Gizmodo: Audio

Binaural Beats Audio Played Through Noise Canceling Headphones Supposedly Gives You a Drug-Like High

Jason Chen — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:20:00 EDT

The site I-Doser makes the seemingly remarkable claim that playing binaural beats—pulses of two different frequencies that are slightly different into both ears at the same time—can give you a high that's on par with taking drugs. The Jerusalem Post claims that the concept has been around since the 1830s, but has only been perfected with the introduction of noise canceling headphones and better audio reproduction.

There are actually open source version of this I-Doser app (which they might have even taken a few assets from), so you can try it out before you sink some cash into this. Their shady looking site also has a disclaimer that says "I-Doser makes no medical, psychological, physical or otherwise, claims to the effectiveness of the I-Doser application, Simulation CDs, and MP3s," which leads us to believe that it's quite bogus and most likely does nothing. Don't you think that if you could get high from a SOUND, kids would have been all over this years ago? These kids sniff cat pee! [I-Doser via JPostvia T3]

Sony Rebrands Mylo Personal Communicator as Mylo Internet Device, Probably Won't Help Sales

Adrian Covert — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 20:40:00 EDT

Sony took the radical step of renaming their "Mylo Personal Communicator" the "Mylo Internet Device." Though it's unlikely to affect the five of you that actually bought a Mylo, you have to wonder if it's a last ditch effort to generate interest in a product that didn't exactly set the gadget world on fire. [Pocketables via Gadgetell]

UK School-Kids Get iPod-Controlling Uniforms: Teachers Despair

Kit Eaton — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 06:15:00 EDT

Ipod-controlling clothes aren't new, sure, but UK retailer Marks and Spencer is taking a teeny risk with its new line of smart clothing. It's aimed at school kids, with controls and pockets integrated into standard school uniform blazers and coats. A five function keypad from Fibertronic is inside the lapels, and there're loops for hiding the earphone wires under there too. Brilliant idea... until you wonder how many detentions this is going to land kids in, when they decide that listening to tunes on the journey into school isn't enough, and Geography lessons are soooo boring anyway. The Back to School iPod gear is in boys and girls cuts, with the coat going for around $70, depending on size, and the blazer for around $50. [Talk2MyShirt]

Sumsung's Speaker YA-SBR510 Has Bluetooth Wireless for Your MP3s

Kit Eaton — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:13:00 EDT

Samsung has added to its line of wireless speakers with the new YA-SBR510. There's sparse info, but it looks to be a bigger, newer version of the BS900 we showed you last year. It's got both Bluetooth and line-in connectivity so you can play music from almost any source. There's also the YA-SD210 cradle, much smaller and designed only for Samsung PMPs—the P2, T10 and S3—but also acting as a speaker. The SBR510 is available in Korea at first for around $220. [Akihabaranews]

AMPHIBX Waterproof Armbands: iPhone 3Gs and Nip-Slips Collide

Sean Fallon — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:50:00 EDT

With the Olympics in full-swing, and the watersports getting so intense that both balls and boobs are flying (NSFW link), there was no better time for H2O Audio to unveil their new AMPHIBX watersports armband. According to a recent press release, it provides 100% waterproof protection up to depths of 12 feet for both the original iPhone and the 3G version as well as almost every iPod, MP3 player and cellphone under the sun.

A ClearTouch window allows the user to freely operate the device underwater and it is buoyant enough to float to the surface when a device is inside. The armband is retailing at $70 and $80 for medium and large sizes respectively, and a companion set of headphones dubbed "Surge" is also available for an additional $60. [H2O Audio via Coolest Gadgets]

Sounger Vin 1/8 MP3 Violin Speaker System is Fiddle-Shaped, for Style

Kit Eaton — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 06:08:00 EDT

MP3 speakers play music, so they may as well look like a musical instrument: that seems to be the thinking behind the Sounger Vin 1/8 Violin Speaker System with amp. And before you dismiss the device as a gimmick, you need to know it's crafted from spruce and maple wood, each speaker is 20W and stands 19-inches tall and the amp is violin-themed too. Does a wooden speaker-body, echoing the shape of a violin (which itself is optimized to make the great sounds) mean it'll sound better than nasty plastic speakers? Hard to say: but you can't deny that in terms of stylish, unusual looks, this is a winner. It's available in Korea, but you'll have to save up, violin fans, since it costs $770. [TFTS]

Fantabulous Wood Sound Enhancer Specially Crafted for Rich Morons

Jesus Diaz — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:45:00 EDT

At last, here is the answer for all your high fidelity problems: the Acoustic System Phase Corrector, a group of 11 maple wood blocks that corrects the blurring of phase coherency. You know, that sound problem caused by those pesky pockets of greater energy density happening between the loudspeakers, the floor, and the front wall. Come on. You know the ones. Listen, just spend $1,975 on this and you will get amazing sound, as their product description says:

The Acoustic System Phase Corrector may look like a simple instrument grade maple block but its inner workings are more complex. When you walk around your listening room you will notice pockets of greater energy density. One of these energy pockets occurs between the loudspeakers and is concentrated at the interface between the floor and the front wall. From the listening position the result is a blurring of the phase coherency. The phase corrector, as its name suggests, attempts to correct this phenomenon by disrupting the energy pocket near the floor/front wall interface through a combination of resonance and diffusion. The degree of resonance can be altered by varying the distance between the phase corrector and the front wall.

Obviously, the system doesn't solve the blurry neuron connections of any moron with deep money pockets who actually tries to buy this—hopefully pranky—crap. [Pure Music Group via Boing Boing Gadgets]

Zvue's Custom Elvis Theme PMP Comes with Pre-Loaded Presley Vids

Kit Eaton — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 06:56:00 EDT

Screw the Journey-themed PMP, this custom Zvue player has real music aboard: from Mr Presley himself. Ten video clips to be precise, and Elvis's signature and photo engraved on the back shell. Part of Zvue's Premier Artists Series, it's got 1GB (expandable to 5GB with microSD,) a 2.4-inch colour TFT screen, FM tuner, voice recorder and will cost about $50 when it's out August 12th in Wal-mart. Uh huh huh. [TFTS]

Sony's Bravia Theater RHT-G500 3.1-Channel Hi-Fi is a TV Stand Too

Kit Eaton — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 04:08:00 EDT

Stand your precious new HDTV on a simple, old-fashioned plank of wood? No, that's way too low-tech... or at least you might think so after seeing Sony's RHT-G500. It's an "invisible home cinema" TV stand. "A TV stand with a product code?" you might ask. Yes. And an integrated 3.1-channel audio system with S-Force PRO Front Surround technology, HDMI inputs with pass-through, a special PMP connector, and both Bluetooth and wi-fi connectivity. And you can stand TVs on it: it's designed for 32-inch to 40-inch sets. No word on pricing or availability. [Sony Europe via I4U]

Sonos Improves Wi-Fi With ZonePlayer ZP90 and Small Self-Powered ZP120 Audio Streamers

Adrian Covert — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 01:46:51 EDT

Sonos upgraded their ZonePlayer lineup to the ZP 90 and the ZP 120. The ZP 90, which connects to existing home theater amplifiers, is essentially the same as the ZP 80, but now features SonosNet 2.0, which combines MIMO antennas with Sonos' existing mesh network. The ZP120, Sonos' main amplified unit, also includes SonosNet 2.0, but is also smaller (7"x3"x8" vs. 10"x4"x8") , lighter (5 lbs. vs. 10 lbs.), and has more power (55W vs 50W) than the previous ZP100.

In addition, Sonos updated their system software to version 2.6, which Classical.com and LiveDownloads.com to its list of music services for use with the Sonos Controller 100 (which has yet to be upgraded from its original design, btw), and are offering $200 worth of free downloads between the three services. The update also enables support for NAS Hard Drives, and 65,000 music files. There's also an eMusic promo in there. The ZP 90 and 120 are available now for $350 and $500 respectively, or as part of the BU150 bundle which includes the ZP 90, 120 and CR100 Controller for $1000. [Sonos]

SONOS INTRODUCES THE
SONOS ZONEPLAYER 120 AND SONOS ZONEPLAYER 90

Wireless Range and Amplifier Design Innovations Deliver State of the Art Multi-Room Music Experience

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – August 5, 2008 – Sonos®, Inc., the leading developer of wireless multi-room music systems for the home, today introduced two new ZonePlayers to deliver a state-of-the-art multi-room music experience. With innovations in both wireless technology and amplifier design, the Sonos ZonePlayer 120 (ZP120) and the Sonos ZonePlayer 90 (ZP90) make Sonos the ideal system for music lovers who want to enjoy all the music they love, all over the house. The new ZonePlayers are available starting today at all Sonos authorized retailers and at HYPERLINK "http://www.sonos.com" www.sonos.com.

The two new Sonos ZonePlayers give music lovers the ability to add music to absolutely any room. Connect speakers to the amplified ZP120 and place in the bedroom or the backyard. The non-amplified ZP90 can be connected to a home theater or stereo, allowing customers to make use of the audio equipment they already own.

“Sonos’ mission is to fill every house—and every room—with music," said Phil Abram, President & Chief Operating Officer, Sonos, Inc. ”These new products continue Sonos’ heritage of blending the latest technology, software and user experience to create an unmatched music experience in the home.”

The new ZonePlayers incorporate SonosNet™ 2.0, our latest wireless mesh network technology, which doubles the wireless range of the Sonos Multi-Room Music System. SonosNet 2.0 uses Sonos’ mesh network combined with state of the art MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) wireless technology which uses 3 antennas to send and receive music. SonosNet 2.0 helps assure the music gets to all the right rooms, near or far, at the right time – creating perfect synchronization of music without all the wires. The extended range works between any mix of ZP120s and ZP90s and is compatible with all previous generations of Sonos ZonePlayers, Controllers and ZoneBridges.
Sonos ZonePlayer 120

Advances in power supply design, digital amplifier engineering, industrial design, and mechanical engineering make this the smallest, lightest, most powerful amplified Sonos ZonePlayer ever. The incredibly efficient amplifier and power supply, combined with the fan-less design of the aluminum case, allows the ZP120 to operate silently. The ZP120 delivers 2x55 watts per channel RMS at 8 Ohms. With measurements of THD+N < 0.02%, 20Hz-20kHz, the ZP120 delivers powerful low distortion audiophile quality sound to every room of the house. The ZP120 can be connected to speakers and discreetly placed on a bookshelf, under furniture or beds, or hidden in cabinets with connections to in-wall speakers.

The ZP120 will retail for $499 individually. It is also included as part of the Sonos Bundle 150 (see accompanying press release) for $999.

Sonos ZonePlayer 120 Technical Specifications

Class-D Amplifier: Great sounding amplifier that is lightweight, small and very energy efficient

Output: 2x55W RMS (55W power into 8 ohms, TDN+N<0.02%)*
Speaker connections: Spring binding posts

Line In: Auto-detecting RCA allows any external audio source to be played by all ZonePlayers in the system

Subwoofer out: Auto-detecting RCA, 80 Hz crossover

Wireless connectivity: SonosNet™ 2.0, a secure AES encrypted, MIMO peer-to-peer wireless mesh network

Network bridging: 2-port switch (10/100Mbps, auto MDI/MDIX) allows Ethernet devices to connect through SonosNet

Power Supply: AC 120/240V, 50-60Hz, user-switchable

Dimensions: W 7.3 inch x H 3.5 inch x D 8.15 inch (W 185mm x H 89mm x D 207mm)

Weight: 5.1 lb (2.3 kg)

Product finish: Anodized precision machined extrusion aluminum case. Aluminum casing also facilitates passive cooling.
*Both channels driven, minimum continuous average power, 22Hz-20KHZ-AES17 measurement bandwidth

Sonos ZonePlayer 90

The Sonos ZonePlayer 90 allows music lovers to play all the music they want, all over their house, on all of their favorite audio equipment—a home theater system, powered speakers, a premium table top radio such as a Bose Wave® Radio, and more. It is the easiest way to integrate existing audio equipment into a multi-room music system.

The ZP90 will retail for $349 individually. It is also included as part of the Sonos Bundle 150 (see accompanying press release) for $999.

Sonos ZonePlayer 90 Technical Specifications

Sound quality: THD+N < 0.009%, 20Hz-20KHz

Line-out: Analog (RCA), digital (optical and coaxial)

Line-in: Analog (RCA), auto-detecting

Wireless connectivity: SonosNet™ 2.0, a secure AES encrypted, MIMO peer-to-peer wireless mesh network

Network bridging: The 2-port switch (10/100Mbps, auto MDI/MDIX) allows Ethernet devices to connect through SonosNet™

Power Supply: AC 100-240V, 50-60Hz

Dimensions: W 5.5 inch x H 5.4 inch x D 2.9 inch (W 139.7mm x H 136mm x D 74mm)

Weight: 1.5 lbs (0.69 kg)

Product finish: Light gray, high quality PC

Sonos System Technical Specifications

Audio formats supported: MP3, WMA (including Windows Media DRM), AAC (MPEG4), Ogg Vorbis, Audible (format 4), Apple Lossless, Flac (lossless) music files, as well as uncompressed WAV and AIFF files. Native support for 44.1kHz sample rates. Additional support for 48kHz, 32kHz, 24kHz, 22kHz, 16kHz, 11kHz, and 8kHz sample rates.

Music services supported: Best Buy™ Digital Music Store, Napster®, Pandora®, Rhapsody® 3.0+, SIRIUS® Internet Radio, and downloads from any service offering DRM-free tracks, including Amazon MP3™, eMusic® and more.

Operating systems (for stored files): Windows® XP SP2 or higher, Windows Vista™ Mac OS X v10.4 and v10.5 NAS (Network Attached Storage) devices supporting CIFS.

Internet radio supported: Streaming MP3, WMA

Album art supported: JPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF

Playlists supported: Rhapsody, iTunes®, WinAmp®, Windows Media Player®, and MusicMatch™ (.m3u, .pls, .wpl)

In conjunction with today’s ZP120 and ZP90 announcement, Sonos also introduced Sonos Software 2.6 to all Sonos customers. The new feature update includes more than $200 in DRM-free music offers, support for music collections with up to 65,000 tracks, and more. See accompanying press release.

Sonos is the first wireless, multi-room music system that lets you play all the music you want all over your house — and control it all from the palm of your hand. To learn more about Sonos, to place an order or to locate an authorized Sonos dealer, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.sonos.com" www.sonos.com or call 877.80.SONOS.

iRiver Spinn Controller and UI Caught on VIdeo: Sleek, But Confusing

Kit Eaton — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 07:47:47 EDT

We've talked a few times about iRiver's Spinn PMP with its revolutionary controller, and now its UI has been captured on camera. Check out the radio-dial-like menu selection system, which looks pretty sleek and shiny. You dial through/click the menus with the feature wheel on the unit. Or by jabbing at the touchscreen. Hmm.... so the purpose of the big wheel is as an additional control that doesn't offer the flexibility of touchscreen controls? It's a little confusing: as is the UI itself, to my eyes at least. [IRiverfans via Engadget]

Tascam GT-R1 Guitar Recorder Lets You Capture Those Brilliant Solos

Kit Eaton — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 04:27:00 EDT

Tascam—last heard of here on Giz with a portable MP3 guitar "trainer"—has come up with another gizmo that may interest you if you're a guitarist. The GT-R1 is a portable MP3 recorder for capturing your axe work, capable of recording to MP3/WAVE at 48/44.1 kHz 24-bits uncompressed. That's not bad quality, and since it works with SDHC, you'll have plenty of recording time. Better yet it's got multiple effects built-in, and also has a "trainer" function which allows you to play along with your fave tracks at your choice of speed—without changing the pitch. Sounds pretty handy, and it'll be out August 26th in Japan for around $310. [Akihabaranews]

Dell to Release New MP3 Player with Zing Tech, Media Store, Says Rumor

Kit Eaton — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 04:23:00 EDT

Remember Dell's DJ Ditty MP3 player? Probably not, since Dell shut its PMP shop a while back. But over at the Wall St Journal, there's a rumor that Dell is planning on re-entering the PMP market with a new device that's been under development and testing. The device, name unknown, has a screen and simple navigation controls and would "connect to online music services via a Wi-Fi internet connection." This would tie in with a new online media service, allowing downloading of music and movies which could also be played on PC. Key in this is software developed by Zing (which Dell bought last year) which would come installed on PCs and PMPs, and manage the media movements. There's mention of a potential fall launch, and costs for the PMP of less than $100. [WSJ. Subscription warning.]

Lancer's Laqa3 Waterproof MP3 Player Takes Design Simplicity to New Levels

Kit Eaton — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 04:49:00 EDT

Maybe I'm not a slope-wise skier, but when I'm hurtling down a mountain I love to hear wind sounds—not music from my iPod. Other people are different, and this waterproof MP3 player from Lancer certainly fits the "rugged enough for big snowboard crashes" bill. The Laqa3's design is a plain metal tube. And... well, that's it. There's a headphone connector, and presumably controls somewhere, but other than that it's a plain metal tube. You may dig its industrial-look, or not, but it weighs just 25g, has IPX7 waterproofing so it's good for swimming, and comes with IPX7 silicon ear buds. It plays MP3s and WMAs, has an eight-hour lithium battery. It's released July 25th in Japan for about $185, which is lots considering it's 1GB. [AVWatch]

Creative Decks Out Zen Range with Patterned Mozaic PMP

Kit Eaton — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 05:30:00 EDT

Creative is clearly in some kind of rush to get new media players out into the world: first the X-Fi, then the Krystal and now the Mozaic. It's a pretty standard offering, with music and video playing function, a 1.8-inch screen, FM radio and voice recorder, but, like the Nokia Prism, it's its keypad that makes it a teeny bit different. It's a mosaic-themed one, which you may either think is a tasteful dash of creativity, or a daft way of confusing the controls. In black, silver and pink colors, it's in either 2, 4 or 8GB versions for $99, $129 and $unknown. [NothingbutCreative]

Sony Pushes Out Three New Walkman Phones, the W302, W902 and W595

Kit Eaton — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 05:09:44 EDT

It's the third birthday of Sony Ericsson's Walkman phone label, and to celebrate it's launching three new music-based cellphones. The W302 and W902 (left, center in the image) are both candybar cells, with the 302 having an FM radio, and 2-megapixel cam, and the 902 with a 5-megapixel cam and apparently matching the high audio quality of the W980 phone. The W595 is a slide phone with built-in stereo speakers so users can "share sounds with their friends" (read: annoy passers-by with irritating tunes) but it also has twin jacks so you can share music privately. All four phones are quad-band GSM, have "shake control," come in a selection of colors and will hit the streets at the end of the year. Press release below, which also details some new accessories like wireless portable speakers.

To coincide with the Walkman™ phone’s third birthday, Sony Ericsson has unveiled three brand new mobile phones giving music on the go to more users than ever. Best-in-class sound quality takes music on your mobile to the next level.

London July 22 - Building on three year’s experience and technology 30 years in the making, Sony Ericsson continues to lead the way in the mobile phone music arena with cutting edge music technology and unique accessories.

Today, Sony Ericsson unveils its latest innovative additions to the Walkman™ phone family: the W902, W595 and W302, and seven new music accessories. Sony Ericsson is unveiling phones and accessories with superior sound quality and pioneering features that take Walkman™ phones beyond music and expectations with fantastic extras such as great imaging and video capabilities.

“Since the launch of our first Walkman™ phone in 2005, Sony Ericsson has continued to pioneer a superior mobile music experience - and the 77 million Walkman™ phones sold to date are testament to this commitment,” says Ben Padley, Head of the Music Category at Sony Ericsson. “With this latest range of phones and accessories, we are offering high quality sound and a rich feature set that cements our position as a leader in the music phone category. We are pushing the boundaries of what people think is possible and are offering best-in-class sound quality and our most exciting Walkman™ phones to date.”

The list of pioneering and innovative features found on Walkman™ phones continues to be unmatched in the industry. Features like the music recognition application TrackID™, SensMe™, for matching your mood to the music and Shake control to change tracks with the flick of your hand make Walkman™ phones stand out from the rest.

Sony Ericsson can now also announce best-in-class sound quality and a clear audio experience from its W902 Walkman™. The W902 features the same superior sound quality as the W980, about to launch shortly, which was rated ”best audio experience” this month, in a trial conducted in Germany by TESTfactory*.

With the W902, users can listen to music the way it should be heard: true to original. It’s also a mobile phone for those that want it all, with a five megapixel camera and great video capturing and sharing capabilities, an 8GB Memory Stick Micro™ (M2) for storing more than 8,000 songs**, the W902 is a top-of-the-range device that will make you the envy of your friends.

The W595 Walkman™ is perfect for those who want to share sounds with their friends. Store and play more than 1,900 songs** through the built in stereo speakers. Plug in the in-box sharing jack to listen silently to your tunes with a friend or Bluetooth™ your sounds to Sony Ericsson’s range of wireless speakers.

The new W302 Walkman™ is packed with impressive features in an affordable no-compromise slim handset. Targeting all audiences, the phone comes complete with an impressive two megapixel camera, FM radio, TrackID™ and 512MB Memory Stick Micro™ (M2).

The next generation of accessories includes three new sets of speakers, the MBS-200, MBS-400 and MPS-100, to help music lovers go beyond the individual and play music directly from their mobile phone. Enhancing its music accessories collection Sony Ericsson has also introduced three new stereo headphones, HBH-IS800, HPM-88 and HPM-66 for the optimal listening experience.

The Walkman™ phone through history
Walkman™ phone continues to chart high

• August 2005 – Sony Ericsson launches its very first Walkman™ phone – the W800
• December 2005 - Three million Walkman™ phones sold to date
• April 2006 – Sony Ericsson launches its first Walkman™ phone music accessories; MPS-60 portable speakers, which goes on to sell millions of units worldwide
• October 2006 – Sony Ericsson launches its first slider Walkman™ phone – the W850 which also introduces the unique TrackID™ music recognition application
• November 2006 –Sony Ericsson launches the W950 Walkman™ with the biggest storage yet - 4GB
• December 2006 – 20 million Walkman™ phones sold to date
• February 2007 – Sony Ericsson launches its slimmest Walkman™ - the W880
• November 2007 – W910 Walkman™ phone with Turbo 3G/HSDPA launches as a complete entertainment device
• December 2007 – Walkman™ phone sales hit 57 million
• February 2008 – Sony Ericsson launches the W350, with Walkman™ on top and W380 with gesture control
• July 2008 – W980 Walkman™ phone with clear audio experience launches

With Sony Ericsson today music is reborn. What are you waiting for? Join the Walkman™ phone family and experience music how it was meant to be heard.

For more information visit www.sonyericsson.com/reveals

The W302 Walkman™ is an EDGE/GSM/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900 phone that will be available in selected markets in Midnight Black and Sparkling White in Q4 of 2008.

The W902 Walkman™ is a UMTS/HSDPA 2100 and EDGE/GSM/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900 phone that will be available in selected markets in Volcanic Black, Wine Red and Earth Green in Q4 of 2008.

The W595 Walkman™ is a UMTS/HSDPA 2100 and EDGE/GSM/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900 phone that will be available in selected markets in Active Blue, Cosmopolitan White, Jungle Grey and Lava Black in Q4 of 2008.

The W595c Walkman™ is a GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 phone that will be available in selected markets in Active Blue, Cosmopolitan White and Jungle Grey in Q4 of 2008.

The W595a Walkman™ is a GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 phone that will be available in selected markets in Active Blue, Cosmopolitan White, Jungle Grey and Lava Black in Q4 of 2008.

The Wireless Portable Speaker MBS-200 will be available in selected markets from Q4 2008.

The Wireless Portable Speaker MBS-400 will be available in selected markets from Q4 2008.

The Portable Speakers MPS-100 will be available in selected markets from Q4 2008

The Wireless Stereo Headphones HBH-IS800 will be available in selected markets from Q4 2008

The Noise Cancelling Headphones HPM-88 will be available in selected markets from Q4 2008

The Active Headphones HPM-66 will be available in selected markets from Q4 2008

[Sony Ericsson]

Creative's Zen Krystal MP3 Materializes Out of Nowhere

Sean Fallon — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:39:00 EDT

It kind of looks like a Zen Stone, and it is certainly a far cry from the Zen X-Fi, but this little MP3 player has been discovered hiding on Creative's Hong Kong site. Apparently, the 4GB Zen Krystal is designed to be a sports player with a pedometer that functions similarly to the Nike+ line. It also includes games like "Hurdle Race, Catch & Dodge and Dice Roll" as well as a Blue 0.7" OLED, FM radio, and 10 hours of playback. A price and a release date have not been made available. [Creative via anythingbutipod]

Certus Turntable Makes You Choose Between Listening to Records or Feeding Your Family

Elaine Chow — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 12:45:00 EDT

Got a lot of money to spend and a fetish for obsolete technology? The Certus Turntable by Teres Audio will play whatever records you still own for the hefty price of between $13,900 and $25,500. For the annual wage of a migrant farmer, you get a “magnetic damped multi-phase synchronous drive system to directly drive a massive, heavily damped brass and hardwood platter”—supposedly some kind of technology that makes music sound amazing. Right. Call me a plebeian, but I think I'll stick with some lossless audio format and my iPod, thanks. [Born Rich]

Belkin BreakFree: MacBook MagSafe Cable for Your Guitar

Benny Goldman — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

The BreakFree is Belkin's fix for crazy rockers who can't get through a set without ripping up their amp or guitar's cord jack by flailing around too much. One part of the $20 two-piece kit fits in the axe's cord jack, while the other goes to the cord itself, and you can rock safe knowing that if you make any wild moves the plugs—which don't degrade sound quality—will snap apart without ruining your gear, a la Apple's MagSafe MacBook cable. Super extreme rockers can get another pack to use for the amp as well, but if you're that wacky on stage, you should probably just go wireless. Out in September, press release after the jump.

Belkin BreakFree Protects Your Amps

¶ Easy-to-Use BreakFree Connectors Complement Your Existing Cables with a Magnetic Breakaway Connector
COMPTON, Calif. —(Business Wire)— Jul. 10, 2008 Belkin International, Inc., announces new BreakFree Connectors, which detach under extreme tension, protecting your amplifier or guitar from unexpected damage. BreakFree will provide noise-free dynamic sound without any degradation in audio quality.

Belkin's BreakFree Connectors are designed to eliminate the popping that occurs when cables are accidentally unplugged from a live amplifier. Additionally, for musicians with multiple guitars, the product makes guitar swapping seamless without the hassle of shutting down or putting your amplifier on standby.

AVAILABILITY

— September 2008 in the US, Canada, Europe, and Asia

BreakFree (F8Z294) - US: $19.99

— Supports 1/4" TRS plug

— Strong magnet with quick detachment

— Consistent audio quality

— Reduces cable clutter

BreakFree Tips (F8Z293-2) - US: $9.99

— Use with BreakFree Connector

— Two in a pack

— Supports 1/4" TRS plug

[Belkin]

Creative Zen X-Fi Gets Launch Timing, Price

Kit Eaton — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:56:00 EDT

We brought you some leaked info on Creative's upcoming PMP not long ago, and now it's official. The credit-card-sized player will come in 8GB, 16GB and 32GB versions, and the larger two will support 802.11 b/g wi-fi for wireless syncing of music, video and photos and an IM chat function. It's got a 2.5-inch, 320 × 240 pixel TFT screen and a SD/SDHC slot, for a max of 32GB of expansion. There's also an FM radio, some PDA functions, and a built-in speaker to support its alarm clock option. Sound quality is given special treatment with Creative's own "crystalizer" and "expand" options. Out in Japan at first mid-July for $166, $213, $307 for the 8GB, 16GB and 32GB versions. [AV Watch]

Super-Sleek Aurora Open Source DJ Mixer Can Be Built From a Kit

John Mahoney — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

We love open source hardware, especially when it can throw some MIDI flange and fade into your party like the Aurora—a dual-channel, USB-powered DJ mixer. All the schematics, bills of materials and source code can be nabbed for free online, or you can have one built and shipped. And it can pull off a pretty mean LED lightshow...

Here the ump-shh ump-shh is dished out by Ableton Live, with effects being controlled by the Aurora.

[Aurora via Hack A Day]

Hide Your Fancy Car Stereo Behind a Very Crappy Car Stereo

Adam Frucci — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 19:20:00 EDT

So you got yourself a fancy new stereo for your car. It's all well and good while you're driving, but when you're out of the car you know damn well that it's a magnet for ne'er-do-wells who are just itching to take a crowbar to your window and forcibly remove your fancy apparatus from your dash. What to do? Simple: disguise it with a really crappy looking stereo faceplate, complete with a half a cassette sticking out.

Over at Instructables they have detailed instructions on just how to do this. It works best if you have the original, crappy stereo that came with your car handy, but it'll work with other models if you measure properly. Just get yourself a bunch of epoxy, some Velcro, an ironic cassette and a few hours of your time and you'll be good to go. Unless someone with a fetish for old cassette decks walks by your car, that is, but that's probably a risk you're willing to take. [Instructables]

Lightning Review: i2i Stream Wireless Music Sharing Device

Sean Fallon — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:40:00 EDT

The Gadget: Aerielle's i2i Stream allows users to share audio from any source between two or more i2i devices using a wireless 2.4 GHz frequency. Just plug in a set of headphones and listen to the music your friends are broadcasting on their i2i Streams (up to 7 audio sources).

The Price: $119.95 for a two pack (currently on sale for $99.95 ) or $69.95 in a single version (on sale for $59.95)

The Verdict: The i2i Stream works as advertised. The sound quality from the streaming music is good and it holds up well inside the range of 30 feet (even when separated by walls). Furthermore, switching between audio sources is easy with the color coded channels, and it gets a decent amount of battery life (around 6 or 7 hours). Still, I can't recommend something that seems unnecessary to me. It's not that it is huge or anything (although it could stand to be a little smaller), but when you plug in an iPod and headphones it is nothing more than another cumbersome gadget taking up space and emptying your wallet. And why? So you can share your horrible taste in music with your friends? If you want to DJ your tunes, a simple portable speaker would suffice. Besides, for the price of a single i2i Stream you could get a 2GB Shuffle and listen to your own music.[i2i Stream]

Images of Samsung U4 MP3 Player Surface, iPod Shuffle Shakes in Fear

Adrian Covert — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 14:58:58 EDT

This image of the Samsung U4 MP3 player appeared on Samsung's Korea site over the weekend, promising "freedom from monotony." And while there are no hard specs surrounding this rendering except that it's "coming soong," it will likely pick up where the Samsung U3 left off, which is to say it wants the iPod Shuffle's head. [YEPP via GenerationMP3 via AnythingButiPod]

Samsung M3510 Music Cellphone to Have Shake, Tilt Control

Kit Eaton — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:15:00 EDT

Some information has leaked out about Samsung's upcoming M3510 music-player cellphone, and it looks like it'll have some accelerometer-driven control built-in. A bit like the ShakeSMS app for Nokia phones and the Sansa Shake MP3 player, the M3510 will let you shake it in different directions and turn it around to control the music player and other apps. Other than that it's a 0.39-inch deep candybar, with 2-inch screen, 2-megapixel camera and FM radio, and it'll cost somewhere between $310 and $390 when it's released. [Unwiredview]

Thingamakit DIY Synthesizer is Horribly, Wonderfully Noisy

Kit Eaton — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 07:25:00 EDT

Weird... but I kinda want to hear more. That's roughly how I'd describe the sound output of the Thingamakit, a strange "noise monster" DIY synthesizer. I like the fact that it uses some sort of optical feedback: adjusting those tentacles affects how the sounds are generated, which then gets fed back to the LEDs in the tentacles. So it's a pleasingly tactile gizmo, and if you're really a strange-noise-machine-ophile, you'll also appreciate that you can buy it as a kit from maker Bleep Labs. [Bleep Labs via Hackaday]

USB LED Light Tube Speaker is Like Bad Sci-Fi Prop For Your Desk

Kit Eaton — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 06:51:00 EDT

This transparent, glowing USB speaker is either missing one glowing arm to make it look like a flux capacitor, or has one arm too many to be the light on top of the TARDIS. It's weird. But if you're into EL-wire PC case modding, then I suppose this blue LED-lit USB speaker from Brando might be up your street. Measuring 5.9-inches long, it takes power from USB, has an audio-in socket and costs $22. [Brando]

Gear4 BlackBox Micro is Micro Black Box Speaker For MP3 Gear

Kit Eaton — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EDT

Last time we talked about Blackbox gizmos from Gear4 it was a largeish Bluetooth speaker, but this new one is different. It's wired, USB-powered and designed to be a portable companion for an MP3 player. You may think size sacrifices bass power, but apparently it's got an "SFX gel" base, meaning it uses any flat surface you stick it to to amplify sound volume and bass. It's got a normal driver too, takes line-in, and can be powered with a power-brick. Gear4's site doesn't reveal exactly how small it is, but it's out August in the UK for $40. [Gear4 and Pocket-Lint]

Loud Enough Earphones: Ultimate Ears For Your Kids

Kit Eaton — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 07:38:00 EDT

It's been a while since we brought you some news from Ultimate Ears (the cat eating through the cable to my UE Super.Fi's doesn't count, sadly). But now UE has released its newest offering, and it's for the kids: the Loud Enough earphones. "They've gone barking mad!" you might say, citing expense and the potential damage that might be done to young ears by a max-volume burst of Noddy. Well, you'd be wrong: these earbud 'phones have special volume-limiting tech built in. Plus they're $40. They've got silicon buds down to extra-small size... so I guess the only danger is what inventive kids will get up to with those. [Crave via Gizmodiva]

Alesis ProTrack Converts Your iPod Into a Pro-Quality Digital Recorder

Sean Fallon — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:30:00 EDT

This isn't the first product to come down the pipeline offering portable audio recording capabilities for the iPod, but the new ProTrack from Alesis is definitely the most feature-rich. According to the press release, the ProTrack is "the world’s first professional handheld digital stereo recorder for iPod" with two built-in high-quality condenser microphones, a pair of combination XLR - 1/4-inch inputs and a 1/8-inch stereo output. The device should be available sometime in Q3 for iPod (Classic or 5th Generation), or iPod nano (2nd or 3rd Generation)—but a price has yet to be determined.

Feature List:

• Integrated iPod design
• Records to iPod (Classic or 5th Generation), or iPod nano (2nd or 3rd Generation)
• Professional connectors: two combination XLR - 1/4-inch inputs, 1/8-inch stereo output
• Supplies 48V phantom power to inputs when wall-powered
• Records 16-Bit, 44.1kHz or 22kHz stereo
• Two built-in condenser microphones for detailed recording
• Built-in microphones in XY configuration for optimum stereo image
• Switchable limiter ensures overload-free recordings even in unpredictable aural situations
• AC power adapter included
• Four AAA batteries provide up to five hours of operation
• Tripod stand mount for placing into ideal recording conditions

[Alesis via Brad Linder's Blog]

Greenhouse's New Headphones, For the "Pig Crashed Through Your Brain" Look

Kit Eaton — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 04:41:00 EDT

This strange product from Greenhouse is worth talking about, if only so I could share that headline with you. In case you're wondering, the pig is in soft silicon... to reproduce the texture of a real pig. After that news, you won't care these weird 'phones have a 20Hz to 20kHz frequency range, multi-sized silicon earbuds and 35-inch cable with a gold-plated plug. The GC-ERC-PIG's are available soon in pink black or white for just $11, but that's in Japan, pigheadphone fans. [AV Watch]

Mercedes-Benz Integrates iPhone into Its Cars with Special Cradle

AddyDugdale — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 07:45:00 EDT

German car manufacturer Mercedes is buying the iPhone-is-God credo, and has come up with a designated piece of gear to allow Benz drivers to integrate their iPhones into the car system. The $249 gadget works with the C-, E-, CLK-,
CLS-, S-, CL-, SL-, M- and R-Class cars, as well as the forthcoming GLK-Class. It connects your phone to the car's audio system via either the optionally available Media Interface or the retrofittable iPod® Interface Kit. Full press release below.

New cradle allowing full integration into the vehicle architecture: Mercedes-Benz makes in-car iPhone® connection even easier

Stuttgart - Whether it be a quick call to a business colleague for an important discussion, listening to favourite music tracks or checking home and office e-mails whilst on the move - the Apple iPhone® is a leading-edge business tool with multimedia capability, available in Germany and other markets. Now Mercedes-Benz allows the iPhone® connection to be fully integrated into the vehicle architecture for the first time - once again pointing the way ahead for the automotive industry. The new Apple iPhone® cradle allows simple switching between the telephone and audio functions. What's more, thanks to the location of the cradle in the centre console, the iPhone® is within easy reach of both the driver and the front passenger. For ease of use, the iPhone® is controlled via the multifunction steering wheel, while the vehicle display is used to indicate the phone status or music functions and information such as the track title and artist.

Over 100,000 people in Germanyhave already purchased an iPhone® - made by US electronics giant Apple - since its launch in November 2007. By introducing the new cradle for the Apple iPhone®, Mercedes-Benz has made it even easier to enjoy the special benefits of this trend-setting multimedia application, even when on the move in the car. This fully integrated solution - the first of its kind - enables either the phone functions or the audio functions on the iPhone® to be activated. As ever, the device is easy to use thanks to the controls on the multi-function steering wheel, all of which enhances road safety, as the driver's hands remain on the steering wheel, leaving them free to concentrate on the traffic and the other controls in the cockpit.

Perfect reception is assured as the iPhone® connects to the vehicle aerial automatically when inserted into the cradle. A further advantage is the automatic recharging of the iPhone® battery whilst the phone is sitting in the cradle.

This function means that the iPhone® stays fully charged, which is ideal if the user has to leave the vehicle.

New design to influence the style of further cradles

As well as impressing on a technical level, the Apple iPhone® cradle's exclusive design allows it to be integrated seamlessly into the interior of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The all-new design is based on a black-and-silver colour scheme that adds hallmark Mercedes-Benz touches. The leading-edge design will be used in future cradles for mobile phones available from Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH.

The iPhone® cradle can be inserted into the centre console - where it is within easy reach of both the driver and the front passenger - with a single click and without the need for any tools whatsoever. The portable device is therefore easy to plug in and unplug.Optional convenience telephony (Order Code 386) must also be specified. The cradle connects to the audio system either via the optionally available Media Interface or the retrofittable iPod®Interface Kit available from the range of genuine accessories. Both variants use an integral adapter lead that has to be installed by a specialist workshop, ensuring an ideal connection between the cradle and the Media Interface or iPod® Interface.

The fully integrated iPhone® is available now for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, E‑Class, CLK-Class, CLS-Class, S-Class, CL-Class, SL-Class, M-Class and R-Class. The product will also be offered for the new GLK-Class when this model is launched in October. In Germany, the Apple iPhone® cradle retails at € 249 (including VAT) and is obtainable from all Mercedes-Benz dealers.

The adapter leads for the Media Interface or iPod® Interface are available for € 39 (including VAT) in Germany.

[eMercedesBenz]

iDiamond Headphones Are Forever, Sparkling on Your Little Earlobe

Kit Eaton — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 06:08:00 EDT

It's been a while since we brought you some serious gadget bling here on Giz, so now here's some... and it's serious. "Headphones encrusted with 204 real diamonds and made of white gold" kind of serious. From designer Thomas Heyerdahl, the iDiamonds are a limited edition of just 1,000 units, so you'd better rush. That's if you've got $6,400 in your wallet, of course. Serious. [Luxury launches]

Philips' SA2840 GoGear PMP is Shuffle-esque, Squeezes in a Screen

Kit Eaton — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 08:28:00 EDT

Laughing in the face of the clip-on Coolman MP3 player and almost widdling in the trousers of the iPod shuffle itself is Philips' new GoGear SA2840 PMP. It's petite, clip-on and comes with a 4-line screen. Yup, even though it's just 1.6-inches square and 0.6-inches deep its got a 128 x 64 pixel OLED and 4GB of memory. There's also voice recording, a sound-enhancing FullSound system and it sells for around $80. There's the SA2825 as well, with just 2GB but an FM radio function, and this'll set you back about $45. [Philips via BBGadgets]

Sony's DR-BT140QP Bluetooth Headset Mightn't Make You Look Geeky

Kit Eaton — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 08:10:00 EDT

I've said it before and I'll say it again: Bluetooth headsets are not a good fashion statement, even Borg-like ones. But with these little earpieces from Sony, you might be able to get away with it and not look too geeky. The DR-BT140Qs double as normal earphones with a frequency response of 16Hz to 24kHz and have 30mm drivers, while the Bluetooth part is 2.0 and supports A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP profiles. The built-in battery will last you about 12 hours, and they're available in July for $138.89 in silver, white, black and pink. [Akihabaranews]

JVC Expands Everio Range, Including World's First 50-Hour AVCHD Camcorder

Kit Eaton — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 04:37:00 EDT

Earlier this year, JVC fired out the first HDD palmcorder to output video in 1080p, and now it has expanded the product line with the GZ-HD30, HD40 and HD10. It's a significant revamp, since the new cams use a completely new CMOS sensor, replacing the previous 3-CCD system. The HD40 has a 120GB 1.8-inch hard drive, versus the slimmer HD30's 80GB (making it the world's smallest 80GB palmcorder). Both these high-end models record in AVCHD and MPEG2 at full HD resolution, and the HD40 can squeeze in about 50 hours of AVCHD at this res. The lower-end HD10 model can only shoot in AVCHD and has a 40GB hard drive. Full press release below the gallery.

New JVC HD Everio Line Includes World’s First 50-Hour AVCHD Camcorder And Dual-Format Models

Two new HD models offer both AVCHD and MPEG-2 recording

WAYNE, NJ, June 17, 2008 – JVC has added three new high definition camcorders to its HD Everio line,
including a pair of dual-format models, one of which records up to 50 hours of AVCHD Full HD video.

Two new models, the GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30, are the world’s first
AVCHD / MPEG-2 dual-format camcorders, allowing access to the
superior long time compression afforded by AVCHD, as well as
MPEG-2’s superior editing and post-production environment. Both
offer 1920 x 1080 Full HD recording in both formats to a 120GB (GZ-
HD40) or 80GB (GZ-HD30) internal hard disk drive. The third new
model, the GZ-HD10, offers 1440 x 1080 recording in the AVCHD
format to a 40GB hard drive.

Technologies behind the scenes include new CMOS imaging chips
with interpolation technology, the HD Gigabrid Duo chip that includes codecs for AVCHD in all
camcorders and MPEG-2 in the GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30 as well as noise reduction technology, and 1920
x 1080/60P output for all camcorders via HDMI™ (V.1.3 with x.v.Color). Ease of use innovations include
Intelligent Grouping, which sorts and groups together similar themed scenes for easier access, and
Digest Playback, which creates a video montage of scenes, much like a “coming attractions” clip, when
they’re burned to a DVD.

JVC designed the GZ-HD30 to meet the needs of a broad segment of people who shoot video, including
family users. More compact than the GZ-HD40, it offers all of the performance and nearly all of the
features of that model, except it has a slim 80GB internal hard disk for a maximum 33 hours of Full HD
recording, and does not come with a docking station. As of June 2008, it is the world’s smallest Full HD
camcorder with 1.8” HDD.

JVC provided the GZ-HD40 with a 120GB hard disk drive for up to 50 hours of AVCHD Full HD video
recording, and a docking station to meet the requirements of the prosumer or high-end enthusiast.

JVC designed the small sized HD Everio GZ-HD10 thinking of the needs of budget-conscious users, yet it
offers a high quality KONICA MINOLTA HD LENS and a 40GB hard disk that provides up to 16 hours of
high-definition recording. The GZ-HD10’s 1440x1080 AVCHD recordings are also up converted for
playback at 1920 x 1080/60P via HDMI.

All three of the new HD Everio camcorders can connect to the optionally available CU-VD50 Everio
SHARE STATION with stand alone playback. The new HD Everios can also connect to the JVC CU-VD3
SHARE STATION to offer an even more cost-efficient archiving and playback solution. The combinations
offer the world’s first PC-less solution for AVCHD and MPEG-2 burning and playback, with AVCHD DVD
discs that can be shared with commonly available AVCHD compatible Blu-Ray players.

1920 x 1080 Full HD Recording
The GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30 both have three AVCHD recording modes that all record Full HD 1920 x
1080 video. The only difference among modes is the bit rate, and while using the highest bit rate yields
the highest quality results, the image quality is remarkable even using the lowest bit rate EP mode. And
since 1920 x 1080 is truly native HDTV resolution, it requires no conversion on the part of the display
device to show high definition images.

The GZ-HD40 and GZ-HD30 also have the FHD mode for recording Full HD 1920 x 1080 MPEG-2
Transport Stream video with MPEG-1 Layer 2 audio. The GZ-HD10 records solely in 1440 x 1080
AVCHD format.

AVCHD MPEG-2 TS
1920x1080 1920x1080 1440x1080
Model / Record Mode XP SP EP FHD 1440CBR*
GZ-HD40 (120 GB) 15hr. 21 hr. 50 hr. 10 hr. 10 hr.
GZ-HD30 (80 GB) 10 hr. 14 hr. 33 hr. 6 hr. 6 hr.
1440x1080
GZ-HD10 (40 GB) 5 hr. 7 hr. 16 hr. - -

For all camcorders
Micro SDHC Card (8GB) 1hr 1hr 28 min. 3hr 20min - -
System Bit Rate (VBR) Ave. (CBR) Ave.
17 Mbps 12 Mbps. 5 Mbps 26.6 Mbps 27 Mbps

*For HDV compatible stream via i.LINK
Continuous shooting time and typical shooting time are approximate. To record video, a microSDHC card with Class 4 or higher performance is required. microSD memory cards (256MB to 2GB) and microSDHC memory cards (4GB and 8GB) have been tested for the following brands: Panasonic, Toshiba, SanDisk, ATP. Note that using other media may result in recording failure or data loss.

New CMOS Chips with Interpolation Technology
The image sensors used in the new HD Everio line are newly developed small size but high resolution
1/3” and 1/4.5” CMOS chips. This CMOS uses proprietary interpolation technology based on what JVC
developed for its 3CCD cameras. This algorithm makes it possible to generate virtual pixel data (orange
diamond area shown in illustration below) from the red, green and blue physical pixels, thereby providing
image information that actually surpasses what’s required for 1920 x 1080 Full HD imaging, or for 1440 x 1080 imaging in the GZ-HD10.

*GZ-HD10 pixels are not diagonal

HD Gigabrid Duo Engine
JVC’s HD Gigabrid video engine, which processes in full 1920 x 1080 progressive video, was the result of
years of experience in signal-processing technology, and uses five digital noise-reduction algorithms as
well as signal processing to improve horizontal scan resolution by approximately 20 percent over JVC’s
previous interlace technology, for an extremely clear and sharp image.

New this year with the HD Gigabrid Duo engine is its further advanced integration, adding the AVCHD
codec (GZ-HD40/30/10), and incorporating all functions of the previous HD Gigabrid engine (including
MPEG-2 codec for GZ-HD40/30), as well as the USB Host controller function for use with an Everio
SHARE STATION.

1080p 60 Frame per second Progressive Output Function
Enabling output of a 1080p 60 fps progressive signal on all three models allows recordings to be enjoyed
on high-end displays. Using the same high power Genessa technology as in JVC advanced displays,
conversion to 1920 x 1080p at 60 fps provides seamless natural video, free of motion judder during fast
action activities, jaggy lines on angles, and moiré patterns on fine detail when zooming. 1920 x 1080 HD
discs played back from CU-VD50 SHARE STATION or via the camera from CU-VD3 SHARE STATION
are also converted to 60 fps progressive.

HDMI™ (V.1.3. with x.v.Color™)
The new JVC HD Everio camcorders record using x.v.Color™ technology. The universal standard xvYCC,
known as x.v.Color, provides more accurate color reproduction with more detail and shades that look
more natural to the human eye. It can display 100 percent of the colors that the human eye is capable of
perceiving, whereas the traditional sRGB system can only display approximately 55 percent. The
difference in color reproduction performance is especially noticeable in greens and yellows. These new
HD Everio camcorders output to televisions directly using HDMI™ (V.1.3. with x.v.Color).

Extremely Quick Response, Designed for High Quality Shooting
JVC’s new HD Everio models minimize the risk of missing an important shot with faster response time for
many operations. For instance, the time lag from pressing the trigger to the start of recording is only 0.08
seconds (trigger sound set to off). That is nearly instantaneous, and a great improvement over the more
common 0.6 second delay. Likewise, the time it takes to power-on the unit has been reduced to 0.6
seconds, whereas competitive models may take over 1.5 seconds. And to play footage, it takes only 3.5
seconds to display the playback picture, which is about half the time required for other manufacturers’
products. These improvements can mean the difference between capturing a crucial shot or missing it.

In addition, JVC HD Everio camcorders include other functions that enhance convenience and quality:
* Hybrid HDD and MicroSD Recording;
* Auto Light;
* Focus Assist and Manual settings;
* Simultaneous to Video Progressive Still Shooting;
* Quick power off;
* 2.8”/ (2.7” for GZ-HD10) Clear wide LCD with Auto Backlight Brightness;
* Mic input and Accessory Shoe;
* Direct Backup button;
* In Camera File Editing (AVCHD).

Innovations in Ease of Use
JVC has equipped its new HD Everio models with new functions to enhance usability. First is the
“Intelligent Grouping” function that at the touch of a button rapidly sorts through and categorizes the
recordings stored on the camcorder’s hard disk into different groups. Up to 1,000 scenes can be grouped
in three seconds or less. With scenes categorized, users will have faster and easier access to desired
scenes, a real convenience as the hard drive fills up.

As an extension of this technology, “Digest Playback” automatically generates a video montage of just the
highlight scenes when HD Everio recordings are copied to a DVD. This digest version of the disc contents,
looking much like a coming-attractions clip, will help the viewer get a general idea of what the disc is
about, saving precious time.

PC-less Archiving Using Exclusive DVD Burners
By connecting the GZ-HD40/HD30/HD10 directly to an optional CU-VD50 or CU-VD3 HD Everio SHARE
STATION via USB, the user can burn 12cm AVCHD discs from all cameras, or MPEG-2 data discs from
the GZ-HD40 and 30 to make backups and permanent
archives of selected scenes in any desired order with
just a few simple steps.

There are several options for selecting clips to be burned
to disc — all clips, manually specified clips, clip files not
yet copied, by date, video playlists created in-camera
and comprised of multiple user-selected clips, or by
event type for those clips that have been tagged with an
icon representing an event category (e.g. birthday, baby,
graduation, vacation, etc.).

Created AVCHD discs can be played on AVCHD
compatible Blu-ray players. The CU-VD50 can also be used as an external DVD drive/burner when
connected to a PC. The CU-VD50 plays back on a TV via HDMI in 1920 x 1080 60p and with x.v.Color,
analog component and as well in standard definition video. The slim CU-VD3 offers the same burning
features, but with playback via the camcorder.

Full Complement of Interfaces
All three models are equipped with USB2.0 and HDMI digital interfaces on the camcorder. The Docking
Station supplied with the GZ-HD40 is equipped with USB2.0 and i.LINK (IEEE 1394).

USB is primarily for file saving, HDMI for digital viewing on large screen displays, and i.LINK streams high
definition video in full resolution or the 1440CBR mode. High definition video streamed by i.LINK in the
1440CBR mode is HDV-compatible and allows footage to be edited using HDV-compatible software
(functionality might be limited with some applications). HD recorded material is down-converted for output
in DV over i.LINK, or in standard definition via the analog component/ composite output.

High Value Software Supplied
For editing and archiving via PC, the new HD Everio models come with the CyberLink BD Solution
software suite for Windows. This includes “PowerDirector™ 6 NE” for HD video editing,
“PowerProducer™ 4 NE” for authoring high definition Blu-ray discs, AVCHD discs and DVD-Video discs,
“PowerCinema™ NE for Everio” for HD file management and playback, and “PowerDVD™ 7 NE” for
playback of AVCHD discs.

The GZ-HD40/HD30 also come with a plug-in that allows HD Everio’s MPEG-2 files to be used with Apple
iMovie HD 6 and Final Cut Pro 5 or 6 video software for the Macintosh. For all camcorders, AVCHD files
can be used with Apple's AVCHD applicable software without a plug-in for the Macintosh.

Model National Ad Value Available
GZ-HD40 $1,299.95 August
GZ-HD30 $999.95 August
GZ-HD10 $799.95 August

[JVC and ]

Eino Speakers: An Attractive Portable iPod Dock At Last

Kit Eaton — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Ruggedized, retro aviation, we've done portable iPod docks a-plenty. But until now I've not liked the look of any of them... so here's the Eino. It's pretty simple, with two speakers per channel pushing out 1.4W from a Class-D amp and a bass-enhancement system called Maxx BassR. The 7.7-inch wide thing fits into a carry case, with room for your iPod. And if you're not into the color combos in the pic, there's a blue, white and black frame option. It's available for around $56, but that's from a Japanese site. [Technabob via BBGadgets]

Bangai-O Spirits For DS Uses Old Timey Audio Recordings To Share Levels

Jason Chen — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:20:00 EDT

The Nintendo DS remake of the old Dreamcast favorite Bangai-O Spirits has one very notable feature that we haven't seen in years. Kotaku found out that instead of using Nintendo's local Wi-Fi or over-the-net DS codes, you share levels via audio recording. Once you've designed something you want your friends to see, it'll play back that level as an audio recording that you can record it as an audio file on your computer, then send however you send files normally.

To get the levels back on another DS, just play it back over your computer's speakers and hold up the DS mic to it—the mic will grab the sound and the game will change it back into level code. If only Nintendo didn't make their online system so horrible to use, the developers wouldn't have to resort to archaic methods that are pretty much on par with tin cans and strings. [Kotaku]

Yamaha's YST001 Home Theater Speakers Are Home Lighting Units Too

Kit Eaton — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 03:44:00 EDT

Yamaha has teamed up with lighting experts Koizumi to create these home theater speakers with built-in lighting. Each unit has three 25W halogen lamps that are remote control-dimmable down to 20% brightness, designed to reduce the contrast between your TV picture and the wall behind to "ease the burden on your eyes." So, a kind of one-color, non-reactive ambilight then, but the effect they produce is pretty subtle and saves you from installing moodlighting.

The 47-inch high units have a 70Hz - 35kHz response, and will cost around $1,250, but there's no info on availability. [Yamaha and Akihabaranews]

Brando's Cyber Tap Radios Suck (Onto Your Shower Cubicle)

Kit Eaton — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 06:15:00 EDT

Brando's Cyber Tap bath-time radio is not massively high-tech, sure, but its cuteness is undeniable. Stick its 4.7-inch sucker onto tiles or glass, adjust FM/AM frequency and twirl the volume tap to boogie away to showertime music. Is the red one more suited to Hot Gossip while the blue one's best for Coldplay? Who knows, but after a bad joke like that you'll be pleased to know the water-resistant, battery-powered Cyber Tap costs $16. [Brando]