Gadgets :: January 4, 2018
By Gregg Ellman
(@Greggellman)
When you see the unopened Crosley Nomad portable turntable, you could easily think like I did that it’s a throwback briefcase, like my dad used to carry to work. But once it’s opened you’ll see there’s a good reason to take your old records off the shelf, give them a dust off and get them spinning on this self-contained vinyl player.
Even if you’re new to the vinyl resurgence world, using a turntable is simple. After you unpack it, there’s really not a lot of setup; it takes just a few minutes. Assuming you have some 33 1/3, 45 or 78 RPM records, you’re set for some great listing with the three-speed turntable. An adapter is included for 45’s.
A diamond stylus needle is included with the belt driven turntable, which has built-in dynamic full range stereo speakers (one on each side) for great sound on the AC powered system. Or you can connect it to external speakers and systems with the RCA audio out port. For private listening, just plug your headphones into the headphone port.
A USB connection lets it connect to Mac and Window computer systems for turning your vinyl into digital audio files with the included software.
The portability (13-by-17-by-4-inches, 10.5 pounds) makes it simple to move from room to room or even take on a trip. Either way, the Nomad is a great choice if you’re looking to either re-live or join the vinyl listening world.
www.crosleyradio.com $199.95, replacement NPS Audio Technica needles are $14.95
IFrogz has expanded its versatile wireless audio lineup with five new affordable products, all with Bluetooth 4.1 technology.
They include three in-ear earbuds and a pair of over-the-ear headphones.
The earbuds include the Resound ($29.99), with a discreet, low profile design that essentially winds up for easy storage in a pocket. Inside each earbud is a 5.5mm driver and you’ll get about 10 hours of battery life before a USB charge is needed.
They are built with an IPX-2 water-resistant rating, which is great for sweaty workouts. A built-in mic is perfect for handsfree calls and Qualcom cVc noise cancellation technology is perfect for keeping outside noise from your conversations and amplifies your voice for the one listening.
A magnetic clip is on the controls for keeping it in place. Other controls include volume, play/pause and answering calls.
The other earbuds are the Flex Force ($29.99) and Free Rein ($19.99) earbuds.
The Flex Force has a comfortable neck back with the earbuds attached to a lightweight wire on each side. Each speaker has an 8mm driver; you’ll get about 8 hours of battery life before charging.
Each earbud has a magnetic tip to keep them in place when they aren’t being used.
The Free Rein earbuds are built with wing tips for a secure fit. They have 10mm drivers and 5 hours of battery life. A flat cable connects the earbuds to the control knob and keeps it tangle and knot free.
Both the Flex Force and the Res Rein also has controls for calls, audio and music selections.
If you want over-the-ear with an ergonomic fit, the Resound ($34.99) and Toxix ($24.99) headphones both have adjustable flexible headbands, comfortable foam layered ear cups and iPX2 sweat resistance construction.
The Resounds are designed for music aficionados who want their music to be heard with highs, lows and mid-tones, all through powerful and great sounding 40mm drivers, The battery life is about 20 hours and a Aux-in port will let you attach a 3.5mm cable for direct listening.
The Toxix headphones feature 30mm drivers, a built-in microphone and 10 hours of battery life.
Each of the new headphones have different color options, so check the iFrogz site for the choices.
