iPod iTrax Mixing Console unveiled...

Gemini DJ today released its iTrax Mixing Console for iPod, offerin video-enabled iPod compatibility with a USB port and input selection switches. The iTrax Mixing Console features two angled docking stations that allow easy access to iPod controls, with each channel featuring 3-band equalizer controls that include gain and phono/line input switches for interfacing with additional audio devices. The iTrax features a master volume control, dual VU meter display, a user-replacable X-Fader, a cue section, and a microphone control panel with 2-band equalizer functionality as well as volume control. The iTrax is priced at $230 (availability information was unavailable). [corrected]

Sony unveils flash-based NW-E Walkman

Sony today unveiled the NW-E Walkman, its new flash-based digital music player boasting up to 28 hours of battery life that will compete with Apple's iPod nano. Sony is offering the new player in six colors with 512MB, 1GB, and 2GB storage capacities. The player features a built-in FM tuner while supporting AAC (non-DRM), MP3, WMA (non-DRM), and ATRAC music files. A "quick-charge" feature enables users to charge the device for three minutes for up to three hours of playback time. The new Walkman is compatible with the Sony Connect online music service, and includes SonicStage software to import, manage, or transfer music. The gadget offers USB 2.0 connectivity, a one-line OEL display, and a built-in equalizer. Each Sony NW-E Walkman ships with black or white earbud earphones for $70 (512MB), $100 (1GB), or $130 (2GB).

iSoundCap iPod hat manages wires

iSoundCap today released the iSoundCap, a hat for iPod owners that keeps earbud wires above the wearer's neck. The apparel is designed to hold the iPod Nano and iPod Shuffle in a tight compartment stitched into the Cap, and features a tight sleeve for the wires along with a spool to keep them neatly wrapped up. The hat allows easy access to and control of the players during activities. "The Cap is extremely fashionable but also provides a function," said Karl Foust, CEO of iSoundCap. The iSoundCap is available for $30 in black, white, black "structured," white "structured," and pink.

Wine guide for iPod unveiled

CyraKnow today launched its new Mark Phillips Wine Guide in audio format created specifically for iPod-using wine enthusiasts. The introduction to wine for iPod is designed to help new and seasoned wine students learn by a novel, practical approach. The audio guide includes more than 1.5 hours of practical advice recorded by Mark Phillips, according to CyraKnow, organized into categories such as "How to describe wine" and "how to buy wine." The guide is 32MB, is compatible with Mac OS X 10.2 as well as Windows 2000/XP, and works with any iPod featuring a Dock connector or clickwheel. The Mark Phillips Wine Guide is priced at $35.

Pod Safe locks iPods

Secure-It today unveiled the Pod Safe, a portable locking security case for Apple's iPod that fully contains the player to help prevent loss or theft. The Pod Safe case is made from high impact PolyCarbon strengthened ABS material which protects the device while providing easy access to controls as well as playing features when locked. The Pod Safe includes a four-digit, resettable combination lock incorporating a locking steel cable that can lock to various objects such as a backpack or briefcase. Pod Safe models fit iPod nano, fifth-generation iPod with video, iPod photo, and fourth-generation iPod models. The accessory is available in either black or white from $40.