Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Gift Guide: 27-inch Apple iMac]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-27-inch-apple-imac/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-27-inch-apple-imac/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-27-inch-apple-imac/#commentsFiled under:

27-inch Apple iMac (Creative, Under $2500)

We generally agree that Mac users get hit with the legendary Apple Tax for some models, but the recently updated iMacs have us buzzing about bargains. Overall the 27-inchers are very respectably spec-ed out for starting at $1700, with a 3.06 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo (or 2.66Ghz quad-core Intel Core i5), 4 gigabytes of memory, a 1 terabyte hard drive and a standard dual-layer CD/DVD drive, along with a wireless keyboard and mouse and Apple's iLife software -- a rock-solid setup for any student. But the 27-inch 16:9 LED-backlit screen is the killer app for us, as it's big enough to serve as a perfect HDTV for a dorm room or even a small living room. (The iMac also accepts video input from other sources that have a mini DisplayPort but, despite rumors it won't work with any current adapters on the market so for now that's basically reserved for other Macs.) Coupled with an Elgato EyeTV or a simple Netflix WatchNow account, your student has access to all the (legally purchased) media they'll need. You've done your job -- the grades are up to them.

SwitchedGift Guide: 27-inch Apple iMac originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>27-inch imac27-inchImacall-in-one desktop pcall-in-one pcAll-in-oneDesktopPcAll-in-onePchgghgg-2500hgg-creativeSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Dark Blade Mini Remote Control Helicopter]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-dark-blade-mini-remote-control-helicopter/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-dark-blade-mini-remote-control-helicopter/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-dark-blade-mini-remote-control-helicopter/#commentsFiled under:


Dark Blade 3-Channel R/C Helicopter (Gadget Head, Under $50)

A perennial winner for the holiday-gift satisfaction sweepstakes, remote control helicopters are the gift that says: "I know you're a textbook arrested development case, but everyone deserves to be happy -- so go fly your geek flag." Dark Blade's mini-chopper is a standout precisely because of its extreme mini-ness and excellent handling. The rear rotor is a bit of novelty in that it faces up and down rather than the traditional side to side, but it works wonderfully (unlike the faux side rotors -- those are just for style we presume) and even the uncoordinated noob will be pulling imaginary Lilliput air-lifts in minutes. You'll be hard-pressed to get this much enjoyment out of $30 anywhere else.

SwitchedGift Guide: Dark Blade Mini Remote Control Helicopter originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chopperdark bladeDarkBladehgghgg-50hgg-gadgetheadmini helicopterMiniHelicopterRCremote controlRemoteControlSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: BFG NVIDIA GeForce GTX 295 H2OC Watercooled GPU]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-bfg-nvidia-geforce-gtx-295-h2oc-watercooled-gpu/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-bfg-nvidia-geforce-gtx-295-h2oc-watercooled-gpu/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-bfg-nvidia-geforce-gtx-295-h2oc-watercooled-gpu/#commentsFiled under:



BFG NVIDIA GeForce GTX 295 H2O Watercooled GPU (Gamer, Under $1000)

If you're a gamer yourself, BFG's Frankenstein monster of graphical terror needs no introduction. If you aren't, then here's the gist: BFG's modded NVIDIA GTX 295 is to date the most powerful consumer GPU on the market (the thing in a computer that handles the onscreen graphics), and can handle insane amounts of 3D graphical wizardry with aplomb, which you'd expect for $500-plus smackeroos. To cut down on heat and fan noise that comes with overclocking, BFG went ahead and installed a maintenance-free liquid-cooling system, which not only sounds awesome, but should work wonders in keeping your PC from sounding like a jet engine in the midst of a heated CoD4 ambush. Trust us, if your kid, significant other, or friend is an avid PC gamer, this is what they're secretly pining for.

SwitchedGift Guide: BFG NVIDIA GeForce GTX 295 H2OC Watercooled GPU originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bfggpugtx 295Gtx295hgghgg-1000hgg-gamernvidiawatercooledSun, 22 Nov 2009 17:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: JVC HA-NC100 Noise-Canceling Headphones]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-jvc-ha-nc100-noise-canceling-headphones/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-jvc-ha-nc100-noise-canceling-headphones/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/22/gift-guide-jvc-ha-nc100-noise-canceling-headphones/#commentsFiled under:


JVC HA-NC100 Noise-Canceling Headphones (Novice, Under $100)

We'll be the first to admit JVC's HA-NC100's are long in the tooth for a tech item, having debuted in 2005. But we don't care, because we haven't come across a better set at the same price since then. Like your fancy-schmancy Bose models, these use active noise-canceling to block out ambient sounds, which means besides having giant pads on your ears to block sound, they also electronically sample your surroundings and then counter it electronically so that you hear virtually nothing (75-percent less, to be exact). But unlike Bose, these continue to work if the battery dies, and use a single cheapo AA battery (unlike the proprietary one Bose uses) that you can easily replace if need be. They also work with or without an audio input, meaning if you aren't listening to tunes you can retract the audio cable and keep on the noise-canceling to block the outside world. For a frequent traveler, headphones like these are probably the greatest thing to happen to air travel since jet engines.

SwitchedGift Guide: JVC HA-NC100 Noise-Canceling Headphones originally appeared on Switched on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hgghgg-100hgg-novicejvc ha-nc100JvcHa-nc100noise cancellingnoisecancelingNoiseCancellingSun, 22 Nov 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Brothers Wall of Sound iPod Speaker]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-brothers-wall-of-sound-ipod-speaker/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-brothers-wall-of-sound-ipod-speaker/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-brothers-wall-of-sound-ipod-speaker/#commentsFiled under:


Brothers Wall of Sound iPod Speaker (Style-o-Phile, Cost No Object)

We're still struggling to invent the proper adjective to describe this monster of rockin' (would insanely awesome be insanesome or awesane?) but don't let our failings hinder your appreciation. The WOS, or Wall of Sound, is an achievement all of humanity can come together around and celebrate like the monolith from 2001, as their eardrums melt away: the world's most powerful iPod speaker, capable of throwing out 95 decibels of sonic punishment (on par with a nearby chain saw) from its 28 elements. While it represents the highest form of a stunt product, the first generation series completely sold out at a $4,500 price tag, so get in line now to get your hands on the gen 2. And invest in a hand truck -- this beast already weighs 225 pounds, so we can only imagine what the next version will be.

SwitchedGift Guide: Brothers Wall of Sound iPod Speaker originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hgghgg-cnohgg-style-o-phileSat, 14 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Yamaha AvantGrand N3 Piano]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-yamaha-avantgrand-n3-piano/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-yamaha-avantgrand-n3-piano/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-yamaha-avantgrand-n3-piano/#commentsFiled under:



Yamaha AvantGrand N3 (Creative, Cost No Object)

While we're tempted to think of Yamaha's latest invention as sort of the grandson of the keytar, that '80s rock staple that seemed the pinnacle of ebony and ivory awesomeness, in reality it's a whole new species. From afar the N3 looks like an especially mini baby grand, until you get up close and look under the hood, where suddenly you realize this beaut is a hybrid. Intended as a substitute for those who have neither the space (9.5 feet) or the cash (oh, about $150,000) for a concert grand piano, the N3 convincingly replicates the most important aspects of an acoustic model: the key and hammer movements as well as the pedals are the same as those in a regular piano, but the sound is all electronic and sampled from a top-of-the-line concert grand. And boy, is there sound, from the four subwoofers tucked into to the bottom panel to the four speakers up top facing the soundboard (with a dedicated amp for each). It sounds weird to be saying this about a $20,000 object, but at less than half the size of a grand and a fraction of the price, it's an incredible bargain.

SwitchedGift Guide: Yamaha AvantGrand N3 Piano originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avantgrandpianoyamahaSat, 14 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: NoPoPo Eco Water-Powered Flashlight Set]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-nopopo-eco-water-powered-flashlight-set/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-nopopo-eco-water-powered-flashlight-set/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/14/gift-guide-nopopo-eco-water-powered-flashlight-set/#commentsFiled under:


NoPoPo Eco Water-Powered Flashlight Set (Gadget Head, Under $100)

Both eco-conscious and smartly-designed, the NoPoPo Eco Water-Powered Flashlight ($55) is a must-have for the gadget fiend. By sliding the cover, the unit works as both a regular flashlight and a unidirectional lantern. But what's most interesting about the flashlight are the NoPoPo batteries, which run on liquid (apparently they'll work with beer or urine when you're in a pinch, but we suggest sticking to water if you're flush) and a mixture of magnesium and carbon. Simply suck up the liquid in question with an included pipette and inject it into the batteries, which carry the same charge as regular AAs. Although the batteries can only be recharged an average of three times, the charge lasts for 10 years. Now, that's sustainable.

SwitchedGift Guide: NoPoPo Eco Water-Powered Flashlight Set originally appeared on Switched on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hgghgg-100hgg-gadgetheadSat, 14 Nov 2009 16:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: McIntosh MXA60 Audio System]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/10/gift-guide-mcintosh-mxa60-audio-system/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/10/gift-guide-mcintosh-mxa60-audio-system/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/10/gift-guide-mcintosh-mxa60-audio-system/#commentsFiled under:


McIntosh MXA60 60th Anniversary Integrated Audio System (Media Hound, Cost No Object)

If you must have top-shelf, top-notch, wallet-draining audio -- which is the only reason you'd be perusing a McIntosh music system in the first place -- then at least do Santa (and the mailman) a favor and lug home the MXA60 yourself: even though it's a bookshelf system, it weighs a husky 64 pounds. From the company synonymous with picky sonic perfection, and vacuum-tube preamps, the MXA60 is an integrated mini-stereo par excellence: 75-watt-per-channel audiophile-quality vacuum-tube amp, CD/SACD/MP3 player, radio tuner and a pair of beefy loudspeakers that'll rock your socks off (as well as line level outs and ins). Of course, we'd be remiss if we didn't say it also looks pretty freakin' cool, but then for $7500 it better.

SwitchedGift Guide: McIntosh MXA60 Audio System originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hgghgg-cnohgg-mediahoundmcintoshmxa60Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: G-Robots G-Dog]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/10/gift-guide-g-robots-g-dog/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/10/gift-guide-g-robots-g-dog/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/10/gift-guide-g-robots-g-dog/#commentsFiled under:


G-Robots G-Dog (Gadget Head, Under $1,000)

For the robot enthusiast, the nonpareil G-Dog by G-Robots ($949.99) satisfies both the creative brain (you have to build it from the included parts) and gadget obsession. The fully-functional robot comes programmed with 17 actions -- like walk, kick, hand stand, and even "go potty" -- but the user can play with the G-Dog motion editor software to fine-tune those movements. A wireless remote controller, looking much like a PlayStation 3 controller, tops off the hardware. All in all, with an average two-hour build time, the G-Dog is easy to assemble and endless fun to use. And since G-Dog lacks the creepy verisimilitude of Ropid and other recent humanoid droids, it doesn't cause us any concern that it'll kill your loved ones in their sleep.

SwitchedGift Guide: G-Robots G-Dog originally appeared on Switched on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>g-dogg-robotshgghgg-1000hgg-gadgetheadrobotsTue, 10 Nov 2009 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Ambient Devices Baseball ScoreCaster]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-ambient-devices-baseball-scorecaster/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-ambient-devices-baseball-scorecaster/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-ambient-devices-baseball-scorecaster/#commentsFiled under:


Baseball enthusiasts know the frustration of searching high and low to get the update on scores of their favorite teams. That's all changed with the Ambient Baseball ScoreCaster. Operating on the free InfoCast Wireless Network, the ScoreCaster needs no TV or Internet connection to give instant information on any team, like inning by inning updates, standings (wins, losses, trends) and even schedules for 5 games out. With a game in progress, the ScoreCaster's knob flashes green or red to instantly tell when a team is winning or losing. Final stats are available throughout the entire off- season and the action starts again with spring training. Following any team, any time, ScoreCaster tells all and stops the fan from having to ask, once again, "anyone here following the game?"

SwitchedGift Guide: Ambient Devices Baseball ScoreCaster originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambientAmbientDeviceshgghgg-250hgg-sportsfansportsFri, 06 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: HYmini Solar-Powered Charger]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-hymini-solar-powered-charger/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-hymini-solar-powered-charger/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-hymini-solar-powered-charger/#commentsFiled under: ,


HYmini Green Charger (Earth Lover, Under $100)

Eco-conscious people, however dedicated to their ideals, enjoy the same fruits of modern technology -- smartphones, MP3 players, and digital cameras -- as the rest of us. One company has created a sustainable way to charge those gadgets using multiple renewable energy sources including wind, the sun, and even a handcrank. The HYMini Green Charger's internal 1200 mAh lithium ion battery can also be charged via wall outlet by connecting it via USB to a computer -- two not-so-green, yet effective, alternatives. It takes four hours in a wall to fully charge, but just 20 minutes in a 9mph wind is enough to take 20 digital pictures or power your iPhone for half an hour. Up to four mini solar panels can be added to catch the sun, and the pocket-sized turbine can be attached to a bicycle (or skateboard, car, etc.) to collect additional wind upwards of 40 mph. With HYmini, increased velocity equals increased power, allowing users to get outdoors and "recharge their batteries" in more ways than one.

SwitchedGift Guide: HYmini Solar-Powered Charger originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargerchargershgghgg-100hgg-earthloverhyminisolarsolar chargerSolarChargerFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Booq Python Blur Bag]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-booq-python-blur-bag/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-booq-python-blur-bag/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-booq-python-blur-bag/#commentsFiled under:


Booq Python Blur Backpack (Creative, Under $250)

Anyone attempting to travel with loads of multimedia equipment may be wondering if they don't also need a sherpa. Not with the Booq Python Blur Backpack. Polished and sleek enough to belie its function, the Python Blur is a full-featured audiovisual backpack with space for a laptop, camera, books and other accessories. Featuring a cutting edge interior layout, the Blur can be transformed in size and configuration to match individual storage needs. The camera compartment provides a scratch-free space to store a digital SLR (quickly accessed from the top), 2-3 lenses, and several filters, though it can easily be removed for other uses. Up to a 15.5-inch laptop (or 17-inch MacBook Pro) fits in the main pocket, while the side pockets can hold hard drives, batteries, filters, and binoculars. Use the front pocket for smaller items like business cards and cell phones. Airmesh back padding serves as a shock absorber and allows heat to escape, while a water-repellant, ballistic nylon exterior keeps gear safe and dry. It's not likely a sherpa can do all that.

SwitchedGift Guide: Booq Python Blur Bag originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbackpackbackpacksbagsbooqcomputerbagsgiftguidehgghgg-250hgg-creativetravelFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Garmin Approach G5 GPS Golf Companion]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-garmin-approach-g5-gps-golf-companion/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-garmin-approach-g5-gps-golf-companion/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-garmin-approach-g5-gps-golf-companion/#commentsFiled under:


Garmin Approach G5 (Sports Fan, Under $500)

To some, the game of golf is nothing more than a good walk spoiled. For the true disciples of the game, it is a test of character and mental fortitude. Both parties agree that it can flat out embarrass you.

For those who could use an ace up their sleeve (we're talking to you, everyone that isn't Tiger Woods) the Garmin Approach G5 might be just what is needed need to kick start their game. This golfer-friendly GPS device comes preloaded with thousands of courses' information, providing users with real time info on shot distances, hazards, and weather/wind conditions. The G5 also doubles as a four-person score card.

Golf can be a humbling endeavor. Tell your golfers to prepare themselves accordingly.

SwitchedGift Guide: Garmin Approach G5 GPS Golf Companion originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>garmingiftguidegolfgpshgghgg-500hgg-sportsfansportsFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Leica M9 Digital Rangefinder Camera]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-leica-m9-digital-rangefinder-camera/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-leica-m9-digital-rangefinder-camera/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-leica-m9-digital-rangefinder-camera/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Leica M9 Digital Rangefinder Camera (Gadget Head, Cost No Object)

The Leica brand has represented the ne plus ultra of photographic excellence for nearly a century, and continues to burnish its impeccable rep with its new M9 ($7,000). As beautiful a piece of gadgetry as any we've come across, the M9 is somewhat of an oddity in the digital realm: it's a rangefinder camera (meaning you don't see through the lens to focus), is essentially all manually controlled (including focus) and is the smallest camera around to pack a full 35mm CCD image sensor. That giant sensor also explains why the M9 can capture positively massive (and gorgeous) 18.5-megapixel images -- which, at about 36-megabytes (MBs) a snap, also means you might want to look into a new hard drive before you get snap happy. Nicely, the M9 can also accommodate any existing M-series lenses dating back to 1950s, a further enticement for any film Leica enthusiasts who are still sitting on the digital bench. Any devout shutterbug would kill or die to have one (and considering its $7,000 price tag, it'll surely cross some minds), though casual shooters who aren't comfortable messing with ISO, aperture and shutterspeed settings should likely opt for a DSLR with more automatic controls.

SwitchedGift Guide: Leica M9 Digital Rangefinder Camera originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hgghgg-cnohgg-gadgetheadleicaleica m9LeicaM9luxuryphotographyprorangefinderFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Tag Heuer Meridiist Automobili Phone]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-tag-heuer-meridiist-automobili-phone/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-tag-heuer-meridiist-automobili-phone/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-tag-heuer-meridiist-automobili-phone/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tag Heuer Meridiist Automobili Phone (Style-o-Phile, Cost No Object)

Thinking of springing for the veritable super car of cell phones? Lamborghini has saved you the trouble of searching high and low by releasing a phone of its own. Housed in black titanium and hand-brushed stainless steel, the Tag Heuer Meridiist Automobili Lamborghini (price TBD) was inspired by the Murcielago LP640, from the trademark Taurus bull on the central button down to the signature on the battery cover. Dual LCD displays crafted from 60.5 carats of scratch-resistant sapphire complement the black, minimalist backlit keyboard, 2-megapixel camera and reasonable seven-hour talk time. It's made by luxury phone manufacturer Vertu, which means it's created with folks who value ease-of-use and bling over the latest techno specs, making it perfect for the high-rolling novice in your life who still needs to stay in touch. But get it while you can. With only 1,963 units manufactured - a tribute to the year Lamborghini was founded -they're about as rare as the real deal.

SwitchedGift Guide: Tag Heuer Meridiist Automobili Phone originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blinghgghgg-cnohgg-novlamborghiniluxurytagheuervertuFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: The Vision One Computer Workstation]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-the-vision-one-computer-workstation/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-the-vision-one-computer-workstation/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-the-vision-one-computer-workstation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Vision One Computer Workstation (Gamer, Under $2,500)

There are desks, and then there's the V1 ($1,700 starting price), an uncompromising workstation aimed squarely at appeasing the ergonomic needs of the seasoned PC gamer. The standard and corner-room configurations come in 35 colors like solid blue, metallic silver, and "rainbo" -- yep, you read right -- with finishes that include racing stripes and even flames. An adjustable-height monitor stand holds up to three displays while padded elbow rests support your arms; four speaker uprights surround the user so that you're always in the sweet spot. Colors aside, the V1 customization options are plentiful, from the table tops down to chair. If you've got the extra cash, spring for the cushy leather Porsche seat. Why? Because you (and your back) deserve it.

SwitchedGift Guide: The Vision One Computer Workstation originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesdeskfurnituresgamingaccessorieshgghgg-2500hgg-gamerhouseholdv1Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Blue Microphones Mikey]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-blue-microphones-mikey/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-blue-microphones-mikey/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/06/gift-guide-blue-microphones-mikey/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Blue Microphones Mikey (Creative, Under $100)

For those who like to get creative with sound, Blue Mikey ($79.99) is an excellent addition to your potable digital tool belt. Essentially a mic that plugs into the bottom of your iPhone or iPod, Mikey lets you capture anything from live music to lectures. You interface with the hardware as you would the iPhone's built-in mic; you can either use Apple's own voice recorder, or download some more feature-packed options as Fire and FourTrack. Since it uses your iPhone as its "computer," the Blue Mikey is infinitely smaller than most digital recorders out there (for better or worse, it's also very light). The mic is directional, and a switch on the back lets you choose between different gain levels, depending on the sound source. Field recording has never been so convenient.

SwitchedGift Guide: Blue Microphones Mikey originally appeared on Switched on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorieshgghgg-100hgg-creativemicrophonesmicsFri, 06 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: 'Batman: Arkham Asylum Collector's Edition']]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/05/gift-guide-batman-arkham-asylum-collector-s-edition/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/05/gift-guide-batman-arkham-asylum-collector-s-edition/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/05/gift-guide-batman-arkham-asylum-collector-s-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,


'Batman: Arkham Asylum Collector's Edition' (Gamer, Under $100)

When we say 'Batman: Arkham Asylum' ($89.99 for Collector's Edition, $49 standard edition, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC) is the best superhero game of all time, we mean it. Because that's what Rocksteady Studios has achieved -- a gorgeous, adult action adventure that does the Dark Knight justice. Taking place over one evening, Batman must tackle the Joker and his goons and break out of Gotham's nuthouse. Luckily for players, the journey is extremely interactive-using one's surroundings to fight is not only encouraged, it's obligatory. Drop down onto enemies from above, rig explosives to bring walls down, and crash through windows and ceilings. The cast of 'Batman: The Animated Series' provides the voice acting, with Mark Hamill memorably reprising the Joker. The Collector's Edition includes a 14-inch "Batarang," behind-the-scenes DVD, and 48-page book with notes on Arkham Asylum's inmates.

SwitchedGift Guide: 'Batman: Arkham Asylum Collector's Edition' originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmanbatman-arkham-asylumhgghgg-100hgg-gamerThu, 05 Nov 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola DROID: The Reviews Are In]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/05/motorola-droid-the-reviews-are-in/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/05/motorola-droid-the-reviews-are-in/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/05/motorola-droid-the-reviews-are-in/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Motorola's DROID may be the largest threat to Apple's stranglehold on the smartphone market to date, and for good reason. Available starting tomorrow for $199 (with a minimum $70 voice and data monthly plan), the DROID offers lots to like: a sturdy, angular, all-black design; a crystal clear, high-resolution display (854 by 480 pixels); a faster, 550MHz-rated processor; the next-generation Android 2.0 operating system from Google; a physical keyboard; and Verizon's decent call service. Overall, critics see the DROID as a huge step forward for Android-loaded phones, despite there being a few significant kinks to work out. Head after the break to see what the Web is saying:

Continue reading Motorola DROID: The Reviews Are In

SwitchedMotorola DROID: The Reviews Are In originally appeared on Switched on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>droidHGGiphonemotorolareviewroundupsmartphonetalkinghedstopThu, 05 Nov 2009 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Gift Guide: Litl Webbook]]>http://www.switched.com/2009/11/04/gift-guide-litl-webbook/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/04/gift-guide-litl-webbook/http://www.switched.com/2009/11/04/gift-guide-litl-webbook/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Litl Webbook (Novice, Under $1,000)

Think of the Litl Webbook ($699) as the anti-PC. Sure, the 1.6 GHZ Atom processor and 1-gigabyte (GB) of RAM comes standard with most netbooks, but that's where the similarities end. For starters, the user interface strips away the menus, icons and folders typically found in Windows and Mac OSX, letting you view photos, online videos and update your Facebook status directly from main screen. A flexible hinge design gives you the option of using the Litl like a standard notebook with the chiclet-style keyboard or swinging the screen over, propping it like an easel, and navigating by moving a dial on the remote, so you can focus on say, perfecting that recipe you found online instead.

SwitchedGift Guide: Litl Webbook originally appeared on Switched on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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