News Archive for 06/01/05

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Shure E500 earphones

01/05, 7:45pm

Shure E500 sound-isolating earphones

Shure today launched the latest in its high-end earphones: the E500 Sound Isolating Earphones are the new flagship for its E Series product line. The new sound-isolating and noise-canceling headphones offer a new "Push-to-Hear" option that lets users alternate between complete isolation and a connection with the outside world. Shure's new modular Push-to-Hear (PTH) accessory allows consumers to alternate between complete immersion in their music or a connection with outside ambient sounds by activating an external microphone, while simultaneously muting the music. Shure's PTH is also sold separately for $60 and can be used with any sound isolating earphones. Shure says its sound-isolating earphones block 30-37dB of outside noise with a good seal and the earphones utilize 3 miniature precision-engineered drivers -- one tweeter and two woofers -- to offer accurate audio reproduction. The E500 will begin shipping in May for $500.

Home/car audio

01/05, 6:45pm

iPod-friendly car units from Clarion

Clarion today announced new products for 2006, including enhancements to their newest VRX765VD and MAX675VD multimedia units, featuring iPod control and integration. iPod integration is a main feature of both products, highlighting the trend towards iPod-friendly media everywhere. The MAX675VD features touch screen control, DVD playback and voice recognition control of the optional HDD navigation system, has the only true 2-DIN iPod controller in the industry with 5.1-channel surround processing capabilities, Satellite Radio connectivity and additional component connectivity for CD/DVD changers, TV tuner and additional video monitors, and iPod integration that displays the iTunes library.

The Dock for iPod

01/05, 4:25pm

New docking station for iPod

The Danish HI-FI producer Scandyna, makers of the Pod Speakers, have created a new docking station for the iPod. The Dock is an iPod amp, charger, and sound system all in one, and will be available in the US this fall. It is specially designed to complement the iPod, with various inserts available to make The Dock useable with any iPod model. The Dock has built-in short circuit protection, one input and two output jacks, weighs 0.77 pounds, and has dimensions of 4.76 x 5.11 x 1.61 inches. The Dock ships with a remote control and is currently available for $200 on European audio/video sites.

Google to sell videos

01/05, 3:20pm

Google to sell video content online

Google is expected to announce an upgrade to its video-search service, and will soon allow users to purchase videos from content partners in direct competition with Apple's iTunes Music Store. The Wall Street Journal reports that the search giant will unveil the plan at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) on Friday, in Las Vegas. Google will likely reveal partnerships with CBS and the National Basketball Association (NBA), allowing customers to purchase television shows and other video content that can be downloaded onto PCs. Additionally, Google plans to introduce a software package dubbed "Google Pack" with offerings from Google and other companies, according to the report.

TuneFM for iPod, Nano

01/05, 2:45pm

Belkin launches TuneFM for iPod, Nano

Belkin today launched its TuneFM for iPod and iPod nano, allowing users to play an iPod through any FM stereo receiver--such as a car stereo. TuneFM plugs into the dock connector of the iPod, and uses the player's LCD display to indicate the FM frequency and memory presets. The device does not require batteries, as it draws power from the iPod. TuneFM offers channel up/down, the ability to scan through multiple FM channels between 88.1-107.9MHz, four programmable memory slots, and a mini USB connector for constant charging while on the road. The TuneFM for iPod nano will ship in North America in January of 2006, while the TuneFM for iPod will ship in March of 2006. Both models are priced at $50.

TuneCommand AV for iPod

01/05, 1:30pm

Belkin TuneCommand AV for iPod

Belkin today unveiled its new TuneCommand AV for iPod, allowing users to watch and listen to their iPod through a home entertainment system while simultaneously powering and charging the iPod via a docking station. The wireless handheld RF (radio frequency) remote control maintains an operating distance of up to 120 feet, regardless of barriers such as walls and ceilings. The device can hook up to home stereos through RCA left/right, 3.5mm line-out, and S-Video jacks, and is compatible with all iPod models except the Shuffle. Belkin's TuneCommand AV for iPod will begin shipping in North America during April of 2006 for $80.

Sports Sleeve for Nano

01/05, 1:05pm

Belkin offers Sports Sleeve for Nano

Belkin today announced its form-fitting Sports Sleeve for iPod nano, a carrying case designed to protect the iPod while exercising or participating in outdoor activities. The Sports Sleeve preserves the Nano's original slim profile while maintaining access to all ports, and features durable silicon construction with a protective screen overlay. The iPod can be docked while in the Sleeve, while a detachable armband offers a convenient, hands-free carrying option. Velcro fasteners run nearly the entire length of the armband, allowing for a snug fit with most arms. Offered in frost white and black (shown at right), the Sports Sleeve for iPod nano is available in North America for $25.

New Belkin TuneBases

01/05, 12:45pm

Belkin unveils new TuneBase FM devices

Belkin today introduced two new TuneBase FM devices for Apple's iPod that power, charge, and allow users to listen to music simultaneously via a swivelling cradle. The TuneBases connect through any cigarette-lighter port, and transmit audio wirelessly on multiple FM channels from 88.1MHz-107.9MHz while utilizing the iPod's LCD for tuning. Both feature programmable memory slots to toggle between four channels. The TuneBase FM also ships with interchangeable trays for each iPod model, making it compatible with all iPods except the Shuffle. The TuneBase FM for iPod nano is specifically designed with a smaller form-factor to match the Nano's small, sleek design. TuneBase FM for iPod and TuneBase FM for iPod nano are both priced at $80. Both models are expected to ship in North America this month

Sonos adds Apple lossless

01/05, 12:40pm

Sonos supports Apple lossless codec

Sonos today released its third software feature update, version 1.3, adding Apple lossless compression and full-screen album art. Sonos, which yesterday introduced its second ZonePlayer, is a digital music system that allows users to play digital music in any room of the house, and control it from a wireless remote. The software update includes German language support, queue/playlist management, and fixed line-out support for home theater integration. Sonos software Version 1.3 also offers support for Audible.com, an internet-based provider of spoken audio content, as well as Apple's Lossless codec and detailed track information. All Audible.com .AA (format 4) file programs are accessible via the Sonos controller, and can be played in up to 32 rooms. Sonos does not currently support audio content downloaded from the iTunes Music Store.

HP abandons iTunes

01/05, 10:55am

HP drops iTunes, chooses Rhapsody

Hewlett-Packard today is expected to announce that it will stop bundling Apple's iTunes software with its new PCs and laptops, in favor of RealNetworks' "Rhapsody" music subscription service--one of Apple's leading competitors in the digital music industry. The move has been expected for some time, following the company's decision last summer to stop distributing HP-branded iPod music players. Rhapsody is now expected to be the default music-playing software on HP's new PCs and laptops. Beginning in the spring of 2006, HP customers will get a free 30-day trial subscription to RealNetworks' Rhapsody, according to a report from CNET. Additionally, RealNetworks may find further opportunity in the new deal to continue its drive into music services beyond PCs. The rocky relationship between Apple and Hewlett-Packard wore thin after Apple's own iPod overshadowed HP's special branded model. [updated]