Audio Video News

It's hard to believe, but more iPod-related stuff is on the way. Soon to be available are kiddie cases from ifrogz, a company started by the same guys who developed Reminderband custom silicone bracelets. (And how many times haven't we all wondered how the world existed before those came along?) The new company's Tadpole line of video iPod cases are made specifically for children ages one and up - but they do not come with sedatives or tension relieving headache medicine for adults of child-rearing age.

Before you say, "You've got to be out of your you-know-what-ing mind", you should know that the Tadpole cases are constructed from high-grade, dust-repellant silicone and are engineered with two large handles that are supposed to help children maintain a solid grip on the iPod and provide additional protection for the device when the inevitable "uh oh!" moment happens.

Tadpoles are available in several colors and measure 5.5-inches wide, 4.25-inches high, and 0.75-inches thick. The child-friendly cases weigh only 2.7 ounces. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $24.99 and is expected to begin shipping in December of this year.

That's not all the exciting iPod accessory news, however. Earlier this week Belkin announced the soon-to-be-available TuneStage II, an upgrade from the original TuneStage model. The enhanced version is designed to work with a variety of iPods and nanos, as well as with other gadgets (headphones, car stereos, cell phones, and computers) that are equipped with Bluetooth technology.

Belkin's TuneStage II uses a Bluetooth transmitter connected to the iPod to send audio to a TuneStage II receiver located up to 30 feet away. The transmitter will work with other Bluetooth A2DP-equipped receiving gear such as wireless headphones. The receiver can be used with other Bluetooth transmitting gear making it possible to stream music from Bluetooth-enabled MP3-capable cell phones and computers to a home theater or other audio system.

Belkin expects the TuneStage II package to be available in November for $149.99. The transmitter will also be available separately, allowing one receiver to be used with multiple devices.

Another audio transmitting gadget from Belkin to be available in November is a universal FM transmitter called the TuneCast 3. The new model connects to any device that features a headphone jack output and transmits the audio to any other device that includes an FM tuner. Belkin says the TuneCast 3 replaces the prior TuneCast II and features user-convenience enhancements such as a status indicator that tells when memory presets (a total of two) have been saved, request- and power on/off-processing status, cable management, and a mounting clip. Battery life is estimated at 20 hours.

The TuneCast 3 will be available for $49.99.