Author Archives: David Berkowitz, Editor in Chief.

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Budweiser’s Clydesdale Horses Perform in Las Vegas at the South Point Hotel

My family and I had the opportunity to see the famous and historic Budweiser’s Clydesdale Horses perform at the South point hotel casino in February 2014. Please check out our you tube video and tell others about it as well. At one point in the video 2 of the horses almost collide and cause damage. The Budweiser Clydesdale Horses were revealed to the world on the day that Prohibition was repealed in 1933. Please watch the youtube video!!

Watch this video on YouTube.

Thanx, Please share, tell all about it.

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Life N Soul Audio Review-BN301, MT103 and B106

While at CES I met the fine folks at Life N Soul and took a look at their bluetooth headphones.

In this review I am talking about 3 of their products:

1) The BN301–>Bluetooth Sports Earphones–>

I really liked the audio quality, bass response and the simple design of these headphones. They would be great for use while running, bicycling, at the gymn and outdoor pursuits. Their overall design was nice, solid, with out being over the top. I would say that of the 3 products I tested, these produced the best all around sound response for  music playback, and they are nice,small, and easy to transport. They did also come with a small, well made  carry pouch which I really liked. I had my teen age sons try them out and they were impressed with their apparent quality as well.

Features

*Bluetooth 4.0 allows for pairing with two different devices
*Bluetooth capability of up to 30ft
*Easily switch between phone calls and music
*Comfortable, noise blocking ear pieces fit to stay in your ears through intense motion
*6 hour music play time. 4.5 phone talk time
*Sweat-proof coating great for working out
*Once paired with the first device, B106 will automatically search for a second device for 30 seconds. If no second device is found, music will resume play with first device as usual. If second device is found, pairing will occur immediately.

 

2) The MT103–>

In terms of the design, I found them to be appealing to the eye, nothing over the top but, simple and effective. In our testing we found, that they were great headphones for hands free calling and listening to music that favored treble more than bass. In terms of setup and operation they were easy to sync to the phone and the controls were fairly easy to access. I would recommend these to people for listening to tv or movies on ones tablet or phone and making calls as needed. I think that would work decently well for gaming, but not for hardcore gamer’s expecting thundering bass and amazing surround. Overall they are simple and effective.

Features:

  • Small, portable size with accessible clip-on adapter for ease of movement
  • Thick cord greatly reduces tangles and increases longevity of device
  • Bluetooth 3.0 allows you to pair up to 2 different devices at a time
  • Adapter can convert any original earphone to Bluetooth functionality when connected
  • Vary depths of bass and clarity of the mids and highs with 3 different filters

3) The B106:

Bluetooth Headphone Red

In reference to the lot of them I was impressed by the design and construction of  them all. I especially liked the design of the B106. It rivaled the big guys in terms of it’s quality, appearance, and apparrent durability.  Additionally, it had good call sound when using them to communicate in a game and on the phone. In terms of audio it sounded nice, especially for classical, light pop, jazz or blues music. In terms of the bass it produced it was but not not overpowering, and would not be my first choice for the music like dubstep, rap or hip hop. The B106’s had better bass. In terms of usability it was quite easy to use, as well as easy to sync to the android or iphone and tablets. I think that they would be great for watching movies, youtube, and most audio.

Features:

*Durable, sturdy design

*Bluetooth capability of up to 30ft

*Omni-directional microphone

*10 hours of playtime when fully charged

*Bluetooth pairing allows you to switch between phone calls and music

*Automatic connecting with the last paired device when headset is turned on

*Battery life is displayed on Apple iOS devices

*Voice prompts allow for simple Bluetooth pairing

*Clear, powerful sound

*Playback songs with the simple touch of a button on your device

If you want to check them out for yourself go to lifensoul’s website–>sitelink

They are on Facebook too–>facebook

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Urban Ears Zinken Review

Zinken by Urban Ears Box

Zinken by Urban Ears Box

 

While at CES 2014, I spoke with the folks from Urbanears. I had the opportunity to take a look at and listen to their Zinken Headphones. I now had the opportunity to test and review the set they sent us in the mail. We received the Orange/Red aka Tomato colored ones. As you can see from the image above the packaging is the same color as the headsets that you receive.

Here is an example of another color option–>Urbanears-Urbanears-Zinken-cover-05

I would definitely state that they are appealing to the fashion conscious crowd.

In terms of their design and fitness for purpose:

Here is an image of the items that arrived with them in the box.

IMG_20140201_093936_828

The contents of the box, included the headphones, a unique connector cord, a sticker which went to my daughter, seemed appropriate for a 12 year old girl or anyone who likes heart stickers.

The aforementioned cord is interesting is that it can be plugged into the headsets in 1 direction whereby you can use the plus in a device like an Ipad with a 1/8th inch plug or plug it in the other direction in the other port on the headphones and use the 1/4″ plug. The second option would be great for musicians and DJ’s who need a quarter inch plug. This adds a great deal of value to the headphones.

According to Urban ears–>

These brightly colored orange on-ear headphones were developed with the professional DJ in mind. Zinken delivers deep bass, crisp mids and highs and efficiently reduces noise from the outside world. Packed with features, Zinken comes with the ingenious TurnCable for an adapter-free life and the ZoundPlug for instant music sharing. We’ve also thought a lot about comfort, and designed Zinken with swivel earcaps, an adjustable headband and specially selected materials that are easy to keep fresh and clean.

I would agree with them that the headphones are made in a decent manner, are flexible to fit most head and ear sizes, and fit nicely over the ears even for people like me with larger than average ears. What is also nice is that they are not huge and obtrusive either and are easy to wear in public.

Though the headphones are not as fancy as the expensive guys like Beats or Monster, they are a superb value for the money and have a high level of usefulness and utility.

I found that since the headphones were intended for DJ’s they lived up to my expectation that they would have good bass and nice sound quality. I was impressed by them overall.

To get a real world view, I let one of my 17 year old sons to try them out with his DubStep music, and he was impressed and now wants to keep them for himself.

The Design of the Urbanears Zinken Pro DJ headphones are simple, but in a cool way. Some of the competition is over the top in design and price, where these are not they are affordable and work well. They have a no-nonsense look to them where everything has a specific purpose within the design. They come in ten different colors and they all have a “Flat” type paint style to them. This way they can be as tame or as wild as your personal preference suggests. Around the outsides of the headband and the outsides of the ear cups, the Flat paint also has a rubberized texture to them. The part that extends out of the headband for more length is a hard plastic. The cable is very unique and intuitive. It is completely detachable. One end is a mini 1/8-inch connector while the other end has a ¼-inch connector. The right earcup has an 1/8-inch output, while the left earcup has a ¼-inch output. This way you will never need a ¼-inch or 1/8-inch adapter because you will always have either one or the other at your disposal. This cable is known by Urbanears as the Turncable. Each earvcup can also output the sound to another set of headphones so others can see what you are listening to if you wish. The cable is about 3ft but it is also coiled and can extend up to about 9ft when pulled to the max. The Turncable also has an in-line microphone and one-touch button for receiving or making calls on a compatible smartphone. I would probably not use them all of the time for making phone calls but when I am at home and on a conference call I expect them to perform well.

Overall:

I liked:

–>The design and variety of colors
–>The sound quality
–>The option of either using the 1/4″ or 1/8″ cord with the nice kevlar cord, which for those who were in the army, and am familiar with kevlar it is a good thing implying that they will last for a while
–>The well made, durable metal reinforced hinges
–>The way the headphones fold for stashing them in your bag
–>The fact that they are comfortable

What could be added value
–>A carry bag would be cool
–>A cool logo on the side of the headphones.

Overall I would recommend these to anyone that needs nice headphone for DJ’ing, up and coming musicians or audio technicians, or those that want nice headphones to listen to music, especially the young bass loving folks. One other point is that the headphones would appeal to guys and gals especially for those like my daughter who loves pink or purple or to football or sports fans who could get them in the team’s colors.

For more information or to get a pair or two for your self go to–>

Urbanears!!

More images–>
IMG_20140201_093757_929
IMG_20140201_093936_828

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Audio-Technica Debuts New Over-Ear SonicFuel Headphones, First-Ever Gaming !!

Audio-Technica Debuts New Over-Ear SonicFuel Headphones, First-Ever Gaming Headsets and More at CES 2014

STOW, OH, January 7, 2014 – At CES 2014 Audio-Technica is introducing a wealth of new products at the Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall Lower Level, Booth 20656, Las Vegas, Nevada (January 7 – 10, 2014). Highlights of Audio-Technica’s new product introductions include the following:

Audio-Technica’s new SonicFuel AX Series over-ear headphones feature sleek, comfortable design, superior sound quality and three models with smartphone and iPhone compatibility. AX models include the ATH-AX5iS, ATH-AX3iS and ATH-AX1iS with microphones, and the ATH-AX5 and ATH-AX3 without microphones (SRP: US$89.95 – US$39.95). Like all SonicFuel iS models, the ATH-AX5iS, ATH-AX3iS and ATH-AX1iS have universal smartphone compatibility; they’re fully compatible with today’s latest smartphone devices from companies like Apple, Samsung, HTC and more.

 
The new SonicFuel CKX Series in-ear headphones are designed to take musical enjoyment to greater sonic heights. All feature ergonomic C-tip earpieces that nestle in the ear for a stay-in-place fit, and the “iS” models have smartphone and iPhone® capability with an in-line controller with microphone and volume adjustment for managing phone calls and music/video playback. Other features like the innovative 360-degree rotating eartips, flat tangle-free cord and useful accessories are also available on various models throughout the line. The SonicFuel in-ear headphones include the ATH-CKX9iS, ATH-CKX9, ATH-CKX7iS, ATH-CKX7, ATH-CKX5iS and ATH-CKX5, with suggested U.S. retail prices ranging from $99.95 to $44.95.

Audio-Technica is introducing its first-ever gaming headsets, the closed-back ATH-AG1 and open-back ATH-ADG1 (SRP: US$249.95 and US$299.95). The premium-quality headphones utilize core elements of the company’s audiophile models to deliver an immersive sonic experience with exceptional clarity and dynamics, and a realistic soundstage that draws listeners completely into the gaming environment. Both include a built-in microphone and a detachable USB D/A converter/headphone amplifier along with additional gaming-specific features.

 
The ATH-ANC70 is the newest member of Audio-Technica’s acclaimed QuietPoint active noise-cancelling headphones lineup. The ATH-ANC70 (SRP: US$199.95) provides up to 90% noise cancellation and offers a host of improvements, including a mic and controller for answering calls and controlling music, completely integrated electronics with all functionality built into the earcup, and a new comfort-fit design.

Audio-Technica is expanding its SonicSport fitness-oriented headphones lineup with the ATH-CKP200iS ear hook style headphones with mic, volume and control functionality. The ATH-CKP200iS (SRP: $US44.95) has an IPX5-certified waterproof rating and is sweat-proof and washable. Its hinged ear hook adjusts around the ears for a perfect fit. The ATH-CKP200iS comes with both standard silicone and ridged XS/S/M and L eartips to provide a choice of greater sound isolation or allowing in a low amount of ambient sound for greater safety outdoors.

 
The ATR 7000 Series VHF Wireless Microphone Systems are four new wireless systems designed for consumer use that combine long-range wireless performance with ease of use, clear, natural sound quality and outstanding value. Incorporating technologies that are directly drawn from Audio-Technica’s industry-standard professional wireless systems, the new models include the ATR7200 handheld wireless, ATR7100/L lavalier, ATR7100/H headworn and ATR7100/G guitar/instrument systems. Suggested retail prices range from US$129.95 to US$109.95. In addition, Audio-Technica is introducing its ATR3350iS lavalier mic with smartphone compatibility (SRP: US$29.95).
 
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Schwinn Debuts CycleNav Smart Bike Navigator at Consumer Electronics Show Unveiled Media Event

PRESS RELEASE
Schwinn Debuts CycleNav Smart Bike Navigator at
Consumer Electronics Show Unveiled Media Event

See where to go and hear when to turn with Schwinn’s new CycleNav patent-pending smart bike navigation system
Las Vegas, Nevada – January 06, 2013 – Schwinn, a brand of Dorel Industries (TSX: DII.B, DII.A), unveiled the CycleNav Smart Bike Navigator the brand’s first-ever mobile appcessory at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Unveiled. Schwinn CycleNav is a free mobile application paired with a handlebar-mounted smart-bike navigation unit designed to give riders turn-by-turn audio and visual navigation from their handlebars.
CycleNav is the first navigation device that, when connected to a smart phone via Bluetooth, provides audio commands and visual light indicators to direct riders to their desired destination. With your phone in your pocket, basket or bag, your hands are free to steer while CycleNav speaks directions and flashes turn indicators. With your attention on the road and not on your phone, any type of bike riding you’re doing – from exploring new trails or commuting to work – is safer and easier than ever before.
Choosing a route to ride is simple: enter the destination address and CycleNav provides route options based on terrain and also offers you the shortest route option, by both time and distance. Need to make a stop along the way? CycleNav allows you to add a stop during your trip or to create a custom route. If you miss the audible directions, CycleNav will repeat the last instruction with a click of the center chrome button; this button on your CycleNav is located just inches away from your handlebars, ensuring your attention and hands are focused on riding safely. As an added bonus, CycleNav also acts as a bicycle headlight.
At the end of your trip, the CycleNav application records statistics from your journey, including distance, duration and calories burned, giving you a complete snapshot of your ride. Share your ride stats with friends through social networking integration. Challenge other riders with MapMyRide through uploading your ride history.
The app marks Schwinn’s first entree into the world of mobile technology, continuing the brand’s legacy of innovation and advancement of bike riding for the masses. CycleNav is available for free download via the Apple App Store and Google Play on January 15, 2013. Schwinn CycleNav will be available at Walmart stores in the bicycling section in spring 2014 for a price of $59.99.
ABOUT SCHWINN
Founded in 1895, Schwinn is an American icon, building some of the best-known and best-loved bicycles of all time. With a continued dedication to quality, forever synonymous with the Schwinn name, America’s most famous bicycle brand looks forward to providing another century of innovation and performance to people of all ages. Information about Schwinn bicycles is available at www.SchwinnBikes.com. Be sure to follow Schwinn on Twitter at @RideSchwinn, on Instagram at @SchwinnBikes and like Schwinn on Facebook at Ride Schwinn.
Schwinn has been part of Dorel Industries (TSX: DII.B, DII.A), a world class bicycle and juvenile products company, since Dorel purchased Pacific Cycle in 2004. Dorel creates style and excitement in equal measure to safety, quality and value. Dorel’s powerfully branded products include Safety 1st, Quinny, Cosco, Maxi-Cosi and Bébé Confort in Juvenile, as well as Cannondale, Schwinn, GT, Mongoose, Caloi, IronHorse and SUGOI in Recreational/Leisure. Dorel has annual sales of US$2.6 billion and employs 6,300 people in facilities located in twenty-four countries worldwide.

I ran into Schwinn at CES on the 5th of January and was impressed by this new innovative and interesting device. It is one heck of a good idea especially for people that take their bike on vacation or are new to the area that they bike in. I was impressed by the simplicity and effectiveness of the device.

David Berkowitz

Editor

 

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RAZER LAUNCHES NEW HEADPHONE SERIES

RAZER LAUNCHES NEW HEADPHONE SERIES

Four New Audio Products in the Adaro Line Boost Sound and Functionality Beyond Gaming

 

Razor Adaro Awesome headphones!!!

Razor Adaro Awesome headphones!!!

For Release on Jan. 2, 2014:

CARLSBAD, Calif. – Jan. 2, 2014 – Razer™, the world leader in high-performance gaming hardware, software and systems, today announced the Razer Adaro series, a new line of headphones designed for personal entertainment.

 

The new audio lineup will initially feature four models: bass-heavy earphones, analog stereo headphones, Bluetooth® headphones and DJ-style headphones. Each member of the Razer Adaro family is designed with a heavy focus on durability, comfort and uncompromised sound quality for music listening.

 

The Razer Adaro series marks the company’s latest venture into the personal entertainment audio space. The Razer Kraken and Electra, two of Razer’s best-selling headphones, were tuned for music, as well as gaming.

 

“Making technically advanced headsets to meet the extraordinary requirements of professional gamers has been a primary focus for us for years, and applying that competency to the development of headphones designed for music lovers is a natural extension for the business and our fans,” says Min-Liang Tan, Razer co-founder, CEO and creative director. “For some time now, we’ve been asked to come out with a line of headphones that addresses the other interests of our community. The Razer Adaro lineup offers just that: high-quality, portable audio for kicking-back, traveling and training, and even for making music.”

 

All four Razer Adaro products are available for pre-order now. For more information, check out www.razerzone.com. Also, view the Team Farang Razer Adaro Series lookbook here.

 

About the Razer Adaro In-Ear Analog Earphones

 

Combining killer sound, a sleek, robust, aluminum body and a convenient, compact carrying case, the Razer Adaro Earphones are built for pure listening pleasure on-the-go.

 

Crafted and engineered to exacting standards, the Razer Adaro Earphones provide a solid in-ear aural experience. Precision-milled out of aircraft grade aluminum and finished with diamond-cut edges, the look and feel is as premium as its sound.

 

Incorporating quality hardware, the Razer Adaro Earphones are more than just head turners. High-performance, custom-tuned 10 mm neodymium drivers are sonically optimized to complement their inner acoustics chambers, producing crisp stereo sound. Interchangeable ear tips in three sizes and bi-flange attachments are included to personalize the fit.

 

Price:

U.S. $79.99 / EU €79.99

 

Availability:

Razerzone.com – Pre-order in January

Worldwide – February

 

Product features:

 

–          High-performance 10 mm dynamic drivers

–          Robust, precision-milled aluminum body

–          Personalized fit and sound isolation

–          Flat, anti-tangle cable

–          Compatible with most popular mobile devices

–          Included carrying case

 

For more information about the Razer Adaro Analog Earphones, please visit www.razerzone.com/adaro.

 

Images

 

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About the Razer Adaro Stereo Analog Headphones

 

To create the perfect pair of headphones for music listening, we approached the design with three things in mind: uncompromising audio, long-lasting comfort and robust portability.

 

Packing high-performance, custom-tuned 40 mm neodymium magnet drivers, the Razer Adaro Stereos deliver crisp, natural-sounding acoustics for an amazing audio experience. These powerful drivers are housed in the custom-developed, fully adjustable architecture of the Razer Adaro Stereos, allowing for an extremely comfortable and lightweight design.

 

The Razer Adaro Stereos are meant to be taken wherever you go. Their construction is sleek and compact, allowing for easy transportation, yet they are incredibly robust for endless hours of use.

 

With its brilliant sound, comfortable form factor and portability, the Razer Adaro Stereos are the perfect headphones for the active music listener.

 

Price:

U.S. $99.99 / EU €99.99

 

Availability:

Razerzone.com – Pre-order in January

Worldwide – February

 

Product features:

 

–          Custom-tuned 40 mm dynamic drivers

–          Comfortable, lightweight form factor

–          Fully adjustable architecture

–          Plush leatherette ear cushions

–          Anti-tangle, braided fiber cable

–          Compatible with most popular mobile devices

 

For more information about the Razer Adaro Stereo Headphones, please visit www.razerzone.com/adaro.

 

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About the Razer Adaro Wireless Bluetooth® Headphones

 

With its brilliant Razer Adaro sound, uncompromising portability and comfortable form factor, the Razer Adaro Wireless are the perfect headphones for hours of mobile music enjoyment.

 

The Razer Adaro Wireless is built to follow you wherever you go. Featuring Bluetooth® 4.0 with aptX technology, the Razer Adaro Wireless easily connects to any Bluetooth®-enabled device, providing pristine, cord-free audio quality.

 

Packing high-performance, custom-tuned, 40 mm neodymium magnet drivers, the Razer Adaro Wireless delivers a top-level listening experience. These powerful drivers are housed in a custom-developed, fully adjustable form factor that provides extreme comfort in a lightweight design.

 

Price:

U.S. $149.99 / EU €149.99

 

Availability:

Razerzone.com – Pre-order in January

Worldwide – February

 

Product features:

 

–          Bluetooth® 4.0 connectivity with aptX technology

–          Up to 20 hours of playback

–          Custom-tuned 40 mm dynamic drivers

–          Comfortable, lightweight form factor

–          Playback and volume controls

–          Plush leatherette ear cushions

–          CD-quality audio over Bluetooth®

 

For more information about the Razer Adaro Wireless Bluetooth® Headphones, please visit www.razerzone.com/adaro.

 

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About the Razer Adaro DJ Analog Headphones

 

The Razer Adaro DJ was crafted with producers, performers and discerning music listeners in mind. Made with durable, high-performance components, the Razer Adaro DJ embodies hard-hitting, powerful sound in a modern, functional package.

 

The large, sonically balanced drivers deliver rich, natural sounding acoustics and heavy bass, perfect for spinning behind the console or jamming to tracks on-the-go. These potent drivers are housed in mixing-friendly padded ear cups that swivel, rotate and collapse into a small, compact form factor. You can take the Razer Adaro DJ to the studio, to the club and everywhere between.

 

When designing the Razer Adaro DJ’s architecture, we knew that we had to make something durable. Our industrial design team worked closely with our engineers to perfect a mix of metals and resilient plastics to produce a form factor that is incredibly lightweight, yet able to take a beating.

 

Complete with DJ-ready accessories, a sturdy construction and powerful sound, the Razer Adaro DJ headphones are ready to drop a beat anytime, anywhere.

 

Price:

U.S. $199.99 / EU €199.99

 

Availability:

Razerzone.com – Pre-order in January

Worldwide – February

 

Product features:

 

–          Powerful, high-performance 50 mm dynamic drivers

–          Closed ear cup design for optimal sound isolation

–          Swappable cable system with included coiled and straight cables

–          Fully adjustable and foldable architecture

–          Included .25-in. audio adapter

–          Plush leatherette ear cushions

–          Compatible with iPhone, Android and other mobile devices

 

For more information about the Razer Adaro DJ Headphones, please visit www.razerzone.com/adaro.

 

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About Razer:

 

Razer™ is the world leader in devices and software platforms that enable, connect and entertain a worldwide community of electronic entertainment enthusiasts, 24/7.

With a rich history in gaming, music and design, Razer’s award-winning technology includes voice-over IP and other social applications and devices; programs for music production, performance and enjoyment; cloud-based solutions for customizing and enhancing computer systems and related product performance; and a wide array of award-winning laptops, tablets, audio products, hardware and accessories, and apparel.

Razer applies its design and engineering resources to develop products that support the on-the-go lifestyle inherent to its contemporary, global, technophile community, fulfilling their immediate wants and needs wherever they are. At Razer, everything it does resonates with the company credo: For Gamers. By Gamers.™

For more information, please visit http://www.razerzone.com/.

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How to make 2014 the best year ever!!

How to make 2014 the best year ever!!

I wish everyone a happy New Year for 2014!! I am glad to see 2013 end. I can say we survived it.

Here is a clip of one of the first new years events on the planet for 2013–>

 

Watch this video on YouTube.

Here is a positive motivational article for 2013. My family and I are going to the budget movies to see Free Birds it seems today. Hopefully 1 year from now we will be well off enough to be able to afford a regular movie theater experience. In 2014, I hope that we get our 501c3, and actually make a difference for people with autism. I also hope that 2014 is a great for for the news organization as well.

If any one has an uplifting or inspiring or miraculous story about something they experienced and I can post in on the site or sage advice for parents of autistic young folks.

I appreciate all of our readers, listeners, viewers, and followers in 2013.

Sincerely,

David J. Berkowitz
Autistic Blogger and father of 3 with autism.

I wish everyone a happy New Year for 2014!! I am glad to see 2013 end. I can say we survived it.

Here is a clip of one of the first new years events on the planet for 2013–>

Watch this video on YouTube.

 

How do I make 2014 my best year ever? – Network Marketing Tips (via http://www.mymwg.com)

“To make 2014 Your Best Year yet, You need to Change Your Philosophy … Change Your Paradigm.” The article below is written by one of my new mentors for 2014. I told him he put, in a few short words, here, the book, “Think and Grow Rich”. I…

Continue reading →

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Technewszone Featured Artist–>Celeste Buckingham, “Run, Run, Run”, & No Body Knows!!

At Technewszone we are all about, music, the arts, and tech for autism!!!

Check out this amazing new artist, Celeste Buckingham, with her song–> Run, Run, Run.

 

Watch this video on YouTube.

and Nobody Knows–>

 

Watch this video on YouTube.

Ya gotta love it!!

The video was quite professional and her singing is very nice as well. I expect great things from her!!

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IK Multimedia announces iRig KEYS PRO!!

IK Multimedia announces iRig KEYS PRO,
mobile MIDI keyboard with full-size keys,
plus iRig KEYS with Lightning connector

The first and only range of professional and compact MIDI controllers
that include Lightning-connector, 30-pin and USB cables,
for universal compatibility with all models of
iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac/PC

December 3, 2013 – IK Multimedia, the global leader in mobile music making apps and accessories for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac/PC, announced the expansion of its iRig KEYS line with two new products for mobile musicians: iRig KEYS PRO and iRig KEYS with Lightning connector, compact MIDI keyboard controllers with 37 velocity-sensitive keys.

Both iRig KEYS PRO and iRig KEYS come with Lightning-connector, 30-pin and USB cables. These allow musicians to connect all iRig KEYS to any iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac/PC model, and provide MIDI control and performance features for Core MIDI apps of all types, such as IK’s own SampleTank, iGrand Piano and iLectric piano apps, and its range of Mac/PC virtual instruments.

iRig KEYS PRO: Big features – compact design
iRig KEYS PRO is a true “plug and play” professional-quality programmable MIDI controller designed specifically for making music on the go with an iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, or PC. It features 37 velocity-sensitive full-size keys for 3 full octaves plus one note – allowing for realistic-feeling, two-handed playing. Even with pro features like mod and pitch wheels, illuminated octave and program buttons, 4 programmable “sets” for storing complete setups, and a programmable continuous-controller volume knob, iRig KEYS PRO is 30% smaller than any other full-size key MIDI controller that can be played with two hands.

iRig KEYS PRO comes complete with Lightning-connector and 30-pin cables for plugging directly into the dock connector of any iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. A USB cable is included for direct Mac or PC connection. With standard Core MIDI support, you can play any compatible virtual instrument or recording app on your iOS device or computer from Apple’s GarageBand to IK’s SampleTank. iRig KEYS PRO needs no AC adapter or batteries, it draws its power from the device it’s connected to, and it even features an auxiliary mini-USB port to provide it with power during performance, allowing the battery on the mobile device to be conserved.

Programming and expansion
iRig KEYS PRO also has powerful programming features that are useful during live performance and in the studio. Players can program iRig KEYS PRO with different set-ups and store them in one of the 4 “Set” banks. When iRig KEYS PRO is in Edit mode, the user can set the MIDI transmit channel, velocity (touch) response, assign Control Change numbers to the Volume/Data knob, send custom Program Change messages, transpose the keyboard in semi-tones and more.

iRig KEYS PRO also sports an expansion jack for adding a sustain pedal (not included) for a realistic piano feel, or an expression pedal that sends MIDI continuous controller data that can control parameters such as volume, rotary speaker speed, tremolo and vibrato speed and more, on the connected app or software instrument.

FREE software for instant playability, universal compatibility
iRig KEYS PRO comes with SampleTank FREE* for iPhone/iPod touch and iPad, IK’s award-winning multi-part sound module designed for live performance and recording, and the iGrand Piano FREE* app, a high-quality studio-sampled grand piano sound module. Both apps are expandable with sounds from IK’s massive collection of sound libraries, and provide musicians with tools for complete music production.

iRig KEYS PRO is also right at home in the studio, and works seamlessly with DAW software, including GarageBand, Logic Pro and many others. It’s also perfect for controlling virtual instrument plug-ins such as IK’s SampleTank, Sonik Synth, SampleMoog™, SampleTron and Miroslav Philharmonik. For Mac/PC use, iRig KEYS PRO comes with SampleTank 2L**, the full-featured professional sound workstation that includes over 2 GB of professional samples, which cover all instrument categories.

iRig KEYS with Lightning connector
iRig KEYS with Lightning connector is IK’s new version of the ultra popular iRig KEYS portable mini keyboard and now comes with a Lightning-connector cable for connecting iRig KEYS to the newest Apple devices, including the new iPad, iPad mini and iPhone 5 series. It shares the same powerful features of iRig KEYS PRO but with a more compact build so it only takes up minimal space on your desktop and can easily fit in a backpack or a carry-on bag.

Pricing and Availability
iRig KEYS PRO is priced at $149.99/€119.99 MSRP (excl. tax), and is available now from the IK network of music and electronic retailers around the world and the IK online store. iRig KEYS with Lightning connector is priced at $129.99/€99.99 (excl. tax) and is available now from music and electronics retailers worldwide.

* Available on the App Store.
** Register and download on the IK Multimedia online User Area.

For more information, go to www.irigkeys.com

For more information on IK Lightning Compatible Accessories, go to www.ikmultimedia.com/lightning

 

I am a huge fan and am looking forward to testing and reviewing this product!!

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Evidence Shows Global Heat May Be Hiding in Oceans

Evidence Shows Global Heat May Be Hiding in Oceans
Evidence Shows Global Heat May Be Hiding in Oceans (via Climate Central)

By Tim Radford, Climate News Network LONDON – Far below the surface, the waters of south-east Asia are heating up. A region of the Pacific is now warming at least 15 times faster than at any time in the last 10,000 years. If this finding – so far…

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