Being a native Washingtonian and big B.B. fan, I
braved the rain -- for about an hour. Next time Jesse tries to organize a musical outing
for the team, I'm going to suggest he hook us up with MP3 gear instead. Here’s a look
at the latest on the MP3 front.
X10 MP3 Anywhere: When I said
new, I wasn't kidding. This hot product from X10 launches today. Similar to its popular DVD
Anywhere, MP3 Anywhere transmits audio/video using 2.4-gigahertz wireless radio signals.
That allows you to play MP3s on any stereo or entertainment console within 100 feet of
your PC. The kits consist of a VideoSending Unit, a VideoReceiving unit and Wireless
MouseREMOTE (FYI, the mouse works with other X10 modules). It's compatible with
RealJukebox and is slated for Winamp and MusicMatch compatibility within days. ($99.99)
Click for more.
Creative Labs Nomad: This entry into the MP3 fray features 64
MB of storage (half of that is a SmartMedia card), FM tuner and voice recorder. (I
do wonder why and when you'd use it.) The folks at Equip gave it great marks for ease of
use, and I especially like how the Nomad's LCD scrolls the artist's name, song
title and playback time. Sound quality is good, but it only packs an hour's worth of
CD-quality sound. ($249) Click for more.
jazPiper: Along with standard MP3-player functions, the
jazPiper boasts a very handy 250-name phonebook -- a musical little black book. The player
features 32 MB of built-in storage (expandable to 64 MB), one-button function control and
software for all your ripping and transferring needs. Set up is simple and the player runs
for 6-10 hours on two AAA batteries. Also includes a voice recorder. ($189) Click for
more.
i-Jam: Targeted for iMac and iBook users, i-Jam hits shelves
in September. It comes in a slew of colors, features USB support, FM tuner and 32
MB of storage. Storage is expandable, but be careful: It's based on a not-so
tried-and-true SanDisk MultiMediaCard. Oh, it will work with PCs too. ($200) Click for
more.
