listening to music via...playlists. My guess is that most of the time, you pop those earbuds in, turn on your iPod, select a playlist according to your mood, and listen to it. Guess what? You can do exactly the same thing with this baby--for only$80 as opposed to $150 and up.

I find the audio quality of this model far superior to that of the previous model.

THE BAD:

The "VoiceOver" feature is definitely nice to have when you're changing playlists; however, if you don't listen to much classical music, you may find the song-and-artist naming feature useless. You can deactivate VoiceOver if you want; but be aware that you will then be unable to navigate through your playlists--which, in my opinion, is the primary reason to buy this model.

THE UGLY:

I admit it: I'm not a audiophile. I don't know, but this may be why I've always appreciated Apple earbuds. In fact, I think the earbuds that came packaged with this model are great! But, if you are an audiophile--or just prefer different earbuds or headphones--stay away from this model...for now. Since the navigation controls for this model are located on a small control pod on the earbud cord, you don't really have the option to use other earbuds or headphones--which naturally don't have this pod. In fact, there is currently only one alternative to using the packaged earbuds: the Apple In-Ear Headphones. They also have the control pod.

Find out more @ Apple iPod shuffle 4 GB Black (3rd Generation) LATEST MODEL

Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 Compact Speakers for iPod and iPhone (Black)

2009-07-20T10:20:00.001+07:00

Experience sound quality that's rich enough to satisfy your in-home tastes in a form factor compact enough to take with you. Logitech's Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 combines 2-inch active and 3-inch pressure drivers for crystal-clear sound and surprisingly deep bass. Take it with you to school, work, or the park. Stow the speakers, AC adapter, and remote in the included travel case. The speakers include a built-in, rechargeable battery--with a battery life indicator--that lasts for 10 hours on a single charge. Take it anywhere in the world; the AC adapter works on most electrical power grids worldwide.

The 2-inch Max-X active, high-excursion drivers with neodymium magnets give you full, balanced audio, while the 3-inch pressure drivers maximize bass response and minimize distortions. The StereoXL technology widens the sound stage beyond the physical boundaries of the speaker. Works with all iPods and iPhones (uses the new Apple Universal Dock Adapter specification).

Customer reviews:
Excellent Speaker System for iPhone 3g, January 12, 2009
By Sette/Otto "Reading. Listening. Learning. Liv... (USA)
I am also used to high quality sound systems, but I was looking for a portable ipod speaker system that could run on batteries. After a considerable amount of testing of the Logitech system versus other brands (at local stores), I determined that for the money, this was the best choice. I tested multiple Sony docks and a few other brands. The Bose version naturally sounds better, but not $300 better.

The Logitech unit comes with a set of so many ipod adapters to fit each model that I could probably build a garage out of the extras. My ipod never leaves the acrylic case I bought for it, so one nice bonus was that the Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 will actually fit the acrylic case if you don't use an adapter. Therefore, my ipod screen will never run the risk of being scratched while it's in the dock.

Overall, the sound is pretty good for it's size. I would not hesitate to purchase another in the future. I also will test the battery life, although I am told from the Apple Store that it will likely only last for about 5 hours instead of 10. I give it 5 stars because it's so inexpensive for the quality.

Find out more @ Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 Compact Speakers for iPod and iPhone (Black)

Altec Lansing iM-237 Orbit Ultraportable Speaker for MP3 Players (Silver)

2009-07-19T09:59:00.004+07:00

The compact, portable iM-237 Orbit M speaker system is an ideal way to share your MP3, CD player, music-enabled phone, or laptop tunes anytime, anywhere. Slip it out of your pocket or purse for an instant audio broadcast. Just plug and play--the incredible, full-bodied, 360-degree sound will blow you away with its clarity and range. At the park, at a party, or just at your desk, it's a great companion for your favorite music device when you want to share your tunes with friends or need a break from headphone wires. And, with its long battery life, the music keeps playing well into the night

Customer reviews:
40% better than the iM-207, October 30, 2008
By R. S. CRAWFORD "Slangevar" (Jamestown, NY)
I bought an iM-207 and an iM-237 at the same time, curious to see what the difference was.
The 207 is roughly 25% smaller and comes with a 1/8 to 3/32 stereo adapter, is designed to function sitting with the speaker pointing upward or will sit at a slight angle back on its side. I think it is money well spent- compared to the same amount I spent 3 years ago on one of those fold-up cube type dual speakers. In comparison to that fold-up cube, I think the sound is like 3 times better: quality-wise and volume-wise. The iM-207 lacks an LED that lets you know if the power is switched on, so you might drain the batteries out if you forget to turn it off after you unplug your player unit. It turns on and off by rotating the outer chrome ring-not a smooth switch at all compared to a rocker, slider or push button. Now on to the iM-237: a bit more stylish than its predecessor the iM-207 and at a price that is 130% more. It comes with a swanky padded and zippered carrying case with a mini carabiner clip and a tether that can be attached to the speaker to secure it to your wrist or hang it on the wall, it doesn't have a 1/8th to 3/32 adapter. the sound is cleaner than the 207, more defined at both ends and easier to listen to and has more volume. I wouldn't say the sound is twice as good though- I'd say more like 40% better. I'm not an acoustical engineer and don't have the audio equipment to evaluate the quality on any emperical basis. The iM-237 does have a nice green LED to let you know the power is on and a simple push button on/off button (which is vulnerable to accidental activation) the cord conceals neatly in a winder molding in the base and secures the plug well- a little too well, it's hard to get it out if you don't have long fingernails! I'd say value wise the 207 has a better quality to dollar value, however if you prize sound quality then go for the iM-237.

Find out more @ Altec Lansing iM-237 Orbit Ultraportable Speaker for MP3 Players (Silver)

Altec Lansing inMotion iM600 USB-Charging Portable Speaker System with FM Receiver for iPod (Black)

2009-07-13T22:30:00.001+07:00

With its well-regarded inMotion system, Altec Lansing has raised the bar again with the iM600USB, offering full play and chargeability for all iPod models with a 30-pin connector. Featuring a myriad of exciting technologies, the iM600USB offers big, crystal-clear sound, and it folds up compactly for easy portability.

Product Description
Listen and charge your iPod at home, office, or dorm with this stereo speaker with iPod dock and FM tuner. Got another digital media player? There's a connecting port for listening as well! The Altec Lansing iM600 sound system offers stereo sound from dual 2-inch neodymium drivers optimized for high-frequency extension (better highs, in other words). It offers more power and output than any other system in its class and, what's more, it features another Altec Lansing engineering innovation called the Expanded Sound Stage technology: ESS makes the speakers sound further apart than they really are, giving the user a heightened stereo effect. The iM600 also features a stereo FM radio and can double as a clock radio when plugged in to an electrical outlet (AC adapter included). It includes rechargeable Li-ion batteries and a wireless remote. And it syncs and charges all dockable iPod models. Input jack - For second device connection, including CD, DVD, and MP3 players Weighs only 2.1 pounds (0.9 kg) For 4G iPods

Customer reviews:
For the price - amazing!,
By H. P. Bunaes "HP" (Wickford, RI USA)
I listened to all of the portable iPod speakers at BestBuy, and although the Bose system (for $399) sounded marginally better - the Altec Lansing iM600 is amazing considering the price. Great sound for a tiny unit, surprisingly good bass response, nice design, and FM tuner built in. If you can afford to spend $399 go with the Bose, if you're cost conscious you could do a whole lot worse than this little wonder.

For more detail @ Altec Lansing inMotion iM600 USB-Charging Portable Speaker System with FM Receiver for iPod (Black)

Altec Lansing M812 Octiv Air Wireless Speaker System with Dock for iPod (Black)

2009-07-12T22:22:00.001+07:00

The Altec Lansing M812 Octiv AIR is a next-generation wireless speaker system that lets you step up to the way digital music is enjoyed today with great versatility of use. For your iPod, the Octiv AIR delivers 80 watts of powerful high-fidelity sound, without wires and in a convenient, clutter-free package. And with the included Octiv Air remote, you'll have fingertip control of your music from anywhere in the room.

Customer reviews:
Hey Mama! Much R-E-S-P-E-C-T for altec lansing! yay!, March 26, 2009
By A. Boston (Boston, MA United States)
You know how sometimes you're sitting there listening to something, and you're enjoying it to such the extreme that you want to hear absolutely everything right this minute and just can't choose? These speakers did that for me. I could sit here for hours just listening.

First thing out of the box I noticed - wow is this sucker heavy! The speakers probably weigh around 14-15 pounds alone. A bit bigger than I expected as well. But of course, don't let that deter you. The bigger, heavier speaker produces amazing quality sound.

I was hoping to mount this on my kitchen wall - free up counter space and clutter! But unfortunately, the mount is sold separately. Plus I'm in a rental, and thinking about it, putting something of this weight on the wall makes me nervous.

I eagerly got this out of the box and set up, as we're a house full of iPod dock lovers. I listen to everything. Sometimes when I'm working I like classical, but I'm also a huge fan of hip-hop and a secret lover of indie -- I try to make my indie friends feel bad for thinking their music is superior to everyone elses's, therefore, indie sucks! Right? Yes, I'm one of the "anything but country" people. The sound of this dock surpasses anything I've ever had before. Real quality, hearty sound. I'm hearing things in my favorite songs that I've never heard before. Realizing they might be more musically complicated then I had imagined. I love that the bass/treble adjustments are on the remote. I sometimes like to adjust for the song, and this lets me do that. These speakers really differentiate each instrument, I'm a little shocked by how good it is.

I only wish it had AM radio and more control over the ipod with the clicker to switch playlists etc. Also for those with a cordless phone. There is interference on the phone(not the speakers) if you use a 2.4 GHz phone, as this is on the same frequency. But guess what, I love it so much, I'll get a different phone!

As a final testament: If I had the cash, I would give this to any friend or relative as a gift. Absolutely top notch. Having some friends in the music business, I would not shy away from giving this to them and that says a lot because they can be VERY picky about their sound quality.

For more detail @ Altec Lansing M812 Octiv Air Wireless Speaker System with Dock for iPod (Black)

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Loudspeaker Dock System for iPod and MP3 Players

2009-07-11T22:15:00.001+07:00

Welcome to the speaker system your iPod has been waiting for. Zeppelin sounds fantastic--and it looks great, too. It uses drive unit technologies and design principles refined and perfected for Bowers & Wilkins' most advanced reference-standard speakers. Compact, stylish, and beautifully simple to set up and use, Zeppelin releases all of the detail and atmosphere that standard iPod speaker systems miss, whether you're listening to standard MP3s or high-quality formats. It's time to set your digital music free.

Zeppelin allows you to have real hi-fi stereo sound wherever you need it--upstairs, downstairs; in your office or in a second home. Click to enlarge.

Unlike most iPod speaker docks, Zeppelin has increased capabilities that allow additional sound sources to play through Zeppelin, view videos on a screen using your iPod or iPhone, and/or stream sound using Sonos, Apple AirPort Express, or any other networking system. This makes for easy incorporation into your home theater, office, and/or bedroom setting.

Zeppelin is much more than a standard iPod speaker, and with its aesthetically pleasing design and amazing sound quality, it will reinvent the way you listen to music.

Customer reviews:
All in one best around
By Greggar (Los Angeles)
If you go to the B&W website, you'll see that the Zeppelin has won several awards and rightfully so. The little details on this bad boy set it apart from the rest. Here's my take on it.

I like the chrome trim down the middle that discretely contains the power switch and volume up & down buttons. The sound quality and fit and finishes remind me of Bang & Olufson stereos in the 90's. It feels very heavy and sturdy. The packing was well done too.

Is it just me or am I the only one that doesn't like being surrounded by 4 towers speakers, a center channel, stereo components, and subwoofer? Not to mention the tons of wires going between all those things. I cleared out the surround system in the living room and bedroom and I feel a lot happier. Simple is better and Zeppelin hit it on the mark in the style and simplicity category. I also like that there isn't a huge power adapter eyesore; just one cord.

There's a line in jack on the Zeppelin, so it would be a great speaker for a flat panel tv as well. What a clean setup that would be sitting on the glass open shelf of a black BDI Vista stand. Reminds me of that Audi commercial where the camera goes around the room as furniture gets replaced with modern furniture.

I was a bit concerned that there is no subwoofer out jack but the Zeppelin turned out to be loud enough for my bedroom. If one really wants to attach a subwoofer, it would be possible to add a Y cable to splice the line in so it goes to both the Zeppelin and the subwoofer. One could link an ipod or other auxiliary source that way. However, it is not possible to add a subwoofer when an ipod is playing in the holder.

The shape of the speaker really disperses the sound well. The sound that comes out of the Zeppelin is very interesting. I'm sitting here 90 degrees to the side of it but the sound is coming at me rather directly and the highs are not muted like feeling like I'm behind the speaker.

I bought the unit for $493 new as a buy it now including shipping on that other bay. In this economy there are still great deals out there.

For more detail @ Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Loudspeaker Dock System for iPod and MP3 Players

Satechi (Black) Dock Station Stereo Round Speaker for Ipod Nano , Classic, Touch 1st Gen, 2nd Gen with Remote Control

2009-07-10T21:54:00.001+07:00

Transform your music into crystal clear sound from your iPod! The built-in docking station can recharge your iPod while listening to music. Relax with the convenience of a wireless remote control. A secondary input jack enables connection with other audio devices that have 3.5mm stereo jack. Powered by 4 AA batteries, or 6V DC power supply (power adapter is included). The Satechi Dock Station Stereo Round Speaker is ideal for your home or office. The speaker is light weight and portible, carry anywhere you go!

Customer reviews:
IPOD Touch Dock,
By D.N. (Kalamazoo, Michigan)
I purchased this item to be able to charge my Touch and play music through it. I am pleased, it does what it says it will do and the sound quality is very good. The remote is a little tricky to figure out, but it works fine once I did. I would buy this product again, for the money, it is a good value.

For more detail @ Satechi (Black) Dock Station Stereo Round Speaker for Ipod Nano , Classic, Touch 1st Gen, 2nd Gen with Remote Control

Altec Lansing inMotion COMPACT iM310 Portable Speakers for iPod and MP3 Players

2009-07-09T21:48:00.001+07:00

Affordable, amazing sound for music lovers who listen with their eyes as well as their ears! This new addition to the inMotion family offers big sound with stylish portability. The iM310 provides outstanding acoustic volume and audio performance for your iPod/MP3 player previously unavailable at this size or value. With powerful, crystal-clear sound and surprisingly deep bass, the foldable design is ready to let you share your tunes anywhere you like via AC or battery power.

Customer reviews:
Great Speaker Option (Works With iPod Nano 4th gen)
By terryoregon "terryoregon" (Beaverton, OR USA)
It has been noted that the 4th generation iPod Nano has some backward compatibility issues with other devices. For example, the 4th gen nano won't charge on a lot of older docking stations.
I can confirm that these Altec Lansing speakers will charge your iPod Nano 4th generation. See uploaded photo. I was actually assuming it wouldn't because the description only says compatible with "iPod nano 3rd gen".

These speaker sound good for their size. The "aux" in jack is on the back if you want to use these speakers for other types of mp3 player.

For more detail @ Altec Lansing inMotion COMPACT iM310 Portable Speakers for iPod and MP3 Players

Cyber Acoustics Portable Digital Docking Speaker for iPod (Black)

2009-07-08T21:42:00.001+07:00

Cyber Acoustics is the technology leader in affordable computer audio and speech recognition/voice interactive microphones and headsets. Its goal is to provide the consumer products that offer the most features, superior design, and performance for their money.PRODUCT FEATURES:Portable Digital Docking Speakers;Ideal for iPods;Charges iPod when docked in universal well;6 watts power output.

Customer Reviews:
Superlative sound, but no remote switch.,
By Samuel Chell (Kenosha,, WI United States)
[Update: In answer to some questions, this stereo has a conventional audio input, so you can easily use it with sound sources other than an iPod. As someone has observed, the Cyber Acoustic web page claims the Nano 3g can't be charged by the CA-421 dock. Au contraire! When using electrical power and the included dock adapter, I had no difficulty charging a Nano 3g with this CA-421 dock. In fact, contrary to the company's description, it did the same with a Classic and the Touch (I don't own an iPhone, though.) Since writing the following, I've "gone through" other speakers, including the most popular rechargeable Altec Lansing and Logitech, both of which balk at playing the newest Touch. This inexpensive iRhythms model actually sounds competitive and continues to be the only portable I can depend on (no doubt due to the well-constructed adapters and the provision for using regular AA alkalines). As for the outdoors volume limitation, even the very pricey, much lauded Tivoli iPal falls flat on its face when used outside. These battery-operated machines simply are not backyard party animals.]

After becoming attached to a JBL Micro, I decided I could use another, more affordable version. The Cyber Acoustics dock-speaker seemed like a worthy candidate, especially at a half to two-thirds the price of the JBL. Frankly, I wasn't expecting a unit as good as the vaunted JBL but was willing to sacrifice some quality to save a few bucks.

Surprise. If anything, the Cyber Acoustics sounds better than the On Stage Micro! Tastes will vary, but the CA-421 is slightly warmer, has deeper and fuller bass, and is less inclined to distort when playing files recorded excessively "hot." The Micro is a bit more crisp-sounding with a slight edge in treble frequencies (as noticed while comparing the drum's hi-hats and ride cymbals on the two units). I'm finding the Cyber Acoustics unit "wears" better for extending listening stretches.

Aside from the sound of the two units, the Cyber Acoustics-421 will seem agreeably light and trim--unless you've owned a JBL Micro, which wins on style points (the impressiveness of the Micro's sound is partly due to its coming from such a tiny saucer). The JBL also gets points for finishing touches and detailing--the look and feel are less "plastic" (even though, unlike the boxed CA, it comes sealed in virtually impenetrable plastic laminate). Also, the JBL's carrying bag is supple and cushioned (with interior pockets and velcro straps to keep Micro, iPod, and cords tightly and neatly packed); the CA's is basically a functional "sack." On the other hand, the Cyber Acoustics has clearer labeling of the plastic inserts for adapting different iPod models; the JBL comes with the inserts, but the user has to pick the right one through trial and error.

Even if the cost of the two units were the same, the CA-461 would still be competitive, if for sound alone. Perhaps the most compelling reason to go with the JBL in that case is its inclusion of a remote--admittedly handy for starting, stopping, and changing tunes when the speaker is on the other side of the room. But even without the remote, I doubt you'll find a better value in an iPod dock-speaker than this little Cyber Acoustics overachiever.

Finally, give the Cyber Acoustics people credit for making the power adapter light and compact, easily deployed whenever the user wishes to save on batteries (I returned a JBL On Stage II because the power adapter was practically the size and weight of a small boat anchor, making it clumsy for use even with some electrical installations.)

For more detail @ Cyber Acoustics Portable Digital Docking Speaker for iPod (Black)

iLive IS208B Stereo Speaker System with iPod Dock (Black)

2009-07-07T21:11:00.003+07:00

The IS208B from iLive makes sharing your music a snap. The docking station plays and charges your iPod. Plus, you also can connect to MP3 players, cell phones, or video game systems through the line input. The acoustically calibrated stereo speakers are tuned to deliver maximum performance in a system with looks to match.

Docking Station for iPod
Dock your iPod and enjoy your favorite music. Your iPod charges while it's docked, so when you're on the go again, you are fully charged.

Input and Output
The IS208B boasts a 3.5-mm auxiliary input for use with external audio devices like CD or MP3 players. It also includes a 3.5-mm output for sending your signal to another device.

Digital Clock
Check the time on the digital clock, displayed on the ultra-cool see-through LCD with white backlight.

Full-Featured Remote Control
Use the included remote to control the device's functions from across the room, along with your iPod when it's docked.

What's in the Box
iLive Stereo Speaker System with iPod Dock (Black), iPod dock inserts, remote control (battery included), documentation

Customer Reviews
Very Slick & Practical,
By S. Torrance "storra" (Arlington, TX United States)
I bought this for myself to use at work, for my iPod, and was very pleased with the size and how it sounded. I especially liked the style, it's rather cute. Not sure about the EQ button, but the remote is a blast to use. My supervisor even wanted one. It comes with brackets to fit different sizes of iPods. I was quite impressed. It's worth the money.

For more detail @ iLive IS208B Stereo Speaker System with iPod Dock (Black)

Apple iPod nano 8 GB Black (4th Generation) LATEST MODEL

2009-06-23T07:26:00.002+07:00

With eight amazing colors, a new curved design, and great new features, iPod nano rocks like never before. The Genius Playlist feature finds the songs in your music library that go great together and makes a playlist for you. With its built-in accelerometer, iPod nano is made to move. Give it a shake, and it shuffles to a different song in your library. Turn it on its side to flip through your album art in Cover Flow. And tilt, move, and play accelerometer-inspired games (games available separately). Watching movies, TV shows, and video is even more fun on the sharp 2-inch screen. And your photos (up to 7,000 of them) look great in portrait or landscape view. Available in 8 GB and 16 GB models, the 8 GB iPod nano puts up to 2,000 songs or 8 hours of video in your pocket... Read more

Testing The New iPhone 3G S

2009-06-22T00:25:00.003+07:00

Testing The New iPhone 3G S from JohnChow.com. The new iPhone 3G S is an evolutionary step up from the outgoing iPhone 3G. Those with a first generation non-3G iPhone will want to make the upgrade to iPhone 3G S right away. Those with an iPhone 3G will have more justifying to do with their accountants or wives.

Apple Store

2009-05-21T15:33:00.000+07:00

iPod

Macs

Macs

Mac accessories

Mac applications

Clock Radio by Brands

2009-05-21T14:37:00.000+07:00

iHome

Sony

Speaker system by Brands

2009-05-21T14:31:00.001+07:00

Altec	Coby	Cyber
iHome	iLive	iLuv
iMainGo	Logitech	Panasonic
Roth Audio	Bowers&Wilkins	Satechi
Skullcandy	X-Mini	Zlive

MP3 Players by Brand

2009-05-21T14:09:00.004+07:00

iPod by Apple: iPod classic iPod touch iPod nano iPod shuffle	Zune	Creative
SanDisk	Samsung

iPanda audio system un-bearably cute

2008-11-27T14:13:00.004+07:00

If you're not one for cute and cuddly audio systems, read on at your own peril.

Speakal, which not long ago brought us the iPig speaker dock system, is expanding its grip on animal-themed audio devices with the iPanda, a similar product in a less pink skin.

As its name suggests, the gadget broadcasts audio and charges iPods via a precious panda bear. Specifically, it has five speakers, including a 4-inch subwoofer, that deliver 25 watts of sound in 360 degrees. The compact iPanda connects to all iPods, plus other MP3 players, gaming consoles, mobile gaming devices, cell phones, desktop PCs, and laptops.

The product sells for US$139.99, which doesn't seem like too much bamboo to fork over for a new electronic pet. The best part, of course, is that you control the volume by touching the ears. Fun, right?

Source : CNET

iTunes Sales in 2008: $3.34 Billion; An Increase of $844 Million from Last Year

2008-11-18T13:47:00.004+07:00

iTunes sales are doing well, and that’s just to say they are raising at a fair pace. Apple has managed to gain an excess of over US$840 million dollars this year more than they had at this time last year. That’s an increase of an astonishing 34%!

This information was revealed at Apple’s annual SEC 10K filing earlier this week. Apple cited “heightened consumer interest in downloading third-party digital content” as the reason for the hefty increase. Also, an increase in the amount and types of content available at the iTunes stores was pegged as part of this growth.

As most of you already know, Apple had taken over the #1 slot for the largest U.S. music seller in April of this year, stumping Wal-Mart by a hefty margin. Apple continues to overtake Wal-Mart by an even larger margin as each day passes.

Source : touchpodium.com