Showing posts with label griffin technology. Show all posts
Showing posts with label griffin technology. Show all posts

5/24/2012

Griffin iTalk Pro - Microphone Review

Griffin iTalk Pro - Microphone
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This product - used for the first time today - worked perfectly. I needed to record a meeting and certainly preferred the option of that recording then becoming a digital file (visible to and stored in ITunes). Once attached to the IPod, it was a couple of clicks to simply begin recording. The two pieces of equipment 'recognized' one another without a hitch. I recorded a 40-minute meeting, came home, connected my IPod to my computer and - snap - the recorded 'memo' immediately downloaded from the IPod to ITunes. The sound quality is fine (I didn't use an additional microphone) and I especially like having a permanant copy of this meeting in a digital format. I should note this was an interview in a quiet room where the IPod was placed between two people on a desk. No ambient noises to be concerned about, no long distances to cover. Will it work under those conditions? I don't know. But it did what I needed it to do. Very handy. FYI, I recorded in 'high' quality and the file size was about 400 MB. My experience has been that Griffin delivers quality products that integrate well with Apple products. No muss, no fuss.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin iTalk Pro - Microphone

With iTalk you can record seminars, meetings, classes, notes in your car, songs, whatever you want. iTalk has a built-in microphone designed to record crystal-clear audio, and its Automatic Gain Control assures you have the best possible signal level for recording. You can even connect an external microphone directly to iTalk for more recording options.
Listen to your iTalk recordings through your headphones. It includes a pass-through mini jack so you can monitor your voice recording or listen to your music without removing iTalk. You can even download your recordings to play back on your computer.
iPod Compatibility iPod 5G/5.5G Video

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Griffin iTalk Pro - Microphone

4/12/2012

Griffin TuneFlex AUX w/Dock Connector for iPod Review

Griffin TuneFlex AUX w/Dock Connector for iPod
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This product has been updated. Griffin has come out with the TuneFlex AUX 2 version. It is much better (see my review of it below)
TuneFlex AUX
-------------------
Plain and simple, don't bother with this product. It pales in comparison to the updated model. This model shifts around and isn't as clean looking as the new model. It also doesn't always charge my iPod Classic...which didn't charge properly for a lot of auto chargers (I tried about 5 different ones). Just skip this product and get the new version...it is worth the extra money. Read my review of the updated model below:TuneFlex AUX 2 Review:
-------------------
This is a good product, probably the best auto charging dock available (I've tried quite a few). I own an iPod Classic 80GB (and iPhone 3G) and it charges and plays them just fine. The product arm itself is strong and doesn't move a bit. The holding dock itself (comes with a variety of docks for all your iPods) allows you to rotate it. This does move. It's stiff at first, but once you break it in it will start twisting a bit on a large iPod. Nano's probably won't budge at all. It's not horrible, it probably rotates about 10 degrees in either direction when I take turns. It usually goes back though, so it isn't the end of the world.
I will say the holders themselves, while there are many to choose from, really don't have much support for the product. There is no backing to them at all (except one which doesn't appear to fit my iPod classic, iPhone, or nano). No worries though, the iPod still manages to stay in place without a problem (and they ride in a Pontiac G8).
Overall, 4 out of 5 stars. If it was solid as a rock, I would give it 5...but it's pretty close. Again, if you own a Nano, this thing probably won't budge at all. The iPod Classic will rotate a little, but not much. If you don't want it to move at all, I suggest getting a Belkin TuneDok (goes in a cup holder) or a vent clip model.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin TuneFlex AUX w/Dock Connector for iPod

TuneFlex AUX for iPod plays iPod through car stereos equipped with a 1/8" (3.5mm) auxiliary input jack as it charges through the auto's 12V power outlet.TuneFlex's flexible steel neck and swiveling cradle let users custom-position their iPods.It's the cleanest way to get iPod sound through your car stereo.

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Griffin TuneFlex AUX w/Dock Connector for iPod

3/04/2012

Griffin Technology RadioShark AM / FM Desktop Radio with Time-Shift Recording Review

Griffin Technology RadioShark AM / FM Desktop Radio with Time-Shift Recording
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I already have a couple software programs that will automatically record and save radio programming but when the Radio Shark was announced, I couldn't resist. Mac elegance, simplicity and functionality. Or so I thought. The product is solid, well made and the software is easy to use. Unfortunately, the reception is unacceptably poor in my suburban, residential area. Every radio I own from clock radios, a couple Tivoli Pal's, a built in-whole house system, mini-systems and so on receive programming easily. The Radio Shark's reception is inferior to even the lowliest of portables. I've tried everything I can think of. Coiling the USB cable, moving it to every place within reach, using a high dollar shielded usb extension cable which also allowed me to move the Shark further from the computer), using the Radio Shark's headphone input with a pair of ear buds and a minijack to rca cable (as Griffin's website suggests). Nothing seems to help. I have two other radios within 18 inches of computers and they were pretty easy to set up and receive clear, static free programming. The Radio Shark has been a huge disappointment. I should have learned my lesson after purchasing the Power Mate from this company. The Power mate (ditto for the Radio Shark) is very high quality piece of hardware from a fit and finish standpoint but the software was glitchy with a pc. Maybe it would have been better with a mac. But I digress. Perhaps if you live far from all urban and suburban interference or live on a hill with better line of site to the towers you want to receive from, the Radio Shark might be fine. For the rest of us, the Radio Shark is likely to disappoint. If you want to time shift radio programming, I can recommend two excellent pieces of software. High Criteria's Total Recorder Pro (for the pc) and Rogue Amoeba's Audio Hijack Pro for the Mac. I don't work for or profit from either comany. I use both on a daily basis. Both are rock solid. All you need to do is connect a radio to your pc or mac and you're set.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin Technology RadioShark AM / FM Desktop Radio with Time-Shift Recording

The radio airwaves will never be safe again. The RadioSHARK adds an AM/FM radio to any Mac or PC (* Mac OS X (10.2.8 or higher) or PC running Windows XP) but that's just the beginning.The RadioSHARK can record any AM or FM radio broadcast in real time. You can also program it to record a scheduled show, or to pause' live radio so you can return right where you left off moments or even hours before (See What is Time-Shift Recording?' sidebar above).RadioSHARK includes a full-featured application that controls all radio and recording functions. Favorite station presets can be set with the click of a mouse, and new stations can be scanned and tuned with ease. The application is also where you program Time-Shift Recording, either to take a break without missing any of a show or to record your favorite broadcast to listen to later.The RadioSHARK connects to and is powered by USB. The fin-shaped device acts as an antenna and can be positioned for best reception and recording. Any recorded broadcast can be transferred to an iPod or any other AIFF-compatible digital music player to replay on the go.The RadioSHARK connects to and is powered by USB. The fin-shaped device acts as an antenna and can be positioned for best reception and recording. Any recorded broadcast can be transferred to an iPod or any other AIFF-compatible digital music player to replay on the go.

Buy NowGet 44% OFF

Click here for more information about Griffin Technology RadioShark AM / FM Desktop Radio with Time-Shift Recording

2/19/2012

Griffin Technology TuneFlex AUX for iPod and iPod nano Review

Griffin Technology TuneFlex AUX for iPod and iPod nano
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This review is for the new 2.0 version. It has the variable output control on the base, while the old version had a simple high-low switch. This is important because it allows for a precise adjustment of the output from the iPod.
What will the Tuneflex do for you? First, it is nice to have your iPod up in front where you can see and operate it. It provides for charging and the sound output comes from the bottom plug of the iPod, rather than the headphone output jack. This provides for better sound as the headphone output is designed for headphones only.
You do not want an fm transmitter. Those are horrid in all respects.
These features are of no use unless you have an accessible lighter (or power output) and an auxiliary input on the vehicle's sound system. These can be added by handy people or the local car stereo installer.
Some reviewers have complained that the Tuneflex is wobbly. The 2.0 is very solid, but the lighter plug itself is often loose. Mine is, but it still works ok and is not too annoying. I may go in and tighten it up or replace it with a sturdier output some time.
The Tuneflex fits tightly, so hold down the lighter when you pull out the unit. Lighters are not very strong.
Note that the product description informs you of which iPods fit. The Tuneflex comes with a variety of holders that snap on to the stalk and hold the selected iPod securely. If you keep your Tunflex installed, all you have to do is slide the iPod in and it is all connected.
Well, you ask, what about the iPhone? It is not on the supported products list. It so happens that the first generation iPhone will barely fit one of the adapters. Pretty tight, but you can do it. I doubt the new 3G phone will fit, but
When you do connect the phone, a dialogue box pops up to inform you that it is not a supported device, so do you want to continue. Push "yes" and all is well. It works perfectly.
Griffin, the maker of the Tuneflex, says Apple has not approved the device. Apple is famous for tightly controlling things and who knows what politics, licensing fees or what else may be involved here.
None of this applies if you use it as intended, with a supported iPod. You can keep your phone in your pocket and use it separately. On my car, the bluetooth works perfectly and turns the sound down on the auxiliary mode.
So, it works as it should, is handy and tidy, and the price is right. I recommend it if your vehicle has an auxiliary input and a well-placed lighter or power plug outlet.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin Technology TuneFlex AUX for iPod and iPod nano

TUNEFLEX IPOD ADAPTER

Buy NowGet 68% OFF

Click here for more information about Griffin Technology TuneFlex AUX for iPod and iPod nano

10/13/2011

Griffin TuneFlex AUX Mount and Charger with SmartClick Remote for iPod and iPhone (Black) Review

Griffin TuneFlex AUX Mount and Charger with SmartClick Remote for iPod and iPhone (Black)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
My Griffin TuneFlex AUX with SmartClick replaces a Kensington Liquid AUX Deluxe unit, which my wife accidentally broke while driving my car. I think this sort of accident is much less likely with the Griffin.
The big disadvantage of the Kensington (and the cause of its ultimate demise) were the adjustable arms that clamped on the iPod/iPhone; while it allowed adapting to any model, the clamp and release mechanism were "temperamental". The ratchet mechanism was hard to adjust "just right", and if too tight would rattle loudly as the car moved. It needed to be re-adjusted frequently, as it worked loose gradually. The Griffin in contrast comes with a whole array of plastic "heads" designed to perfectly fit and support various models with no slack or vibration. The heads are unlabeled; you just need to try your iPod or iPhone in each one that vaguely looks like it might fit until you get the right one. If you switch often between various models you'd want to carry the appropriate adapters, and need to switch them out... and the next new model probably won't be covered. (Luckily, I rarely use anything but my iPhone 3G in the car, and it turns out that my daughter's 3rd gen iPod nano can fit the iPhone sleeve. This may however be an issue if, for example, I upgrade to a "next gen iPhone" when such a thing is released, but we'll have to wait and see.)
Like the Kensington, the Griffin has a wireless remote that can velcro onto the steering wheel. I thought this was silly on the Kensington, but found that it quickly became a necessity. The convenience of being able to play, pause, and skip tracks without moving my eyes or taking a hand off the wheel is great. The reliability of the Kensington remote was "inconsistent", however. The Griffin seems to work consistently, but has a very "firm" touch and doesn't always respond when buttons are pressed casually. I do like the button to manually activate the backlight, when it's gone out. The Griffin remote is detachable from a magnetic base, which I find pointless: I see no need to remove it, and several times it's been knocked off accidentally and I need to search for it on the floor.
The flexible neck is stiff and stable, but reasonably easily adjustable; it's longer than the Kensington's neck, and that makes the iPhone more visible and accessible. The AUX cable has jacks on both ends so it can be replaced (unlike the Kensington's). It's much longer than the Kensington's, which might be an advantage or disadvantage depending on your car. (Way more cord than I really need.)
Some glitch in the Kensington occasionally caused my iPhone 3G to complain that the charger wasn't compatible. It still played through the AUX, and charged, but the remote was apparently disabled. Sometimes removing and re-inserting would resolve the problem, and sometimes it wouldn't. I haven't (at least yet) seen that issue with the Griffin, which is a "plus".
Advantages: long stiff neck, easy to adjust; custom fit "heads" for iPod/iPhone models; wireless remote
Disadvantages: custom fit "heads" may mean carrying more than one, and might be a problem for new models down the road; heads aren't labeled so it can be tedious to find the right one; remote is too easily detachable

Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin TuneFlex AUX Mount and Charger with SmartClick Remote for iPod and iPhone (Black)

TuneFlex AUX is the perfect in-car solution, with a flexible steel stem for your iPod and a steering-wheel-mounted remote control. Position the mount on the steering wheel near your fingers for convenient control that never makes you take your eyes off the road. The remote is held on the mount magnetically, and can be removed for handheld use by anyone in the car. TuneFlex plugs securely into the auto accessory port or cigarette lighter to charge and power your iPod or iPhone. The lighted ring at the base of TuneFlex¿s stem shows charging status at a glance. An included 1/8¿(3.5mm) stereo mini cable connects TuneFlex to AUX-input-equipped stereos for clean, interference-free sound. The package includes a set of snap-on adapters to ensure a secure mount for full-size iPod and iPod nano models. Included cable strap prevents tangles.

Buy NowGet 45% OFF

Click here for more information about Griffin TuneFlex AUX Mount and Charger with SmartClick Remote for iPod and iPhone (Black)

7/01/2011

Griffin iTrip Pocket FM Transmitter for iPod nano 2G Review

Griffin iTrip Pocket FM Transmitter for iPod nano 2G
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
The industrial design of the iTrip Pocket is almost as impressive as the iPod Nano itself--which is one of the main reasons I selected it to begin with. It connects snugly to the USB connector on the base of the Nano, and its controls are very intuitive. It even briefly displays its FM station setting whenever you change its station, and upon power-up.
I recommend care when disconnecting it from the Nano. Since the connector is not centered, there is a tendency for the iTrip to pivot at an angle as it is being removed. If it is not disconnected in a straight line, I suspect that the lifetime of both connectors (iTrip, as well as the Nano mate) will be greatly reduced.
The sound quality of the iTrip is, at best, decent FM quality--which is what should be expected from an FM transmitter. The FCC limits the amount of broadcast power of these types of devices so that they do not interfere with radio broadcasts. This means that the FM power of all these transmitters is inherently weak. The iTrip will not give you CD quality sound. To optimize the sound quality, the selection of the radio station is critical. I found it to be absolutely essential that I find three unused FM stations in a row on my radio, and then set the iTrip to the middle station. I found that setting the iTrip to an unused station that is adjacent to a used station yielded very poor results. Note that, since the iTrip does not connect to the headphone/earbud jack of the Nano, it is not affected by the volume control of the Nano; it is only controlled by the volume control of your car's radio. I found that I have to set my radio's volume control significantly higher than normal when I use my iTrip; as mentioned before, even though it is only a few feet from the radio, the iTrip is still a very weak transmitter. As with any FM radio broadcast, there can be intermittent radio noise while driving, and noticeable hiss, particularly when the radio's volume is turned up high which (as mentioned earlier) is necessary when using the iTrip.
The position of the iTrip in your car is significant. One of my cars has the antenna in the rear. In this car, I find that reception is improved if I place the iTrip in the back seat--closer to the antenna.
Note that this product does not charge your Nano, in fact it uses your Nano's battery to operate. I have noticed a significant reduction of the Nano's battery life while using the iTrip. With the iTrip, I can only get about 6-8 hours on a charge; normally, a charge lasts at least 10-12 hours, I think.
Overall, I think this is a very good product. But if you are looking for better sound and your car has a cassette deck, I recommend using a cassette converter (traditionally used to connect a portable CD player through a cassette deck). If you want the best possible sound, the only way to go is to directly connect your Nano to your car's stereo system which, depending on the type of stereo you have, may not be straightforward.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin iTrip Pocket FM Transmitter for iPod nano 2G

iPod nano -- the slimmest, trimmest iPod ever now has a compact iTrip to match. iTrip Pocket preserves the lean profile of the iPod nano, while you send the tunes to the nearest FM receiver. The whole group can enjoy your music on your stereo speakers instead of headphones. Improved menus and dedicated preset buttons make this the easiest-to-use iTrip ever.

Buy NowGet 72% OFF

Click here for more information about Griffin iTrip Pocket FM Transmitter for iPod nano 2G

6/25/2011

Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter & Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod Review

Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter and Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've tried three different types of FM Transmitters for IPOD and here are my rankings in order:
1) Griffin Itrip - $30-$50 depending on model
2) Griffin Road Trip - $80.
3) Belkin Tunecast - $40
First let's talk about sound quality. On all of the FM Transmitters, the sound quality isn't that great. It's somewhere in between AM Radio and FM Radio quality, a long ways from CD clarity. However, being able to play your IPod in the car on a roadtrip or at a party is a great convenience. After a short while, you don't notice the lower quality. My friends and I have happily listened to the IPod for hours.
The next important item is battery power. The Belkin Tunecast runs off AAA batteries and does not draw power from the IPod. The Griffin Itrip draws power from the IPod. The Griffin Roadtrip must be plugged into your car's lighter or auto power adapter. Of these three I like the Griffin Itrip the best. I can take the IPod a party and broadcast for a few hours unplugged or use a charger for unlimited play. In the car, I typically have my IPod charging to a separate auto charger. However it's not a requirement so I can also charge my cell phone and still listen to my music.
Tuning the Transmitter to a blank station: The Road Trip and the Tunecast were both easier to change radio frequencies. The Itrip could be tricky to adjust the radio station. This is important because you need to be tuned to a blank station. Reviewers who talk about station interference merely need to tune their Transmitter to a blank station. I've used the Transmitters all over the country including NYC and I've always been able to find a frequency on the dial to use.
The next consideration is usability. I liked how the Itrip attached to my IPod so it handled as one unit. Judging a separate Tunecast component and the IPod was awkward in the card. When using the Griffin Roadtrip, you must take the IPod out of its case and mount it to the cigarette lighter. At that angle it was impossible to read the screen, so if you wanted to make any selections or adjustments, you had to remove IPod and temporarily lose the signal. With the Itrip, you can hold the IPod on your hand and pick out songs while still listening to your music. Depending on the design of your case, you may not need to remove it to use the Belkin Tunecast or Griffin Itrip, which protects the easily scratched IPod.
Finally price - all three items do essentially the same task. The cost of a car chargers for your IPod is approx $30, so if you factor that in that cost, all three device are essentially the same price.
I prefer the Griffin Itrip for the reasons stated, but I know others who prefer to mount their IPod with the Griffin Roadtrip.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter & Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod

Convenient one-piece transmitter and charger module uses any frequency from 87.7 to 107.9Compatible with all docking iPods, including the iPod nano and the new iPod with videoBacklit screen shows which frequency RoadTrip is currently broadcastingTransmitter can be removed and used with a Mac or PC computerPlugs into any auto power outlet or lighter adapter.

Buy NowGet 22% OFF

Click here for more information about Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter & Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod

6/06/2011

Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for 1G & 2G iPod Review

Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for 1G and 2G iPod
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Griffin's iTrip fills the technological void of .mp3 playability on existing audio systems through FM transmission, a Mr. Microphone for the 21st century. Whether you want to play music on your car stereo, or on the FM tuner of your home stereo, the ease of playing your iTunes could not be more effortless. A quick software load from cd-rom onto a personal computer updates iTunes with a special playlist that allows the user to select almost any frequency in the FM spectrum which iTrip is to broadcast on. Once the iPod is synched and updated with iTunes on your personal computer, the user can reselect at any time a preferred FM frequency directly from the iPod interface.
The range of the iTrip FM transmission is viable, as I could transmit at almost 20 feet with no distortion or loss of signal to my home stereo. 30 feet is its stated maximum range, yet in urban environments, half that range may be all one can coax from iTrip in a burdened FM spectrum.
Car travel in Washington D.C. with the iTrip can be hampered by power lines and other transmission sources which flood the signal with interference. The iTrip requires 50% volume output at a minimum from the iPod for an effective signal, and suggests no more than 70% output. At a higher output, I found the iTrip can deplete a new iPod battery (Summer 2004) within 3.5 hours. Griffin Tech.'s claim that the energy usage by iTrip is nominal may be an issue of dispute when applied to my personal usage and experience.
The iTrip requires no external power source other than directly siphoning iPod power using the headphone/audio output jacks. iTrip's size is that of a roll of coins, yet weighs as light as feather perched atop the iPod.
Do be careful: there are more than one version of iTrip available on the market for different versions of the iPod (and iPod mini). I suggest you research compatibility before making your final selection.
The largest drawbacks of Griffin's iTrip: external interference from power lines while driving, and battery drain. Yet with careful power monitoring and recharging, and keeping your iTrip/iPod in close proximity to your car stereo, a very satisfying experience can be achieved with the iTrip at a nominal price. A three-star rating for a good product I would recommend. iTrip is destined to become 4-stars, with a little tweaking and concise compatibility descriptions from the manufacturer in product description.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for 1G & 2G iPod

GRIFFIN TECHNOLOGY iTrip - You are looking at the coolest iPod accessory available! The iTrip FM transmitter for the original iPod plays music through any FM radio. Enjoy favorite jams in your car, at a party, wherever the mood strikes you and a radio is within reach!Shuts off automatically after 60 seconds of silence - like the iPodWith the potent combination of iPod and iTrip, your consciousness will soar continuously!Note -Compatible only with 2002 iPods and previous (the original model)If you're looking for an iTrip for a new 2004 iPod, please see -GRF 4013-2TRIP

Buy NowGet 100% OFF

Click here for more information about Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for 1G & 2G iPod