Finally, an iPod accessory even Greenpeace can’t bash (too much)
Filed under: Awesomeness, Hardware, design, iPod nano, iPod shuffle
Sure we all love the environment, but the iPod is just so cool… If only there were a way to listen to our iPods while killing the planet… more slowly…
Faithful Macenstein reader meggert turned us on to Bird-Electron EZ17-B iPod Recycling Speaker, the most “green” iPod speaker you can buy make yourself.
This unique speaker relies on the well known fact that Apple’s customers almost always save the packaging their gadgets ship in (they are, after all, works of art). The speaker actually consists of a $40 DIY kit that turns the original packaging of your iPod nano or shuffle into a speaker.
To quote the nano-loving Feist, installation is apparently as easy as 1,2,3,4.
Simply just place the speaker panel on top of the open box, and plug it into the iPod and play. Bird-Electron’s recycling speaker does not require any power source. You can also customize your own recycling speaker with any small container like a water bottle. Easy to install. Available only from Bird-Electron.
Did they just say you can use a water bottle? Yes, they sure did, acoustics be damned! That means if your baby-seal-clubbing-ass already recklessly threw away your shuffle’s packaging, you can still re-purpose one of your trendy plastic water bottles, thus keeping it from becoming lodged in a dolphin’s blow hole (you Earth-hating maniac!). Read more
Unilever’s “shuffle pops” sighted
Gizmodo has managed to find pictures of the legendary “Brazilian iPod shuffle popsicle“, long thought to be extinct until Unilever’s Kibon ice cream brand found 10,000 of the skittish creatures in some god-forsaken jungle, and decided to give them away as a promotion. Apparently, Apple had a hand in helping to certify the “Shuffle pop”’s packaging would keep the iPod safe in store freezer conditions. While the packaging is clever, it does seem a little lame that if you were lucky enough to find a frozen shuffle, you have to then call the Kibon hotline to get them to send you earbuds and a charger so you can actually use the darn thing.
Thanks to faithful Macenstein reader wyclef for the tip.
Review: Jensen’s Banshee JISS 330 and JISS 550 docking speakers for iPod
Filed under: Product Reviews, iPhone, iPod, iPod Touch, iPod nano, iPod shuffle, iTunes
Banshee is about to release their JISS 330 and JISS 550 speakers for the iPod, and we managed to get a sneak peak.
The JISS 550 and its little brother the JISS 330 look remarkably similar to Banshee’s 5.0 surround sound speakers we reviewed back in July of 2006. We’ve found the Banshee’s “unique” styling is either a big hit or a big miss with most people, but after having seen so many similar-looking iPod speakers, we still appreciate its futuristic, hair dryer aesthetics.
While on the outside it might appear that not much has changed, inside it’s a different story. Banshee has contracted with Jensen to retool the Banshee from the inside out, and the difference in audio quality is noticeable.
Inside
Jensen made a number of improvements to the circuit board of the Banshee to allow for less variation in sound output and filtering than its predecessor. The Banshee now does not distort when the iPod is at maximum volume, something we noticed began to happen on the original over time. Additionally, The Banshee is now one of the few iPod speakers out there (and the only under $250 we’re aware of) to use porting to improve air flow and bass quality.
The sound is perceptibly cleaner, and the unit feels “tighter” – more solid than the original. Also to Jensen’s credit, the Banshee’s now sport the official “Made for IPod” badge meaning you needn’t worry about frying your iPod.
Above: The JISS 550 uses an external docking cradle to connect your iPod.
Outside
At first look the outside of the Banshee seems more or less unchanged from the original, but there have been a number of small improvements, and all of them for the better. First, the JISS-550’s (the big guy) external docking cradle now charges your iPod (or iPhone), something the original cradle inexplicably did not do. The JISS-330 (the little guy) has a built-in charging dock on the top of the speaker. Second, both units now include a remote which lets you turn on the devices, skip songs, and pause the music.
Perhaps the most surprising addition (given the Banshees’ price points) is the added video out ports (both composite and S-Video) to both speakers (both sets of cables included). I’m not sure how many adults find video out useful on their iPod speakers, but I know of quite a few 10-20 year-olds who do, and I think that age bracket is a target audience for the Banshee.
Another small but welcome change is the addition of a blue power light that lets you know when the Banshee is on (it also makes it look a bit cooler in the dark).
Both speakers ship with the requisite dock adapters to make sure your iPod fits (both nano and regular). Shuffle owners will be happy to know you can also connect other non-dock MP3 players or computers to the new Banshees via the mini-stereo line in plug.
JISS 330 vs the JISS 550
Looking at the two units, you can probably guess that the main difference between them is size, both physically, and acoustically. The 25-Watt 550 (with its 5 speakers) has the ability to give a pseudo surround-sound effect, and delivers much better bass response than the 330. While not sounding nearly as good as the 550, the 10-Watt 330, with its smaller form factor, more or less identical feature set, and lower price ($99), does not embarrass itself audio-wise, and is still a good choice for a tween/teen’s bedroom. I found on both speakers some fiddling is required with the iPod’s EQ to get the best sound. My new favorite iPod speaker preset for small speakers is “Latin” which lowers the mid range a bit, and I found it to work well with both models of Banshee for most types of music.
In a toss up between the two, (assuming the $30 price difference is not a deal breaker), I would definitely go with the 550. The audio is noticeably better, and the bass is worlds above the 330. The 550’s 5 speakers combine to produce a pseudo surround sound effect that the 330 does not. Plus the 550 is not exactly a space hog (measuring just under 13-inches wide) so there are few situations where the extra 4.5 niches of width over the 330 would rule out the 550.
I also like the 550’s external docking cup design. Most iPod speakers with docks go the “dock on top” route (like the 330). I like that the 550 can be hooked to a computer, TV, or home stereo and stand on its own with no empty iPod dock marring the design. I also like that I can place the 550 on the shelf above my monitor, yet still have the docking cup on the desk next to me for easy access.
The JISS 550’s docking cradle connects via this unique plug that allows for other MP3 players to be used as well as the iPod.
Issues
Perhaps since I have the original Banshee, the fact that the basic physical design remains unchanged is more of an issue for me that others. When I first saw the Banshee, I thought, “Wow, that’s kind of a cool design!” – I had not seen anything quite like it. Now nearly 2 years later, I would like to have seen some sort of sprucing up of the design. I’m a bit surprised that with this refresh that the Banshee does not come in multiple colors, for instance. I could absolutely see a hot pink, electric blue, or brushed metal/gray Banshee looking quite cool and going over well with the Circuit City/Best Buy/Target crowd where the Banshee will be sold this holiday season (Target in particular seems to produce pink versions of many iPod accessories).
As far as actual technical issues, I only have a couple minor gripes as both systems provide a great value for their price. First, the remote, while very comfortable in the hand, is a bit big (especially so for the 330). There are only 6 buttons on the remote, and I would have tolerated a smaller, less comfortable remote (after all, how long is the remote actually in your hand on a speaker system?).
The back of the JISS 330. Notice the small “iPod” switch on the far right.
Second, on the 330, there is a small switch in the rear which you need to switch when moving from a line-in audio source to the iPod dock. The 550 seems to sense this automatically, and does not require this switch. This may or may not be annoying to you depending on how often you have the Banshee hooked up to a DVD player or other audio source and need to switch back over to the iPod.
That’s one big honking plug.
Another small annoyance of both speakers is the power adapter. Given a choice between a giant AC plug and an in-cord power brick, I will take the brick anytime. Both Banshees sport the giant outlet-blocking AC plug that the Turbo Squid was built for. This isn’t really a design flaw or anything – just a personal preference of mine.
The last complaint I have may seem a little odd, as I am complaining about a feature the systems HAVE that I want taken AWAY. Both systems sport a low frequency output for a subwoofer (as did the original Banshee). Honestly, this seems a little useless to me. To my mind, folks wanting to buy a $99 to $129 iPod speaker are not going to shell out an additional $80-$150 on a stand alone subwoofer. Additionally, Jensen does not make a subwoofer that compliments the Banshee’s unique design, so odds are if you do want some extra bass, you’ll have to go with a blocky 3rd party subwoofer such as the horrible Sonic Impact Maxx, which will nearly double the size and cost of the Banshee. If you already own a compatible mini sub then perhaps the built-in LF out support is a bonus selling feature, but if removing it would lower the Banshee’s cost a couple bucks, I’m all for it.
Conclusion
Jensen’s Banshee JISS 330 ($99) and JISS 550 ($129) docking speakers for iPod both deliver above average sound and a wealth of extra features. To my mind, the 550 is the clear winner between the two, and would receive my buying recommendation.
Both systems sport the “Made for iPod” certification tag, include a remote, video out, docking station, and LF sub-woofer out support, leaving very few features wanting. Priced between $99 and $129, these are not $300-sounding speakers, but the 550’s sound comes close to many $175-$200 speakers, and offers more extras.
JISS 550
Price: $129
Pros: Great sound given its price (delivers “surround sound” effect), compact, external docking cradle, video out, remote, cables included
Cons: Design could use a little updating, remote a bit large, audio a bit mid-rangey
Price: $99
Pros: Good sound given its price, small form factor, docking cradle, video out, remote, cables included
Cons: Lacks the bass of the 550, remote a bit large, audio a bit mid-rangey
Review: Logitech does the portable iPod speaker right with the Pure-Fi Anywhere
Filed under: Product Reviews, iPhone, iPod, iPod Touch, iPod nano, iPod shuffle
Logitech has finally come out with a portable speaker system we can all get behind with their Pure-Fi Anywhere Compact Speakers for iPod. Available in black or white, the Pure-Fi delivers exceptional sound given its size, and addresses pretty much all the complaints we’ve had with other portable speakers.
Styling
First off, the Pure-Fi looks great. The design is a somewhat revamped version of their mm50 iPod speakers, but they look much sleeker and feel a bit more solid. When I first removed them from their case, I was a bit shocked at how heavy they are. Obviously, you don’t want portable speakers to be too heavy, and these aren’t unwieldy or anything, but for some reason I expected them to feel a bit more plasticky and hollow than they do. In this instance, weight is a good thing.
The Pure-Fi is quite thin, which again may have caused me to underestimate its build quality. The controls along the top of the unit are flat, with a nice brushed metal look. Pressing them requires some effort though, but they do not feel cheap or “clicky”. Two twist-out supports on the bottom of either side prop the Pure-Fi up at a slight angle, and fold back in for travel. Even the AC adapter is thoughtfully designed with the traveler in mind. There is no bulky power brick, and the international voltage (100–240V) AC plug itself has a groove that you can use to wind up the chord when traveling.
A large part of the Pure-Fi’s weight is likely do to the built-in rechargeable battery which delivers an impressive 10 hours per charge. This is perhaps one of the Pure-Fi’s best features. We’ve reviewed a couple portable iPod speaker systems that either run off standard batteries (a hassle) or AC power (how is that portable?). The built-in rechargeable battery is by far the most convenient and cost-effective choice for the end user, and we’re big fans. It somehow makes the unit seem even more portable, and we found ourselves bringing it places, such as picnics, grandma’s house, and even just out by the hammock in the back yard because we knew we didn’t have to mess with extension cords or trying to track down a bunch of “C” batteries. The Pure-Fi comes with a battery indicator light which gives you a reasonable idea of how much life you have left in your charge.
Features
Aside from its rechargeable battery and “travel oriented” design (which in and of itself could be considered to be a feature) the Pure-Fi delivers a pretty decent selection of extras not often found on a portable speaker system. First, it comes with a remote. The remote, despite its small size, allows for full navigation of a docked iPod/iPhone’s menu, and of course it can also perform the requisite power on/off, skip/play/pause and volume adjustment. Two things this remote has that many others do not is the addition of the random play and repeat buttons, which is a nice touch. The remote’s construction, however, if the only part of the Pure-Fi that feels a bit cheap, especially the somewhat clicky buttons.
The Pure-Fi is designed to hold your iPod upright in the center iPod docking cradle, which makes watching video and navigating the iPod convenient. When plugged in to an AC outlet, the Pure-Fi will charge your dock-connected iPod. For other players, computers, or iPods like the shuffle, without docks, you can plug them into the Pure-Fi via the standard 3.5-millimeter auxiliary input in the back (but you’ll lose remote functionality, obviously).
Another great feature of the Pure-Fi is the included carrying case. First, it smells like new sneakers, which is never a bad thing (it’s old sneakers you have to worry about!). The Pure-Fi, remote, and power cord all fit perfectly inside (you place the AC cord in the iPod docking cradle). The case itself is black, and has a reinforced top and bottom to protect the Pure-Fi from travel bumps and bruises.
Sound
The 4 speakers gracing the front of the Pure-Fi consist of a pair of 2-inch Max-X active, high-excursion drivers that handle the main audio duties, as well a a pair of 3-inch pressure drivers that control the bass. Sound from the Pure-Fi is above average, but lacks a bit in the bass, as you might expect given its size. Still, with proper iPod EQ settings you can accommodate for much of its somewhat mid-range-heavy sound. I have found that the iPod’s “Latin” EQ setting works well with smaller speakers systems, and the Pure-Fi is no exception. There is a button on the top of the Pure-Fi that will invoke their StereoXL technology. Logitech says it “widens the stereo image dramatically, creating an immersive audio experience”. Basically, it’s one of those audio gimmicks that speaker manufacturers use (with varying degrees of success) to help make the speakers sound bigger than they are. after testing it on a variety of songs, I ended up leaving it switched off.
Issues
This isn’t an issue so much as an observation: You can use the Pure-Fi with an iPhone as well as your iPod, but I noticed a strange thing when using the iPhone. If you paused a song, it would resume playing within about 3 or 4 minutes all on its own. This is likely not the Pure-Fi’s fault. Odds are it’s just one of those many minor differences that the iPhone’s “iPod” features differ from a regular iPod.
Conclusion
The Pure-Fi Anywhere is our new travel speaker of choice. At $149, it begins to push the limits of my portable speakers price range, but it includes a wealth of extras that make the price justifiable. I would say that for the $149 the Pure-Fi lists for, you are really getting $90-$100 sounding speakers, but you are getting them along with a remote, dock, built-in 10-hour rechargeable battery, international AC adapter, and travel case, along with a great compact, travel-friendly design. Travelers in need of a thoughtfully designed and great-sounding speaker should definitely give the Pure-Fi a look ( I mean a listen).
Pure-Fi Anywhere Compact Speakers for iPod
Price: $149
Pros: Good sound given and size, compact design, built-in rechargeable 10-hour battery, remote, international AC adapter, included traveling case
Cons: Might be $10-$15 too expensive, sound is a bit mid-rangey, requiring some EQ fiddling
Review: The HOODIE by Gracie’s Gear
Filed under: Product Reviews, iPhone, iPod, iPod Touch, iPod shuffle
Gracie’s Gear, makers of the infamously awesome Power Pouch Sports Bra (Macenstein rated 9.5 out of 10), have come out with a new piece of exercise apparel meant to make jogging with your iPod easier, their new HOODIE.
Now that the weather’s getting colder (well, in the Northeast, at least) those of us who do our morning jogs are finding it a little too chilly to be running around in only a jogging bra. Already here in NJ, while it may still reach 75 or 80 during the day, at 5:30 AM it’s a “brisk” 45 degrees, so many of us will be looking for something with a bit more coverage. Enter the HOODIE.
The HOODIE is your standard form-fitting, quarter zip jacket with a twist. Like the Power Pouch Sports Bra before it, Gracie’s Gear has added a special iPod-friendly zipper pocket to the device to help make listening to your favorite tunes while exercising easier. The pocket is actually divided into 2 sections by a thin piece of material, allowing you to put your iPod, keys, or money in one section, and your hands in the other. The “iPod section” is accessible through the side holes of the main pocket, so you can quickly reach in and skip songs or adjust volume (assuming you have a non-touch iPod). There is also a cable cord management hole, allowing you to thread your headphone cable up through the pocket to help try and keep it out of the way.
Overall the HOODIE is very comfortable. Like their sports bra, it’s made from a special fabric designed to “sweep sweat and heat away for rapid evaporation and maximum ventilation”, and it seems to do just that. The material makes The HOODIE the perfect light-weight workout gear for these late summer/early fall mornings (or evenings).
Issues
My main issue with the HOODIE is the way it holds the iPod. I found their Power Pouch Sports Bra did a much better job holding the iPod in place during workouts. This is because the fabric of the sports bra was quite a bit tighter and more form-fitting, leaving little room for the iPod to move. This is really just a fact of life with the design of any exercise hoodie in general – you can’t make them too much tighter across the abdomen – but I found running with a full-sized iPod in the pocket to be a bit distracting, as it would “slap” against me with each stride. Of course, using the HOODIE with the light-weight iPod shuffle this was not a problem. I don’t have a nano to test it with, but I would assume the nano would fall somewhere between the two, and likely be OK. However, I would imagine a most cell phones would also be a problem.
I might also suggest a slightly different cable management scheme. I would think that either adding an additional “loop” near the HOODIE’s collar that you could thread the ear bud cable through might aid in keeping the cable from flopping as you run (although if you wind it around the iPod in your pocket to an appropriate length, this issue can be minimized). Another take would be to allow the cable to be threaded on the INSIDE of the garment.
Conclusion
Currently available only in black with pink trim, the HOODIE is a great workout garment for those of us who like to get our workouts over with before the sun comes up. The HOODIE’s pocket does a good job holding lighter-weight MP3 players such as the iPod shuffle, but users of full-sized iPod may want to stick with an additional jogging armband.
Price: $66.50
Pros: Comfortable, looks great, lightweight, has dual section zipper pocket for carrying various “essentials”, great hoodie-style workout outfit even without an iPod
Cons: Because of the lower pocket placement (compared to the Power Pouch), full-sized iPods can “bounce” against you during workout; maybe $6.51 too expensive
iPhone price drop and new iPods mean more Mac Chick prizes!
Filed under: Apple Fanboyism, Celebrity Mac Chick, News, contests, iPhone, iPod, iPod Touch, iPod shuffle
When we announced our Mac Chick Casting Call contest last month, we were very excited by the idea that Incipio was willing to put up an actual prize worth competing for, namely, a 4 GB iPhone (not that the honor of being a Mac chick of the Month is not reward enough!). However, thanks to last week’s iPhone price drops, newly announced iPods, and the discontinuation of said 4GB iPhone, we have been able to restructure our prize tier a bit, offering an even better selection!
