Portable Media Player Reviews

OhGizmo has reviewed the WaterField Designs iPod Cases which are affordable and provide padded protection to the popular iPods. 'Whether you’re a fan of the iPod or not, one thing you have to admit is that there are a lot of accessories available for them. In fact ‘a lot’ is a bit of an understatement given how prolific third party manufacturers have been with producing anything and everything one could ever need for their iPod and in every color under the sun. It’s probably one of the reasons a lot of people hate the iPod as finding accessories for non-Apple MP3 players is almost impossible.

A review of the ILuv i1055 - DVD player with iPod dock has been posted on CNET. 'We thought we'd seen it all until we came across the jWin iLuv i1055BLK, which is designed to be both a portable DVD player and an extension screen for the iPod with video. Yes, this tablet-style, portable DVD player with a 7-inch widescreen display has a slot in the back that you can slide your video iPod into. Once docked, the videos on your iPod will play back on the DVD player's larger screen, which makes them a whole lot easier to watch, especially for multiple viewers.

Laptop Magazine has reviewed the iGo powerXtender which is a charger for mobile gizmos.‘iGo's powerXtender+ is an imperfect but handy insurance policy against dead cell phones, iPods, digital cameras, and most other low-power gadgets. Load four AA batteries into the 4.5 x 2.2 x 1-inch case and clip on the device-specific connector tip ($9.99 each) to get an extra 8 to 45 hours of power, depending on the gadget.’

A review of the Giro TuneUps Wireless kit which works with your Apple iPod has been posted on CNET. 'Once you get your hands on them, it's obvious that the TuneUps Wireless are just distantly related to their predecessor. The design is dramatically different. Rather than earpads with integrated headphones, the TuneUps Wireless kit comes with a set of speaker pods. These can either be snapped into the included DJ headset, which has a padded headband and full-size cushioned ear pieces, or into a compatible Giro helmet--the Omen, Fuse, G10, and Nine.9 models--which must be purchased separately. We found both items to be sufficiently comfortable after brief periods of wear, and the helmet definitely will keep your head nice and warm.'

CNET have reviewed the Tivoli Audio iYiYi high-fi stereo system for iPod players. 'First we had the Wii, now we have the iYiYi. The first is a game console, the second is Tivoli Audio's latest iPod stereo system that includes and AM/FM clock radio. Aside from its unique name (pronounced "aye-yai-yai"), the system offers some key distinctions from Tivoli Audio's last iPod dock-equipped radio, the iSongBook: the iYiYi offers a sturdier one-piece design, and for compatible stations it displays information such as the station and the artist. Like the iSongBook, the iYiYi is available in white or black for $300.

CNET have posted their review of the pricey but excellent Etymotic Ety8 Bluetooth headphones. 'With a rather hefty price tag of $300, the company's Ety8s can only be described as premium Bluetooth headphones. They come in two models: the model reviewed here comes with a Bluetooth transmitter/dongle that attaches to the bottom of your iPod, while a second package contains only the wireless 'buds themselves (if you already have a device with built-in Bluetooth) for $100 less. Etymotic says the Ety8s are compatible with devices "supporting Bluetooth specification 1.1 and higher, as well as A2DP and AVRCP for profiles for stereo listening," and have a wireless range of about 30 feet. They come with a leather storage case and custom USB cable to juice up the headphones' internal rechargeable battery, which delivers about seven hours of power.'

Shiny Media has posted a review of the Gear4 Blue Eye accessory which connects with your mobile phone via Bluetooth to your iPod . 'The BluEye, whilst being one of the most diverse iPod accessories I’ve ever played with, doesn’t add much bulk to your player. In fact all it consists of is a 2.5 x 3.7 x 0.6cm control unit that matches the iPod design and connects to the base of your player with a 65cm cable. It has a clip for holding the control unit (containing the microphone) up near your mouth and it has the usual skim, volume and play/pause controls. The FM button is on the side.'

The Active-Sport armband for the first generation Nano available from Speck Products for $29.95, has been reviewed over at The Gadgeteer. 'The Speck Active-Sport armband is well made and constructed of lightweight mesh material. The pocket that holds the Nano is constructed of a sturdy reflective material and is lined with a soft form-fitting sleeve. The armband itself is also reflective and held securely in-place by velcro. It is specifically designed to safely hold the first generation iPod Nano during exercising (there is also a iPod video and second generation Nano armbands available from Speck). As with the Nike armband, I'd recommend this armband for running, cycling, hiking and the like but would not use it while weightlifting. The armband is not ideal for that type of arm movement.'

Tech Digest have reviewed the iPod version of the Exspect Recharge4 portable battery unit. 'The Recharge4 has dimensions of 84 x 41 x 23mm, roughly the same size as a ten pack of cigarettes, and weighs in at around 360g; it isn’t exactly going to be a problem to carry about. It only has one button, labelled C-Check/Start, which unsurprisingly starts up the charging and/or lets you know how much juice there is left. This is indicated by eight green lights on the front. You can probably tell it isn’t exactly a complicated tool.'

Michael Pereira has posted a review of the Xmod device from Creative which plugs in between an audio source and stereo speakers or pair of headphones and improves the audio quality of compressed music. 'After using the Xmod for the past few months I know it definitely makes improvements in my compressed files, but I wouldn't say the sound or experience is better than studio quality. The reason for that is, the studio recording is what the artist intended to put out. Take for example The White Stripes. A lot of their tracks were recorded using old equipment and because of this many of their songs have some sort of noise. Now, the Xmod could potentially clean up this noise, but that doesn't mean it's now better than studio quality. An art restorer working on the Sistine Chapel is not going to say his/her work will give you a better experience than Michelangelo's original. Neither should Creative when it comes to music.'

CNET have reviewed the iPulse from Sharper Image which is a Jukebox stereo speaker system with built-in subwoofer and features an integrated Universal Dock for charging and playing any iPod. 'When the iPulse is not in use, the front of the unit looks more than a little funky. The upper arc is covered in a clear, plastic speaker grille of sorts. It has all these bubbly holes in it, which I initially thought were lights. In fact, the lights are tucked away along the edge of the lower arc, and the holes serve to affect the refraction of the lights. The controls for the iPulse also reside on the front of the device and consist simply of a power button and volume keys. Unfortunately, a remote is not included in the package, and there's no option to purchase one separately, either. Battery power is also not an option, though the unit will charge the iPod while it's docked.

Trusted Reviews have reviewed Gear4's BluEye accessory case for your iPod. 'The BluEye itself is about the size of an iPod shuffle with an integrated clip for attaching to your lapel or wherever works best for you. At the centre is a large Play/Pause button surrounded by skip controls to the left and right and volume controls above and below. Beneath this is a button with the Bluetooth logo on it. You plug in your headphones at the top edge while a connector is located at the bottom. A cable (not pictured) attaches to this and plugs into the bottom connector of your iPod. It draws all its power from the iPod so you don’t have to worry about separate batteries, though the inevitable downside is that it places a noticeable extra drain on your battery.'

A review of the iHome iH4B iPod alarm clock has been posted on CNET. 'The iHome iH4 is a fairly simple device but you'll appreciate the fact that some thought went into button placement, especially when you're half asleep and don't have to fumble around to figure out how to turn off the alarm. The iPod dock is on top (you get various sleeves to fit various iPod models snugly in the dock), while an alarm reset button and a iPod play button are positioned on either side of the dock.

CNET have published a review of the Wi-Gear iMuffs MB210 wireless headphones for iPod MP3 players. 'THe Wi-Gear iMuffs favor the over-the-ear, behind-the-neck design that many portable, non-earbud headphones use. Some users--including this reviewer--find this setup uncomfortable, while others prefer the low-profile styling it offers. The fit is fairly secure--it's even better if you have long hair tied back, as this holds the neckband up and keeps pressure off the ears. The iMuffs' neckband is plenty flexible (though not adjustable), and the ear pieces have removable foam covers, which makes for easy cleaning. (Wi-Gear also includes a spare set of covers.)

CNET have published a review of the Griffin iKaraoke iPod karaoke module which facilitates the transfer of music from your iPod to your stereo affording you the opportunity to mix your vocals with your favorite tunes. 'So do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start off on a positive note. The iKaraoke offers a compact design that has a nice, high-quality feel to it. The sleek brushed metal is nice to hold, and the five-inch-long mic isn't uncomfortably small in the hand. The mic features a few buttons (play/pause and track/menu shuttle keys), a switch (more on this in a bit), and a red LED in the form of a ring around the top portion.

Digital Trends have published a review of the premium universal-fit Super.fi 5 Pro earbuds from Ultimate Ears, which are designed for use with Apple iPods and other devices. 'The Super.fi 5 Pros come with a full assortment of accessories and are available in white, black, and gray. Most retailers stock only the white model, with the other colors available for special order or online purchases only. The Super.fi 5 Pros are tethered to a 46” cord, terminating in a 1/8” plug. Inside the box you’ll find eight fitted silicone sleeves (for getting the perfect fit), a 1/4” adapter, a larger, hard plastic case, a smaller soft case, a level attenuator, and cleaning tool. These headphones come with a two-year warranty.

The Tango Audio System for your iPod features two main speakers with Neodymium drivers, two tweeters, and a downward firing subwoofer. 'The XtremeMac Tango isn't ugly per se, but not everyone will like the look--it's rather stark. In fact, it reminds us a lot of the Apple iPod Hi-Fi, and although the Tango has a smaller footprint, it still takes up a decent chunk of tabletop real estate at 14.5x10x5 inches. It's a simple design with a single piece of high-gloss plastic curving over the top to form the supports on the sides. A simple black speaker grille covers the front of the unit, while the rear houses various ports: S-Video, A/V out, auxiliary line-in, and DC power in. On the top of the Tango, you'll find the iPod dock as well as three silver buttons for controlling power and volume. Those and additional controls reside on the included remote.'

The NR1 Nano and the V030 iPod cases have been reviewed over at The Gadgeteer. ‘Northshore International named this line "Kaftan" after the precious garment worn by Sultans and other dignitaries during the Ottoman Empire. From the moment I opened the package, I was impressed with the detail and quality of the cases. Detailed in one of seven traditional patterns, the Kaftan's outside fabric is custom woven in Turkey using a richly colored senetic (a washable cotton/nylon blend).

Trusted Reviews have published a review of the Moosik CK3000-HD unit which is a FM transmitter designed for your iPod. 'There are only four buttons and an LCD display on the device, and operation could hardly be simpler. Pressing M and then the up and down arrows lets you move between frequencies in increments of 0.1MHz. Once you find one that seems free of any station, you simply press M again and it is stored in one of five memory presets. You repeat the process again to fill up each preset. If you then use match the presets on your car radio to the same frequencies, switching between them becomes a quick two button job. The hardest part is actually finding suitable area of the FM frequency that isn’t too crowded, particularly if you in an area with lots of local or pirate ratio stations. You turn if off by pressing the power switch or just pulling it out.'

A review of the Keyspan TuneView Remote Control for iPod has been posted at ZDNet. ‘The Keyspan TuneView is a two-part system: an iPod dock plus a wireless remote control. The docking unit is about an inch deeper than Apple's Universal iPod Dock, but it's still barely larger than a deck of cards. Keyspan includes trays for the 80GB and 30GB iPod with video and for the old iPod Mini; the trays that ship with all other iPods--including the Nano--should also fit. The dock's rear panel has just three ports: a minijack stereo audio connector, an S-Video output, and a mini USB jack. You'll need to supply your own S-Video cable, but the audio and USB cables are provided. If you plug the USB cable into your PC or Mac, the TuneView dock will allow you to transfer music and recharge your iPod, like any old iPod dock. Instead, you'll want to plug the dock's USB cable into the AC adapter (also included) and connect the A/V outputs to your TV or home stereo--that's where the fun begins.’

A review of the MicroMemo iPod digital audio recorder has been posted on Pocket Lint. 'It weighs nothing, or as near as dammit, and draws its power from the iPod so I can do away with the pocket full of Duracells and the overdraft from the bank to keep the supply topped up. And talking of pockets, because this integrates with my iPod it is one less thing to get lost while availing myself of the wonderful hospitality of foreign airport security checkpoints.

Everything USB have published their review o f the ADS Instant Video To Go H.264 Encoder which speeds up the transcoding of your videos for easy play back on portable media players. 'Encoding video to H.264 has always been a painstakingly slow process, often taking triple the time of the original run time to convert a film. No wonder one people would rather drop several hundred bucks on a new rig or a ATI's AVIVO-capable video card. Short of a massive system overhaul, perhaps the most practical way to speed up the conversion is with a hardware encoder. So far, the ones I've seen are targeted at the pros and priced prohibitively. Enter ADS Instant Video To Go, an affordable, hot-pluggable H.264 hardware encoder.'

PC Magazine have published their review of the Cambridge SoundWorks Radio CD 745i which is described as "a good-looking, great-sounding CD player/Apple iPod dock". 'Sure, the Cambridge SoundWorks Radio CD 745i is basically a glorified alarm clock with a steep price. Even so, it's a good-looking, great-sounding CD player/Apple iPod dock, too. In fact, on my tests, the CD 745i offered ample bass, clear treble, and powerful output. No, I'm not going to spend much time discussing the CD 745i's alarm function.

CNET have published a review of the Altec Lansing IM600 InMotion 600 portable digital speaker for iPod and MP3 player which features a built-in FM receiver, remote control, sound field expansion and an on-board rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers over seven hours of battery life. 'At 11 inches wide, 6 inches tall and just under 2 inches thick, the iM600 packs a lot of sound into an alarmingly small space. Although larger than the iM500, its basic design is nearly identical. A spring-loaded button centered on the front panel releases the system's kickstand and reveals the iPod dock, power button, and volume controls on the front, as well as the USB, audio, and power connections on the back. On the top of the system you'll find rubber buttons for track shuttling (they also double as FM scan controls) and audio source selection (iPod, FM, or auxiliary input), as well as one marked SFX that activates a stereo enhancement feature. An antenna telescopes out of the right side and can be angled in any direction.

CNET have posted a review of the Mondo Mint DMS300 Digital Music Station Audio System from which you can listen to your digital music be it from your iPod, MP3 player, computer, CD player or satellite radio. ‘Unlike many of the one-piece iPod speaker systems on the market, the Mint DMS300 is a separates-based system--two speakers plug into the Mint's main amplifier unit. About the size of a router, the amplifier module--which delivers 70 watts of power to each speaker--is a white plastic enclosure surrounded by a solid gray metal border.

Tech Digest have published a review of the Intempo IDS03 2.1 Docking Speaker System for iPod, MP3 and other audio devices. 'The Intempo IDS series, far from being designed for former Tory leaders, is a succession of faintly monolithic audio player docks, packing decent stereo features in an elegant, but large, case. Despite being a lot smaller than the IDS01, the IDS03 is definitely not a portable device - it plugs into the wall and is clearly designed to sit neatly on a desk, dressing table or living room shelf - but what did I think of the sound quality and ease of use?'

CNET have published a review of the ILUV I199 ( White ) high-fidelity multimedia audio system with BluePin for iPod which combines iPod, AM/FM radio, CD (audio and MP3/WMA), and USB-based audio playback. ‘Available in black (i199BLK) or white (i199WHT), the i199 is coated with a glossy plastic that doesn't show fingerprints. About the size of a bread box, it can easily fit on virtually any shelf, nightstand, or countertop. The i199 has a vibrant blue LCD readout with three brightness settings--in addition to the time, the display can show file and track information when playing MP3s or WMAs via the USB port or data CD.