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Category Archives: Accessories
CES 2015 – Preshow Commentary
Todd Cochrane the host of the Geek News Central Podcast a 10 year veteran of CES discusses how the team coverage is going to shape up this year.
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Griffin Technology’s Powermate Bluetooth controls anything on your computer
Griffin Technology, a top company that is known for innovative accessories for personal computing and digital media, shows an awesome little device that doesn’t just look beautiful, but also allows you to use it for almost anything for media production or consumption.
If you’re familiar with Griffin, you might already know about the PowerMate that they had. It’s a Bluetooth device that can be connected to a computer via USB and can be used for multiple purposes. Recently, Griffin unveiled a new wireless version of the PowerMate Bluetooth, which supports Bluetooth 4.0. Currently, the wireless PowerMate Bluetooth is compatible with Mac laptop or desktop that supports Bluetooth 4.0 protocol. It has a power requirement of two (2) AAA batteries included, but you shouldn’t have to change the batteries more than you would an Apple wireless mouse.
Essentially, the PowerMate is a programmable USB controller. There are six actions or movements that it can do; rotate it left to right, click on it once, click and hold, click and hold then rotate it right and left. Each one of these actions, you can assign to a particular keyboard function in all of your favorite programs.
The program is fairly intuitive and one of the software that you would be getting with your PowerMate is a program where you can connect a multiple PowerMates at a time to a single computer. Through this software, you can set several commands in just a few clicks. Unlike with the old PowerMate, the new PowerMate’s sensitivity can be adjusted so you can be as minute or as big as you want to be. No matter what you want to set it to—zoom in, zoom out, brush size adjustments — everything can be done easily by setting it up using the new PowerMate.
If you want to have your own PowerMate Bluetooth, you can get it for only $59.99. Griffin Technology’s PowerMate Bluetooth will be available starting Summer of this year. Learn more information about this wireless programmable controller at GriffinTechnology.com.
Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.
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Run your own remote storage with Western Digital’s MyCloud
At CES 2014, Western Digital, one of the world’s leading storage solutions provider, presented an external hard drive that allows you to save everything AND access it anytime, anywhere.
Also known as the My Cloud, this new external hard drive by Western Digital is more than just an external hard drive. It is an external hard drive that allows you to save all your content and access it anywhere. Whether you’re on your home or on the road, you can access all of your data on your My Cloud from your PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone anytime you want to. With My Cloud, you can store anything — photos, documents, videos, music — in one secure place on your home network. What makes MyCloud different from other external hard drives available out there? With MyCloud, you don’t have to take it with you just so you can access it. You don’t even have to plug it in your gadget to access your files. My Cloud is like a mini computer; it has an operating system and a processor that you can simply plug into your router even without connecting to your computer. Through 3G, 4G, or WiFi connections, you can access all of your files 24/7 no matter how far you are from the external hard drive itself.
Using Western Digital’s My Cloud Mobile App and Desktop App, you can remotely access all of your contents from any device. Plus, it doesn’t matter whether you’re using a Mac or PC; no need to format your files! It just knows what you’re on, making it easier to use it especially when you’re using iOS, Android and Windows.
Western Digital’s My Cloud personal cloud storage comes in three different models — 2 TB, 3 TB, and 4TB. They also have the EX4, which is more suitable for professionals, which has a capacity 0TB-16TB. The EX4 also have advanced features and RAID 5 capabilities that will be perfect for group management. The EX4 comes in non-populated version — where you can build your own drives — and populated version, which comes in 8 TB, 12 TB and 16 TB. With the populated version, you can simply turn it on, not do anything with it and access your files remotely. It also comes in several advanced features, as well as advanced backup, energy-saving features, and advanced apps, to name a few.
As for the pricing, Western Digital’s 2 TB My Cloud is available at only $149, 3 TB at $179, and $219 for the 4 TB My Cloud. In addition, these external hard drives have USB expansion ports; should ran out of content, simply plug in a My Passport or My Book type of drive and expand the storage on the drive. The My Cloud EX4, on the other hand, starts at $349 for the non-populated version and up to $1149 for the 16 TB drives. Visit WD.com to learn more about the My Cloud and EX4 and its individual features.
Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.
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Belkin’s QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case for iPad Mini and iPad Air is ULTIMATE!
Belkin, one of the world’s top technology company for nearly 30 years, shared the ultimate keyboard case for iPad Mini and iPad Air at CES 2014.
Also known as the QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case, the new Belkin keyboard case is especially designed for iPad Air. It is a fully-protective case that protects your iPad from all angles and sides; it has three magnetically secure viewing angles so that you can tap your iPad all day long and not having to worry about it falling over.
It also allows you to adjust your iPad at a multiple angles, making the viewing angles even more secure and giving you a comfortable typing experience no matter where you’re at.
The battery life on this new keyboard case is 220+ hours of type time but idle, it can last up to six months. Besides the adjustable angle, Belkin’s QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case also has an auto wake magnet, which turns your iPad off or on when you close or opens your iPad. It’s also a Bluetooth keyboard so it automatically syncs when you open it and prop the iPad up. No more On-Off switch button just so you can start typing up! When you’re ready to type, simply open your keyboard case and you’re good to go.
Belkin’s QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case offers the best typing experience. The keys are well-spaced and responsive, giving you a natural typing experience as you would on your laptop or PC. It’s also lightweight; even lighter than the iPad itself. Don’t want to use the keyboard? No need to pull your iPad out. All you have to do is fold it up and use it as you would normally use an iPad and not having to worry about unexpectedly typing anything as you’re playing with your iPad.
Belkin’s QODE Ultimate Keyboard Case comes in two colors—black and silver white—and currently retails for $129.99. Learn more from Belkin.
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Hyper’s battery backup for your MacBook with HyperJuice
At the recent CES 2014, Hyper Juice presented an affordable battery pack system that can serve as backup for your Macbook.
Hyper Juice Macbook batteries come in four different capacities, beginning with the 60Wh, which allows you to charge your Mackbook for up to 14 hours. Not only can you use it to charge your Macbook, you can also use it to charge your iPhone, a tablet, or any USB-powered device. They also have the HyperJuice 100Wh, which gives your Macbook an additional 24-hour charging time, and up to 18x for your iPhone. The 150Wh HyperJuice battery, on the other hand, has the ability to provide an additional of up to 36 hours of charging time for your Macbook and iPhone for about 27x. Lastly, the 222Wh Macbook battery pack is a 61,000mAh that provides an additional 53-hour charging time for your Mackbook, and 40 hours for iPhone.
If you’re a professional that produces audio and video podcasts that need extra hours from their Macbook, these battery backup from HyperJuice will be a perfect addition to your gadgets.
Using the Magic Box kit, a little adapter where you can modify your existing MagSafe Power Adapter, all you have to do is connect it to your Macbook to create a connection. This will enable your Macbook to charge your internal battery instantly. So when you need extra juice, all you need to do is connect it to the HyperJuice battery and it will instantly recharge your computer or iPhone. Each Magic Box is sold in three different options. One is the battery by itself, the Magic Box Do-It-Yourself kit, and the pre-modified MagSafe Power Adapter, wherein the Magic Box will do the modification for you.
Furthermore, there’s also the HyperJuice 2, which a 100Wh that has an OLED screen as well as the ability to interchange the internal battery at a later time. So if in two or three years your battery starts to dissipate and you want to have the most up-to-date battery, all you need to do is contact them and they will help you do that.
As for its prices, the 60Wh HyperJuice external battery starts at $169.95, $249.95 for the 100Wh,$349.95 for the 150Wh, and HyperJuice External Battery 222Wh for iPad/iPad 2 & MacBooks (MBP-222). The HyperJuice 2, however, can be bought at only $299.95, Magic Box not included. Learn more about the HyperJuice line from Hyper’s website.
Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.
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iRig PRO and iRig PRE for remote podcast recording with iOS or Android from IK Multimedia at CES2014
IK Multimedia, a company staffed with talented musicians that was first known for their Abbey Road console, presents an awesome little device at CES 2014 that will allow you to connect your professional microphone to your iOS devices for a nice digital connection.
First off, the iRig PRO—a digital interface of iOS devices and Mac that has three inputs; one for 1/4″, MIDI, and XLR so essentially, if you are a podcaster, you plug in your microphone and go directly into your iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad or your Mac and be able to record with it. IK has a different recording applications that you can use that will go well with iRig PRO one — the iRig Recorder, a digital audio support that comes in Free and Paid app, and VocalLive, which features 12 real-time professional voice effects. As long as your iOS device is running, all you have to do is plug your microphone into your device, run it through the iRig PRO, and do your podcast. You don’t even need to plug it in anywhere, and you can simply put your iOS device in your pocket and let the iRig PRO and the apps take its course.
If you want to use your Mac instead of your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, you can connect your iRig PRO through your Mac through its USB port.
Essentially, all you need is plug in your XLR for your microphone, turn on the phantom power and start using it on your device. With the iRig PRO, you can connect using the three different connectors available, depending on what your device is. In addition, iRig PRO also has a monitoring system that allows you to monitor to headphones or a live system such as the iLive. Plus, you don’t have to worry about having latency issues when using iRig PRO.
If you are using an older iOS device with a 30-pin connector or an Android device that needs an analog connection instead of the digital, however, IK Multimedia offers the iRig PRE, which is an analog connection. What it does is take the output of your iOS or Android device and turn it into an Input-Ouput. The iRig PRE also has a monitoring, which allows you to go live out with its 8″ connection. On the top is the On/Off switch for your Phantom Power, which runs using a 9V battery. iRig PRE also comes with a handy Velcro piece so you can secure it to either your microphone, a microphone stand or any flat surface.
Are you interested in these awesome little devices? You can get them at just $39 for iRig PRE for iOS and Android Devices, and $149 for iRig PRO. Learn more about iRig PRE and iRig PRO from IK Multimedia.
Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.
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VidPro launches new DSLR camera stabilization gear
Known as one of the leading innovators when it comes to video and photography products, VidPro recently launches new DSLR camera stabilization gears for all you photographers and videographers out there.
Whether you’re a professional or simply just a hobbyist, VidPro’s video and photography equipment will take your shots into a different level. One of these is the Skater Dolly, which is a roller skate device where you can mount in your DSLR cameras or video camcorders. Currently available at Amazon at just $69.95, this VidPro DSLR and video camcorder gear comes with an articulating arm and extendable handle, enabling you to gain 360 redial and straight line dolly motion.
Coming out this March, however, is the new VidPro camera slider dolly, wherein you put your DSLR camera or video camcorder into the slider and can simply slide it back and forth to the left or right for very smooth, cinematic motion. If you think that this slider dolly is too bulky, VidPro also offers another slider dolly, which is the video stabilizers. Sure, your DSLR cameras or video camcorders might have stabilization built in, but VidPro’s is handheld where you get a lot more stabilization as it has weights on the bottom. Short, small, and handy but provides more stabilization and smooth, cinematic shots.
If you want to step it up, VidPro has a stabilization gear that has a bit more weight and a slightly different design and handle. Although it is heavier than the other two, this stabilizing gear has a handle that, no matter how or which direction you move your hand, the top where your camera or camcorders are would not move. They also have another that is much heavier with the same features, but gives more stabilization for more steady shots.
Keep checking VidPro’s website to learn more about these awesome stabilization gears, including their pricing and its release.
Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.
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Gosh! Parallel iPhone case with detachable battery
Gosh!, a company that is known for reinventing and recreating accessories for your smartphones and tablets, presented the Parallel 2500mAh Battery Case, an edgy accessory for iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, and iPhone 5S that takes away all the discomfort that typical power banks provide.
Unlike other power banks that come in separate battery banks, Gosh! Parallel’s are attached in a simple but chic iPhone case. Simply plug in the attached cable, press the power button, and your phone will start charging instantly! What’s more is that compared to some power banks, this super battery bank has a capacity of 2500mAH, 1.7× more lifespan so you can charge your phone all day without worrying about its battery life.
As for its case, however, the Parallel 2500mAh Battery Case are made of poly-carbonate case, which prevents it from scratches even if you put your phone face-down. Plus, this battery bank comes in three colors—Black, Red, and White. In addition, the battery case fits perfectly on your iPhone so you wouldn’t have to carry bulky and heavy power banks and power cords all day. You can even take it off (or not) off your phone whenever you like. Just don’t forget to push the power off once you’re done charging.
At $89.00, you can already have the Gosh! Parallel 2500mAM battery case, which is awesome for a battery that big and the case. Visit WhyGosh.com to learn more about this amazing iPhone case with detachable battery.
Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.
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4-channel podcasting on iPad, iPhone, and Mac with Griffin Technology’s StudioConnect HD
Produce your audio podcast from home or remotely from your iPad or computer with StudioConnect HD. Griffin Technology—a leader when in accessories for home, mobile, and technology—recently launched an exciting new product that will bring your podcasting into a new level.
The StudioConnect HD is an all-in-one audio interface with two TRS/XLR combo inputs, where each inputs is its own individual channel, allowing the StudioConnect HD to support multi-track recording. Each inputs also has its own gain knob and phantom power. At the back of the unit are a 5-pin MIDI connection, a USB MIDI connection for USB keyboards, and balanced stereo output for studio monitors. The StudioConnect HD is compatible with iOS (30 pin & Lightning) and OS X (USB), with future support for Windows. Plus, you can use not just your laptop or iPad, you can also use your iPod Touch or iPhone, making it even more convenient when you air your audio podcast.
Using the two stereo inputs, you can record 4-channel audio by selecting which instruments you want to use from the left and right stereo inputs. This also allows you to use multiple instrument or microphones at the same time with this USB 2.0 device. And with only $199.99, you can already own this audio interface starting this Fall. Learn more about StudioConnect HD and see how it can take your podcasting into a new height.
Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.
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