September 2006 Archives
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September 29, 2006
Classical music 'converts to the age of the iPod'
Classical music has fully adapted to the "
Research from Gramophone magazine has found that 55 per cent of its readers have converted some of their CD collection into digital format, with the average number of classical iPod downloads being 12.
Beethoven, Mozart and Sir Peter Maxwell Davies were the most popular first downloads for the 60,000 readers surveyed.
James Jolly, editor of Gramophone, said that the findings overturned perceptions of the kind of people that buy classical music.
"We can see a whole new group of mature MP3 listeners - iPod 'oldies', perhaps – emerging, who are far from old in their outlook," he said.
He described the respondents as "technologically adept" and said that there was no divide between the age groups, with the over-50s buying 11.5 downloads on average.
Meanwhile, young violinist Chloe Hanslip, who has played with all the major British orchestras, told the Cambridge News that she "loves her iPod" and takes it with her while travelling, to listen to the Black Eyed Peas and Basement Jaxx.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:47 AM
September 28, 2006
New iPod accessory range launched by Griffin
A new range of iPod accessories has been launched by Griffin, with the iTalk Pro, iKaraoke and TuneCenter first showcased at Apple's Expo show in Paris earlier this month.
The iTalk Pro can be plugged into the iPod dock connector, enabling quality mobile recording for CDs, while its one-touch recording button lets the iPod user record in 16-bit stereo or eight-bit mono.
Meanwhile, iKaraoke has a microphone that plugs into the iPod and allows party-goers to sing over backing vocals and instruments while the existing vocals "fade into the background", according to AV Review.
The karaoke device then sends the sounds to a stereo wirelessly or by direct connection.
To listen to iPod music, check out photos via the television, tune in to internet radio stations screen or watch videos, the TuneCenter mini-dock makes it all possible to control via remote.
Also available from Griffin is the new iTrip Auto, which is "designed specifically for use in the car", according to the group.
The "most versatile iTrip to date", the iTrip Auto is compatible with every dock connector iPod, the iPod nano and fifth generation iPods with video.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:56 AM
September 27, 2006
RingCube to store PC on iPod
An iPod can now be used as a portable PC with the launch of new software from RingCube.
The group's MojoPac software contains a storage device that can hold a computer's personal settings, programmes and data on the iPod , which can then be connected to any PC running Microsoft's Windows XP system.
Shan Appajodu, chief executive and co-founder of RingCube, said: "You're taking your digital soul with you on any portable storage device."
"Users can take their entire computing experience with them, without the hassle of carrying their actual computer," he added.
The iPod -friendly software can be downloaded free for 30 days so the potential buyer can test it before purchasing, after which a first license is available at an introductory discounted price of $29.99 (£16) during the first month of the product's launch.
RingCube recommends at least one gigabyte of storage space, with users installing other applications and copying data to the device.
Compatible applications for running with the MojoPac are listed on the software's website and include IE, Firefox, Trillian, OpenOffice, Adobe Reader and Quicken.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:52 AM
September 26, 2006
Nike + iPod runners clock up 1m miles
Runners have logged over one million miles since the Nike + iPod experience was launched ten weeks ago.
The Nike + iPod Sport Kit is a wireless system that communicates between Nike-enabled trainers and the iPod nano, storing data such as time, distance, calories burned and pace taken which can then be downloaded through iTunes to Nikeplus.com.
"Nikeplus.com is fast becoming the world's biggest online running community," said Trevor Edwards, Nike's chief marketing officer.
He added: "Nike + is a new running experience, a new way to train, a new way to connect with other runners and a new way to bring music and sport together like never before."
Already established in the UK, Canada and the US, Nike + is set to launch in France, Spain, Italy, Germany and the Netherlands in addition to Japan and Australia.
Sports personalities such as Paula Radcliffe and Lance Armstrong feature on the nikeplus.com website, stating the importance of music for inspiring athletic achievement.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:26 AM
September 25, 2006
Speck launches iPod nano cases
Speck products has announced that its innovative cases for the second generation iPod nano are to be launched this week.
The Canadian company has revealed that the new cases are available in three designs and various colours.
ToughSkin - available in green, pink, blue, black and clear - protects the iPod nano with rubber shock-absorbent bumpers and tear-resistant plastic, while fitness fans can purchase the Canvas Sport case.
The Active Sport armband is practical for sports players, made with a breathable mesh material and an adjustable Velcro armband.
Tim Hickman, senior vice president of sales and marketing, said: "We are committed to being fast to market and thrilled to be shipping 11 new 2nd Gen nano cases so quickly after the announcement.
"With our market-leading position and continuing success with new products, we're extremely confident that our new cases will be very well received by the consumer."
Prices for the cases range from $29.95 (£14) to $34.95 (£16).
Also available from Speck products are the novelty iKitty and the Cloud FunSkin among other iPod nano cases.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:42 AM
September 22, 2006
Mini iPod hi-fi launched
A mini hi-fi has been created for the iPod, complete with a radio and facilities for playing CDs.
The iSymphony system has adapters for all varieties of iPod, including the iShuffle, while the 40-key remote control enables uses to lazily flick between tunes and radio channels from across the room.
Built-in slots for SD and MMC memory cards, as well as USB connectivity, make the iSymphony micro stereo compatible with a variety of outlets.
A front-loading CD/MP3 WMA player, a 64-track programme memory, Dynamic Bass Boost and Equaliser are also included in the product.
Exclusive to Currys and Currys digital until May 2007, the iSymphony micro-stereo is available next month for £140.
Tech Digest described iSymphony's system as "not the best-looking system around" but worth buying for its "functionality".
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:02 AM
September 21, 2006
Miniot to launch the iWood box
Trendy iPod users will now be able to keep their music safe in a stylish wooden box from Miniot.
The little-known manufacturer has carved its iWood iPod case in hardwood with an optional personalised message inside.
Described as "natural protection for your iPod ", the Miniot case is a breakaway from the traditional silicon or plastic shields currently on the market.
The case is available in a selection of colours - including cherry, maple, walnut or oak – and with a flip of the lid, gives access to the headphone jack.
Limited edition varieties of iWood have also been manufactured from rare hardwoods such as Walnut burl, padouk, zebrano, ebony and ancient Kauri, according to the Pocketlint gadget website.
The cases are all available from next month, with retail prices of $75 (£40) and $85 (£45) for the iWood nano and the iWood 5G respectively and increasing to $175 (£92) for the special edition models.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:41 AM
September 20, 2006
Kensington launches new MP3 products
As if there aren't already enough iPod speakers to choose from, Kensington has introduced two snazzy new NXT-enabled varieties.
The SX 3000R follows its predecessor with its flat-panel loudspeaker and high-gloss black finish, all neatly contained in a single, compact unit.
An FM radio tuner, an iPod dock, a remote control and a 3.5mm jack to connect the device with alternative music players are also included in the product.
Meanwhile, the FX300 Speaker to Go comprises a set of lightweight iPod travel speakers operated by battery, also for use with the NXT audio speaker technology.
Just two AAA batteries will provide your player with ten hours of playback time.
Stuff online magazine describes the SX 3000R as "sleek-looking" while the FX300 looks like "a neoprene sandwich box".
The retail price for the speakers in the US is $169.99 (£90) for the SX3000R and $29.99 (£16) for the FX300.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:31 AM
September 19, 2006
Corinne Bailey Rae spills top iPod song secrets
Among Corinne Bailey Rae's favourite iPod tunes is Bjork's Isobel, as it is "singers with really unusual voices" that have given the chirpy popstar the confidence to sing.
The singer, who's catchy single Put Your Records On hit our airwaves earlier this year, has revealed her top six iPod tunes to the Metro.
Choosing Aretha Franklin's Day Dreaming as another of her well-played tracks, Ms Bailey Rae said of the soul legend: "She's the greatest female vocalist but she was a brilliant writer as well."
Jimi Hendrix also makes her list, with Electric Ladyland, "a good marriage of his psychedelic guitar solo stuff with his really good songwriting".
Joining other strong female vocalists on Ms Bailey Rae's iPod is Erykah Badu, who is mentioned for her "song about loneliness", Orange Moon.
Finally, the Isley Brothers' Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight and Frontin' by Pharrell of the Neptunes complete the singer's chosen six-song playlist.
Corinne Bailey Rae's October tour has been rescheduled for March 2007 due to unexpected worldwide success, while her new single Like a Star is to be released on October 9th.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:16 AM
September 18, 2006
Docking systems 'slimmed down' for iPod
JBL, a Harman International subsidiary, has launched slimline versions of two iPod docking systems, which it displayed at the CEDIA trade show on Friday.
Both the new Radial Micro and On Stage speaker docks have infrared remotes for easy track selection and navigation, while the On Stage model is operable by four AAA batteries providing 24 hours of play.
The new products are lightweight and compact, with the JBL Radial Micro measuring six inches by one and three-quarters.
Palm-sized, the On Stage Micro can be stored in a briefcase, handbag or book bag, while the JBL Radial Micro "will fill any room with amazing, crisp sound" when attached to the iPod according to Applelinks website.
Fred Faulkner, Harman Multimedia's vice-president sales and marketing, said: "JBL On Stage Micro is the latest product from JBL to address the needs of the on-the-go music lover – and for users who need huge sound in tight quarters, JBL Radial Micro is a highly compact unit that offers exceptional sound."
The On Stage Micro will be available at $99.95 (£53) from next month, while the Radial Micro is likely to cost around $149.95 (£79.60) and will hit major retailers' shelves in November.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:21 AM
September 15, 2006
Folk singer lists favourite iPod tunes
Irish singer-songwriter Fionn Regan today disclosed to the Metro newspaper the tunes he most likes to listen to on his iPod.
Along with the "beautifully captured" Leonard Cohen track Dress Rehearsal Rag, the unruly-haired folk singer notes songs by Woody Guthrie and Tom Waits among his iPod favourites.
While his "feet became bolted to the ground" when he first heard the voice of Woody Guthrie, Regan describes Anywhere I Lay My Head by Tom Waits as "simple and bare-chested".
Meanwhile, the folkster claims that the Noisettes' On the Bridge to Canada is "dynamite", adding that the energy needed for a Noisettes live gig warrants a day off work to recover.
The "spiky, crazy horse guitar" on Midlake's track Roscoe provides a backdrop for lyrics that remind Regan of conversations with his dad, while listening to Oliver Reed by the Phoenix Drive on his iPod makes him feel as though he is "in the company of something magic".
A new iPod was launched on Tuesday, with an 80 gigabyte capacity - holding 20,000 songs - while the new iPod nano stores up to eight gigabytes.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:34 AM
September 14, 2006
Desktop monitor to boast in-built iPod dock
ViewSonic has unveiled the first desktop monitor to have an in-built iPod dock, for those who want to watch their video clips on a screen 65 times larger than that of an iPod .
Described as "the cornerstone of the home media centre" by Pocket Lint online magazine, the ViewDock has a 22-inch screen (or 19-inch, depending on the model) and has several connectivity points including several USB 2.0 ports and an eight-in-one card reader.
The new range also boasts a microphone, integrated stereo speakers and a subwoofer, with no need to rush out and buy an additional sound system.
Wide viewing angles, as well as high brightness and contrast ratios, ensure the best quality experience of fast-action games and full-length films.
This is the first monitor to achieve Apple's "Made for iPod " certification status.
The ViewDock monitors were announced yesterday at the 2006 Apple Expo in Paris and will be available next month, although the price has not yet been disclosed.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:33 AM
September 13, 2006
New iBreath breathalyzer 'makes sober, cool'
Recently-arrested Paris Hilton may well be kicking herself for not investing in the new iBreath breathalyzer before getting into her car last week.
The new creation, from David Steele Enterprises, combines a useful blood-alcohol content detector which plugs into the dock connector of your iPod and has dual use as an FM radio for the car stereo, perfect for those post-pub journeys home.
Sticking out at one side is the breathalyzer tube, which reads the driver's blood alcohol content level within just five seconds to determine whether he or she is sober enough to drive.
Joseph Melillo, a retired New York police officer, told the emediawire website: "Including a breathalyzer in an iPod accessory is terrific, especially for people who like to have a drink or two after work or school.
"It can’t be any easier than blowing in the tube and looking at the sensor, I can really see these things saving lives."
David Steele Enterprises expects "this jail-saving gizmo" to be a best-selling product this season.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:56 AM
September 12, 2006
MusicJam to mix iPod fun with karaoke
Karaoke fans who own an iPod will soon be able to incorporate the two with the unveiling of the new MusicJam Mixer from Cerventis.
The play-along gadget is set to enable musicians to play and sing in synchrony with iPod -based music, without relaying the output.
MusicJam is to be sold complete with a high-quality microphone, cables, AC adapter and a clamp for a microphone stand, as well as an electric guitar input with tone and distortion controls for those who really want to rock.
The official MusicJam website states: "Turn your iPod into your own band. Play backing tracks or songs and sing along.
"We add an echo effect to your voice to make it sound like you are on stage."
Cerventis says that MusicJam can be used for public performances with its "sophisticated circuit design", while standard RCA jacks on both sides make the product suitable for recording purposes.
It has also been reported that MusicJam owners will have access to a music video programme that can convert songs into karaoke videos to complement the already hi-tech product.
The MusicJam will soon be available for $230 (£123).
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:23 AM
September 11, 2006
Babies to benefit from new speaker system
For those who have trouble getting the baby to sleep at night, the iCrib Sound System from Munchkin could be the lullaby-friendly answer.
The iCrib speaker system straps easily to the child's cot, enabling tired parents to put their baby safely to bed with an iPod to help him or her into dreamy slumber.
A night light in a sequence of different colours is also included in the product for extra-calming effects.
The Charlotte Observer website claims that the iPod holder, which is held in place by Velcro, is kept "theoretically out of reach of exploring hands" for safety.
Meanwhile, Celebrity Cafe suggests using "Mozart, Beethoven, heavy metal, acid or rock 'n roll music" as a lullaby for the baby's bedtime.
This innovative new product is available from the Munchkin website for around $30 (£16) and is powered by AA batteries, with Amazon stating that it is open for orders for the soon-to-be-stocked iCrib.
The iCrib can be set to play for 15, 30 or 60 minutes so that parents can leave the child lulling to sleep and return later, switching off the iPod to save batteries.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:26 AM
September 08, 2006
Disney favourites to appear on iPod covers
Disney is set to invest in the iPod market, according to Pocket Lint audio and MP3 website, with the launch of nine covers for the iPod Nano.
As well as being illustrated with animated characters from the films, the Disney covers offer "tough protection" to the iPod products with a choice of a PVC or silicone skin, the website reports.
Pocket Lint quoted Disney as saying: "The Disney Wrap is designed to protect your iPod Nano from bumps and scratches, while at the same time giving it a fabulous new look".
Characters featuring on the covers will include Tinkerbell, Winnie-the-Pooh and Mickey Mouse, available from Claire's Accessories from October and priced at £10.
The iPod's connection to the Hollywood film company is due to be consolidated next week as Apple makes full-length downloads of Disney films - including Miramax and Touchstone Pictures films - available to iTunes users.
Apple chief executive Steve Jobs is a Disney board member and a significant shareholder in the company.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:29 AM
September 07, 2006
Apple iPod phone 'ready for production'
The Apple iPod phone is "set for production" and will be released next year, an analyst has said this week.
American Technology Research analyst Shaw Wu claims that Apple's first mobile telephone will be introduced early next year.
"Our research indicates that an Apple-designed smart phone has moved from concept to prototype and recently has progressed to near completion as a production unit," Wu said.
"We believe this smart phone has been in development for over 12 months and has overcome substantial challenges including design, interference, battery life and other technical glitches."
The new telephone-iPod will be a quality combination of telephone and media player.
It is expected that the Apple phone will be available in three colours - likely to be black, white and platinum - and take a similar "candy bar" form to the iPod nano.
Speculation over the product has been growing over the past two years, with Morgan Stanley analysts reporting earlier this year that two Taiwanese contract manufacturers were vying for the assembly job.
The group estimates that the new iPod product could generate billions of dollars of annual revenue for Apple.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:47 AM
September 06, 2006
"Streamlined" speakers launched for iPod
Harman Kardon has launched an iPod speaker system which enables the MP3 player to lie flat, giving it a "streamlined" look, according to Tech Digest electronic gadgets website.
At the Internationale Funkausstellung (IFA) in Berlin, the Harman Kardon Go and Play portable iPod boombox is among the innovative new products on display.
According to hi-fi and home entertainment information website AV Review, the new speaker is visually superior to previous iPod speakers the Apple iPod Speaker and the iBoom, while its "striking black body and stainless steel detail" combined with its technical features should give consumers "high hopes" for its quality.
The sound is created by combining bi-amped digital amplification, DSP (digital sound processing) and Ridge and Atlas transducers.
Its remote control can operate through walls, as well as up to 30 feet away.
In addition, this creation has the unique facility to be connected to the television via S-video, so that any video clips can be watched on a bigger screen.
The Go and Play is due to hit shelves around Christmas time, at a price of £230.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:41 AM
September 05, 2006
Apple's iPod comes to life with new Japanese robot
The iPod is set to be animated and mobilised by a new robot creation from Japanese company ZMP.
Miuro (music innovation based on utility robot technology) is an egg-shaped machine - available in various colours – activated by remote control to move around the house while playing music through its Kenwood speakers.
Apple's iPod player is locked easily into the top of the robot, which also picks up wireless signals from iTunes and other programs.
The five-kilogram, 355-centimetre-long machine demonstrated its unique talents with a pre-programmed vacuum-cleaner-like dance in Tokyo.
Muiro designer Shinichi Hara said: "This is a robot version of music-on-the-move that is so popular."
On sale in Japan since last Thursday, the 930-US dollar (£490) Miuro is due to launch globally in the second half of 2007, with a route-remembering camera and sensors for the robot available separately.
It will add to the vast array of iPod-friendly products already available including car speaker systems and earphones, making it possible to listen to music "wherever you are without even thinking about it", according to ZMP president Hisashi Taniguchi.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:43 AM
September 04, 2006
House DJ unlocks his iPod
Popular house DJ Roger Sanchez has unveiled to the Metro his six favourite tracks that reside on his iPod .
The songs span a range of genre's from techno to hip hop to hard rock.
Savin' Me by Nickelback, Touch It by Busta Rhymes and Weather Storm by Bristol collective Massive Attack are some of Sanchez's favourites.
Of Touch It by Busta Rhymes, Sanchez said: "This is proof that house music influences almost all genres.
"Its introduction is a direct lift from Daft Punk's Technologic but Busta flipped it and introduced that bowel-moving 808 bass."
Another favourite of the prolific house DJ is Jaguar by Knights of The Jaguar, devised by DJ Rolando of Detroit collective Underground Resistance.
DJ Roger Sanchez hails from Queens, New York and has built a reputation as one of the leading house DJ's in world.
Sanchez currently runs Narcotic Records, on which he releases his tracks and those of new talent that he scouts.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:12 AM
September 01, 2006
iRocker takes iPod enjoyment to the max
Grandiosely named Adonis Furniture has just released the iRocker, a chair with a built-in
iPod dock and speakers.
Described by the company as an "interactive gaming chair", the iRocker comes with remote control, reclining back, heavy magnet speakers and a master volume dial with an LED display.
According to Adonis Furniture, the iRocker can be used with any electronic device that has an audio output.
Matt Sansoe, general manager of Adonis Furniture, said: "The iPod is a phenomenal product with a huge consumer base spanning multiple age groups.
"As the only chair made specifically for iPod , our iRocker has the style, design and functionality to make it the perfect complement to the player."
The speakers featured in the iRocker are made by quality speaker company Allteck Vison.
There are two different types of iRocker, with one style directed at teens and another at adults.
The teen version features micro fibre cushions in a choice of six colours and the adult version has faux leather and comes in black, bone or saddle.
Depending on the speaker system the iRocker costs anywhere from £50 to £250.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:12 AM