XZABADY waterproof iPod speaker from Twinbird

Written by: Michael Keferl on February 27, 2008 at 12:31 pm | In DIGITAL LIFE | 4 Comments

The home appliance gadgeteers at Twinbird have come up with an interesting approach to a one-size-fits-all solution to waterproofing your digital audio player: Shrinkwrap it.

Well, not entirely. The XZABADY is like a picture frame for your iPod, Zune, or whatever else is in your pocket. Connect the audio jack, and then compress the player between the customizable backing and a flexible silicone rubber sheet.

You now have easy access to buttons, jog dials, and other functions that you need without getting anything wet or soapy. The sound comes from stereo speakers with reflectors behind the unit, keeping them out of the splash zone as well. Even without your DAP, the built-in FM radio can keep you happy. The sales price is yet unknown.

Tags: A/V, iPod
Category: DIGITAL LIFE
Other categories: MARKETING IDEAS, LIFESTYLE / FASHION, PRODUCT INNOVATIONS

iPod Nano case-to-speaker kit from Bird Electron

Written by: Michael Keferl on November 27, 2007 at 12:37 am | In DIGITAL LIFE | 4 Comments

Wondering what to do with the case for your new iPod Nano? With a kit from Bird Electron you can turn it into an easy portable speaker.

The speaker kit fits right into the case and is ready to go! Just plug in your iPod and hit play. Doesn’t seem like it has a ton of power, but it’s still a cool and easy way to make use of your iPod packaging in a stylish way.

Via +D IT Media

Tags: A/V, iPod
Category: DIGITAL LIFE
Other categories: MARKETING IDEAS, LIFESTYLE / FASHION, PRODUCT INNOVATIONS

CAM-007 Tokyo test run via Honda Monkey

Written by: Michael Keferl on November 26, 2007 at 4:45 pm | In DIGITAL LIFE | 2 Comments

I have a little Honda Monkey that I use for getting around the neighborhood and cruising around Tokyo while looking as cool as one can possibly be on a tiny motorbike with a custom 72cc engine. Not an easy task.

To test out the CAM-007 we discussed before, I taped it to the headlight and took a ride from Kichijoji to our designer friend Hiroshi’s cafe, Chubby.

The camera is so light I just used a single piece of tape, and it stayed in place with no problems. The video is below, and the quality actually surprised us a bit, considering how tiny the camera really is.

Buy the CAM-007 online

Tags: A/V, Cameras
Category: DIGITAL LIFE
Other categories: MARKETING IDEAS, LIFESTYLE / FASHION, PRODUCT INNOVATIONS

Elekit DIY vacuum tube audio kits go retro

Written by: Michael Keferl on November 17, 2007 at 4:34 am | In DIGITAL LIFE | 1 Comment

In general, old-style vacuum tube audio products have seen a rise in popularity over the last year, particularly in the DIY category, as a classic retro sense is standing in contrast to the dime-a-dozen sleek components we see all the time. Elekit is now putting vacuum tubes in just about everything.

For your iPod or audio player, the TU-882 headphone amp will take you 5-6 hours to put together, but will give that added boost to your precious (and weak) tunes with three impedance ranges from 4 to 1000 Ohms. It’s limited to 500 pieces, and will go for about $280.
.

A bit more unexpected is the TU-884CD, a vacuum tube amped-up CD player also being released at the end of November. Limited to 1000 pieces this year, it’ll set you back about $300 and looks pretty cool next to a standard Elekit amp.

While we aren’t exactly audiophiles over here (forgive our lame tech details), these DIY amp kits are part of a larger retro trend here in Japan, taking modern products and giving them a classic feel. Everyone has a home stereo in some form or fashion, but vacuum tubes give a feeling (and a glow) that shows style as well as musical appreciation.

Elekit homepage

Tags: A/V, DIY
Category: DIGITAL LIFE
Other categories: MARKETING IDEAS, LIFESTYLE / FASHION, PRODUCT INNOVATIONS

Sony Rolly available to buy as pre-order

Written by: Michael Keferl on September 14, 2007 at 5:26 am | In DIGITAL LIFE | 3 Comments

We’ve all been inundated with news, video, and speculation about the upcoming Sony Rolly robotic music player. If you haven’t heard…where have you been? We’ll spare you the gritty details, but we can’t forget the Bluetooth streaming, programmable movement, amazing sound, and a heck of a design.

Now you can buy your very own Sony Rolly as a pre-order in the online shop. We’ve had incredible demand for it thus far, so it’s now available for all.

Of course, before you do anything, watch the video:

Click HERE to buy the Rolly online

Tags: A/V, robots, Sony
Category: DIGITAL LIFE
Other categories: MARKETING IDEAS, LIFESTYLE / FASHION, PRODUCT INNOVATIONS