Ask us: where to get ebooks
We have great news! The internet is global, so there are websites worldwide from which you can purchase and download books.One important thing to note is that not all e-readers support all file formats. There are a number of different ebook file types; the most universal one is ePub, which is the open ebook standard and official standard of the International Digital Publishing Forum. The only e-reader available in Australia that does not support ePub is Amazon's Kindle; instead, Amazon has its own file format, AZW. If you're confused, this basically means that the Kindle can't read ePub-format books, and AZW-format books are only available through the Amazon bookstore.If you're savvy with software and don't mind fiddling around on your computer, don't despair! The Kindle also supports HTML, DOC, PDF and TXT file types. With the right file-conversion software, such as Calibre, you can purchase your ePub files and convert them to a file type supported by the Kindle. If you don't have a Kindle, then alas, it doesn't work the other way around; any ebooks bought on the Amazon website can only be read on the Kindle.Here is a list of the top-selling e-readers in Australia and the ebook files they support:Amazon Kindle: AZW, DOC, HTML, MOBI, PDF, TXTKobo: ePub, PDFSony Readers (Touch, Pocket): BBeB (Sony proprietary), DOC, ePub, LRF, PDF, RTF, TXT.If you have an iPad, you can get books through the iTunes book store, but there are free and paid apps that also support ebook file formats; our favourite is Stanza (free). You can also download a free Kindle app to buy and read books from Amazon.OK, now that that's out of the way, let's get to what you actually came here for.Ebook storesAmazonAmazon is the world's largest purveyor of ebooks, but a few caveat emptors are required. Firstly, you can only read ebooks purchased from Amazon on the Kindle; secondly, there are sellers who repackage material from sources such as independent authors and Project Gutenberg and sell it illegally. That said, the ease of the Kindle's native app store and the size of Amazon make it a tempting proposition.File format:AZW.BookworldFormerly Borders, Bookworld is the most comprehensive bookstore in Australia. It's not bad, either; the ebooks seem to be priced in alignment with other Australian ebook sellers, and in some cases cheaper than what you can expect to find on Amazon. See also: Angus & Robertson.File format: ePub.The Book DepositoryThe Book Depository has websites based in both the UK and the US, and a good selection of ebooks that are generally quite decently priced. If you're checking Bookworld, head over to both Book Depository websites â€" quite often, one of the two will have a sale on and you may be able to score a better bargain.File formats: ePub, PDF.Kobo BooksKobo Books is the bookstore owned (quelle surprise!) by Kobo, which is also behind the Kobo e-reader. It has around 350,000 ebooks for sale, as well as 1.8 million free ones (or thereabouts), and prices range generally between AU$10-AU$20, which isn't too shabby at all. If you're looking for a replacement for your Borders ebook needs, Kobo Books is a good way to go.File format: ePub.SmashwordsIf you're looking for something a bit different, Smashwords offers an alternative to the big-name stores. It offers ebooks from independent authors and publishers at a much lower average price than shops like the three mentioned above. The author gets a bigger percentage of the cut, too, so it's a great way to support writers if you feel disillusioned with the publishing house system, and you can find some hidden gems that you might not otherwise have read.File formats: ePub, HTML, JavaScript, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PDF, RB, RTF, TXT.Barnes & NobleThis US-based ebookstore can be a bit of an exercise in frustration, since it won't let you download certain titles from an Australian IP address, but that's par for the course â€" Amazon does the same thing. Still, pricing is quite reasonable, and B&N can act as one more port of call if you want to make sure you're getting the best price.File format: ePub.Free ebooksManybooksManybooks hosts public domain books from Project Gutenberg (excepting PG Australia), and allows you to download them in a variety of formats. Additionally, you will be able to find more contemporaneous books with a creative commons licence (free).File formats: AZW, ePub, HTML, LIT, LRF, MOBI, PDB, PDF, PKG, TCR, TXT.Project GutenbergAny books written by authors who died before 1955 are considered public domain in Australia, and the volunteers of Project Gutenberg have worked to make these books available for free. The site's navigation is a bit bare bones, but there are a lot of great classics to be found.File formats: ePub, HTML, MOBI, TXT.FeedbooksFeedbooks is an ebook seller with a section where you can download free public domain titles, as well as a bunch of new creative commons titles.File formats: ePub, MOBI, PDF.Baen Fantasy and sci-fi publishing house Baen is something of a fan favourite for its excellent stable of authors, fairly reasonable prices and permanent selection of titles available for free download from some well-known names. File formats: ePub, LIT, LRF, MOBI, RB, RTF.ScribdScribd bills itself as a social publishing website, where anyone can upload or download works and content, with file conversion built in. You can also read free sample works from major publishing houses. It's a great resource to find free works by established authors or stumble onto someone new.File formats: PDF, TXT.E-book.com.auIf you've exhausted all the possibilities above, E-book has a veritable cornucopia of links to free ebook resources for Australian readers. Still got questions? Ask away in the comments below and we'll be happy to help you out.
Old and new tech commingle in the T-1 amplifier
Old and new tech commingle in the T-1 amplifier
I've reviewed a number of entry-level tube amplifiers--the Miniwatt N3, Jolida FX 10, and the Decware Zen Triode SE84C+--but the Neuhaus Labs T-1 is a very different take on the category.The vacuum tube was invented more than a century ago, but tube amps are still favored by a significant number of audiophiles. I'm in that group; there's something about tube amplifiers' musicality that's rarely equaled by solid-state electronics. The Neuhaus T-1 ($495) is a "hybrid" tube/solid-state design, and uses a pair of tubes (type 6N2) in its preamplifier section and transistors to generate the amp's 18-watt-per-channel power output. Neuhaus shipped its first products in August 2009. What really distinguishes the T-1 from every other tube amp is its rather unusual connectivity. Designer George Golik and his son Daniel set out to craft a tube amp for today's digitally oriented buyers. The T-1 comes with a built-in high-quality 96KHz/24-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), Bluetooth, USB, and optical/Toslink digital connectivity. You can use the T-1 with Apple Airport Express and stream your music through Wi-Fi. Vinyl hasn't been excluded; the amp also has two stereo analog connections and a front-panel 3.5-millimeter headphone jack. Hook it up to your computer via the T-1's USB or optical digital inputs, and you'll be bypassing the computer's own, probably less-than-stellar, DAC or sound card. The remote handles volume only. The amp's mirror-finish stainless steel chassis feels nice and solid. The T-1 is built in China and Taiwan, but Golik may manufacture future products in the U.S. The amp measures a compact 8.7x10.6x5.9 inches, and weighs 8.8 pounds.To find out how far I could push the T-1's 18 watts per channel I cranked the Dirtbombs' "Party Store" CD way up on my Zu Audio Essence speakers. These speakers are superefficient, so they can make a big sound with just a few watts. For this CD the Dirtbombs changed gears from their usual Detroit punk garage sound to a more techno-oriented groove. The low-down beats connected on a visceral level, and the T-1 sounded remarkably powerful.Acoustic jazz had a presence and nimble attack that you rarely get from affordable solid-state amps. "Monk in Paris," a live Thelonious Monk recording from 1965, features a particularly energetic performance from the piano master. With the T-1 calling the shots you'll feel the entire rhythm section--piano, bass, and drums--totally locking in. Right, that's what separates great hi-fi from the merely good, and you get more out of the music. The T-1 rear panelNeuhaus Labs T-1Next, I used the T-1's USB connection to play iTunes from my computer over my Audioengine P4 speakers. They are my regular computer speakers, and I normally have an Audioengine N22 amp hooked up to them. The tonal balance was just a little richer with the T-1, and the sound was more transparent and the stereo image more expansive. The sound from the headphone jack, driving my Ultimate Ears 4 in-ear headphones, wasn't anything special.The T-1 is sold factory-direct worldwide with a 15-day return privilege. You've got nothing to lose by trying the amp; if you don't love it, ship it back for a full refund, including shipping! Neuhaus has one brick-and-mortar dealer, Hollywood Sound, in Hollywood, Fla.
I've reviewed a number of entry-level tube amplifiers--the Miniwatt N3, Jolida FX 10, and the Decware Zen Triode SE84C+--but the Neuhaus Labs T-1 is a very different take on the category.The vacuum tube was invented more than a century ago, but tube amps are still favored by a significant number of audiophiles. I'm in that group; there's something about tube amplifiers' musicality that's rarely equaled by solid-state electronics. The Neuhaus T-1 ($495) is a "hybrid" tube/solid-state design, and uses a pair of tubes (type 6N2) in its preamplifier section and transistors to generate the amp's 18-watt-per-channel power output. Neuhaus shipped its first products in August 2009. What really distinguishes the T-1 from every other tube amp is its rather unusual connectivity. Designer George Golik and his son Daniel set out to craft a tube amp for today's digitally oriented buyers. The T-1 comes with a built-in high-quality 96KHz/24-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), Bluetooth, USB, and optical/Toslink digital connectivity. You can use the T-1 with Apple Airport Express and stream your music through Wi-Fi. Vinyl hasn't been excluded; the amp also has two stereo analog connections and a front-panel 3.5-millimeter headphone jack. Hook it up to your computer via the T-1's USB or optical digital inputs, and you'll be bypassing the computer's own, probably less-than-stellar, DAC or sound card. The remote handles volume only. The amp's mirror-finish stainless steel chassis feels nice and solid. The T-1 is built in China and Taiwan, but Golik may manufacture future products in the U.S. The amp measures a compact 8.7x10.6x5.9 inches, and weighs 8.8 pounds.To find out how far I could push the T-1's 18 watts per channel I cranked the Dirtbombs' "Party Store" CD way up on my Zu Audio Essence speakers. These speakers are superefficient, so they can make a big sound with just a few watts. For this CD the Dirtbombs changed gears from their usual Detroit punk garage sound to a more techno-oriented groove. The low-down beats connected on a visceral level, and the T-1 sounded remarkably powerful.Acoustic jazz had a presence and nimble attack that you rarely get from affordable solid-state amps. "Monk in Paris," a live Thelonious Monk recording from 1965, features a particularly energetic performance from the piano master. With the T-1 calling the shots you'll feel the entire rhythm section--piano, bass, and drums--totally locking in. Right, that's what separates great hi-fi from the merely good, and you get more out of the music. The T-1 rear panelNeuhaus Labs T-1Next, I used the T-1's USB connection to play iTunes from my computer over my Audioengine P4 speakers. They are my regular computer speakers, and I normally have an Audioengine N22 amp hooked up to them. The tonal balance was just a little richer with the T-1, and the sound was more transparent and the stereo image more expansive. The sound from the headphone jack, driving my Ultimate Ears 4 in-ear headphones, wasn't anything special.The T-1 is sold factory-direct worldwide with a 15-day return privilege. You've got nothing to lose by trying the amp; if you don't love it, ship it back for a full refund, including shipping! Neuhaus has one brick-and-mortar dealer, Hollywood Sound, in Hollywood, Fla.
Clickfree backup gets system imaging
Clickfree backup gets system imaging
Clickfree's supereasy automatic backup solutions, such as the Clickfree C2N, have one shortcoming: they can't back up the entire computer and restore it to an earlier point of time. This is no longer true with the C6 Easy Imaging, which the company announced today.This is the next generation of automatic backup solutions that, apart from personal data files, can also back up software and the entire operating system. This is similar to imaging software such as Acronis True Image. This allows the user to restore the entire system to what it was before being backed up, in case of a virus infection.System imaging is not new and there are many different solutions on the market. Clickfree, however, says that this is the first that was designed for nontechnical consumers and small-business owners with the same ease of use as that of the C2N. The new Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging portable driveClickfreeAccording to the company, to perform a full image backup, just plug the Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging drive in to the computer's USB port, and the Easy Run software will automatically launch and begin backing up everything on the computer. After that, user can use theEasy Fix software to restore all the personal files, software applications, and the operating system.Apart from this main backup feature that allows for quick backing up and data/system recovery, the new C6 Easy Imaging drive also offers the following additional features:Easy Restore: Your complete personal file backup and photos can be easily transferred to the original computer or a new computer.Easy Run: It automatically backs up your photos and other personal files, software programs, and Windows operating system.Easy Music: This easily imports music from an iPod/iPhone/iPad into iTunes on any computer.Easy Viewer: You can view all backed-up photos and other personal files just like on your original computer.Easy Organizer: It automatically finds and organizes your photos and all other personal files for backup.Password Protection: Protects backed-up personal files with 256-bit hardware encryption.Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging works with Windows XP, Vista, and 7 as long as the computer has a USB 2.0 or 3.0 port. The device features USB 3.0 connection and requires 100MB of free space on the host computer. The new Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging solutions is available now in both desktop and portable designs with prices ranging from $140 (500GB) to $180 (2TB).
Clickfree's supereasy automatic backup solutions, such as the Clickfree C2N, have one shortcoming: they can't back up the entire computer and restore it to an earlier point of time. This is no longer true with the C6 Easy Imaging, which the company announced today.This is the next generation of automatic backup solutions that, apart from personal data files, can also back up software and the entire operating system. This is similar to imaging software such as Acronis True Image. This allows the user to restore the entire system to what it was before being backed up, in case of a virus infection.System imaging is not new and there are many different solutions on the market. Clickfree, however, says that this is the first that was designed for nontechnical consumers and small-business owners with the same ease of use as that of the C2N. The new Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging portable driveClickfreeAccording to the company, to perform a full image backup, just plug the Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging drive in to the computer's USB port, and the Easy Run software will automatically launch and begin backing up everything on the computer. After that, user can use theEasy Fix software to restore all the personal files, software applications, and the operating system.Apart from this main backup feature that allows for quick backing up and data/system recovery, the new C6 Easy Imaging drive also offers the following additional features:Easy Restore: Your complete personal file backup and photos can be easily transferred to the original computer or a new computer.Easy Run: It automatically backs up your photos and other personal files, software programs, and Windows operating system.Easy Music: This easily imports music from an iPod/iPhone/iPad into iTunes on any computer.Easy Viewer: You can view all backed-up photos and other personal files just like on your original computer.Easy Organizer: It automatically finds and organizes your photos and all other personal files for backup.Password Protection: Protects backed-up personal files with 256-bit hardware encryption.Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging works with Windows XP, Vista, and 7 as long as the computer has a USB 2.0 or 3.0 port. The device features USB 3.0 connection and requires 100MB of free space on the host computer. The new Clickfree C6 Easy Imaging solutions is available now in both desktop and portable designs with prices ranging from $140 (500GB) to $180 (2TB).
The 404 439- Where we make out with mic
The 404 439: Where we make out with mic
It's only been about a week since the release of Sony's PSP Go, but hackers are already ahead of the game, despite Sony getting rid of the removable battery in an attempt to stop the siege. We don't have a link to the actual game you have to use to release the exploit, but hackers are using it as a proof-of-concept for future homebrews and pirated gaming. As usual, these guys are ahead of the curve, as we've seen before in Sony's previous PSPs. Of course, you can always get free games if you can somehow get a job reviewing them for a big Web site...right, Jeff?In other news, Facebook can now measure what they're calling the GHP, or the Gross National Happiness. The popular social-networking site is using text analysis software to index how its users are feeling based on positive or negative words in their status updates. You can see on this chart that there were major spikes last year around November 23rd for Thanksgiving, as well as in December for Christmas and New Years. Check out the podcast to hear Jeff's reason why Hanukkah is nowhere to be found. The Rx Bandits' newest album, "Mandala"It's also time again for the Beck's Beer semi-weekly Audio Draft! Jeff's pick for today is an oldie but a goodie, The Rx Bandits! Jeff and I are huge fans of the bands from when we were wee lads. They're rooted in Seal Beach in Southern California, and while their ska sound grew popular in the early '90s, they have successfully pulled out those roots and progressed into a super eclectic alt/prog/rock/reggae sound. They just released another full length entitled Mandala, which also includes one of today's featured tracks, "Bury it Down Low." Here's to many more years with the Rx Bandits!Oh yeah, everyone's password got hacked. EPISODE 439PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio |Subscribe in RSS Video This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.PlayFollow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
It's only been about a week since the release of Sony's PSP Go, but hackers are already ahead of the game, despite Sony getting rid of the removable battery in an attempt to stop the siege. We don't have a link to the actual game you have to use to release the exploit, but hackers are using it as a proof-of-concept for future homebrews and pirated gaming. As usual, these guys are ahead of the curve, as we've seen before in Sony's previous PSPs. Of course, you can always get free games if you can somehow get a job reviewing them for a big Web site...right, Jeff?In other news, Facebook can now measure what they're calling the GHP, or the Gross National Happiness. The popular social-networking site is using text analysis software to index how its users are feeling based on positive or negative words in their status updates. You can see on this chart that there were major spikes last year around November 23rd for Thanksgiving, as well as in December for Christmas and New Years. Check out the podcast to hear Jeff's reason why Hanukkah is nowhere to be found. The Rx Bandits' newest album, "Mandala"It's also time again for the Beck's Beer semi-weekly Audio Draft! Jeff's pick for today is an oldie but a goodie, The Rx Bandits! Jeff and I are huge fans of the bands from when we were wee lads. They're rooted in Seal Beach in Southern California, and while their ska sound grew popular in the early '90s, they have successfully pulled out those roots and progressed into a super eclectic alt/prog/rock/reggae sound. They just released another full length entitled Mandala, which also includes one of today's featured tracks, "Bury it Down Low." Here's to many more years with the Rx Bandits!Oh yeah, everyone's password got hacked. EPISODE 439PodcastYour browser does not support the audio element. Subscribe in iTunes audio | Suscribe to iTunes (video) |Subscribe in RSS Audio |Subscribe in RSS Video This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.PlayFollow us on Twitter!The 404Jeff BakalarJustin YuWilson TangAdd us on Facebook!The 404 Fan PageThe 404 GroupJustin YuJeff BakalarWilson Tang
More song information, please
More song information, please
Last night, I had an interesting experience that pointed out a drawback of digital music services compared with the tried-and-true CD (or LP, or cassette). For the last few years, I've played with a very occasional pickup band--maybe one party a year, preceded by a half dozen rehearsals, then everybody back to their jobs/families/"real" bands. This year, we're playing a St. Patrick's Day party, and in the past, we've done a version of the Phish instrumental "First Tube." We wanted a quick refresher, so one of the guitarists fired up his copy of Rhapsody, found a live solo version by Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio, and we were on our way.Until, in typical self-absorbed bass player fashion, the bass player (that's me) asked "so who played bass on this song?" I asked because I admired the bassist's restraint--he stuck exactly to the original bass line, which consists of three notes repeated in the same quick figure over and over and over again. (I lack such restraint.) Rhapsody offered no answer. iTunes doesn't carry the album in question, but does have another live version of the song from an Austin City Limits compilation. Alas, no artist information there either. The Zune Marketplace offered a bio on Trey himself, but nothing about the particular band on this album. Yahoo Music has a full review from AMG, but no album credits. Instead, I had to go to the AMG site itself, find the live album "Plasma," and click on the "Credits" tab to find out that it was one Tony Markellis.Hats off to you, sir. And a big bass raspberry to all the major music services--this information's available, it's coded in an online repository that's widely accessible, and none of you are offering it. Or if you are, it's so deeply buried that mere mortals can't find it.
Last night, I had an interesting experience that pointed out a drawback of digital music services compared with the tried-and-true CD (or LP, or cassette). For the last few years, I've played with a very occasional pickup band--maybe one party a year, preceded by a half dozen rehearsals, then everybody back to their jobs/families/"real" bands. This year, we're playing a St. Patrick's Day party, and in the past, we've done a version of the Phish instrumental "First Tube." We wanted a quick refresher, so one of the guitarists fired up his copy of Rhapsody, found a live solo version by Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio, and we were on our way.Until, in typical self-absorbed bass player fashion, the bass player (that's me) asked "so who played bass on this song?" I asked because I admired the bassist's restraint--he stuck exactly to the original bass line, which consists of three notes repeated in the same quick figure over and over and over again. (I lack such restraint.) Rhapsody offered no answer. iTunes doesn't carry the album in question, but does have another live version of the song from an Austin City Limits compilation. Alas, no artist information there either. The Zune Marketplace offered a bio on Trey himself, but nothing about the particular band on this album. Yahoo Music has a full review from AMG, but no album credits. Instead, I had to go to the AMG site itself, find the live album "Plasma," and click on the "Credits" tab to find out that it was one Tony Markellis.Hats off to you, sir. And a big bass raspberry to all the major music services--this information's available, it's coded in an online repository that's widely accessible, and none of you are offering it. Or if you are, it's so deeply buried that mere mortals can't find it.
Get a Pogoplug Series 4 for $49.99
Get a Pogoplug Series 4 for $49.99
Cloud Engines' Pogoplug devices have evolved from basic network-attached-storage tools into full-fledged streaming, backup, and sharing systems. Pretty cool ones, too.Want a state-of-the-art model for a standard-edition price? While supplies last, Best Buy has the Pogoplug Series 4 for $49.99 plus sales tax. That's half off the list price, and about $30 less than you'll find it elsewhere.The only catch? It appears to be sold out online. You'll have to hit your local Best Buy store. (Call or check online first to make sure they're still in stock.)The Pogoplug works like this: You plug it into your router, then connect one or two USB hard drives or flash drives. The Series 4 can accommodate both USB 3.0 and SATA drives, and it supports gigabit Ethernet so you can take full advantage of that blazing speed.The contents of those drives can be accessed like network drives via your PCs and mobile devices. You can back up data, access files online via any Web browser, share files with others, stream music and videos, and so on.One feature I especially like is the automated mobile backup, which uploads photos and videos from your Android phone or iPhone to your Pogoplug. It works much like iCloud, but without the fees.In other words, this is a pretty handy gizmo. I've even fiddled with using it as a central repository for my music library, pointing iTunes and other programs to it instead of trying to keep multiple PCs synced. Not a bad solution.There's a good chance these will sell out at this price, so if you're hoping to score the top-end Pogoplug on the cheap, act fast.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Cloud Engines' Pogoplug devices have evolved from basic network-attached-storage tools into full-fledged streaming, backup, and sharing systems. Pretty cool ones, too.Want a state-of-the-art model for a standard-edition price? While supplies last, Best Buy has the Pogoplug Series 4 for $49.99 plus sales tax. That's half off the list price, and about $30 less than you'll find it elsewhere.The only catch? It appears to be sold out online. You'll have to hit your local Best Buy store. (Call or check online first to make sure they're still in stock.)The Pogoplug works like this: You plug it into your router, then connect one or two USB hard drives or flash drives. The Series 4 can accommodate both USB 3.0 and SATA drives, and it supports gigabit Ethernet so you can take full advantage of that blazing speed.The contents of those drives can be accessed like network drives via your PCs and mobile devices. You can back up data, access files online via any Web browser, share files with others, stream music and videos, and so on.One feature I especially like is the automated mobile backup, which uploads photos and videos from your Android phone or iPhone to your Pogoplug. It works much like iCloud, but without the fees.In other words, this is a pretty handy gizmo. I've even fiddled with using it as a central repository for my music library, pointing iTunes and other programs to it instead of trying to keep multiple PCs synced. Not a bad solution.There's a good chance these will sell out at this price, so if you're hoping to score the top-end Pogoplug on the cheap, act fast.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Get a Gogroove retro Bluetooth speaker for $39.99 shipped
Get a Gogroove retro Bluetooth speaker for $39.99 shipped
Not all Bluetooth speakers are black, boxy, and boring. At least one looks like it just stepped off the set of "Mad Men."For a limited time, and while supplies last, Accessory Genie has the Gogroove BlueSync DRM portable Bluetooth speaker for $39.99 shipped. That's after applying coupon code SYNCDRM at checkout.Let's go ahead and address the elephant in the room: whoever decided to put "DRM" in the name of an audio device either has a sick sense of humor or no clue whatsoever. Fear not, however: there's no actual DRM at work here, just everyday Bluetooth streaming goodness along with a line-in jack for devices that don't do Bluetooth.The BlueSync charges via USB and runs for up to 10 hours, according to Gogroove. What's more, it incorporates Bluetooth 4.0 (which, among other things, makes it possible for multiple devices to pair simultaneously, a huge perk for multidevice households). A control pad on top lets you play/pause, adjust volume, skip tracks, and so on -- another nice perk that not many Bluetooth speakers offer.And, oh, yeah, it probably sounds pretty decent thanks to its two-channel design and "reactive passive woofer for low-frequency beats and vibrations." I say probably because this is a brand-new product, and I haven't found any reviews to speak of.Sound quality notwithstanding, I'd argue that the real appeal here is the design. The elliptical body and teal coloring lend a retro-mod look I find quite appealing -- especially when I eyeball the ugly gray brick that is my Jawbone Jambox. I'm sure this design won't please everyone, but if you want a splash of color -- and, dare I say, creativity -- with your music, this speaker delivers.By the way, the regular price on this model is $59.99 plus shipping, so this is quite the bargain if you're in the market.Bonus deal: Game time! I know I've plugged the BioShock series a zillion times already, but if you weren't quite ready to pull the trigger, now is the time: Amazon has the BioShock Triple Pack for $19.99. That's all three games in the series, including this year's BioShock Infinite. Binge-play! Binge-play!Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers.Curious about what exactly The Cheapskate does and how it works? Read our FAQ.
Not all Bluetooth speakers are black, boxy, and boring. At least one looks like it just stepped off the set of "Mad Men."For a limited time, and while supplies last, Accessory Genie has the Gogroove BlueSync DRM portable Bluetooth speaker for $39.99 shipped. That's after applying coupon code SYNCDRM at checkout.Let's go ahead and address the elephant in the room: whoever decided to put "DRM" in the name of an audio device either has a sick sense of humor or no clue whatsoever. Fear not, however: there's no actual DRM at work here, just everyday Bluetooth streaming goodness along with a line-in jack for devices that don't do Bluetooth.The BlueSync charges via USB and runs for up to 10 hours, according to Gogroove. What's more, it incorporates Bluetooth 4.0 (which, among other things, makes it possible for multiple devices to pair simultaneously, a huge perk for multidevice households). A control pad on top lets you play/pause, adjust volume, skip tracks, and so on -- another nice perk that not many Bluetooth speakers offer.And, oh, yeah, it probably sounds pretty decent thanks to its two-channel design and "reactive passive woofer for low-frequency beats and vibrations." I say probably because this is a brand-new product, and I haven't found any reviews to speak of.Sound quality notwithstanding, I'd argue that the real appeal here is the design. The elliptical body and teal coloring lend a retro-mod look I find quite appealing -- especially when I eyeball the ugly gray brick that is my Jawbone Jambox. I'm sure this design won't please everyone, but if you want a splash of color -- and, dare I say, creativity -- with your music, this speaker delivers.By the way, the regular price on this model is $59.99 plus shipping, so this is quite the bargain if you're in the market.Bonus deal: Game time! I know I've plugged the BioShock series a zillion times already, but if you weren't quite ready to pull the trigger, now is the time: Amazon has the BioShock Triple Pack for $19.99. That's all three games in the series, including this year's BioShock Infinite. Binge-play! Binge-play!Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers.Curious about what exactly The Cheapskate does and how it works? Read our FAQ.
Imagining the iPad Mini- Mockups multiply
Imagining the iPad Mini: Mockups multiply
The iPad Mini won't just be a design knockoff of the iPad, if recent informed speculation pans out. Reports began appearing early last month that the iPad Mini would take design cues from the iPod Touch. Well, that has become enough of a recurring theme that 9to5Mac is now posting what it believes to be credible mockups of the upcoming smaller Apple tablet.The iPad Mini will have "smaller bezels along the sides in portrait mode and separate volume buttons and not a 'rocker' and a mic on the back," 9to5Mac said. The lack of a wider bezel -- unlike the 9.7-inch iPad -- will define how the tablet is held and used, according to the Apple enthusiast blog.Of course, the biggest question on most people's mind is price.Google is foisting the $199 price point on the market with its popular 7-inch Nexus 7 tablet, following in Amazon's footsteps. (Does anyone still remember the Kindle Fire? That announcement now seems like it was ages ago.)Apple could price the iPad Mini to move.At 7.85 inches, it's expected to be only a little bigger than the Nexus 7 and Kindle Fire and is also expected to lack the array of features on the third-generation iPad, which starts at $499. And a $399 iPad 2 is already being sold by Apple so that could force the price of a small iPad even lower. Rumors were making the rounds today about a $199 Surface tablet from Microsoft.But that would be a stretch, as Surface is a 10.6-inch device with a keyboard.No top-tier PC makers or tablet suppliers today have new 10-inch class products priced even close to $199. Next to the Nexus 7.9to5MaciPod Touch.Apple
The iPad Mini won't just be a design knockoff of the iPad, if recent informed speculation pans out. Reports began appearing early last month that the iPad Mini would take design cues from the iPod Touch. Well, that has become enough of a recurring theme that 9to5Mac is now posting what it believes to be credible mockups of the upcoming smaller Apple tablet.The iPad Mini will have "smaller bezels along the sides in portrait mode and separate volume buttons and not a 'rocker' and a mic on the back," 9to5Mac said. The lack of a wider bezel -- unlike the 9.7-inch iPad -- will define how the tablet is held and used, according to the Apple enthusiast blog.Of course, the biggest question on most people's mind is price.Google is foisting the $199 price point on the market with its popular 7-inch Nexus 7 tablet, following in Amazon's footsteps. (Does anyone still remember the Kindle Fire? That announcement now seems like it was ages ago.)Apple could price the iPad Mini to move.At 7.85 inches, it's expected to be only a little bigger than the Nexus 7 and Kindle Fire and is also expected to lack the array of features on the third-generation iPad, which starts at $499. And a $399 iPad 2 is already being sold by Apple so that could force the price of a small iPad even lower. Rumors were making the rounds today about a $199 Surface tablet from Microsoft.But that would be a stretch, as Surface is a 10.6-inch device with a keyboard.No top-tier PC makers or tablet suppliers today have new 10-inch class products priced even close to $199. Next to the Nexus 7.9to5MaciPod Touch.Apple
Images of alleged iPhone 5 logic board, USB cable surface
Images of alleged iPhone 5 logic board, USB cable surface
iPhone 5 logic board?Sina.comAdding to myriad alleged iPhone 5 leaks, new images of what are purportedly the logic board and USB sync cable for the next-generation Apple smartphone have surfaced on the Web.Blurry images appearing on Sina.com purportedly show the logic board with the protective EMI shielding removed, providing a view of the internal chipsets within. The poster of the photos claims the board will integrate an A5X processor, like the one found in the new iPad, but the photos offer no confirmation of that processor.Clearer images of the new iPhone's alleged motherboard/logic board materialized earlier this month on the WeiPhone user forum. While it also lacked visual evidence of processor choice, it did show a SIM card slot that seems to be smaller than the one found in the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S.The USB sync cable for the iPhone 5?Screenshot by Steven Musil/CNETApparently supporting previous reports that the iPhone 5 will also feature a smaller USB dock, a single photo of what is presented as the USB sync cable for the iPhone 5 was tweeted this morning.The smaller docking port was in a group of alleged iPhone 5 parts that materialized last week and assembled by an electronics repair company. iResQ published photos of the smaller docking port and a new headphone jack assembly attached to the frame of what is believed to the next generation of Apple's smartphone, pronouncing them a perfect fit.The next iPhone is widely expected to be unveiled next month.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
iPhone 5 logic board?Sina.comAdding to myriad alleged iPhone 5 leaks, new images of what are purportedly the logic board and USB sync cable for the next-generation Apple smartphone have surfaced on the Web.Blurry images appearing on Sina.com purportedly show the logic board with the protective EMI shielding removed, providing a view of the internal chipsets within. The poster of the photos claims the board will integrate an A5X processor, like the one found in the new iPad, but the photos offer no confirmation of that processor.Clearer images of the new iPhone's alleged motherboard/logic board materialized earlier this month on the WeiPhone user forum. While it also lacked visual evidence of processor choice, it did show a SIM card slot that seems to be smaller than the one found in the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S.The USB sync cable for the iPhone 5?Screenshot by Steven Musil/CNETApparently supporting previous reports that the iPhone 5 will also feature a smaller USB dock, a single photo of what is presented as the USB sync cable for the iPhone 5 was tweeted this morning.The smaller docking port was in a group of alleged iPhone 5 parts that materialized last week and assembled by an electronics repair company. iResQ published photos of the smaller docking port and a new headphone jack assembly attached to the frame of what is believed to the next generation of Apple's smartphone, pronouncing them a perfect fit.The next iPhone is widely expected to be unveiled next month.This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?YesNoSorry, you are not old enough to view this content.Play
Image of alleged iPhone 5S user guide notes 'Touch ID sensor'
Image of alleged iPhone 5S user guide notes 'Touch ID sensor'
Mere hours before the Apple is expected to unveil a new iPhone with a much-rumored fingerprint sensor, an image of an alleged iPhone 5S user guide has materialized that features a combination "Home button/Touch ID sensor" at the below the screen.iPhone 5S user guide? (click to expand image)Nowhereelse.frThe purported guide photo, surfaced by Nowhereelse.fr, displays the locations of the physical buttons for what is identified as an iPhone 5S. Apparently sporting the new "flat" iOS 7 icons, the image also indicates the location of the "Lightning connector," "Volume buttons," and "Sleep/Wake button." The illustration emerges just hours after The Wall Street Journal reported that it had confirmed that Apple will include a fingerprint scanner on a high-end iPhone expected to be announced Tuesday. Supposedly working with a simple touch on the front of the smartphone, the security feature is widely expected to replace conventional four-digit passwords.Rumors that the Apple was working on incorporating such technology into its handsets began to mount last year after the iPhone maker bought fingerprint sensor and identity management software company Authentec. Meanwhile, an Apple patent application published in July by the US Patent and Trademark Office describes a technology in which a sensor is used to determine whether a user has proper credentials to access the device based on the trace a person's finger and fingerprint.Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 5S and a cheaper iPhone 5C model at a press event on Tuesday. Follow CNET's live blog at 10 a.m. PT to get a real-time breakdown of the event.
Mere hours before the Apple is expected to unveil a new iPhone with a much-rumored fingerprint sensor, an image of an alleged iPhone 5S user guide has materialized that features a combination "Home button/Touch ID sensor" at the below the screen.iPhone 5S user guide? (click to expand image)Nowhereelse.frThe purported guide photo, surfaced by Nowhereelse.fr, displays the locations of the physical buttons for what is identified as an iPhone 5S. Apparently sporting the new "flat" iOS 7 icons, the image also indicates the location of the "Lightning connector," "Volume buttons," and "Sleep/Wake button." The illustration emerges just hours after The Wall Street Journal reported that it had confirmed that Apple will include a fingerprint scanner on a high-end iPhone expected to be announced Tuesday. Supposedly working with a simple touch on the front of the smartphone, the security feature is widely expected to replace conventional four-digit passwords.Rumors that the Apple was working on incorporating such technology into its handsets began to mount last year after the iPhone maker bought fingerprint sensor and identity management software company Authentec. Meanwhile, an Apple patent application published in July by the US Patent and Trademark Office describes a technology in which a sensor is used to determine whether a user has proper credentials to access the device based on the trace a person's finger and fingerprint.Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 5S and a cheaper iPhone 5C model at a press event on Tuesday. Follow CNET's live blog at 10 a.m. PT to get a real-time breakdown of the event.
Image leaks of lower-cost iPhone with plastic case
Image leaks of lower-cost iPhone with plastic case
A plastic, cheaper iPhone might be a reality, after all.After rumors surfaced recently suggesting Apple would launch a thicker, cheaper, plastic iPhone, an image seeming to be just that device has hit the Web. Earlier today, mobile case maker Tactus shared a photo of what it claims is the rear, plastic casing on Apple's next iPhone.It's not clear how Tactus might have received the casing or whether it's real, but it follows a rumor in February from Japanese Apple-news site Macotakara, which claimed that a cheaper, plastic iPhone was on the way to store shelves.According to Macotakara's sources, the device also would be thicker than Apple's current iPhones. The image shown by Tactus seems to follow that.Still, despite the possibility of Apple launching a plastic iPhone sometime this year, it's entirely separate from the next iteration in the company's flagship line. Later this year, and perhaps as early as this summer, Apple could launch a follow-up to the iPhone 5. Rumors suggest that device will be called the iPhone 5S and come with improved processing and graphical power and, perhaps, a larger screen.For its part, Apple hasn't confirmed that any device is in the works, so as with all rumors about the company and its plans, this latest photo should be taken with a hefty heaping of salt. Apple's latest line of thinking on design has been delivering an aluminum finish. Whether the company would want to waver from that this year or next remains to be seen.(Via MacRumors)
A plastic, cheaper iPhone might be a reality, after all.After rumors surfaced recently suggesting Apple would launch a thicker, cheaper, plastic iPhone, an image seeming to be just that device has hit the Web. Earlier today, mobile case maker Tactus shared a photo of what it claims is the rear, plastic casing on Apple's next iPhone.It's not clear how Tactus might have received the casing or whether it's real, but it follows a rumor in February from Japanese Apple-news site Macotakara, which claimed that a cheaper, plastic iPhone was on the way to store shelves.According to Macotakara's sources, the device also would be thicker than Apple's current iPhones. The image shown by Tactus seems to follow that.Still, despite the possibility of Apple launching a plastic iPhone sometime this year, it's entirely separate from the next iteration in the company's flagship line. Later this year, and perhaps as early as this summer, Apple could launch a follow-up to the iPhone 5. Rumors suggest that device will be called the iPhone 5S and come with improved processing and graphical power and, perhaps, a larger screen.For its part, Apple hasn't confirmed that any device is in the works, so as with all rumors about the company and its plans, this latest photo should be taken with a hefty heaping of salt. Apple's latest line of thinking on design has been delivering an aluminum finish. Whether the company would want to waver from that this year or next remains to be seen.(Via MacRumors)
iMac trackpad option aimed at notebook users
iMac trackpad option aimed at notebook users
As expected, Apple updated its iMac line this morning. While the move to Intel's Sandybridge processors and Thunderbolt I/O ports were expected, one interesting change is in how Apple is bundling the peripherals that come with the machine.Now users can choose between either the company's Magic Mouse, or the Magic Trackpad, a piece of hardware that was previously a standalone purchase on top of the mouse that comes with the machine."If the customer is more comfortable with Trackpad, there's a good chance they have a Macbook Pro or a MacBook Air, and we now give them the option," said David Moody, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Mac Product Marketing, in a phone interview with CNET.While a small adjustment, it does send the signal that the two peripherals are now considered to be equals in Apple's eyes, even if some diehard mouse users would scoff at the idea of traversing the desktop computing landscape with their fingertips. Apple's next version of Mac OS X, dubbed "Lion" will also include expanded gesture support to take advantage of trackpads, making something like the Magic Trackpad a more natural fit for navigation shortcuts.The Magic Trackpad made its debut alongside the iMac as part of a product refresh in July. The $69 peripheral is effectively the same trackpad that comes on the company's notebook line, but with more surface area and in a wireless form factor, giving people who are more used to it on laptops a similar control experience with multi-finger gestures.Apple continues to offer the Magic Trackpad as part of a $69 bundle on its Mac Pro desktop line.
As expected, Apple updated its iMac line this morning. While the move to Intel's Sandybridge processors and Thunderbolt I/O ports were expected, one interesting change is in how Apple is bundling the peripherals that come with the machine.Now users can choose between either the company's Magic Mouse, or the Magic Trackpad, a piece of hardware that was previously a standalone purchase on top of the mouse that comes with the machine."If the customer is more comfortable with Trackpad, there's a good chance they have a Macbook Pro or a MacBook Air, and we now give them the option," said David Moody, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Mac Product Marketing, in a phone interview with CNET.While a small adjustment, it does send the signal that the two peripherals are now considered to be equals in Apple's eyes, even if some diehard mouse users would scoff at the idea of traversing the desktop computing landscape with their fingertips. Apple's next version of Mac OS X, dubbed "Lion" will also include expanded gesture support to take advantage of trackpads, making something like the Magic Trackpad a more natural fit for navigation shortcuts.The Magic Trackpad made its debut alongside the iMac as part of a product refresh in July. The $69 peripheral is effectively the same trackpad that comes on the company's notebook line, but with more surface area and in a wireless form factor, giving people who are more used to it on laptops a similar control experience with multi-finger gestures.Apple continues to offer the Magic Trackpad as part of a $69 bundle on its Mac Pro desktop line.
Apple asked Amazon to remove iPad from its Chinese retail site
Amazon has yanked the iPad from its Chinese Web site following a grievance by Apple that the retail giant is not authorized to sell the tablet in China.A search of Amazon.cn turned up cases and other accessories for Apple's iPad but not the tablet itself.The move was initially thought by some to be related to Apple's feud with Proview Technology, a company that claims it owns the rights to the iPad brand name in China. Earlier this week Chinese officials removed iPads from a third-party reseller following Proview's complaints that Apple refuses to honor the trademark.Proview had even been threatening to seek a ban of the import and export of the iPad in China. The company quickly reversed that position after Chinese customs authorities said such a ban would be difficult to implement because "many Chinese consumers love Apple products," Proview Chief Executive Yang Long-san told Reuters.But citing "people with knowledge of the matter," The Wall Street Journal reported today that Apple asked Amazon to remove the iPad 2 from its online storefronts in China because those sites weren't authorized to sell it--not because of the Proview trademark dispute. Apple and Amazon have reportedly been working together over the past few weeks to remove the sales listings for the popular tablet.
Apple applies for 'smart bezel' patent for iPads
Apple has applied for a patent that would turn the bezel around an iPad screen into a smart area capable of adding functionality to the slate.Related postsPatents suggest stylus; Mode-based interface customizationKodak patent complaints target Apple, RIMCNET News Daily Podcast: Tech industry opens wallets for HaitiAccording to Patently Apple, which earlier reported on the patent application, the technology includes so-called "force sensors" that are sitting at the corners of the black bezel around a tablet display. Along the bezel, Apple would also have sensors around the bezel that would identify both pressure and location and perform an action.The filing, which CNET also reported about here, is an interesting one. Although Apple's iPad had somewhat large bezels in the past, the company has moved away from that, trying to make the side bezels on its iPad Mini and iPad Air quite small. The images including in the filing show a thicker black bezel. It's not clear whether Apple's technology would bring back the thicker bezel or if it would find its use in other ways on a smaller bezel.It should be noted, however, that Apple, like many other large companies, often applies for patents that never find their way into products. It's possible that this functionality could fall into that category.?
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