New juice for Apple iPods
Did your Apple iPod’s battery finally give out? If you’re brave enough to open your iPod, Sonnet Technologies says it can show you how to replace the rechargeable battery with a new one that will provide longer playing time. The company’s batteries are designed to work with first- to fourth-generation models, including the iPod Photo and iPod Mini. Prices range from $30 to $40 with each kit including a battery, an instructional video guide and tools to help you open the iPod and remove the old battery.
www.sonnettech.com/product/ipod/batteries
Headset turns annoying noises on their ear
Yard work doesn’t have to leave your ears ringing. Whether you’re working with a snow blower, lawn mower or leaf blower, the John Deere Noise Canceling Headset can give your ears a break. Available in January, the headset reduces the jarring noise created by machinery while emphasizing essential sounds, such as children playing and approaching cars. Designed by Outside the Box, the 9-ounce headset costs $90.
www.johndeeregifts.com
Recorder compiles video, digital photos
Sony’s new DVDirect DVD recorder lets you copy digital pictures and video footage onto a DVD without the help of a computer. Equipped with memory-card slots and analog and digital audio/video connections, the VRD-MC1 model can handle media transferred directly from a camcorder or VCR, and also can work with photos stored on a memory card. You can preview and edit scenes on its 2-inch color screen or connect the recorder to a computer for more extensive editing. Available in early January, the recorder will cost about $300.
www.sonystyle.com
“Satisfaction” for solo tuba?
No matter where your taste in music lies, chances are you’ll find something tuneful to play while perusing the Hal Leonard sheet music selections in three new software titles from eMedia Music. The Pop/Rock Anthology contains more than 200 songs, including hits from Coldplay, the Beatles and Nirvana. Priced at $40, the program lets you view each song’s notes and lyrics on a computer screen, print the sheet music, and even listen to the songs. You also can transpose songs to any key, change the solo line to 18 different instruments and adjust the tempo. Two other titles are available for $20 each: Favorite Standards features 75 songs, including “Cheek to Cheek” and “Strangers in the Night,” while Pop/Rock Hits has 75 songs by Sting, The Rolling Stones and other artists. www.emediamusic.com
