News Archive for 06/11/27

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Nike adds Amp+ to Nike+ iPod line

11/27, 5:20pm

Nike adds Amp+ remote

Nike is adding the Amp+ to its Nike+ iPod line, a Bluetooth remote bracelet that allows users to control playback without touching an iPod while displaying relevant information -- such as running statistics -- from the player in real-time. Data is projected through an LED readout tucked beneath the black matte surface of the bracelet, according to Men's Health. The Nike+ line features shoes designed to work with special hardware and software for the iPod Nano, keeping track of runs while providing audio feedback. The new remote bracelet is designed to keep the iPod nano away from sweat, which is a notable issue with many runners using the new system, according to Electronista. The Amp+ is slated for shipment some time in 2007 for $80.

VTS-384 vacuum tube iPod dock debuts

11/27, 4:30pm

Vacuum tube iPod dock

RockridgeSound has unveiled its VTS-384, marking another iPod dock that relies on vacuum tubes rather than transistors to produce what some audiophiles claim is richer sound. The 384 spans frequencies between 80Hz and 20KHz, and each of its three-inch internal speakers boasts 5W of power, according to Electronista. The dock connects to headphones or external speakers for greater output, and supports all iPods from the third generation onward. The company notes, however, that remote control functions for third-generation iPods are limited to play/pause and skipping options. The 384 debuts in February of 2007 in Japan for $700.

Brando ships Car to USB FM Transmitter

11/27, 12:15pm

USB FM Transmitter ships

Brando today began shipping its Car to USB FM Transmitter, an adapter that plays music from any stereo minijack source -- such as Apple's iPod -- as well as MP3 music directly from SD cards and most USB drives. The adapter offers a dual-role LCD and button set to control FM tuning as well as track navigation. The design also adjusts in six directions to fit into tight spaces while plugged into the 12-volt power socket found in most vehicles. Brando is shipping its Car to USB FM Transmitter for $55, allowing owners to select from up to 15 pre-defined FM channels to obtain a clear signal.

Rivet ships Nano Combo Pack

11/27, 11:30am

Nano Combo Pack ships

Rivet International has unveiled its Nano Combo Pack (site not updated), an earphone lanyard and protective case combination accessory that works with both first- and second-generation iPod nanos. The company has redesigned it Grab case and merged it with its Rhythm earphone Lanyard, providing an adjustable integrated case and earphone combo featuring extended bass with sound isolation and tangle-free fabric cords. The device ships with three sizes of earbud gel tips to ensure a comfortable fit, as well as an extension cable for increased reach (pricing was unavailable).

Quattro stereo with iPod support ships

11/27, 10:55am

Quattro stereo ships

Sharper Image has introduced its Quattro 4-CD Stereo system. The new stereo is designed to save space by mounting both the satellites as well as the central four-CD player vertically, resting them close against a shelf or wall. The Quattro features a Universal Dock on top of the right speaker tower to both charge and play all dockable iPod models without getting in the way of the optical drives. Sharper Image promises quality audio with four true-dome tweeters per tower and the option of a powered subwoofer ($100) for extra low-range sound, according to Electronista. The Quattro is shipping for $500 via the Sharper Image online store.

Beatles coming to iTunes, Apple TV ad?

11/27, 10:40am

Beatles coming to iTunes?

Apple Computer is close to inking a deal that would bring the Beatles music catalog online as an exclusive offer via the iTunes Music Store, according to Fortune Magazine. Talks between the two companies continue over the possibility of a new iPod commercial featuring Beatles music, as well as a potential Beatles-branded iPod similar to the special edition U2 model. EMI Group in mid-November announced that recordings of the Beatles would soon appear online, fueling speculation despite a recent legal battle between Apple Computer and Apple Corps that left the record label owing the Cupertino-based company roughly £2 million in legal fees.

Survey: 70% of retailers recommend iPod

11/27, 10:10am

iPod recommendation survey

Apple's iPod is still the dominant MP3 player and is recommended by 70 percent of retailers, according to early results of a new survey. The Channel Checkers asked numerous international retailers which MP3 player they recommend, whether they sell Microsoft's Zune, and how the Zune is selling. Preliminary survey results reveal that the Zune was recommended by some who cited its Wi-Fi capability as an attractive feature, and that price does not seem to offer an advantage to either Apple or Microsoft with regard to the company's 30GB players. Many retailers did, however, cite price as a negative factor for iPods while pointing to less expensive players that offer increased functionality, such as Creatives' Zen and the Sandisk Sansa.