![]() ![]() ![]() It plugs into a portable audio device or notebook computer and becomes a speaker system. + Dual functions: I'MASPEAKER ($25-$35, is more than a CD carrying case. All recorded material can be saved to the computer's hard drive. It lets you record as you listen, including acting like an audio TiVo to pause, then resume listening, and it can be set up like a VCR to record favorite shows. + More radio: The RadioShark ($70, ) plugs into a PC or Mac and brings AM and FM broadcasts to the computer. It has to be installed in the computer, so if you're not handy, find a neighbor who is. Problem solved: The PlusDeck 2 ($149.99, is a cassette deck for a computer (Windows only), literally. + Speaking of tape: One of the frequently asked questions from Personal Tech readers is about converting cassette tapes to digital files, or recording music off the computer. One caution: The recording industry apparently is objecting to this kind of software, though Audio Xtract claims it is legal. A free trial is available for the company's slimmed-down $19.99 version from (Windows only). Though not all stations broadcast in CD quality, it's the kind of program for which you'll want a big hard drive on your computer. Audio Xtract Professional Edition ($49.99, Jambalaya Brands) lets you record up to eight Internet radio stations at a time, edit out any pesky DJ chatter and, with the wide variety of stations available, from jazz to classical to the British invasion and more, build an impressive MP3 library pretty quickly. + Recording Net radio: In days of yore, people would record music from radio on cassette tapes. For example, Creative's Nomad Jukebox Zen Xtra ($240-$370) has more capacity at a lower price than the iPod, user-friendly software and a rechargeable and replaceable battery.įor more on the iPod and a roundup of reviews of some other competitors, check the Personal Tech archives for June 7 at There's a lot more to the music scene than MP3 players, as digital music has been one of the popular pastime of the last few years. But when it comes to portable music, competitors haven't given up, and other models are worth considering. Users can create their own designs, or download art from all done on an HP printer, of course. One of the funkier iPod accessories is Hewlett-Packard's Printable Tattoos ($14.99 for 10, ), which makes designer covers for the iPod. It is so popular that just its accessories could fill a news column, such as Altec Lansing's inMotion system ($149.95, a portable, battery-powered speaker system to use with the iPod. This is not exactly news: The iPod ($299-$499, is the hottest of the hot when it comes to MP3 digital music players, as is its smaller colorful cousin the Mini ($249). We've been doing our annual browsing for gadget gift ideas, with Web sites provided where available. Second, while a gadget may have an initial gee whiz factor, make sure it's more than a novelty.įor the serious and not-so-serious ideas, online resources are available, including Cnet, the Holiday Giving Guide at Consumer Reports magazine (Engadget (Gizmodo (and a host of price comparison sites. It's not scientific, but the survey provides a couple of lessons: First, make sure you know what the recipient wants. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |