Sun
Kensington Pico FM Transmitter for iPod, $70.
Okay, we know there are now about half a zillion iPod gizmos, but here’s one you might like to consider for that new Nano you just got for graduation. This one is thin (and we all know you can’t be too thin) and will allow you to transmit quickly to your car radio by using the iPod screen for a quick hit of station info. All you have to do is select a clear FM space on your dial and then select that on your iPod and, bam, you’ve got music. Or you can do the same thing in your home by connecting to your stereo tuner. Stations have also been pre-set.
Lenovo 3000 V100 12-inch widescreen notebook, starts at $1,200.
Are you what Lenovo defines as an “on-the-go small business customer seeking powerful performance?” Well, hey, then this could be for you, with its one-button recovery system that allows you to instantly escape those nasty viruses. It also offers automatic updates of Lenovo software. The V100 — which offers Intel Core Duo processors — has an integrated optical
drive. The screen allows for as much as four additional spreadsheet columns to what you get from a standard 12-inch display.
Soundtech Professional Audio Lightsnake USB Intelligent Instrument Cable, $70 US.
Let’s say you play guitar and you have a real need to record your talents straight to your PC with the minimum fuss. Well, here’s the Lightsnake which won “best in show” at the recent National Association of Music Merchants show in the U.S. It allows you to connect your guitar directly to your PC and make use of such software as Apple’s GarageBand and Sony’s Acid Music Studio. And no need for drivers with newer computers.
Tekkeon myPower 1140B for iPod rechargeable battery and portable dock (in black), $70 US.
And you thought you’d get away with just one iPod device this time around, but here’s another. It’s actually the old Tekkeon MP1140 white model in black, so that it goes neatly with the iPod photo. As well as the boost in battery power, the myPower includes high speed FireWire and USB 2.0 ports to sync with the iPod, plus a line-out port connection to a stereo and external speakers. Oh, and there’s a five-volt charging output so you can keep your mobile phone working as well.
© The Vancouver Sun 2006
