Category Archives: CES 2014

Canon’s new Vixia HD camcorders for podcasting and home production



VIXIA_HF_R52_main_LCD_bkFor many years, Canon has been a household name when it comes to high quality cameras, camcorders, printers, scanners, and copiers, to name a few. Recently, Canon introduces a new line of camcorders that are perfect not just for hobbyist, but also for podcasters that are looking for a new camcorder that has excellent features but affordable at the same time.

Canon introduces a new completely different reimagined line of camera of their Vixi mini camcorder that is perfect for producing a podcast or any kind of media at all. Introducing the VIXIA mini X, not only can this new mini camcorder take images at 12.8 Megapixels, it can also capture full HD video recordings up to 1920 x 1080p (30p/24p) to a removable SD memory card.

Unlike its predecessor, the Vixia mini X has two large stereo microphones that are two and a half times larger than Vixia mini, enabling it to pick up great audio in wide dynamic range. It also has a two-stage system, which can eliminate unwanted noises. Aside from the built-in stereo microphone, it also has a microphone input on the side, which is great for podcasters who want to use their own microphones quite often, especially when podcasting from a noisy environment. In addition, the Vixia mini X also has a headphone terminal, allowing you to adjust the audio whenever necessary using the volume dial.

When it comes to it’s screen, Canon’s Vixia mini X can be flipped in multiple angles. So whether you’re setting it up to interview someone or doing a separate podcast where you have to do the video work and be in the shot as well, you can simply reach, angle it, and make adjustments according to your needs. It also has a close-up mode, where you can crop unnecessary backgrounds and just focus on you and what you want to show. Even if you’re shooting at a low-light setting, the Vixia mini X has the Canon DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor, which provides excellent performance in a low-light situation. It also has an aperture of f/2.8, which also works great on low-light environment. What is great with this latest addition to the Canon camcorders is that it has no limit as to how long you can record; it only lies on the memory space of the SD memory card you are using.

VIXIA_mini_X_02If you want to step up your game when it comes to your podcasting, however, there are three newest lines of the Vixia HF R camcorders you can choose from, one of which is the VIXIA HF R500. Although it has no Wi-Fi and internal memory, it has 57x advanced zoom and an SD memory card slot, as well as the other advanced features the Vixia HF R camcorders have. The VIXIA HF R50 and VIXIA HF R52, however, both have built-in Wi-Fi and an internal memory of 8GB and 32GB. Using the built-in Wi-Fi, you can take control as to what images are coming up on the internet using their Media Controller App, whether it’s on an IOS or an Android smartphone system.

Canon also recently introduces the Pan Table, which is a base accessory that can be attached to the bottom of your Vixia mini X or the Vixia HF R camcorders. With this, you will have the option to oscillate the camcorder from left to right up to 200 degrees. It can also be manually adjusted for a tilt up to 20 degrees. Plus, using the Canon CameraAccess plus app, you can use the Wi-Fi to manage your files, as well as the camcorder’s stop-start and zoom option, making it more convenient when shooting your podcast.

At $399.00, you can already have the Vixia mini X and if you want to get the Pan Table, simply add $100.00 and it can be yours as well, which includes the battery pack and compact power adapter, to name a few. The Vixia HF R500, however, is at $299.99, whereas the Vixia HF R50 is being sold at $399.99 and the Vixia HF R52 is only $449.99.

One of the great things that Canon’s new line of camcorders bring to podcasters is that with its built-in Wi-Fi, you can be creative as you can be and share your video instantly. Learn more about VIXIA mini XVIXIA HF R500,Vixia HF R50, and VIXIA HF R52 by visiting Canon’s website.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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Gosh! Parallel iPhone case with detachable battery



PrintGosh!, a company that is known for reinventing and recreating accessories for your smartphones and tablets, presented the Parallel 2500mAh Battery Case, an edgy accessory for iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, and iPhone 5S that takes away all the discomfort that typical power banks provide.

Unlike other power banks that come in separate battery banks, Gosh! Parallel’s are attached in a simple but chic iPhone case. Simply plug in the attached cable, press the power button, and your phone will start charging instantly! What’s more is that compared to some power banks, this super battery bank has a capacity of 2500mAH, 1.7× more lifespan so you can charge your phone all day without worrying about its battery life.

As for its case, however, the Parallel 2500mAh Battery Case are made of poly-carbonate case, which prevents it from scratches even if you put your phone face-down. Plus, this battery bank comes in three colors—Black, Red, and White. In addition, the battery case fits perfectly on your iPhone so you wouldn’t have to carry bulky and heavy power banks and power cords all day. You can even take it off (or not) off your phone whenever you like. Just don’t forget to push the power off once you’re done charging.

At $89.00, you can already have the Gosh! Parallel 2500mAM battery case, which is awesome for a battery that big and the case. Visit WhyGosh.com to learn more about this amazing iPhone case with detachable battery.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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4-channel podcasting on iPad, iPhone, and Mac with Griffin Technology’s StudioConnect HD



Griffin Studio Connect HDProduce your audio podcast from home or remotely from your iPad or computer with StudioConnect HD. Griffin Technology—a leader when in accessories for home, mobile, and technology—recently launched an exciting new product that will bring your podcasting into a new level.

The StudioConnect HD is an all-in-one audio interface with two TRS/XLR combo inputs, where each inputs is its own individual channel, allowing the StudioConnect HD to support multi-track recording. Each inputs also has its own gain knob and phantom power. At the back of the unit are a 5-pin MIDI connection, a USB MIDI connection for USB keyboards, and balanced stereo output for studio monitors. The StudioConnect HD is compatible with iOS (30 pin & Lightning) and OS X (USB), with future support for Windows. Plus, you can use not just your laptop or iPad, you can also use your iPod Touch or iPhone, making it even more convenient when you air your audio podcast.

Using the two stereo inputs, you can record 4-channel audio by selecting which instruments you want to use from the left and right stereo inputs. This also allows you to use multiple instrument or microphones at the same time with this USB 2.0 device. And with only $199.99, you can already own this audio interface starting this Fall. Learn more about StudioConnect HD and see how it can take your podcasting into a new height.

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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IDrive offers fast initial online backups with 1 TB drive



IDrive_logo_72Back up your information without spending weeks waiting for that secure feeling using IDrive. Known as a universal online backup service, IDrive takes your files from your laptops, desktops, smart phones and tablets, backing it up securely.

One of the benefits of IDrive is that not only does it back up your files securely, it also allows you to access your files whenever, wherever you need them.

Are you tired of waiting for days or weeks for your backup to be uploaded online? With IDrive Express, which is available with paid users, you can get a one terabyte hard drive that comes along with secure software, where you can load all of your data from all of your device into the drive. Once you have loaded all of your data into the drive, simply mail it back to them (at NO CHARGE) and they will then plug it in their data centers. All these, from receiving the hardware up to loading your data and sending it back takes only up to seven days. Imagine the time and days you can save compare to waiting for weeks just for your data to be completed uploading online? With IDrive, you don’t have to use up all of your bandwidth for weeks!

But before subscribing, login to idrive.com and try their 5gb for free first. Every member gets complimentary 5gb for life, so to those who only have a few important files to protect, you can do that at absolutely no cost. However, for those who need more space, IDrive’s paid plans starts with personal plan at $49.50 a year for 100gb. Regardless of how many devices you wanted to back up – whether it’s Android, Windows, iOS, etc. – you can back them all up in one hard drive; it’s just all about how much storage space you are using. Plus, no matter how big or small the size of the files that you are going to upload are, you can be guaranteed to have them all up at IDrive.

IDrive also offers business plans with 3 shipments a year, as well as sub-accounts, giving business owners to have different username log-ins as well as allowing you to separate datas that will be shown to a particular user. This plan for businesses starts with 100gb for $99.50 a year. Login to idrive.com and get a discount on the first year to get you starting!

Be smart enough to have a backup so that if your computer, tablet, or smart phone crashes, you can restore your files in no time!

Interview by Daniel J. Lewis from The Audacity to Podcast.

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COX Delivers High Speed Internet at CES 2014



Over the past 5 years of covering CES we have never up until this year, received what we paid for in our Internet service. The data connection never performed to the spec we had purchased, and it really was a high stress point for us. In previous years we complained loudly and no one seemed care with the previous vendor.

In September of 2013 COX took over for Smartcity at the Las Vegas Convention Center and wow what a change! I am here to give huge accolades to the COX Business team, the Internet data service we paid for delivered as contracted, and better yet cost me about 50% less.

The business team at COX @ LVCC was simply fantastic. We invited John Fountain Jr. VP Technology at Cox Communications to talk with us about their data services for the show. My team was grateful that Cox has invested in the LVCC infrastructure. It made doing our live show stress free. We cannot wait to work with their team again in 2015.

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Dropcam Cloud-based Wi-Fi Video Monitoring



Dropcam LogoDropcam has been a sponsor here at TPN for several months but if you haven’t clicked through on any of the links, this is your opportunity to see a Dropcam in action. Don Baine chats to Elizabeth from Dropcam about this cloud-connected webcam.

The Dropcam is a wireless 720p webcam that connects easily to your home network but can be accessed across the internet, letting you check up on what’s happening while you aren’t there with your smartphone – both Android and iOS devices are supported. Motion-activated notifications can alert you to unexpected activity and a subscription-based video recording facility gives the ability to rewind and see what happened earlier. Overall it’s a complete solution that goes beyond an internet-connected webcam.

The Dropcam comes in two models, the standard Dropcam and the Dropcam Pro, priced at $149 and $199 respectively.

Interview by Don Baine, the Gadget Professor for the TechPodcast Network.

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Audio Technica shows off new headset lineup



audio-technicaAudio Technica, as the name implies, is in the business of, well, audio products. Now the company is showing off its latest range of headphones, beginning with the standard ear-buds that most of us use daily. The new model is designed to conform to the user, and also includes an in-line microphone to handle those pesky telephone calls as well. It even utilizes a unique volume control that makes it cross-platform compatible — a concession to Apple’s proprietary controls.

The company also trots out its new gaming headset. This is an over-ear style, with a microphone built into it. That new model, the first gaming headset from Audio Technica, is based on the AudioPhile line, and that name alone should explain the quality here. You can find out more by visiting the site, and also watching the video below.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network

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YellowJacket unveils a shocking new phone case



yellowjacketIt’s the sad nature of today’s world that brings many people to feel a need to carry protection, such as mace and tasers. Now YellowJacket is aiming to make protection a bit easier to carry along when you are out and about.

This one comes in the form of a rather average looking smartphone case. The difference is two tiny metal prongs protruding from the top which emit an electrical charge when the button is pushed. It’s a two-part case, with an inner one for normal use and protection of your phone, but the outer case can be added when heading out the door.

It is current available for iPhone 4 and 5 only, but a version for the Samsung Galaxy S5 will available soon. The case retails for $149.99. It is officially called the StunGun Case, and you can find more by visiting YellowJacket.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network

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Flir FX Portable Interchangeable Wi-Fi Camera



Flir FX CameraFlir made the news at CES with its personal thermal imaging device for the iPhone but the company does a whole range of imaging devices, including the Flir FX, a portable interchangeable wi-fi video camera. Todd gets further illumination from John Distelzweig of Flir.

The Flir FX is a fundamentally a webcam running 1080p over wi-fi, but that’s largely where the similarity with other products end. The Flir FX unusually has an internal battery, giving it greater portability than most similar products and the main camera unit can be slotted into different mounts, converting from a home webcam into sports video camera or an outdoor security camera, depending on the exterior case used. It’s really very cool.

The Flir FX will be available in late spring with an MSRP $249 and you can put your name down to be notified .

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.

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ThingCharger Eliminates Cable Clutter



ThingChargerDevice chargers are the bane of modern life with a complete rat’s nest of cables and connectors behind the average desk. Todd chats to Seymour Segnit from ThingCharger about their Indiegogo campaign for a cord-free charger.

The ThingCharger plugs directly into a power socket, with the device’s charging connector on the top of the unit, and pass-thru power outlets meaning that you don’t lose the socket but even more cunningly, you can stack the ThingCharger to charge multiple devices at the same time.

A range of interchangeable charging connectors – Apple 30-pin, Micro-USB, Mini-USB, Apple Lightning – will be available so that different devices can be charged from the same charger and cleverly, the connectors can be stored in the ThingCharger so they’re much harder to lose. It’s brilliant all round, so much so that ThingCharger raised nearly $650,000 against a £25,000 target.

ThingCharger is expected to be available in Q3 of 2014 and you can now for $29.95.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.

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