Tag Archives: CES2014

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

Cameras, CES 2014, Gadgets, Video, , , , , , , ,

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 X, VIXIA HF R500,Vixia HF R50, and VIXIA HF R52 by visiting Canon’s website.

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

[cessponsor]

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

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

Accessories, CES 2014, Gadgets, Mobile, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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.

[cessponsor]

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

IDrive offers fast initial online backups with 1 TB drive

CES 2014, Computers, , , ,

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.

[cessponsor]

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

CES 2014: Flir One Personal Thermal Imager with IdoNotes

CES 2014, Gadgets, Photography, Video, , , ,

Chris Miller (IdoNotes) took a look at the future of personal thermal imagery devices with the FLIR ONE™ at CES 2014. There are many practical and fun ways to use the Flir One that we explore in the video interview.  First, a quick description of what the Flir One does straight from their website:

FLIR ONE™ is a non-contact device that detects infrared energy (heat) and converts it into an electronic signal, which is then processed to produce a thermal image on your phone screen and perform temperature calculations.

The FLIR ONE™ is a case that comes in three colors for your iPhone with the thermal imaging portion easily detachable.  It utilizes it’s own internal battery supply. It weighs in at 3.2 ounces and currently fits the iPhone 5 and 5s only.  Android cases are expected later in 2014.

From using your phone for hide and seek in total darkness to checking your child’s temperature, this looks like an amazingly useful addition to your phone.

Video summary by Chris Miller (IdoNotes) of Spiked Studio.

[cessponsor]

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

CES 2014: Neptune Pine Smartwatch with IdoNotes

CES 2014, Gadgets, , , , ,

Chris Miller (IdoNotes) talked to the CEO of Neptune, Simon Tian, and got some hands on time with the new Neptune Pine Smartwatch at CES 2014.  A new section on smartwatch technology was made at CES 2014 that brought most of the smartwatch exhibitors together in one area. Chris had this area as a mission as part of his CES 2014 coverage.  Chris talked to the CEO of Neptune, Simon Tian, and got some hands on time with the new Neptune Pine.

Chris had previously interviewed ( YouTube interview) the CTO, Aaron Wilkins, to cover all of the Pine Smartwatch technical specifications. This time we see the working devices and talk color, phone networks and numerous capabilities.

Video summary by Chris Miller (IdoNotes) of Spiked Studio.

[cessponsor]

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Chris Miller of IdoNotes and Spiked Studio – CES 2014 host introduction

CES 2014, CES 2014 Team, , , ,

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Hello everyone, I am Chris Miller of Spiked Studios and better known as IdoNotes on over 300 social networks.  I will be live with the TPN team at CES 2014 covering the tech that makes your daily life easier.

I will be focusing this year on wearable tech like smart watches, portable power to home automation.  I focus on how technology is useful from the eyes of you, the consumer, not vendor hype.

I have already begun reviewing some of the new technology you will find at CES 2014, courtesy of some of the companies that will be present. You can also subscribe to and see all the product reviews from Spiked Studio.

Feel free to connect with me across any social network as IdoNotes.