July 2006 Archives
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July 31, 2006
Lou Rhodes' iPod mix revealed
Talented songstress Lou Rhodes has revealed her favourite six tracks that she keeps on her iPod .
Songs from an array of artists, some rather more obscure than others, inhabit Rhodes' iPod, including Now That I Know by Devendra Banhart, Multiply by Jamie Lidell and Jesael by Oddur Runarsson.
Lou Rhodes was one half of the ground-breaking band Lamb, but since then has forged a successful solo career of her own.
Of the little-known song Now That I Know by Devendra Banhart, Rhodes said: "I listen to him almost daily. There's spirit in his music; it makes me smile inside.
"This song could have been recorded 30 years ago, but the fact that it's contemporary gives me hope for modern music."
So Long by Fink is another track the talented song-writer and singer keeps on her iPod , in addition to The Fairest Of The Seasons by Nico and The Dress Looks Nice On You by Sufjan Stevens.
Recently the Manchester native was nominated for a Mercury Prize.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:05 AM
July 28, 2006
IM500 makes travellers heard
Designed for the iPod nano, the new IM500 speaker from Altec Lansing is small enough to be taken literally anywhere, but loud enough to satisfy the most demanding of listeners.
The IM500 defies reality by measuring only 0.7 inches thick and weighing a measly 12 ounces, yet features bass-enhancement technology that produces a surprisingly powerful sound.
Running off either an external power source or two AA batteries, the IM500 charges and syncs theiPod nano as it plays.
The company states: "Altec Lansing utilized its decades of audio expertise to custom-engineer a cleverly thin speaker design.
"This lightweight and impossibly thin carry-along is the most compact speaker system from Altec Lansing yet, with an efficient fold-away design, making it a cinch to toss into a small purse or bag for travel."
Retailing for approximately £60, the IM 500 will become available on the internet and in outlets soon.
Altec Lansing is one of the most prolific makers of iPod speakers in the market, producing a wide array of mini speakers designed specifically for iPod s.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:40 AM
July 27, 2006
iFrogz cases go mini
Due to popular demand, iFrogz has introduced a case designed specifically for the new iPod mini.
The popular cases are made of customisable silicon, allowing the case to adapt perfectly to the iPod s curved edges and provide protection from bumps and scrapes.
iFrogz cases consist of three different parts, consisting of wrapz, which will be available in 12 colours and bandz, available in 34 different colours.
"The addition of the iPod mini to our case lineup gives us a case for almost every iPod made since the release of the 4th Generation models, excluding the shuffle," said Clay Broadbent, iFrogz vice president.
Both the click-wheel and the screen are protected by iFrogz cases and the bandz part of the case covers them while the iPod is not in use.
Available online, iFrogz retail for about £15.
The company behind iFrogz also make the popular silicon Reminderbands, which feature different colours and phrases on each.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 10:02 AM
July 26, 2006
Aluminium iPod case simple yet effective
Unassuming, strong and simple, the new iPod cases from CoreCases will appeal too many who crave a more adult iPod case.
While many attempt to shout their "identity" with one of the recent gamut of garish, stylised iPod cases on the market, the new aluminium range from CoreCases is perfect for those whose only wish is protection.
Possessing a deceptively simple sliding design, rather than an unwieldy hinge, the aluminium cases are lined with foam and are available for the iPod nano, shuffle and iPod 5G.
Of the iPod nano version of the case, the company states: "This case has well-designed cutouts to allow easy access to the Nano's USB and headphone port, hold switch, click wheel and dock connector.
"This allows convenient access while never having to remove your nano from its case!"
All the cases come with a detachable belt clip and lanyard.
The cases retail from £7 to £10 and are available online.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:58 AM
July 25, 2006
Griffin unveils new iPod cases
Griffin technology has introduced the first three of a whole new range of iPod cases.
The trio, vizor and tempo are all directed at different users and devices, but have durability and more than adequate protection in common.
As the name suggests, the trio is actually three iPod nano cases in one, coming with three changeable covers, able to work as a belt clip or envelope.
Griffin states: "The trio for nano combines style and protection in a versatile package for the ultimate iPod nano case.
"The trio's two interchangeable covers give you three different style options to carry your nano, while the slim design preserves its sleek appeal."
The tempo is a new sports armband, designed to carry an iPod while the user is engaged in some form of athletic activity.
As iPod armbands become more and more ubiquitous, the tempo stands out for its adaptability, able to cope with an iPod nano, or a full-sized video iPod.
The vizor relies on simplicity and subtlety and will appeal to most, as functional as it is non-flashy.
All three cases are available online and are to be followed by more soon.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:10 AM
July 24, 2006
Faithless DJ breaks open iPod
Influential DJ Sister Bliss has revealed her favourite six-track mix that she keeps on her iPod .
The Faithless DJ told the Metro that she likes listening to, among others, Walk A Mile In My Shoes by Coldcut, Breakfast At 30,000 ft by Bent and We Are Your Friends by Justice vs Simian.
One of the founding members of Faithless, Sister Bliss, whose real name is Ayalah Bentovim, is one of the country's most popular electronica DJ's.
Of the track We Are Your Friends, by Justice vs Simian, Sister Bliss, said: "No dance floor would be complete without this. It's now made the switch to being played on radio so you know it's getting huge.
"With its shouty refrain and French backing track, it's a real sound of the summer."
Another of the ground-breaking DJ's favourites is Greatest by legendary American songstress Cat Power.
Sister Bliss was one of the first female house DJ's in Britain and played many of the great clubs of the time, including Cream, Ministry of Sound and the Gallery.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:09 AM
July 21, 2006
Sporty Speck releases new range of iPod cases
A new line of iPod cases directed at the more active set of iPod owners has been introduced by Speck Products.
Rather obviously dubbed the Active Sport line, the range currently consists of the Active Sport Armband for iPod nanos and the Active Sport Case, which features a carabiner clip.
The Active Sport Armband is available immediately and the Active Sport Case will debut later on this month, according to Speck.
Speck states: "The Active Sport Armband is made of several different materials to give it functionality and a modern, sporty look! The band is made of breathable mesh material on both sides.
"The iPod 'pocket' is made of a reflective material on the outside and is lined with soft fabric."
Securely fitting around arms that measure anywhere from 12" to 18" in circumference, the Active Sport Armband works with 1, 2 and 4 GB models of the nano as well as the iPod with video.
The Active Sport Armband retails for about £16 online and the Active Sport Case for about £12.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:14 AM
July 20, 2006
Nike and iPod personal trainer
Nike has teamed up with the Apple iPod to produce a fully operational high-tech personal trainer.
The Nike+iPod Sport Kit allows users to measure their fitness progress while they are exercising.
It monitors running or walking progress, provides audio reports through the iPod headphones and posts figures on a website that calculates fitness performance over time.
The kit comes with a wireless sensor that can be inserted into a Nike+ shoe with a receiver then plugged into the Dock connector of an iPod nano.
As users start running the sensor sends information to the iPod nano which will tell users the time taken, calories burnt and other essential information.
This can be synched to performance goals, with iPod accessories also available to provide a comprehensive sports kit.
Reviewers have offered glowing comments so far, with many commenting on the kit's ease of use and fun aspect.
The Nike+iPod Sport Kit can be bought from the manufacturer's website now for around £15.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:28 AM
July 19, 2006
Klipsch introduces darkly appealing iPod shelf system
High-quality, expensive speaker brand Klipsch have introduced the iGroove HG shelf system for the iPod .
Based on their earlier model, the iGroove, the new version comes in glossy black and has a rather appealing curved shape.
The iGroove HG can work with all next-generation iPod s, as well as the iPod nano and shuffle.
Tony Ostrom, director of product marketing for Klipsch, said: "Based on the surge in black iPod sales, it made sense for us to create a complimentary version of our premier all-in-one iPod sound solution.
"While the iGroove HG's contemporary design and high-gloss finish perfectly flatters black iPod s and blends well with today's popular decor trends, it also looks great with traditional white iPod s."
Featuring dual 2.5-inch woofers and dual 1-inch MicroTractrix Horn-loaded tweeters, the iGroove HG is much more than a pretty face.
Placing the iGroove HG a few inches from a wall or corner will actually enhance the performance of the system, as it is a ported design, allowing it to reproduce deeper base frequencies than many models.
The iGroove HG retails for approximately £125 online.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 08:59 AM
July 18, 2006
Patriotic iPod cases join the fray
Cases for the fifth generation iPod and the iPod nano have debuted, which feature camouflage and stars and stripes themes.
Made by Casemate, the new cases are constructed from tough nappa leather with an inner plastic shell and have a click wheel protector and cover for the screen.
The stars and stripes version features a rather natty pattern of white stars on a blue background on one side of the case, with horizontal white and red stripes on the other side.
For those wishing to blend in with the foliage, the camouflage pattern might be just for them, featuring streaks of dark green and brown.
Casemate states: "No matter which style you choose, you'll be supporting our troops while protecting your music.
"Whether it's an iPod or nano case you take home, a portion of the proceeds from the Patriot Line goes directly to the United Service Organisations (USO) which serves military personnel serving around the world."
A microfiber cleaning cloth, removable belt clip and applicator card come with the cases, which retail for approximately £12.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:28 AM
July 17, 2006
Soul man Van Hunt reveals iPod choices
Up-and-coming contemporary soul crooner Van Hunt has unveiled to the Metro, the carefully chosen songs that reside on his iPod .
Van Hunt grooves to a range of vastly different genres and artists, with quality and pathos being the only thing most of them have in common.
The Roots by D'Angelo and The Ballad of Dorothy Parker by Prince are two of Van Hunts favourites, as is Mother Beautiful by the legendary Sly And The Family Stone.
Of this song, Van Hunt says: "It's something I found in 1998. It's just Sly, the organ and a little drums.
"I'm definitely a lyric dude and this is a touching sermon about a mother and the role she plays for the man and the family."
Having recently released his first album, the self-titled Van Hunt, this artist has been garnering rave reviews and is being spoken of as the next Curtis Mayfield.
Most class Van Hunt's music as soul, though it could be called R n' B and has tinges of reggae and rock.
Posted by ipodworld at 09:42 AM
July 14, 2006
Zephaniah reveals iPod mix
Legendary poet Benjamin Zephaniah has unveiled the eclectic mix of songs that he keeps on hisiPod , to the Metro.
Everything from Bob Marley to David Bowie is present on the Birmingham native's listening device.
Also making an appearance, is the smash hit Crazy by duo Gnarls Barkley, made up of Cee-Lo and Danger Mouse.
Feel Good Inc by Gorillaz is another favourite of Zephaniah's - of the song he said: "I like music that doesn't fit into a genre.
"There's a bit of reggae in this and a bit of soul but why did they put that rock guitar there? It works though."
The David Bowie song Ashes to Ashes is also favoured by Zephaniah, as well as Kinky Reggae by Bob Marley and Psycho Killer by Talking Heads.
Benjamin Zephaniah famously turned down an OBE in 2003, citing his profound distaste for the British empire and all the connotations that go with it.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:28 AM
July 13, 2006
Anything-proof iPod case introduced
Whether it's climbing a mountain, snorkelling, or wrestling a grizzly bear, with the new range of iPod cases from Otterbox, users can now take their beloved music players anywhere, while doing anything.
Constructed from rugged plastic in a clamshell design, the new Otterbox cases are waterproof, dustproof, dirtproof, sandproof, and drop-proof.
With this range of cases, Otterbox has obligingly catered to iPod video, iPod nano , iPod mini and the shuffle.
Otterbox states: "The OtterBox for iPod provides unbeatable protection for expensive iPod s and music collections. Interactive, waterproof, and drop-resistant, these iPod cases are ready for any adventure. Bring on the rain, snow, dirt and dust!"
The rigorous protection provided by the Otterbox iPod cases don't detract from the usability however, the click wheel is still accessible through a thin plastic membrane and the screen is eminently readable.
Available online, the Otterbox iPod cases retail for approximately £20.
While using the iPod fully submerged, normal earphones may short out, but Otterbox offers a set of waterproof headphones on their website, for about £20.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:35 AM
July 12, 2006
iPod accessories can now be kept snug and safe
While cases and clips for iPod s may be a dime a dozen, bags designed to hold the plethora of accessories that many carry with their iPod s have been a bit thin on the ground – not so, any longer.
The iSnug accessory case is a small, convenient and cushioned bag made by Handstands to keep cables, the iPod power brick and any of the host of other accessories that iPod users tend to lug around.
Padded with EVA foam and featuring pockets and holders that will fit most accessories, the iSnug will appeal to many travelling iPod cognoscenti.
Jade Hansen, Handstands iPod product manager said: "The best part of the iSnug Accessory Case is the simplicity and durability.
"iPod users will also like the fact that they can store their accessories separately, and only take them when they need them...This [iSnug Accessory Case] is perfect for just tossing into a suitcase or back pack, and allows users to not be concerned with damaging their iPod accessories."
Retailing at about £16, the iSnug is available online.
Founded in 1983, as one of the first companies to manufacture and sell mouse pads, Handstands has now developed into a company makes and sells a range of products, from computer accessories to sporting and automotive accessories.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:14 AM
July 11, 2006
Claro makes things clear
For iPod users who believe simplicity is best, Canadian company iSkin has recently introduced the Claro.
A clear scratch proof plastic case with a silicon rubber interior makes a simple, yet effective iPod cases for all seasons.
Made to fit 30GB or 60 GB iPods, the Claro also features a handy belt clip and rather inventive kick-out stand.
iSkin states: "Unlike anything before it, the Claro combines the sleek and crystal clear qualities of a traditional polycarbonate case with the addition of an iSkin silicone layer to provide unmatched shock and surface protection."
One can also change the colour of the Claro, by using different coloured silicone rubber skins for the interior of the case.
These come in blaze red, prince purple, blush pink, ebony black, sonic blue and ghost white glow in the dark.
Click wheel protection and well-aligned apertures for the docking port and headphone jack combine to make the Claro as simple to use as it is to look at.
Retailing for about £20, the Claro is available online.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:30 AM
July 10, 2006
Neighbours star reveals iPod faves
Popular Neighbours star turned singer Natalie Bassingthwaite has shone a light on which tracks reside on her treasured iPod .
The Australian actress has been a Neighbours favourite since she first debuted as the vixen Izzy, on the Australian soap and now sings for hit band Rogue Traders.
Ms Bassingthwaite revealed to the Metro a wide array of different songs and genres that she has put on her iPod , including artists like Bjork, Gnarls Barkley and Garbage.
Of the smash hit song Crazy, by Gnarls Barkley, she said: "I love this track because it's different, you've had it out in Britain for ages, but it's new here in Australia.
"It's kind of old school, which I like."
Mr Brightside by the Killers was another favourite of the glamorous Australian singer and actress, who said she put the track on before every gig she did.
Why Do You Love Me? by Garbage and Immortal by Evanescence were two more tracks which Ms Bassingthwaite said were iPod favourites.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:09 AM
July 07, 2006
Rapper reveals iPod playlist has a reggae twist
London emcee and rising star of British hip-hop, Akala, has revealed to the Metro which tracks inhabit his iPod .
London emcee and rising star of British hip-hop, Akala, has revealed to the Metro which tracks inhabit his iPod .
Reggae dynasty, the Marleys, take precedence on the list, with Akala referencing the classic One Drop by Bob Marley and the hugely popular Welcome To Jamrock by Damien "Jr Gong" Marley.
Other legendary artists on Akala's iPod are hip-hop giants Jay-Z and the late Notorious BIG.
Of Damien Marley's Jamrock, Akala said: "I like his whole album but I love this track because of its energy, and lyrically it's very strong.
"I went to see him perform at Brixton Academy and he was amazing."
Akala, whose name is a Buddhist term for "immovable" hails from north London and has lately released his debut album, called It's Not a Rumour.
The track and music video Banger for the Streets was the first time many heard of Akala when it was released on Channel U.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:28 AM
July 06, 2006
iPod gets stylish jackets
The new range of iPod cases from Aquarius, dubbed iJackets, literally offers something for everyone.
An array of art, images and designs, from surfers to flowers, featured on the different iJackets, ensure that every iPod listener will find something for their individual style.
Designed to fit the iPod nano or the video iPod 5G, the iJackets are made of precision-cut and moulded plastics.
The company states: "Aquarius specialises in some of the widest collections of iPod jackets with 100-200 dramatic, eye-catching and colourful designs.
"Aiming to make your iPod different, the design philosophy of Aquarius is to be bold, unique and creative."
Instead of a built-in plastic screen protector common to most iPod cases, the iJackets come with iPod face stickers.
Belt clips are also included with the cases and for the iPod nano a necklace lanyard is also available.
The cases retail for about £8 each and are available online.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:38 AM
July 05, 2006
TuneStage uses iPod as remote
The latest iPod nano dock to be released by Belkin, the TuneStage, ingeniously uses the iPod nano itself as a remote.
Using Bluetooth technology, one half of the TuneStage connects to the dock port of the iPod nano, while the other half, the receiver, is connected to a stereo system.
And as simply and quickly as that, Belkin has created a solution that seems so simple and functional, that it is a wonder there are not already a plethora of such devices on the market.
Belkin states: "TuneStage provides a stylish, easy way to play tunes on your iPod nano through your home stereo - without wires.
"Setup takes only minutes and requires no software or custom configuration. Just plug it in and enjoy your music."
On a fully charged iPod nano, the TuneStage provides over six hours of playtime.
Due to be released soon, the TuneStage will retail for approximately £90.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:26 AM
All-star iPod case makes its debut
For iPod users who are also wedded to their Chuck Taylors, Speck has produced the iPod
Canvas Sport case.
Resembling the classic sneaker down to its stitched canvas exterior and durable ridged rubber edges, the Canvas Sport is as classic as the shoe it is based on.
Available for the 30GB and 60 GB video iPod and the iPod nano, the Canvas Sport comes with a clear plastic screen protector and apertures for the headphone port and dock.
Speck states: "Inspired by classic sneakers - this case boasts a cool, sporty look and gives great protection to your iPod ."
A handy, yet discrete, belt clip is sown on to the back of the Canvas Sport and the case comes with an adhesive foam insert in order to resize the interior for the slimmer 30GB video iPod .
The Canvas Sport retails for about £17 and comes in black, pink, and white.
Speck is to release the Canvas Sport for the Moto SLVR, Moto Q and Treo mobile phones.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:23 AM
July 04, 2006
Aluminium protection for iPods
iPod users who fancy the extra protection of a metal case for their music players now have another addition to choose from – the Aluminium V2 from iPod accessory maker Pods Plus.
Sleek, smooth and functional, the V2 is made from unadorned aircraft grade anodised aluminium, with a clickwheel aperture protected by a silicone cover and a clear screen protector.
The cases come in black or silver, but with a range of different colours available for the click wheel protector; red, black, blue or white.
A customer quoted on the Pods Plus website, called Eric S, said: "The fit is as snug 'as a bug in a rug'. The quality is A+. I have tried several cases for my 60G video pod.
"This one is head and shoulders above anything I have seen or tried."
Retailing for about £15, the V2 is available in different sizes, tailored to the 30GB or 60GB video iPod .
Pods Plus also make a car mount for use with the aluminium cases and have recently released the Ped2 iPod
stand.
© 2006 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:05 AM
July 03, 2006
Canadian Conservatives prefer PM's ipod podcast
Stephen Harper, the Conservative leader and prime minister (PM) of Canada, tops a poll of downloaded podcasts for the Apple iPod, according to reports today.
Tory Canadians are choosing to listen to the PM in preference of other tunes available to download on their iPod, reports the Ottawa Sun.
The news suggests Canadians have a greater appetite for politics than they do for music, despite the recent resurgence of Canadian music on the global market through bands such as the Arcade Fire – which, like the podcasts, are available to download on iTunes.
But, the podcasts have not won the hearts and minds of all the Canadian populace, with some citizens descrying the PM's work.
"If this is the future, get me back to the past" wrote Alberta Bill on the PM's podcast, in an iTunes review.
Jean Marc Bougie, 50, exclaimed: "I don't even listen to him when he's on the news.
"Doesn't Osama bin Laden do the same thing?"
The news comes as MTV announces it is to launch more of its programmes on iTunes.
Hit shows such as Viva La Bam, Blade: The Series and Noah's Arc, will be available to download to an iPod from July 11th.
© 2005 Adfero Ltd
Posted by ipodworld at 09:43 AM