Kodak Waterproof Camera

Kodak released PlaySport Zx5 HD Pocket Video Camera. So if you need a pocket video camera that can deliver the goods in full 1080p HD. The KODAK PLAYSPORT Video Camera is up for the challenge. KODAK built it to take on the most extreme lifestyles with an insanely tough design. This camera is shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof to a depth of 10 feet. This is an Amazon’s product review. Checkout more detail bellow.
Takes an impact. Makes an impact—in full HD
Share your most extreme moments simply. The Kodak PlaySport Video Camera / Zx5 delivers full 1080p HD with a rugged design that’s shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof up to 10 ft underwater.
If you’re going to live with no limits, you need a digital video camera that can deliver the goods in full 1080p HD. The Kodak PlaySport Video Camera / Zx5 is up for the challenge. We built it to take on the most extreme lifestyles with an insanely tough design—we’re talking shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof to a depth of 10 ft. And built-in image stabilization smooths out even the roughest ride. Whether you’re carving up the mountain or pulling stunts in the skate park, the PlaySport Video Camera / Zx5 is up for anything. And with a touch of the Share button, shocking your social network couldn’t be simpler. Show the world why you’re So Kodak. We dare you.
Go anywhere, do anything, fearless design
Waterproof
* Take the plunge up to 10 ft under water for up to 2 hours
* Don’t get the blues—underwater white balance mode gives true-to-life colors in the pool or under the waves
Dustproof
* The muddiest, dustiest, sandiest conditions are no match for the PlaySport’s rugged design
Shockproof
* Bumps and bruises go with the territory—the PlaySport can even take a fall from 5 ft
* IEC 60529 IPX8 compliant. ** IEC 60529 IP6X compliant. ***MIL-STD-810F, shock equivalent (onto plywood).
Just press to impress
The world’s only cameras with 3-step sharing!1
Kodak’s Share button makes sharing your videos and pictures as simple as 1, 2, 3.
* Step 1—Just press Share when in review mode
* Step 2—Choose your favorite sharing destination, e-mail address, or Kodak Pulse Display2
* Step 3—Connect your camera to your computer or insert your memory card and your videos or pictures are automatically uploaded to the destination(s)
Only Kodak Cameras:
* Let you simultaneously share to multiple social networks, e-mail and Pulse Display1,2
* Automatically share when you connect to a PC1
* Tag to the largest number of social networks: Kodak Gallery, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, FLICKR, ORKUT, YANDEX, and KAIXIN0011,3
Show them what you’re made of—in HD
* Full 1080p high definition captures your adventures in amazing detail
* Easily switch to still camera mode to catch 5 MP, 16:9 widescreen HD still pictures
Choose the resolution that works for you:
* 1080p—great for stunning playback on your HDTV—HDMI cable included!
* 720p at 60 fps—for fast action and super slow motion playback
* 720p at 30 fps—ideal for general recording in high definition
* WVGA—perfect for conserving space on your memory card or smaller files sizes for web use
Smooth, stable, and always able
* Get sharper videos and less blur thanks to built-in digital image stabilization
* Capture your friends in their best light with smart face tracking technology—the camera detects and locks onto faces, then ensures great exposure around them
* Get great close-up shots with macro mode (automatic detection or user selectable)
* See more details and accurate colors with incredible low-light performance
* There’s always room for more—record up to 10 hours of HD video with expandable SD/SDHC card slot (up to 32 GB) 4
Don’t let sun glare ruin your recording
* The bright 2.0 in. LCD automatically adjusts to the lighting conditions around you
* See your screen even in ultra-bright sunlight—simply turn on the LCD Glare Shield feature
Simple on-camera editing
* Trim your video to just the right moment and save it as a new video
* Make a picture from a video frame

Cool capture effects give a new look to your scenes
* Black and white
* Sepia
* High saturation—bright, bold colors
* ’70s film—muted colors, slightly greenish cast, and a little graininess for a retro look
Great video editing software comes on-board the PlaySport Camera
Download the software when you first connect it to your computer5 to:
* Edit and trim videos
* Add a voice-over to narrate your footage
* Add pictures and music to your videos to make cool mashups
* Grab and edit still images from video frames to get that perfect shot
Make a colorful statement
* Comes in a variety of colors
* Soft rubberized feel for a secure grip
* Rounded ergonomic design
Ready for the big screen
* HDMI port gives you the option to debut your videos in full glory on your HDTV6
* It doesn’t matter if you own a MAC or a PC—the Kodak PlaySport is compatible with both
* The optional remote control makes it easy to comfortably enjoy your videos and pictures
Ready to go—right out of the box
* Kodak PlaySport Video Camera / Zx5
* Adapter and cable for battery charging
* Wrist strap
* User Guide
* ARCSOFT MEDIA IMPRESSION Software for Kodak and Kodak Share Button App (both on-camera, PC only)
1. All models of digital still and video cameras manufactured in 2011 or later.
2. Kodak Pulse Display and Kodak Gallery support still pictures; video not supported.
3. Sharing sites vary by region.
4. Record about 20 min per 1 GB at 720p HD at 30 fps. Actual results may vary.
5. On-board software for PC only.
6. HDMI cable is an optional accessory. Receive a FREE HDMI cable when you register your PLAYSPORT and pay Shipping and Handling.
Product Specifications:
Standard features
Sensor type- 1/3.2-type, 5 MP CMOS
Lens
* 5.5 mm, 35 mm equivalent
* 48 mm @ 1080p
* 36 mm @ 720p
* 36 mm @ WVGA
* 36 mm still capture
Zoom- 4X digital
Image stabilization- Digital
Display size- 2.0 in.
Storage- 128 MB internal memory1, SD/SDHC card expansion slot (up to 32 GB card)
Focus modes- Normal, macro
Focus range
* [auto] 0.1 m–infinity
* [macro] 0.07–0.17 m
* [auto underwater] 0.13m–infinity
* [macro underwater] 0.09–0.22 m
White balance- Auto, underwater (manual)
File format
* Video: MPEG-4, AAC LC
* Still: JPEG/EXIF v 2.21
Capture modes
* 1080p (16:9)—1920 x 1080, 30 fps
* 720p (16:9)—1280 x 720, 60 fps
* 720p (16:9)—1280 x 720, 30 fps
* WVGA (16:9)—848 x 480, 30 fps
* Still (16:9)—5.3 MP
Capture effects- vivid color, normal color, sepia, B&W, high saturation, 1970s film look
Weather/Outdoor ratings
* waterproof—IEC 60529 IPX8, up to 10 ft
* dustproof—IEC 60529 IP6X
* shockproof—MIL-STD-810F
Review mode- delete, playback, FF, rewind, pause, by frame, volume control
tagging: Share, email, keyword, keyboard input
Share destinations- Facebook, FLICKR, Kodak Gallery, YouTube, Twitter, ORKUT, YANDEX and KAIXIN001 sites2, e-mail, and Kodak Pulse Digital Frame/Display
Editing- trim, extract pictures
Microphone- yes—monaural
Speaker- yes
I/O interface- USB 2.0 (high-speed), AV out, HDMI
Tripod mount- 1/4 in. standard
Powe- internal Li-Ion battery (service replaceable), in-camera charging-
Dedicated buttons power, capture, review, menu, 5-way switch, delete, Share
Dimensions- 2.3 × 4.4 × 0.7 in. (58.2 × 111.9 × 17.7 mm)
Weight- 125 g (4.4 oz.)
System Requirements:
WINDOWS
* WINDOWS XP SP2, VISTA, WINDOWS 7 or later
* INTERNET EXPLORER 6.0 or higher
MACINTOSH
* MACINTOSH 10.4, 10.5, 10.6 or higher
* SAFARI 1.1 or higher
Hardware
* PENTIUM 4, 1.4 GHz processor or higher
* PENTIUM 4, 2.8 GHz processor or higher for HD video
* 1 GB RAM and 64 MB Video RAM
* 300 MB hard drive disk space available
* CD-ROM drive
* Available USB port (1.1 or higher)
* 1024 x 768 display resolution
1. 128 MB internal memory/20 MB available for video and picture storage (1 MB equals 1 million bytes)
2. Sharing sites vary by region
That’s all about the camera Kodak PlaySport Zx5. This camera is available in Amazon.com. You can directly order or Buy form here.

Mini Digital Camera

The Fuuvi Pick is probably the cutest digital camera ever made. The Pick stands about three centimeters tall and is being marketed as a “toy digital camera.” Fuuvi Pick isn’t much larger than a flash drive, but it’s actuall a digital camera, capable of capturing both stills and videos.


The tiny camera measures just 1.37″ (h) x 2.75″ (w) x 0.59″(d) and weighs under an ounce. It captures stills at 1280 x 1024 resolution (1.3 megapixels), and can shoot video at 720 x 480 at 30fps. Its tiny F2.8 lens shoots only at ISO 100, but if you’re using this thing for your pictures, I’m assuming you’re not expecting museum-quality images. The very fact that they call these things a “toy digital camera” should have tipped you off.

The coolest thing about the Fuuvi is the end of the camera pops off just like a flash drive, and the camera will dock and charge when plugged into your computer’s USB port. The camera’s storage (a Micro SD card up to 16GB) will be immediately recognized as a drive on your PC, just like a flash drive.

This camera is ideal for youngsters who are always trying to get a hold of mom and dad’s camera. The Fuuvi Pick comes in a variety of colors and is currently selling for $59.

3DHero Camera

GoPro has just announced the general availability of that very module with $99.99 getting you a waterproof 3D expansion kit for the insanely popular HD Hero camera and the kit allows a pair of 1080p lenses to form a single 1080p 3D camera, and it’s waterproof to 180 feet.GoPro has also taken this opportunity to snap up CineForm and it’s wasting no time in putting the outfit’s compression and workflow technology to good use………..


GoPro, the world’s leading activity camera company announced the availability of the much anticipated 3D HERO System, a waterproof 3D expansion kit for GoPro‘s best selling 1080p HD HERO camera. The 3D HERO System is available immediately at GoPro.com and is shipping to GoPro retailers worldwide with an MSRP of $99.99.The 3D HERO System has an industry-first modular design that enables consumers to combine two 1080p HD HERO cameras to form a single 1080p 3D camera, the world’s smallest and least expensive one at that. Waterproof to 180 feet, the 3D HERO System can be worn on the body, mounted on gear and vehicles, and used as a handheld camera. A dual-camera, polycarbonate, waterproof housing holds the two cameras together and a synchronization cable plugs into the back of each camera, enabling them to function as a single camera. A single shutter button controls both cameras.

“The 3D HERO System is exciting for a lot of reasons, one of them being that it’s not just a 3D camera. It’s really several cameras in one, depending on how the consumer wants to use it,” says Nicholas Woodman, GoPro’s founder and CEO. “That you can take two GoPro cameras that you would normally use independently and combined them to form a new type of camera, a 3D camera…that’s extremely cool. GoPro is excited to be the first company to build a camera this versatile.”"In addition to being a top selling consumer camera, the HD HERO camera is used by more professional production crews in the broadcast and film industry than any other camera in its class,” adds Woodman. “We expect the 3D HERO System to further establish the HD HERO as one of the most versatile cameras in the world.”The 3D HERO System housing is only 5 inches (130mm) in length and 2.5 inches high (62mm) and is compatible with existing GoPro mounting accessories.GoPro‘s 1080p HD HERO cameras are not included with the 3D HERO System and are sold separately, starting at $259.99 per camera.

The 3D HERO System includes:

• 3D HERO Waterproof Housing
• 3D HERO Synchronization Cable
• Skeleton Door (allows for optimal sound capture in dry environments)
• 3 Pairs of 3D Anaglyph (Red/Blue) Glasses
• Helmet Front Mount
• 2 Flat and 2 Curved Adhesive Mounts
• Free Download: GoPro CineForm Studio 3D editing software

GoPro CineForm Studio :
Included as a free software download from gopro.com, GoPro‘s CineForm Studio software makes it easy to create, watch and share your 3D photos and videos. Mac and PC compatible, CineForm Studio combines the 2D photos and videos captured with the 3D HERO System and converts them into 3D H.264 files that you can watch on your computer, online at YouTube and on your 2D or 3D television at home. Announced on March 30, GoPro acquired CineForm, a leading video compression software company famous in the film and broadcast industry for their high quality compression and editing applications. GoPro‘s CineForm Studio software is a direct extension of CineForm‘s award winning professional applications and puts the power of Hollywood-caliber 2D and 3D editing in the hands of consumers.

Professional Options for Professional Content Creators:
GoPro‘s professional customers will appreciate that in addition to being able to export YouTube friendly H.264 video files, CineForm Studio can also export video files using the GoPro CineForm codec. The GoPro CineForm codec is a professional quality video codec that allows for lossless 2D and 3D video editing in a variety of leading editing programs such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Apple Final Cut Pro, Avid Media Composer and Sony Vegas, as well as Apple iMovie and Windows Movie Maker. Used by Hollywood pros to create films such as Oscar winner Slumdog Millionaire, the GoPro CineForm codec is included as a part of the free CineForm Studio download from gopro.com.

Buggati New Car Edition

Designing a car is an art and sometimes the graphic designers outwit the automotive ones in their own trade. The reason is that designers like Bruno Delussu (French) are never bothered about the technical specifications as to what will power the car, but simply let their imagination flow to create what pleases the eye.










The mesmerizing Buggati Stratos created by the French graphic designer affirms that it is favorable to let go the tech spec considerations to create a gem of a design. Bruno was inspired by the ever so beautiful Buggati Type 57 Atlantic and that inspiration did help him weave magic. Some design cues were also picked up from the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Mille Miglia (for the front end) and Raymond Loewy’s locomotive designs. I must say that it for the first time I don’t really bother whether the Stratos will ever make the cut or not.

Xtreamer Ultra HTPC

At CeBIT 2011 the company Xtreamer showed an unusual multimedia computer (HTPC) called Xtreamer Ultra and this device has attracted public attention for its compact dimensions,based D252 1.8GHz dual core Intel Atom and Nvidia ION2……..


Xtreamer Ultra is a portable HTPC equipped with 6 USB, eSATA, 4 Gb DDR3 RAM, HDMI, an integral IR remote control and powered by the nVidia ION2 Chip that allows vivid and crisp playback of FULL HD multimedia files.The Xtreamer Ultra devices incorporate state-of-the-art technology, commonly used in high-end computing and consumer electronic solutions. The highly refined manufacturing process, timeless engineering and careful quality-control have once again resulted in a product that works out of the box yet embraces the highest long-term aesthetic and commercial value.Xtreamer Ultra HTPC using ION2 platform with low power consumption Intel dual-core CPU + Nvidia integrated graphics and with a 4GB DDR3 memory, easy to deal with 720p and 1080p, the video playback issue. Do not look at the petite size, Ultra HTPC is also equipped with six USB ports, an HDMI 1.4A interface, an infrared remote control, a small wireless keyboard. You intend to use your HTPC connected to TV to play 3D PC games, then give up Xtreamer Ultra HTPC.ION2 configuration is too stretched and it have a fresh copy of Linux.Xtreamer Ultra HTPC is expected to interview in early May.

The Witcher 2

The Witcher 2 is the second installment in the RPG saga of the Witcher, Geralt of Rivia, features a thoroughly engrossing, mature storyline defining new standards for thought-provoking, non-linear game narration. Unique, intuitive combat system blends variety tactical elements with the most spectacular and dynamic combat sequences ever seen in a computer role-playing game. A beautiful new graphic engine based on State-of-the-Art, new, ultramodern technology created by CD Projekt RED.
In Brief
The second instalment in the RPG saga about the Witcher, Geralt of Rivia, features a thoroughly engrossing, mature storyline defining new standards for thought-provoking, non-linear game narration. In addition to an epic story, the game features an original, brutal combat system that uniquely combines tactical elements with dynamic action. A new, modern game engine, responsible both for beautiful visuals and sophisticated game mechanics puts players in the most lively and believable world ever created in an RPG game. A captivating story, dynamic combat system, beautiful graphics, and everything else that made the original Witcher such a great game are now executed in a much more advanced and sophisticated way.

Key Features:
* A truly epic, intense, emotionally charged adventure with non-linear game narration. Three independent plot lines with several alternative events are dependent on the player’s choices and lead to multiple different game endings and several additional plot forks. This time gameplay time will be shorter than The Witcher 1, but more intense and packed with events.
* A complex, realistic and mature story touching upon subject matter seldom seen in other RPGs, told in a manner that is understandable and attractive to contemporary gamers. We investigate the assassinations of the rulers of the Northern Kingdoms and follow Geralt’s personal theme, in which he’s looking for his own identity. Gradually we learn how powerful forces influence our situation and what role they order us to play.
* Rich, mature dialogue as found in Andrzej Sapkowski’s book series and The Witcher 1, presented in highly filmic cutscenes and dialogues sequences, thanks to a new game engine.
* New, improved system of flashbacks. Now the reminiscences of Geralt, in which we observe the link between our past choices with current actions, are realistically and smoothly woven into the gameplay.
* Sex and eroticism will be introduced in a much more realistic, involving and mature way, thanks to which sexual relationships are presented more credibly than in TW1.
* Unique, deep, consistent and rich game world established in a series of best-selling books by A. Sapkowski and recreated in the game to provide an incredible, believable story-driven experience.
* Believable, true-to-life characters with their own motivations and goals. During our journey we meet ordinary men, soldiers, rebels, powerful mages, rulers and their assassins. Depending on our decisions we meet different game characters, and our relationships shape further actions in the game.
* Highly varied, breathtaking locations, which thanks to the new engine create a cohesive, fully accessible world!
* Rich, living world in which every character has their own way of life and unique occupations. Our actions modify the relationship with the game-world population and, in the case of the main plot line, open or close the possibilities of interaction with the game world.
* Greater freedom of exploration to provide increased game realism and a wider range of new tactical options. Geralt will surmount barriers, jump over fences, scale walls and ascend rock formations.

3Dconnexion 3DxWare

3Dconnexion 3D mice now compatible with Any PC or Mac application and 3DxWare 10 lets 3D mice work in 2D apps, leaves your standard mouse feeling a bit flat.The additional axis characteristic of these mice could be exploited in some three-dimensional graphics programs like 3ds max……….



3Dconnexion announced 3DxWare 10, a breakthrough driver platform that extends the usage of 3D mice to any application, from Microsoft Office to internet browsers and from media players to games. With over a million units sold, 3Dconnexion 3D mice are the tool of choice for engineering and design professionals working in sophisticated 3D environments. And now with 3DxWare 10, 3Dconnexion 3D mice can also handle everyday applications with ease. Beta versions of 3DxWare 10 for PC and Mac can be downloaded for free from www.3dconnexion.com/anywhere.Previously, only users of specialist 3D applications benefited from the intuitive, six degrees-of-freedom 3D navigation delivered by a 3Dconnexion 3D mouse. Now, the simple 3DxWare 10 interface allows users to assign keyboard strokes and traditional mouse or joystick movements in any combination to the 3D mouse. Tilt the controller cap to scroll a Web page, twist the cap to adjust the volume in iTunes, or use all six axes to pilot a helicopter in Battlefield Bad Company 2. The choice of application and assignment of the six axes and up to 32 function keys (depending on the 3D mouse model) is entirely up to the user.“The 3DxWare 10 driver platform represents a new era for our 3D mice,” says Dieter Neujahr, president of 3Dconnexion. “Our customers have told us they want to be able to use their 3D mice with everyday applications. This technology lays the foundation for our products to be used far more widely, ultimately allowing us to extend the advanced features of our 3D mice to anyone who works with a computer.”3DxWare 10 offers limitless possibilities for incorporating 3D mice into everyday use, including:

• Documents and Browsers: 3D mice now offer a compelling alternative to traditional mouse wheel navigation in documents, spreadsheets and Web pages. Gently tilt the 3D mouse cap to scroll the view up or down or twist the cap to zoom in and out.
• Games: Most PC gamers rely on a combination of a traditional mouse and keyboard to control their character or camera view, but with 3DxWare 10 a 3D mouse can be used to deliver intuitive and comfortable control in games like The Sims™ 3. It’s also possible for the 3D mouse to emulate a joystick or gamepad for a rich 3D experience in games such as Microsoft Flight Simulator, Wings of Prey and Need for Speed.
• Media Players: Controlling the volume, track selection or position is typically handled by the traditional mouse and keyboard shortcuts. With a 3D mouse, you can twist the cap to adjust the volume, tilt the cap sideways to fast forward and rewind, and tilt the cap forward or backward to move between tracks in your playlist. And if the user prefers other controls, they can easily customize the 3D mouse to best suit their needs.
• 3D Collaboration: 3DxWare 10 also provides a new feature for professional users by allowing multiple 3D mice to be used on one workstation. This innovative development enables easier viewing of 3D models in group design reviews or client presentations.

TDK’s New Line of Boomboxes and Audio Gear

TDK Life on Record, a portfolio brand of Imation Corp. announced the retail availability of its anticipated new line of premium audio equipment in the United States and Canada, following a successful debut at Austin’s The FADER FORT by FIAT. The bold new line, which has received a number of positive reviews in 2011, features 2 and 3 Speaker Boomboxes; a 360-degree Sound Cube; two Belt Drive Turntables and audiophile-quality Headphones.In addition to online availability in the United States and Canada, shoppers will find the 2 Speaker Boombox on the shelves of Best Buy stores throughout North America, with additional in-store availability set for April 2011.With a majority of the new TDK Life on Record audiophile products available today at Amazon.com, Bestbuy.com and Canadian retailer Future Shop (both in stores and online), the Turntables will be available throughout the region in April. Additional retailers will also begin offering selected products in April, including J&R, La Curacao, Sears.com and Nebraska Furniture Mart.

This new line of premium audio equipment from TDK Life on Record blends the warm experience of analog with the precision and convenience of digital technology. The integration of a unique visual equalizer a visual heartbeat brings the music to life, driving the listening experience by creating a strong visual connection with the music. Featuring generous controls and fine tuning features, the products let listeners control and customize their listening experience. Each product embodies hi-fidelity sound and combines clean, striking designs with precision performance to enhance the music experience. “In designing the new TDK Life on Record premium audio products, we hoped to create bold products that connect what people love about analog with the convenience and style of new digital technology,” said Steve Swenson, Global Brand Manager for TDK Life on Record. “The response to what we created has exceeded our expectations. With the products on shelves for people to discover, we are excited to hear about their first-hand listening experiences with the new line.”The new lineup of TDK Life on Record audio products includes:

• Boomboxes: TDK Life on Record brings this original music culture icon back to life – combining dynamic sound performance, premium surfaces and features that let you customize music your way. Like the music itself, the TDK Boombox is an out-loud expression of your musical identity. It is the perfect combination of digital precision and analog ideals, recalling a time when music was tangible and tactile, as well as warm and vibrant.An innovative equalizer gives the music a visual heartbeat, while touch-sensitive buttons and generous controls deliver simple and intuitive interaction. Digital data streaming allows premium audio decoding and playback while charging Apple iPod and iPhone devices.
  • 3 Speaker Boombox
  • Availability: Amazon.com, Bestbuy.com and Future Shop/Futureshop.com
  • A dedicated, high excursion 6-inch subwoofer driver and two 6-inch coaxial drivers deliver dynamic, full range sound and a striking, retro look.
  • 2 Speaker Boombox
  • Availability: Best Buy and Future Shop/Futureshop.com
  • Two powerful six-inch coaxial drivers deliver balanced, full range sound while the integrated handle and tailored shoulder strap make the boombox easily portable.
  Inputs for both 2 and 3 Speaker Boomboxes include USB, 3.5mm and auxiliary ports for connections to an iPod, iPhone, smartphone or USB flash drive. Users can also plug in a guitar or microphone and mix with other music sources.
• Sound Cube:
  • Availability: Amazon.com, Bestbuy.com and Future Shop/Futureshop.com
  The Sound Cube Audio System is designed to fill your space with sound. Refining the hi-fi audio system to its most essential parts, the Sound Cube is a movable and sharable centerpiece for out-loud expressions of personality. This audio system’s compact, sleek frame belies both its powerful sound, and its advanced capabilities. As a showpiece, the Sound Cube is as visually arresting as it is sonically impressive, with sound ports on each of its four sides delivering 360 degrees of sound. With its tailored handle and lightweight and solid frame, the Sound Cube begs to be seen and shared with the world.Two powerful 5 1/4-inch coaxial drivers deliver full range sound. Play your iPod/iPhone music while charging using the USB to 30 pin Apple cable. Inputs include USB, 3.5mm and auxiliary ports for connections to an iPod, iPhone, smartphone or USB flash drive. Users can also plug in a guitar or microphone and mix with other music sources.
• Belt Drive Turntables
  • Availability: Amazon.com, Bestbuy.com and Future Shop/Futureshop.com
  TDK Life on Record brings the warmth of analog into the modern age with these advanced belt drive turntables. A perfect balance of performance and style, the exposed belt drive isolates the platter from motor noise, and is continuously monitored by an optical speed sensor and is adjusted to a perfect 33 1/3 or 45 rpm.The uniquely illuminated tone arm and graphic equalizer provide the warmth and visual heartbeat to the modern, yet classic design, along with the freedom to use almost any stylus and cartridge from standard to truly premium through a universal connection.The TDK Life on Record USB Belt Drive Turntable is the essential next step in the vinyl revival. With an integrated pre-amp, USB output, cable and included software (for Windows OS), listeners can import/convert tracks from vinyl to MP3 format on the fly with minimal effort. By simply dropping the needle on the USB Turntable vinyl owners can archive an entire record collection to digital format.
• Headphones:
  • Availability: Amazon.com and Future Shop/Futureshop.com
  The TDK Life on Record High Fidelity Headphones re-imagine the personal listening experience. For the professional and the aficionado, the ST800 headphones prioritize function, comfort and craftsmanship alongside technical superiority, high fidelity and sonic range. With metallic detailing and genuine leather accents, they are visually stunning, exuding a sense of casual luxury while the multi-directional cup design delivers optimal fit and comfort.Sonically tuned by the TDK Life on Record Audio Research Lab, the ST800 headphones deliver authentic sound, optimized for any genre, at any volume. High-performance 50mm drivers deliver amazing clarity and range. On-ear volume and mute controls are always within your reach, and an in-line equalizer with visible display lets you adjust bass and treble levels separately.

Color Picker Pen

 

Korean designer jinsu park designed a concept pen that adopts the eyedropper tool of photoshop
for real life. the color picker pen enables colors in the environment to be scanned and instantly used for drawing. the sensor detects the color and matches it to the color display. then the RGB cartridge located within the pen mixes the inks together to create the color that has been scanned. 

Capture the action inside and outside your car - Dash Cam Dually

The Dash Cam Dually has two built-in 1.3 Mega Pixel cameras to capture the scene in front of your car AND what’s happening inside your car. Four Infrared LED’s illuminate the interior of the vehicle so you can even capture video at night. Video is recorded to the included 2GB SD card. Another really cool feature of this camera is the built-in G-Shock sensor that has five (5) level settings and can record multiple impact points in the event of an accident.

The Dash Cam Dually will sense the drastic change in g-force, and automatically log the recordings. The camera even has a built-in GPS receiver that logs your exact location, speed, and direction. This camera can be purchased for $385.00 from SpyGadgets.com

SCANNER Built In With a KEYBOARD!

The KeyScan KS810-Plus Imaging Keyboard is a desktop keyboard with a built in scanner that can scan a full A4 size page in 5 seconds for grey scale or 15 seconds for color. It’s capable of scanning documents in sizes of 2×3” to 8.5×30”, including plastic cards and drivers licenses that are 3.5×2.5” up to 1mm thick. It’s available now for $139.99.

KeyScan combines the power of a quick color scanner with keyboard for easy scanning of documents, photos, plastic cards, driver’s licenses and more

Jersey City, NJ – KeyScan, the first exclusive inventor and developer of the integrated keyboard-scanner product and of the “NoTouch™-AutoScan” software, unveils the KS810-Plus Imaging Keyboard. This new and unique category of keyboard is a must have tool for any office or work area, the KS810-P delivers full A4 size page gray scanning in a quick 5 seconds making difficult scanning tasks easy. With 15 preset functions for non-default jobs, this imaging keyboard makes saving and emailing documents and photos effortless. The unique “NoTouch™-AutoScan” software allows the user to complete their most frequent scanning task without touching any button, simply place the document on the feeding tray. This new multi function peripheral (MFP) keyboard solution also features a USB2 Hub with only single USB connected to the PC both for the HUB the keyboard and the built-in scanner and two downstream ports for other low to high speed devices. KS810-P is now available for $139.99 at TigerDirect.com, CompUSA and KeyScan.com

“Our new imaging keyboard puts the power of color scanning at your fingertips saving you space and changing your office into a paperless environmentally friendly workplace” says Dov Aharonson, CEO of KeyScan . “We are happy to provide a fast high quality imaging solution that will provide convenient emailing, archiving and copying solutions right from your keyboard.”

The KS810-P is a fast USB2 sheet feed imaging keyboard that provides a multitude of features and scanning capabilities including:

• KeyScan “No Touch” scanning software
• Capable of scanning documents ranging in size from 2×3” to 8.5×30” including plastic cards and drivers licenses that are 3.5×2.5” up to 1mm thick
• Scans letter size, 300dpi gray in 5 seconds and color documents or photos in 15 seconds
• A 600dpi high optical resolution
• A 50dpi to 4800dpi output resolution
• Converts scanned documents into a variety of file formats: PDF, MS-Word, HTML, JPG, TIFF, BMP
• Allows you to email scans as attachments or fax* them directly from your computer
• Secure email files with password
• Document release is bi-directional based on the document length
• Integrated USB2 Hub
• High quality keyboard with 6 dedicated internet access buttons and 4 scan buttons
• Minimum system requirements are Windows, XPS-SP2 or higher, Vista both 32/64 bits, Microsoft Net 2.0 or higher, 1GB RAM, 1GB free hard disk

* Fax and copier functions require access to fax-modem and printer. May require 3rd party software.

Now Your Smartphone Can Sense Dangerous Chemicals

Jing Li, a scientist in California's NASA Ames Research Center, has designed a smartphone plug-in device that could sense chemicals from the environment. Current prototype of the device works with the iPhone, and plugs into the handset's bottom connector. The device can detect chemicals in ambient air such as methane, ammonia and chlorine gas. It's designed to connect to a network through WiFi or a regular phone connection in order to send alerts to other phones also equipped with the device. According to Li, a previous prototype of the device was the size of a soda can - this iteration, however, is touted as one of the smallest complete sensing-device in the world.

The device contains a silicon-based sensing chip with 64 nanosensors. Li and colleagues had to work on making a chip that can contain all those nanosensors and yet is compact, high-speed, low-power and low-cost. The chip consumes 5 milliwatts, and can last for 100 hours when ran continuously. Although connected to a bottom connector and draws power through it, data communication is routed through the audio input jack due to restrictions imposed by Apple upon third-party developers. There might be a chance that the second phase of the device's development could be made for a smartphone other than an iPhone. Whether this happens or not, Li envisions future prototypes to be used by fire fighters and other kinds of emergency responders.

Hexound Headphones

Hexound headphones designed by Zhong-Fa Lie are only a concept.Lie designed the Hexound headphones to be made up of three removable units. When these units are connected, they “fulfill their own roles as speakers and a foldable & portable solar energy collection device.” The headphone speakers, when detached, can be used in a stereo speaker mode, described as a standalone way to share music with others around you at a party.


The band of this concept headset incorporates photovoltaic panels that continually recharge the headset’s onboard battery. The headset comprises of three removable units, which when connected accomplish the task of speakers and a foldable solar energy collecting device. The speaker mode sets into action with just a flip of the switch.

The Hexound Wireless Headphones might just be your solution to high quality sound, without your conscience bothering you about having to replace batteries every so often. The concept design includes solar panels that power up the headphones while outdoors, and charge the headphone’s batteries when not in use.
The headphone is also composed of removable units, which means that you can use them as stereo speakers for sharing music in a room with friends.

Solar Powered Cell Phone

An elegant solar powered cell phone was unveiled at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona this week naming as ‘Apollo’. It has Designed by Chinese cell phone manufacturer Umeox, this phone with a solar panel incorporated on its back side, is already being touted to be the world’s first Android-powered, mass produced, solar-powered cell phone.


The Apollo features a 3.2″ 320×480 display, 1GB of storage, a microSD card slot, FM radio, Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP, a 3 megapixel rear camera and a 3.5mm audio jack. While the Apollo is the first solar-powered cellphone unveiled at MWC 2011.
The Alternatives:
While the Apollo is the first solar-powered cellphone unveiled at MWC 2011, there were similar phones unveiled at previous events too, which included big names like the Samsung Blue Earth.
1. Samsung Blue Earth:

This green technology imbued, flamboyant blue phone is made of recycled plastic, features a pedometer, and even an advanced software that acknowledges just how much we are contributing to Earth by using it. Integrated solar panels are embedded on the sleek back side, with full touchscreen on the front.
2. LG Pop:

The LG GD510 Pop carries an optimized feature set that allows the phone to be more compact and easy to use. The phone is equipped with a 3MP camera with auto focus and 8GB of internal memory that can store several popular audio and video file formats to keep the user entertained for a long time. In addition to a host of trendy features, the cellphone carries a large photovoltaic panel to charge the onboard battery on the move.
3. Sagem Puma Phone:

Weighing it at 115gm, the solar-powered Puma Phone features a 2.8-inch QVGA touchscreen interface and a 3.2MP camera with LED flash. The phone also doubles as a sports tool with included features like bike speedo and a run tracker, both of which use the phone’s GPS receiver, a pedometer and even a sailing compass. It also includes a music player, an FM radio and a stopwatch. The phone has 7.2 Mbps HSDPA and 2.9 Mbps HSUPA, an 880 mAh Li-Ion battery that’s good for 350 hours of standby and 5 hours of talk time and 24 hours of music playback.

Unique MP3 Player

Chih-Wei Wang and Shou-His Fu have designed a unique MP3 player. Called the “Skinny Player”, the music player is attached to the user’s skin in a similar way to a plaster.It is a lot simpler and thinner than the iPod Shuffle, incorporating storage, a battery, a play/stop button and speakers into a Band-Aid-like form factor.


Both designers claim that MP3 player will not lose its adhesive power even after being attached and removed hundreds of times and it is easily cleaned using a damp cloth.

Like its inspiration, the Skinny Player adheres to the user’s body. This is not just practical but essential to the device, because it will use the person’s body heat to recharge its batteries.

The Skinny Player MP3 player also does not require batteries but obtains power from body heat created during movement. The flexible player has an on/off button and a flexible speaker so it does not require headphones, and has enough memory to hold an album of music.

No technical information of this MP3 player and how body heat works as a power supply is available to the public yet. The Skinny Player is ideal for sports enthusiasts and is a step towards battery free music.

Samsung Galaxy Player 70

Samsung Galaxy Player 70 is the competitor of Apple’s latest iPod touch. It was recently released in Korea and is featured in this promo video and would be available in the US this spring in two models; Galaxy Player 4 and Galaxy Player 5.


The Galaxy Player 70 is essentially the Galaxy Player 5. This video is a very fine work of art with professional approach which nicely explores the whole handy features of upcoming Galaxy Player 70 including video conferencing with Qik.

The new Samsung Galaxy Player 70 portable media player is available in South Korea right now.

AT&T and Ford Electric Vehicle

Ford Focus Electric hooks up wirelessly with AT&T and Ford Electric Vehicle owners will have ability to remotely monitor, engage and control vehicle settings via information collected over the AT&T wireless network.Ford Motor Company to use AT&T wireless network to connect new Ford Focus Electric and wireless connection enables vehicle owners to control vehicle settings when away from the car all part of a strategic approach to make Ford electric car ownership simple, easy and engaging…………


Ford Motor Company and AT&T announced an agreement to wirelessly connect the Ford Focus Electric, Ford’s first all-electric passenger car. Announced in January at the 2011 International CES, the new Focus Electric enters production at the Michigan Assembly Plant in late 2011.Through the new MyFord Mobile smartphone app, using the embedded AT&T wireless connection, Ford Focus Electric vehicle owners will have the ability to send and receive data about their car providing command and control of vehicle settings while away from it.“Ford has been at the forefront of developing market leading telematics and infotainment services for its vehicles and we’re thrilled to be a part of this exciting and significant next step with the upcoming Focus Electric,” said Glenn Lurie, president of emerging devices, resale and partnerships, AT&T. “Connecting consumers directly to their electric vehicles in this new and innovative way is going to drive innovative and exciting levels of interaction.”

MyFord Mobile technology provides Focus Electric owners in North America with a powerful tool to stay connected, monitor and control their vehicle. Through a smartphone app or secure website, MyFord Mobile invites Focus Electric owners to plan trips, monitor the vehicle’s state of charge, receive various alerts for vehicle charging, as well as provides several other features designed to simplify the electric vehicle ownership experience.“With a wireless connection, we’re putting battery charge and vehicle range information, along with an interactive, data-driven trip planning app, directly at the fingertips of our customers,” said Ed Pleet, product and business manager for Ford Connected Services. “This technology will keep drivers connected to vital information, enhancing their electric car ownership experience. The AT&T network is an important part of this equation and we’re pleased to have AT&T on board.”MyFord Mobile will connect through the AT&T network, allowing the car to communicate off-board through standard wireless technology. From an internet connected mobile phone or computer, owners can:

• Find current and projected state of charge information including estimated range and the amount of charge time necessary for additional distances
• Program vehicle charging with utility input, allowing the car to start charging immediately or when electricity prices are lowest with the value charging feature, powered by Microsoft
• Features powered by MapQuest available on the MyFord smartphone app:
  Locate charging stations and get the destination sent to the vehicle
• Know if the vehicle can reach a specific charge station from its current location with the current charge level
• Create a journey with multiple stops, and determine the likelihood that the car has adequate charge for the full journey
• Find the car by creating a route from a mobile phone to the vehicle
• Receive alerts if the vehicle isn’t charging when it’s scheduled to, or if charging stops unexpectedly due to a power outage, plug removal or other event
• Receive alerts during recharge when the vehicle has reached a particular preset charge level or has the ability to reach a particular destination
• Engage remote vehicle preconditioning, using grid power to heat or cool the vehicle interior
• Remotely lock/unlock doors
• Use the built-in GPS system to locate the car
• Download performance and system data
• Fun ways of understanding your driver behavior, with ratings from ‘Zen’ to ‘Zippy’
• Receive information personalized to the driver, depending on which key the driver used

At launch, the MyFord Mobile app will be available for most major smartphones, along with a mobile web application for compatibility with any phone supporting HTML-5 browser-based access, or feature phones with WAP 2.0-supported browsers. The feature also is accessible via a secure Ford website.Owners will use the smartphone to communicate with a cloud-based highly secure server, which stores information provided by the embedded wireless module in Focus Electric. Using a cloud-based architecture ensures users will have up-to-the-minute access to information through the AT&T wireless network.

Solar Robort

Japanese have a flair for inventing new things and are never bogged down by tough situations. Currently battling with the disaster caused by the massive earthquake and tsunami that wreaked havoc on the country on March 11. Two scientists of Hiroshima International University, Yosuke Kimura and Daisuke Goto, have defied all odds to develop a robot that runs on solar power.


The two electrical systems majors of the university have designed this robot using two solar panels that can supply power to the robot when the normal power goes down. As a part of the Hiroshima International University’s engineering program the dedicated Star Wars radio controlled robot has been exhibited in Hiroshima in recent times.

Samsung Transparent LCD Display Coming Soon

Samsung has unveiled a new notebook with a 14-inch transparent LCD display, allowing users to browse the web whilst seeing what’s happening on the other side of their PC. This new transparent notebook was shown of at FPD China 2011, and it features a 14 inch LCD display with a resolution of 1680 x 1080 pixels, and there is a white LED unit installed in each of the four corners of the display.


Although visually impressive, positive practical applications for such transparent displays remain a relative mystery. Despite this Samsung has reportedly revealed it plans on using such displays in devices later this year.

Samsung 14-inch Transparent LCD Display Laptop will be available at stores by end of 2011 or beginning of 2012.

ASUS Eee Pad Transformer

Asus has announced that the company is officially going to release its Eee Pad Transformer in Taiwan on March 25th. This Asus Eee Pad Transformer is an Android tablet that comes in a detachable keyboard. It was first announced at CES 2011.


For those who don’t know, Asus Eee Pad Transformer is a 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen display with professional IPS panel (178 degree wide color gamut), Mini-HDMI and audio jack, a MicroSD card reader, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1, and webcam.

The Asus Eee Pad Transformer Tablet is boasts a NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor, 1GB DDR2 memory, 16GB/32GB storage, and runs Android 3.0 Honeycomb OS.

Asus has mentioned that the Eee Pad Transformer (which has already hit the FCC) will retail from $400 to $700, depending on whether you decide to bring it home with the dock or not.

MSI G Series Gaming Laptop

MSI has officially introduced its MSI G Series gaming laptop dubbed as MSI GX680. It is powered by the Intel second generation Core i7 quad core processor, the high-end nVidia GeForce GT 555M discrete graphics card, 4 DDR3 memory slots, accelerated dual hard disk architecture, and ultimate smart wrap around sound experience courtesy of Dynaudio, THX TruStudio Pro.


MSI GX680 sandy bridge gaming laptop is equipped with DVD Super Multi (or Blu-ray) drive, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, Gigabit Ethernet LAN, Bluetooth 2.1, webcam, 5-in-1 card reader, and two USB 3.0 ports.
Newly GX680 is sports TDE (Turbo Drive Engine) for overclocking, and ECO Engine for optimal power consumption on battery power, as well as Cooler Boost function for efficiency of the cooling system.
MSI GX680 notebook has dimension of 395 x 267 x 55 mm and weight 3.5 kg. It is pre-loaded with Windows 7 Ultimate OS. No word on pricing yet.

AT&T MiFi 2372

Novatel Wireless has clinched DLNA certification for the MiFi 2372, turning the portable 3G hotspot into a mini media server and the DLNA Server functionality can share content stored on a microSD card to nearby smartphones, notebooks and WiFi-compatible HDTVs, for seamless sharing of digital media across multiple platforms……



Novatel Wireless,a leading provider of wireless broadband solutions announced that it has been granted certification from the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) for its MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot.The MiFi DLNA Server resides on the MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot and runs on the MiFi OS as an application to provide simple, hassle-free media sharing. The MiFi DLNA Server enables users to browse, play and share movies, music and photos anywhere, anytime, on any DLNA-compatible device. Users effortlessly access their media stored on a microSDHC card inserted in the MiFi device, stream to their screen of choice, and enjoy.

“The DLNA CERTIFIED MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot improves the end user experience by allowing mobile access to a users personal content such as video, music or pictures and allowing that content to be shared across multiple devices,” said Rob Hadley, CMO of Novatel Wireless. “We are excited to see the rapid adoption of DLNA Certified devices and believe our MiFi DLNA Server is a great application to empower consumers to share and communicate anywhere with industry leading ease-of-use.”The MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot will be the first DLNA Certified device commercially available. AT&T will be the first wireless carrier to offer this service with the MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot.

The MiFi DLNA Server enables seamless access to digital content on DLNA-compatible DVD and Blu-ray players, game consoles, televisions, tablets, mobile devices, computers, audio video systems, digital frames, home theater devices and more. The MiFi DLNA server makes it easy to share both user-generated and syndicated digital content without complicated configuration and without having to copy, move and synch media files on multiple devices.According to ABI Research there were more than 440 million DLNA Certified devices already installed in users’ homes at the end of 2010. ABI Research estimates there will be nearly two billion DLNA Certified devices in homes worldwide by 2014.

User scenarios with the MiFi DLNA Server include:

• Stream movies to your laptop and/or watch directly on your living room TV
• Listen to music stored on a microSDHC card on your home sound system
• In the van, let the kids watch one video on a Galaxy Tab and another on an iPod touch
• Share vacation photos on the grandparents’ TV using their Blu-ray player
• Film the wedding reception, slip the microSDHC card into the MiFi device, and share the movie instantly on an iPad

Nokia Windows Phone 7

Nokia CEO Stephen Elop has stated that work has begun on its first Windows Phone 7 smartphone. Elop has announced that he’s hoping to begin manufacturing the first Windows Phone handset by the end of the year with a hopeful launch date of early 2012.


Nokia’s recent filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission revealed that Nokia and Microsoft’s strategic partnership has yet to be finalized. Nokia claims in the document that the transition to Windows Phone as its “primary smartphone platform” will take “about two years.” Nokia said recently that it plans to ship Windows Phone branded devices to developers when they are available later this year. Nokia is currently engineering Windows Phone devices and is expected to wait for “Mango”, the next version of Windows Phone, until it unveils them later this year. “Mango”, the codename for what will likely be named Windows Phone 7.5, is currently in the early beta stages at Microsoft. The software giant revealed a number of new features in February that will ship as part of its Windows Phone point release later this year. Nokia is reportedly waiting for multitasking, IE9 mobile and others before it releases its first Windows Phone device.

Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY

Sony Ericsson has launched an interesting set of new commercials to promote its new Android-based smartphone, the Xperia PLAY. The commercial has been dubbed as “Pwnage”. Previously it has also launched some few commercial.


The commercials feature Kristen Schaal, the obsessed and crazy fan “Mel” on Flight of the Conchords. The ads are garnering favorable attention from many who say they are original, quirky and hilarious. In the commercials, Schaal highlights the main features of the phone, including its downloading, kitten-watching, spreadsheet-editing functions.
What may be surprising for some, is the fact that sexual innuendos as well as foul language has been used in these adverts.
A little excerpt:
The controls are faster, I can actually see the bastard. She’s right there and she has low self-esteem. Before she takes notice, I’m stabbing her in the boob. Do you feel that boob stabbed? I can feel it either ‘coz my boobs are so big.
Checkout the video below.
That’s not all. A total of five adverts have been released that are equally twisted in style and content, and all of them can be viewed at Sony Ericsson’s YouTube channel.

TRON Watch Concept.

Abhinav Dapke, an industrial designer based in the city of Bangalore in India, has come up with this cool looking concept for a watch with a design inspired by the science fiction film TRON: Legacy.

The design language is evolved from TRON environment, products and costumes. This time keeping device has a display with hours and 5 minutes hexa-slots. Illume personifies TRON legacy.

Head over to the Coroflot website for more info about the TRON Watch Concept.

Flex Display Phone (concept phone)

When it comes to technology advances, the future looks really bright. Take for instance this Flex Display Phone by designer Hank Chien-Cheng Chen. It is a concept phone featuring an expandable touch screen, which can be stretched from 3” in mobile phone mode, to 5” in notepad mode.
There is also a touch keyboard that makes writing text messages or emails much easier. The innovative device features all the basic cell phone functionalities, plus several more.

Alt Pioneer DJM-2000 DJ mixer

You know that feeling you get when you hop into a car you'll never be rich enough to own? It's full of fascinating technology, everything works great, it's solidly built, it definitely won't fit into the "compact" spots at 7-11 -- and it just doesn't care. If you're a DJ, entering the world of Pioneer's DJM-2000 is a little bit like that. Read on for our impressions of the multitouch-laced behemoth to see if it'll have you raving all the way to 2012

Hanging with the big man

In an era of increasingly Liliputian sound gear, this Bentley of a mixer is decidedly gigantic. The DJM-2000 will take up a 17" x 15" spot in your coffin, and it weighs in at more than 20 pounds. You could travel with it, but you might want a roll with a Daft Punk-sized road crew to help you cart it around.

This mixer sits at the very top of Pioneer's DJ line, so you can kind of take the basics for granted. The faders slide and resist just the way we like them to. All of the switches, knobs, buttons, and LED's look and feel professional. The enclosure itself feels like a tank -- while we wouldn't want to see what happened if we dropped it, somehow it gives off the impression that it could take a licking and still do its job admirably.

One of our favorite features is the set of eight channels of 24-bit/96 kHz audio onboard. The DJM-2000 runs via USB to your computer, where you'd presumably tell your DJ software where to route the jams. Each of the four channels on the DJM-2000 has a traditional line / phono switch, but with a very cool "USB" position as well. So -- surprise surprise! -- you won't even need any actual decks to get rolling. Just a computer with some music on it. What you won't get are jog wheels of any type -- so you can't completely abandon whatever control method you're already using for this one box.

The sound coming out of the D/A converters buried within is thick and substantial. We can say with confidence that this is definitely the best-sounding digital DJ interface we've laid ears on.

If you've ever used one of Pioneer's effects-laden mixers, you'll know they're a lot of fun to mess with. No exception here: highly-assignable and programmable beat and harmony effects take up a lot of space on the face of the DJM-2000, and with good reason. We ended up spending more time experimenting with different knob-tweaking permutations than we did with... the touch screen.

Touching the freqs

The first thing you'll notice upon powering up is Pioneer's pièce de résistance: a 4.5- x 2.75-inch multitouch screen sitting right on top of the crossfader. Three buttons handle the screen's destiny: MIDI, MIX, and REMIX.

Such a fancy piece of gear would be remiss without its fair share of MIDI. The touchscreen itself can become a controller: we used preset control screens to trigger tracks in Traktor Pro. Virtual sliders, X-Y fields, and buttons will send MIDI over USB, a very handy feature to keep most of your triggering functions close to the center of your rig.

The REMIX interface is a bit like a Kaoss Pad in the mix. An X-Y frequency-time grid controls four oscillators, a re-sampler, and pitch / gate effects, with handy frequency-based triggering to set the sounds in time with the beat.

What you'll see advertised the most about this piece of kit is FREQUENCY MIX -- a touch crossfader that allows you to control the balance of the sound over 7 bands of EQ. This is the thing your geeky friends will want to see first, and the effect is kind of exhilarating. Being able to have such fine and intuitive control over the different sonic areas of your inputs is a breath of fresh air -- it will certainly put a smile on your friends' faces. We noticed that it came in the most handy with highlighting and blending particular parts of the mix we wouldn't have noticed with a simple 3-band EQ.

That said, after a chunk of time with the Frequency Mix area, we found ourselves reverting to the traditional 3-band EQ to notch into specific frequencies. This is undoubtedly an act of habit. We imagine it will take quite a bit of time for jocks to be more comfortable touching into frequencies than tweaking knobs as they have been for decades.

The touchscreen itself, while not particularly high-resolution or beautiful, is as snappy as any hardware button we've ever used to trigger a MIDI note. We can't say that about some other touch applications. Feeling like we could be able to trust a screen to respond quickly and reliably to ultra-timing-sensitive interaction was a new one for us; we certainly wouldn't trust our iPads in the same way. We can't stress this enough: the purpose-built touch interface feels just as reliable as a knob or fader. It's obvious a lot of work went into optimizing this screen for the DJ.

The way it makes you feel

We know that there are, of course, lots of other options out there for taking your DJ sets into a highly-stylized future. LEMUR pioneered (no pun intended) the use of multitouch in the realm of audio and continues to innovate there. iOS DJ and MIDI applications are plentiful and useful tools for swiping, pinching, and tapping into an innovative mix. But we've gotta say, we've never seen a more tightly-integrated, stable, and functional implementation of multitouch display in an audio context.

Technically, nothing in the DJM-2000 is groundbreaking on its own, although there is one true "first" here -- a touchscreen has not, to our knowledge, ever been inserted directly into a mass-produced mixer. But that's not really the best part about this big black chunk of signal processing. Because all of the elements play so nicely together, we got a synergistic feeling from the components of DJM-2000: the creative potential hidden inside adds up to more than its discrete components belie. What we really thought once we got the hang of it was "it only does everything," but another marketing team already snatched those words up. Homebrew audio freaks might be able to approximate something like this setup, but we certainly wouldn't trust this much circuitry in da club unless it came from a giant like Pioneer.

Wrap-up

Our verdict? If you're among the growing group of people downsizing your kit for the sake of economy and convenience, we'd point you towards something like Native Instrument's Traktor Kontrol S4. But if you're still rocking turntables or CDJ's and need to outfit the "boy's room" in your Gulfstream or yacht with a new DJ mixer, you can do no better than the $3000 DJM-2000. (If you're already hooked into Pioneer's ecosystem of high-end CDJs, it makes even more sense for you, as there's a bevy of DJ Link goodness here we haven't even gone into.) It's a pleasure to operate, and no matter how you feel, it's just downright awesome to have a multitouch interface inside your mixer.

A parting note: no matter how awesome rigs like this make you feel, for the love of Tiësto: if your'e just getting into DJing, please go Behringer or Hercules. You'll feel a lot less stupid when you spill your DJ beverage all over it and have to get a new one.