Showing posts with label ipod accessories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ipod accessories. Show all posts

7/26/2011

Vuzix iWear AV920 - Head mounted display - portable - headphone Review

Vuzix iWear AV920 - Head mounted display - portable - headphone
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These appear to be the Vuzix AV920s. If so, you can easily get them to work with the Cowon A2 player (and Zen Vision M, and Archos players) with the "Creative Labs Zen-M Video Cable for AV230, AV920 or DV920" sold on Vuzix's website.
I've been using them for a couple of weeks with a Cowon A2 and I am impressed. The screen resolution is considerably better than comparably priced competing products. Also, you can use your own headphones if you want, quite easily. That said, glasses like these aren't a substitute for a big plasma display - they're a way to watch tv on your back, or on a train, or wherever you can't take the plasma display with you. ;)


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VIDEO AV920 VIRTUAL 62" EYEWEAR

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7/22/2011

Apple AV Connection Kit for iPod with Dock Connector (White) Review

Apple AV Connection Kit for iPod with Dock Connector (White)
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This box packages $135 worth of iPod accessories for connecting iPod to stereo and/or TV. If you do not plan on connecting iPod to stereo and/or TV, purchase what you need separately (you won't need Apple Remote and iPod AV Cable for sure). That said, included accessories are well built and stylish, perfectly complementing all but black iPod models. All that is missing is an S-video cable, which is a shame. S-video connection provides noticeably superior image quality over composite video connection. S-video improves color reproduction while reducing image artifacts, such as dot crawling around edges.
This package includes:
1. iPod Universal Dock provides an elegant way to charge and sync iPod, as well as letting you connect iPod to TV (for models of iPod with color display) or stereo. This accessory, along with the rest, is compatible with all but iPod shuffle and 1G and 2G iPods without dock connector. It includes adapters for discontinued iPod models. This accessory retails for $39.
2. Apple Remote controls the iPod wirelessly. This accessory requires the use of iPod Universal Dock. This accessory retails for $29.
3. iPod USB Power Adapter charges iPod without a computer. It requires iPod USB cable. This accessory retails for $29.
4. iPod AV Cable lets you connect iPod to stereo or TV set. This is a mini-to-analog audio + composite video cable. This accessory retails for $19.
5. iPod Dock Connector to USB 2.0 cable. Although one is included with iPod, this extra cable is good for connecting Universal Dock to USB Power Adapter for home theater installation. This accessory retails for $19.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Apple AV Connection Kit for iPod with Dock Connector (White)

With the Apple MA242LL/A iPod AV Connection Kit, you'll have all the pieces you need to enjoy the entire iPod experience in your living room. This kit includes all components to connect your iPod to your home stereo or television so you can share your favorite tunes, snapshots and movies with friends and family. The Apple Remote combines with the Universal Dock to let you experience your iPod from across the room, and the convenient USB based adapter keeps your iPod charged. The Connection Kit is compatible with all iPod models with a dock connector.
What's in the Box iPod AV cable, universal dock, dock adapters, Apple remote, USB power adapter, and dock connector to USB cable.
iPod Compatibility iPod nano 1G, iPod nano 2G, iPod mini, iPod 4G (Clickwheel), iPod Color, iPod 5G/5.5G Video

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7/21/2011

Belkin AV Cable for iPod 4G, 5G Review

Belkin AV Cable for iPod 4G, 5G
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[...]
The short version is here
It takes a few steps to connect your iPod to your TV. Start by inserting the A/V cord's eighth-inch plug into your iPod's earphone jack. In it goes, schnickt. Couldn't be easier.
Here's where it gets a little tricky. In order to make your TV play back the iPod signal, you've got to redirect the outputs. You can't just plug the yellow RCA plug into the yellow RCA jack and the red into the red or the white into the white. No. Those geniuses at Apple send the video signal over the red RCA output. (Normally it arrives on yellow.) The sound comes through the white and yellow plugs.
I ended up going to an Apple store and testing this on iPod after iPod. They all have this quirk. It was intentional. But hey, it's proprietary. Woohoo. So here's what you have to do:
* Plug the red RCA plug into your TV's yellow RCA jack.
* Plug the yellow RCA plug into your TV's white RCA jack.
* Plug the white RCA plug into your TV's red RCA jack.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Belkin AV Cable for iPod 4G, 5G

The Belkin AV Cable for 4G/5G iPods connects your iPod to your home entertainment system via an RCA connection, letting you watch videos and display photos with audio on your large-screen television.
The AV cable is 12 feet long, providing ample length to connect it to the back of your entertainment system with room leftover to maneuver. The aluminum undermold shield reduces interference to preserve optimal signal integrity. The connectors are color coded for easy installation, and the connectors are chrome-finished with nickel-plated contacts to prevent corrosion and provide the highest performance.
The Belkin AV Cable for 4G/5G iPods is backed by a lifetime warranty.

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7/19/2011

VIDEO, AV310 WIDESCREEN IWEAR Review

VIDEO, AV310 WIDESCREEN IWEAR
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For starters, I'm 6'-6" and somewhere north of 275 lbs., so I'm a 2XL-tall person; if I had a normal-sized head it would look like a tangerine on a mannequin. The AV310s fit my head just fine, not perfect (none of the one-size-fits-some stuff does) but not uncomfortable by any means, and the angle-adjust on the viewing screen portion of the headset helps a bunch.
The photo dude must be smoking crack. News flash: AV310s aren't "true" hi-def but the aspect ratio is right and the enhanced definition make it a very good substitution. Plus the color, contrast, etc., are adjustable to taste. If you're expecting 1080p from 1.5" LCDs, give me a call when you get back from Pluto.
I spent six years working in commercial broadcast TV. Are the AV310s "perfect"? Nope, but for a first-generation product they're great and I've got zero complaints as far as picture quality (because I have elevated, but reasonable, expectations). Most people would or will agree.
Here's why I love them: I'm a road warrior who travels over 100,000 miles a year. I can easily and comfortably watch movies on the AV310s even when I'm sitting in the cattle car, the putz in front of me reclines his seat back all the way and my knees are up around my ears. Not true of my laptop or even smaller-screen, dedicated DVD players I've owned.
If I don't get an emergency exit row, forget about my laptop, and some of the airlines do the sardine routine so bad even the 7" DVD player isn't usable for me. There just isn't enough space. I could watch the AV310s in any phone booth in Beijing (most of which, in fairness, have more space than airline passenger seats today).
With the AV310s I don't get a sore back and neck or headaches from sitting for hours with my neck and eyes locked in one position watching an image on a fixed screen. I can move my head in any direction and the screen comes with me.
I can see around them and interact with stewardesses for beverage or food service or whatever. Or I can use the shades and block everything else out (best picture quality under these conditions).
Finally, I'm not a fan of porn, but there's some pretty raunchy visuals in a lot of the more popular rancid comedies I tend to enjoy (think "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" or "Pineapple Express"). Personally, I don't care to share such images with the people sitting around me, or their kids. Regardless of what I'm watching, having people peeking over my shoulder creeps me out in general anyway. Presto! Problem solved!
Because so few people have them, there's still a "Wow!" factor to them that's kind of a hoot too (although I generally decline requests from others to put them on, since they're adjusted to my feeble close-vision eyesight).
Bottom line: I'm an early adopter so the price doesn't bug me at all. I've had the AV310s for a couple months now (and four biz trips) so I've had the chance to use them in the field. I love them and I'm 150% glad I bought them. I'm perfectly satisfied with this first generation, and can't wait to see what's coming in the future!

Click Here to see more reviews about: VIDEO, AV310 WIDESCREEN IWEAR

The AV310 Widescreen from Vuzix transforms your small video screen into a large 16:9 widescreen home theater with a virtual 52-inch display. Worn like regular glasses, the AV310 Widescreen is compatible with all audio/video devices with composite video-out and includes independent focal adjustments for each eye and removable stereo headphones.

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7/01/2011

JVC KS-U30 USB Video Cable for iPod and iPhone Review

JVC KS-U30 USB Video Cable for iPod and iPhone
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I purchased and received the original JVC KSU30 cable to be used with a JVC KW-NX7000BT. The cable worked excellent with my wife's iPod Nano. However, it did not work at all with our original iPhone or our iPhone 3GS which we purchased the cable to be used for. We were not able to play videos, music, etc. when connecting our iPhones to the JVC KW-NT7000BT stereo using this cable. The only thing it did do is charge our iphones and that's it.
I ended up purchasing the Composite Cable from the Apple Store. It pretty much has the cable plugs as the KSU30 cable and almost everything works. It plays music, video's, charges the iPhone and works with the iPod. The one flaw is that is that the music is being pulled through the A/V connection and not through the USB. So, you can only control your music catalog using your iPhone and not through the stereo. Conversely, you can control the iPod through the stereo and the music catalog is being pulled through the USB connection.


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Ipod And Cable Receivers

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Yamaha YDS-10 Universal iPod Dock for Select Yamaha Home Theater Receivers Review

Yamaha YDS-10 Universal iPod Dock for Select Yamaha Home Theater Receivers
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I just got this iPod dock for my RX-V659. Popped it open. Plugged it in. And spent the next hour trying to figure out how to make it work! The instructions that come with it are really terse. All they say is to plug it in and put your iPod in it. Perhaps I'm the only on who struggled with this set up. . but in the event that there are others, I thought I'd give some additional instructons. Here are a few things you should know (that could save you an hour!).
1. You have to program your Yamaha receiver's remote with a code in order to control the iPod. Instructions for this operation are in the way-back of your receiver's owner's manual. Which has 3 separate sections on how to use an iPod. The first section for me was on p.24. The second somewhere around p. 100 and the third p. on 108. You need all three section to make it work!
2. After you program the code. . .here's the tricky part. .and I didn't see this in either the YDS-10 manual or the RX-V659 manual. . .here goes: The receiver's remote has a little switch on the right side that switches between "Amp", "Source" and "TV". If you just got your receiver, you may not even notice this switch. But here's the tricky part. The receiver won't control the iPod at all if this switch is in it's default position ("Amp"). You have to switch it to "Source". . and then low and behold. . .the amp says "Loading". . the iPod screen changes to a Yamaha logo. . .and you can see your song list on the TV screen!
The sound quality is top notch! Hope this helps someone else!


Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha YDS-10 Universal iPod Dock for Select Yamaha Home Theater Receivers

There are several iPod docking stations on the market, but few are as convenient as the YDS-10, which is custom designed to work with Yamaha's HTR-5960, HTR-5950, RX-V659, and RX-V559 home theater receivers. Connection is easy--simply plug the dock into the Yamaha receiver's rear-panel port. Once connected, the dock not only charges your iPod and plays your favorite playlists through the receiver's stereo or surround speakers, but it also shows iPod images and movies through an attached monitor. It's the perfect setup for people who regularly download TV shows from iTunes but want to watch them on a big TV. The rest of the time, you can rock out to all your favorite songs with style.
Just as impressively, the YDS-10 lets you operate your iPod from across the room using the receiver's remote control and onscreen display, so you don't need to rise off the sofa each time you want to change selections. Connecting your iPod to a home theater system has never been easier or sounded so good. The YDS-10 is compatible with 4th and 5th generation iPods (with click wheels), the iPod mini, and the iPod nano.
What's in the Box Dock, connection cable, iPod adapters, user's manual.

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6/30/2011

Xitel Moviecenter for iPod Review

Xitel Moviecenter for iPod
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I have a third generation iPod nano that I use to load up with video clips that I download from the web or from Tivo. I have hooked up the Moviecenter to an old TV in the basement that I have set up as part of an exercise area. Now I can watch the iPod while working out. The Moviecenter remote works fine for sound, pause, fast forward, reverse. While it is little pricey ($50 would be a better price point) it does what it says it will do.

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CONNECT IPOD TO TV STEREOCOMPUTER NEW VIRTUAL HOME THEATER

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6/27/2011

DLO 009-9765 HomeDock Deluxe for iPod Review

DLO 009-9765 HomeDock Deluxe for iPod
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I bought this dock for the "onscreen display" capability as you navigate the iPod menus, to use it with my Ipod Video. Well, it took reading the fine print "note" in the manual to realize that onscreen navigation is only good for the "music" menus, NOT for photos or videos. When I read the box again I noticed the subtle wording difference: you can "navigate" and "select" the songs, but can only "display" and "control" the photos and the videos. In summary, when it comes to photos or videos, what you are getting is nothing more than you get with a $ 39.00 Apple iPod Universal Dock. Hmmm... I think this should have been clearly announced on the box, so that you can make an informed decision, whether you want to pay $ 110.00 extra just to see the song names on your TV screen. I returned mine.

Click Here to see more reviews about: DLO 009-9765 HomeDock Deluxe for iPod

The DLO 009-9765 HomeDock Deluxe for iPod is the world's first iPod dock that lets you view and select your iPod's music on your TV screen, allowing you to navigate, select and play your songs using the included 18-button remote control. The HomeDock Deluxe will change the way you experience your iPod, your music, and now your iTunes Movies, letting you browse through Playlists, Artists, Albums, Songs, Genres and more, even watching movies on your big screen at DVD resolutions, all from the comfort of your sofa.
DLO's 009-9765 displays your iPod's music content on a beautifully designed HomeDock TV interface that's as clear and cool as the iPod itself. You can even customize colors, choosing from four different color themes including Aqua, Forest, Teal or Metal to match the decor of any room in your house. You can also choose from several screen savers, such as a Status Bar screen saver that shows your iPod's current status, song and album information on a moving graphic billboard. The HomeDock Deluxe's intuitive remote control lets you navigate with ease through your songs and playlists to select just the right tunes for any occasion, letting you control 14 various iPod functions. The HomeDock displays the currently playing song info and progress at the top of your screen while letting you select another song from the listings below, with names and titles that are large and easy to read from anywhere in the room.
In taking the entertainment out of your pocket and putting it on the big screen, the HomeDock Deluxe offers two distinct modes: On-Screen Navigation Mode for music interface on your TV, and iPod Mode to play videos or photo slideshows on your TV directly from the iPod. You can quickly switch modes with the push of a button to watch and control videos and photo slideshows from your iPod, or browse and play music with on-screen navigation. This unit connects to your home entertainment system or stereo via standard RCA plugs, so you don't have to worry about any adapters or Y-cables. Your iPod's music is sent to your stereo through the superior audio line-out from the bottom of the iPod, which provides for a much higher-quality audio signal than if you simply plugged your iPod into your stereo with a Y-cable from the headphone jack. With no adapters, and no loose cables, all you have to deal with is great sounding iPod music coming through your existing home stereo.
The DLO 009-9765 HomeDock Deluxe works with all dockable, click wheel iPods including the: iPod Nano (1st and 2nd generation), iPod Video, iPod Color, 4G iPod and iPod mini models. Your iPod can connect to your large-screen TV via a standard A/V connection, or through S-Video, allowing you to not just watch movies, but view picture slideshows with music. The HomeDock Deluxe fully powers and charges your iPod while in use, and comes with all the necessary cables to get going right out of the box, including an AC power adapter and an A/V cable. The low-profile HomeDock Deluxe comes in black to match both your iPod and home decor, measures 5.75 x 1 x 3.75 inches (W x H x D), and it's backed by a manufacturer's 90-day warranty.
What's in the Box The DLO 009-9765 HomeDock Deluxe base module, the HomeDock 18-button remote control with battery, an adjustable iPod support, 1 x 6-foot A/V cable (left-right stereo audio, composite video), 1 x 6-inch RCA-to-minijack adapter, 1 x 12-volt AC power adapter, and a user's manual.

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6/10/2011

Composite AV Video/USB Cable for Apple iPod, iPhone, iPad (6 feet) Review

Composite AV Video/USB Cable for Apple iPod, iPhone, iPad (6 feet)
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I bought this in the hope that it would work with an iPad. It works like a charm to play movies or to use Netflix or YouTube.
It won't work to display your general iPad so don't try. Make sure you plug it in before you start Netflix or the movie or it won't work.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Composite AV Video/USB Cable for Apple iPod, iPhone, iPad (6 feet)

The Composite AV Cable connects to your device or Universal Dock via the 30-pin dock connector and to your TV, home theater receiver, or stereo receiver via the composite video and red/white analog audio ports. The cable also features a USB connector that you can plug into a power source, such as a computer. Support iphone 3GS and ipad.
Product Features:
? This AV Cable provides composite video & audio output for viewing movies & photo slideshows w/ music on a TV / Monitor? Comes with USB charging connector? Compatible with: Apple iPhone 2G, 3G, 3GS, 4G, iPod Classic, iPod Video, iPod Nano, iPod Touch? Apple Licensed Chipset built-in: Works with ALL current and future firmware versions (2.1, 2.2, 3.0,3.12,3.13,3.20 and later)
Product Features:
? Color: white? Length: 6Ft? Compatible WithApple: iPhone 3G 16GB, iPhone 3G 8GB, iPhone 4G, iPod Nano 4th Gen 16GB, iPod Nano 4th Gen 8GB, iPod Touch 2nd Gen 16GB, iPod Touch 2nd Gen 32GB, iPod Touch 2nd Gen 8GB, iPad 16G, iPad 32G, iPad 64G
Package inclued:? 1 PCS AV USB Video Cable for iPhone 3G 3GS iPod Touch Nano

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5/27/2011

Sony TDM-IP1 Digital Media Port iPod Dock Review

Sony TDM-IP1 Digital Media Port iPod Dock
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I work from home and listen to an iPod quite a lot. Recently, I purchased a Sony Home Theater System (model DAV-HDX 500). Initially, I connected my iPod to the Sony via the ubiquitous Apple iPod cradle; however, controlling the iPod manually got old in a hurry.
The unit came equipped with an attached digital media port cable, which connected directly to the Sony receiver's DMPort. A separate video cable was supplied, which I connected directly to the TV's video-in RCA connector. The unit can also be used with a separately purchased video cable connected between the receiver and TV.
Setup was very simple and after I configured my Sony receiver to "DMPort1" and the TV to "AV1", a facsimile of the iPod's screen appeared on the TV and I was able to control the iPod by way of the Sony remote.
Visually, the menu is a little on the chunky side, but highly legible. Screen color may be set to Red, Green, Blue, and a couple variants of Gray. There are also modest on-screen controls for a screensaver, song shuffle, and song repeat.
The only moving part on the TDM-iP1 is a button, which allows users to switch between the iPod's own controls and control by way of a remote control.
The TDM-iP1 does charge the cradled iPod. This, however, may be the unit's major weekness, since the AV system must be powered for charging to occur. A separate power input would have been a nice touch.
At present, the Sony TDM-iP1 is selling for just under $100. In time, I would think the cost might drop to about $50, which is what I believe it's worth, despite its functionality and appearance. The unit's high price is why I've given it four stars; otherwise, the Sony TDM-iP1 functions as advertised.
As an aside, the Logitech Harmony 520 remote control can be configured quite nicely to control a TDM-iP1 by way of the Sony DAV-HDX 500. Nothing like one remote for all your audio and video components.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony TDM-IP1 Digital Media Port iPod Dock

Display your iPod® on the smooth and modern Sony TDM-IP1 Digital Media Port iPod Dock and unleash the power of your music. Take full advantage of your DMP compatible BRAVIA® home theater system or audio receiver's sound when you connect an iPod® to the DMP. It lets you search through your music or view video from your iPod right on your television. For added convenience, the dock also charges your iPod's battery.

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5/22/2011

ezGear TH100 G1 - ezVision Video Glasses Review

ezGear TH100 G1 - ezVision Video Glasses
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The ezGear TH100 G1 - ezVision Video Glasses arrived promptly, like all my orders from Amazon.com and I was anxious to try them out and expecting a stunning new TV viewing experience.
I plugged in my video source, plugged in my headphones, put the glasses on, and ... saw a really fuzzy picture. Ok, I figured I am near sighted maybe there is an adjustment or something .. looked at the user manual and it says the device will fit over glasses, and it did ... and that cleared up the picture but, the thing is very heavy and uncomfortable and is worse with glasses on.
The picture, was something far from the stunning experience I was expecting. This thing is suppose to look like I'm watching a 50 inch TV right? Well it looked like I was watching a blown up Casio 2" Portable TV, which is really what this is.
Ok, so at this point... I'm usually not a whiner but I don't think this is worth $189.19, but I wasn't going to return it... then I realized the right audio channel has no sound. I checked my cables, tried a different source, swapped the left and right cables, and sure enough the right channel is busted. Almost no sound. Man this sucks. Five minutes later the video turned all white. That sealed it, returned for a refund.
Would I recommend buying this? Sure, if it was in the $20 discount bin but not for $189.19.

Click Here to see more reviews about: ezGear TH100 G1 - ezVision Video Glasses

The perfect companion for iPod Video, the ezVision offers users the ability take their favorite TV shows and movies anywhere in all of their wide-screen glory, taking the "home" out of home theater.

ezVision Video Glasses offer you a 50-inch virtual screen that fits like a pair of glasses. The ezVision Video Glasses are ultra lightweight, weighing a mere 4 ounces. With built-in earphones, an 8-hour rechargeable Lithium ion battery pack, iPod and DVD adapters, and the included wall charger, you get everything you need to enjoy movies, music videos, cartoons, and podcasts almost anywhere, with a host of Video devices: Apple iPod, DVD players, MP4 players, Zen Vision M, Zen Vision, VCRs, TVs, PlayStation, Xbox, Game Cube, and more.
What's in the BoxezVision eyewear with integrated stereo earphones, two nose pieces for custom fit, rechargeable lithium ion battery, A/C wall charger, RCA video cable, iPod video cable.

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5/17/2011

Nyrius NIC708 Media Fusion TV Video Dock for iPod with On-screen Navigation, Remote Control, USB/SD & MPEG4/AVI/MP3/JPEG Review

Nyrius NIC708 Media Fusion TV Video Dock for iPod with On-screen Navigation, Remote Control, USB/SD and MPEG4/AVI/MP3/JPEG
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It may just be me, but it seems like each passing day brings us a new media docks nad servers. They offer a variety of things - steaming from your computer to your television, streaming internet radio, photo slideshows, ability to access you music content... and many, many more concepts. The cost can range from several hundred of dollars... to the price of the Nyrius dock.
Why do I like the Nyrius dock? It offers a simple way to watch/listen your iTunes/iPod media through your televison. The process is easy - you connect the three RCA cables from the back of the Nyrius into your TV and the set-up is complete. There is no network to configure or software to update. Another nice feature is that it is portable (roughly the size of two decks of cards) so it is easy to stick in your backpack or overnight bag making it (nearly) ideal for travel.
The screen interface is pretty straight-forward. While it may not wow you with advanced settings it is easy to learn and navigate.
A few of the features
- Will accept an iPod, USB flash, or SD Media card.
- Will accept an aux input
- Reads all standard files
- Basic but handy remote is included
- If you watch the video I demonstrate how you are able to stream Pandora, YouTube, and the audio version of MLB.AtBat.
- Will charge your iPod
- Installation that is so easy that your old crazy uncle could do it.Things that are not included/featured
- You can not stream live video - such as your iPod's Slingplayer app.
- Only uses RCA cables - Not much of an issue since the video from an iPod is rather resolution limited. However, an optical output would have come in handy for my stereo system.
- Pictures from your iPod will look grainy on your 55" HD television. This is not the fault of the dock, but it does highlights the limited resolution of the file that is stored on your iPod.
- It may have been a quirk within my unit, but the picture response on the slideshow (using a SD media card) was a little slow.Final Verdict - I think that if you are looking for a solid iPod dock you will be very pleased with the Nyrius. It will allow you to use your existing television or stereo (contrast this to all of the money people are spending on iPod stereo docks!) in lieu of more expensive options. The key to happiness is to recognize that this is a media dock and not a media server.
5 Stars
--Please Note - I received a early-release Nyrius Fusion Dock for reviewing purposes-------------

Click Here to see more reviews about: Nyrius NIC708 Media Fusion TV Video Dock for iPod with On-screen Navigation, Remote Control, USB/SD & MPEG4/AVI/MP3/JPEG

Simply place your iPod in the dock and easily watch all your downloaded movies, listen to your music library, and view pictures from your iPod on your TV and home theater system.

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5/04/2011

Creative Labs Sound Blaster Wireless Audio Transmitter and Receiver Bundle Review

Creative Labs Sound Blaster Wireless Audio Transmitter and Receiver Bundle
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Having used a myriad of devices from the squeezboox boom and the squeezebox duet system -- as well as a few other devices that are not worth mentioning, I'll say that this is by far the easiest to use, install and operate.
Let me walk you through my set-up ... which took about 10 minutes ...
1. Unpacked the box and did away with all the plastic detritus.
2. Installed and registered the software on my laptop.
3. Plugged in the transmitter to a USB port in the back.
4. Rebooted my laptop, turned on iTunes and played a U2 album.
5. Plugged in the receiver (using a nicer set of cables) to my Sony Stereo Receiver on Aux 3. Was tempted to go optical.
6. Hit the find button on the underside of the little device and walked away.
7. 15 seconds later -- music played.
8. Stuck the batteries in the remote and turned it up.
That simple and absolutely no stumbling blocks to speak of.
Sound Quality? -- Better than I expected for this, but I wasn't looking for Mark Levinson to come out of my office and sit down on the couch with a glass of wine. The sound quality is more than adequate for casual home listening and the better your system is, the better the device will sound to you.
Responsiveness? -- I'm constantly unplugging the transmitter from my laptop and taking off somewhere, only to come back replug it back in, and find it working almost instantly and flawlessly. Windows and iTunes are not always asking questions or looking for drivers. It seems that whatever iTunes needed to do to make this thing be compatible with itself, was worked out ahead of time by Creative Labs and Apple. That's a first.
The Software -- is quite good and quite simple. You can customize it to play in zones, if that's your thing or adjust the quality of the sound and other minor changes. The software, from what I saw, doesn't appear to be a resource hog, nor has it been the culprit of crashes or bluescreens. If you don't use iTunes , you don't like to, or don't want to, this may be the only *real* problem one could face. The good thing is that it doesn't require you to depend on it as a player like other companies, or other devices do.
I can find no fault with this and I'm happy with the success of this device. I use it everyday now and I'm thoroughly pleased.
Well done ... a great idea to give as a gift for young or old as the ease of use with this is simple and the learning curve low. How about that for innovation?
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This bundle includes the Creative Labs Sound Blaster wireless audio transmitter and receiver giving you everything you need to set up a premium wireless sound system.The Creative Labs Sound Blaster for iTunes upgrades your PC or Mac to a premium wireless sound system. Simply plug into any USB port, connect an optional Creative Wireless Receiver to your powered speakers or home stereo system, and play your iTunes or other digital music wirelessly ¿ no cables or networking required. You can add Sound Blaster Wireless Audio ready speakers with built-in wireless receiver and in the future wireless headphones to play music wirelessly in multiple rooms. Plus, Sound Blaster for iTunes features Creative¿s award-winning X-Fi audio enhancement technology that improves the quality of iTunes media, MP3s and movies. Package Contents: Sound Blaster for iTunes USB Audio Transmitter, Audio cable (1/8" to stereo RCA), Installation CD, Quick Start Leaflet.The Creative Wireless Receiver plays the songs from your Creative wireless audio products across the room or around the house. The wireless system is designed for music, so there are no delays, no dropouts and no home network needed. Setup is a breeze, just plug the Creative Wireless Receiver into any powered speakers or your home theater receiver, the wireless connection is automatic. The wireless remote control lets you navigate through the music on your Notebook, PC or iPod;playing, pausing and skiping from wherever you are. And it's expandable so you can add as many Creative Wireless Receivers as you like within the 100' range.

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4/10/2011

Yamaha YDS-12BL iPod Dock (Black) Review

Yamaha YDS-12BL iPod Dock (Black)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased this for my Yamaha RX-V567. I did not fully understand from the other reviews the features and limitations of this dock, so I will try to explain it clearly here. You can find the "User Guide" on-line, but it is utterly useless - in 11 different languages.
The YDS-12 connects to your Yamaha receiver through a proprietary connector. This connector has upwards of 60 pins, yet the device has very few features. These receivers are capable of firmware updates, so it is entirely possible that future enhancements may one day be available. Other Yamaha receivers have gotten enhancements for their docks in the past.
Once connected, you can plug your Apple device into the dock - and here is the first big negative about the YDS-12. Like most Apple docks, your iPod/iPhone stands nearly vertical on its own (it actually leans back about 20 degrees). It is expected to stay in that position while it is docked, putting a good deal of pressure on the Apple connector. It is far to easy for someone to accidentally hit the iPhone/iPod and snap the connector off (or worse, break the mating connector in your expensive phone). I really wish Yamaha would have provided the option of a corded cnnector and a cradle to rest your phone in. This product is an accident waiting to happen - but even the Apple Universal Dock has this issue. Repairs to Apple connectors cost $50-$100.
Once you insert your Apple device into the Dock and put the Yamaha in Dock mode, the Receiver Display will say "Ipod Connected" (even if you are connecting an iPhone). Pressing the "Display" button on your Yamaha remote brings up the control menu. There are two control menus available for commanding the iPhone/iPod: one is on the Yamaha Receiver display and the other is an On-Screen-Display (OSD) if you have the Yamaha hooked up to your TV. Some Yamahas have a dot-matrix display and the higher ends have an LCD display - both show you the same general menus. The nice thing about the menus is that they allow you to control play of your Apple device using the Yamaha remote.
Your menu choices are:
1) Play Video
2) Play Music
This brings me to another BIG limitation of this device: "Play Video" only refers to video from iTunes (i.e. movies that you have purchased or uploaded). It does NOT include video you recorded through your camera, nor does it include photos you took with your camera. Basically, it does not give you access to your Camera Roll.
You DO have the ability to play slideshows or recorded video, but NOT using the remote control. While your device is docked, you need to open your Camera Roll and start a slideshow manually. You then need to hit the "Display" button on your remote again to turn off your OSD on your TV. Only then will the pictures and recorded video appear on your TV. You can ONLY see pictures/video when it is playing as a slideshow. Because you need to do this while the device is docked, it means you are pressing on the screen, putting even more pressure on the poor little dock connector. I'm telling you, this is a bad mechanical design.
Yamaha REALLY needs to update the firmware to allow Camera Roll access through the menu. This limitation is truly a deal-breaker for a device that costs over $50. Read on for a cheaper solution.
Video playback quality is awful - as expected considering it is optimized for a tiny display. Even video recorded on a 4th gen iPod Touch (which is supposed to have the latest HD-quality video recording) looks blocky when played on a big TV. Video quality on a big screen TV is about the equivalent of watching SD video on the SlingPlayer App over 3G. Mediocre at best.
Movie playback of iTunes movies was quite a bit better, but still don't expect this to replace Netflix. Speaking of Netflix, be aware that almost no apps support playback of video through cables, so don't expect to be able to play Angry Birds on a 55" plasma. It's not going to happen. Given the two big cons I found with this device, I offer a less expensive alternative to it: Buy an Apple A/V Component (or Composite) Cable for about $40 (from the Apple store). You can get non-Apple ones even cheaper - but the Apple version is guaranteed to be compatible with just about all Apple devices. These cables have an Apple connector at one end and several RCA connectors at the other. You can connect the RCA cables to the back of the Yamaha Receiver and have the same quality picture and audio as you will with the YDS-12. Your device will be connected through a cable rather than perching on a tiny connector at a dangerous angle. About the only negative is that you won't be able to play back anything using the remote control - there will be no menus at all. You will need to directly handle the Apple device, but you need to do that anyway on the YDS-12 in order to watch recorded videos or see pictures. You still won't be able to play games on the big screen, though. And, the Apple cable includes an extra line to allow charging of your device while watching on your TV.Regarding a couple of confusing reviews:
* Several people mentioned that once a device is fully charged, the YDS-12 stops charging, so you wake up the next morning to a dead device. This did not happen to me with my 3GS, but since it's happened to others there may be defective units. Mine shows it is at 100% and still charging.
* Someone suggested that the YDS-12 is "easily portable". Yeah, it is....but so what? If you take it to a party, there had better be a new model Yamaha there to plug it into. This is not compatible with any other brand (nor is it compatible with most other Yamaha receivers). Another reason to choose the Apple cable over this - the Apple cable IS truly portable. You can take it to a party and plug it onto any component-ready device.
So, I'm not trying to knock this product unfairly. It's worth about $25 at most because of the very limited menu system. Unless Yamaha updates it in a big way, I would opt for the Apple A/V cable, knowing there will be no remote control. By the way, Apple DOES have a fancy dock that includes a remote, but it has even more limitations than the YDS-12, so stay away from the very expensive Apple Universal Dock.
In summary, YDS-12 vs Apple A/V cable:
* Both charge your device
* Both play back iTunes videos on your TV (but YDS-12 allows remote control)
* Both play back music through your TV or Yamaha (but YDS-12 allows remote control)
* Both play photo slide shows - NO REMOTE CONTROL
* Both play recorded video - NO REMOTE CONTROL
* Neither allows games or apps to be played on TV
* YDS-12 is menu-driven (Apple A/V is manually driven by you)
* YDS-12 is potentially dangerous to your connector (Apple A/V uses safer cable connection)
* YDS-12 won't work with iPad; Apple A/V Cable will
* YDS-12 is more expensive and only usable on specific Yamaha Receivers
* Apple A/V cable is cheaper and connects to most new TVs and almost all receivers
Unless you REALLY need to use the remote (with all its limitations), go with the Apple A/V cable.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha YDS-12BL iPod Dock (Black)

Yamaha YDS-12BL iPod Dock; Only compatiable with Yamaha RX-Vx67 series AV receivers.

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4/05/2011

Vuzix Wrap 310 Widescreen Video Eyewear Review

Vuzix Wrap 310 Widescreen Video Eyewear
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I really don't know what to say in regard to the other people who have reviewed this product. Perhaps a newer model or other fixes have been made. The bottom line, I like them, A LOT, and I'm very happy with most every aspect of this purchase. These are reasonably priced and well-worth the money in my opinion. I just spent a long weekend at the in-laws where there isn't TV in the bedrooms and, to be honest, a person could go nuts without some form of a diversion. These glasses fit the bill very nicely. I watched a number of movies that I had digital copies for and had previously downloaded to my iPod. Awesome.
Out of the box, these are extremely easy to setup and use. My 13-year old son had these working in a matter of minutes (almost had them setup before the wrapping paper had hit the floor) and he didn't need the manual for any of the setup. You just put in the batteries, plug them in, put them on, and start the movie. That's it. The sound is great and it is easily comperable to any of my more expensive ($60ish) earphones. As you use these glasses, you will become more and more used to them and you will know how to wear them for the best picture. I would estimate that it took me about an hour to really find the sweet-spot; my son seemed to instantly take to them. Adjustments for video and audio are very easy and all on-screen. I was amazed with the picture quality and sound while watching Star Trek, Up, Transformers. I have showed these glasses to a number of people here at work and all were equally amazed with the quality and the entire experience. When I could get my mother-in-law to shut her flap long enough to try them, she even liked them. (If I thought this would shut her up for 10 minutes, I gladly buy her a couple of her own. Hell - I'd even through in an iPod.) I know that I have been responsible for at least 2 other purchases of these glasses... just because I let someone try them for a few minutes.
I would definitely recommend these to anyone looking for an excellent compact video solution. These will be going with me on business flights and vacations from now on. I didn't rate them as a 5-star device because the image quality is great but not HD. I guess you can spend another $200 if you want HD quality. Someone commented that there are a lot of wires. Well, I hate to say it but I don't know how you could do it any differently unless you dropped another $200 for the wireless version. To be honest, there aren't "a lot" of wires. There is a wire to connect to your iPod (etc.) and this connects to your batter pack/controller unit. This connects to your headset and there are two earphones that plug in there. I still have both ears so I need both earphones. But that's it. Pretty straight forward and very simple to use.
For reference only, I simply can not watch a movie if either the sound or picture is lacking. I pride myself in having two very good 7.1 surround sound setups w/ 55" LCD TV's at home. I also have a couple of Bose headsets (Quiet Comfort) and their earbuds. My computer has (3) 24" HP displays (triple SLI) with 7.1 surround as well - primarily for video and graphic editing but also for MS Flight Sim. I'm telling you this just so that someone doesn't think that I'm simply accepting these because I have a very low standard. If they were crap - I'd tell you they were crap.
Hope this helps.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Vuzix Wrap 310 Widescreen Video Eyewear

Vuzix Wrap 310 Widescreen Video Eyewear. Transform your iPod or iPhone device into a virtual 55" 16:9 widescreen home theater anywhere you go. Ideal for travelers and commuters, these Video Glasses turn your small video screen into a widescreen home theater with a virtual 55" display as seen from ten feet. Enjoy video games or watch 2D or 3D movies in both standard 4:3 and 16:9 screen formats. Individual focus adjustments allow for prescription eyeglass-free viewing. Stylish and wearable, Vuzix Video Glasses look just like normal sunglasses no one will ever guess their hidden function! They re compatible with all audio/video devices with composite video-out and include an iPod/iPhone cable for connection to all models of video iPod and iPhone devices. They run on two AA batteries (included) and include removable noise-isolating earbuds or you can use your own. Forget the small screen! Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and games on the virtual equivalent of a 55" widescreen. Order your Vuzix Wrap 310 Widescreen Video Eyewear from Brookstone today! Made for: iPod touch (1st and 2nd generation) iPod classic iPod with video iPod nano (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th generation) iPhone 3GS iPhone 3G iPhone iPod/iPhone not included. iPhone, iPod, iPod touch, iPod classic and iPod nano are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Made for iPod and Made for iPhone mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod or iPhone, respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod or iPhone may affect wireless performance.

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