Click on the links for more information:

Brookstone Ion Ripping Turntable

Vinyl LPs to MP3s / Connect your Ion USB turntable to your PC or Mac.

$150 / www.brookstone.com

Creative Vado HD

Captures video in 720p high-definition quality. Included HDMI cable that provides 1080i output to an HDTV. 2x digital zoom and works great in dim environments / 2 hours of recording and playback or 4 hours in standard def.

$230 / www.creative.com

Mini-Motion Games (skateboard, racing, etc.)

Cars of Fury, Home Run King, Sk8 House, Hoverboard Racing / Plug and Play USB games, no install, quick fun!

$20 each / www.aptusgames.com

iLane (reads and composes emails by voice)

Control your smartphone using simple voice commands.

$600 + 7.99 per month / www.ilane.com

Brookstone Vuzix iWear AV230 XL Video Glasses

A virtual theater with vivid, high-contrast OLED color displays.

$199 / www.brookstone.com

Omega Alaska Project Watch

Speedmaster Moonwatch “Alaska Project” limited edition of 1,970 pieces.

$6,900 / www.omegawatches.com

Ford Flex (with Zune)

Number Key-entry, fridge available, power tailgate, Bluetooth.

$49,000 / www.ford.ca & www.zune.ca

Sony-Ericsson MBW-150 Ladies Watch

Compatible with Sony-Ericsson Bluetooth phones. Can see caller ID, text message notification.

$300 / www.sony-ericsson.com

HP Mini 1000 VT (Vivien Tam)

Genuine Windows XP Home with Service Pack 3
Intel(R) Atom(TM) Processor N270 (1.60GHz)
1GB DDR2 System Memory (1 Dimm)
60GB 4200RPM PATA Hard Drive
10.1” display

$699, or with scarf & tote (3G) $899 / www.hp.ca

WowWee Femisapien and RS Tri-Bot

RS Femisapien has 3 main function modes, each corresponding to a different head position. Tilt her head in the desired direction and her function mode will change!

RS Tri-bot is incredibly expressive, from his “pop-top” head, to his animated eyebrows and light up eyes. Features a three wheeled base with “turn on a dime” omni-directional motion.

$50 & RS Tri-Bot, $80 / www.wowwee.com

Logitech Harmony One Remote

Replaces up to 15 remotes: Reduce the clutter and complexity of your living room.

$300 / www.logitech.com

Logitech QuickCam Vision Pro 9000 Camera

Carl Zeiss® optics
Premium autofocus
RightLight™ 2 technology
Integrated microphone

$150 / www.logitech.com

Digital Thirsty Light (plant meter)

Long-lasting LED, Corrosion resitant Brass Probe with 5 moisture levels. Blinking Patterns tells you when you need water your plant!

$9 / www.thirstylight.com

Breville Ikon Blender BBL600XL

Die cast aluminum base, clean control pad with no crevices for easy cleaning. 5 speed setting include mix, chop, blend, liquefy and puree. It has a pulse function and two programs for ice crushing and smoothies.

$199 / www.breville.ca

Read on for the complete list of gadgets including a golf watch, the ultra slim Dyson vacuum and a catchers mask that might just save your head.

Suunto G6 Golf Watch
Measures rhythm, tempo, backswing length, and speed of each individual swing Supports four game types: Scratch, Strokeplay, Stableford and Match. Stores key statistics and scorecard for each game.
Optional Suunto Golf Manager and PC Interface to download your statistics.

Suggested Retail Price: $399
www.suunto.com

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 08
New AI, new player moves, realistic graphics make BHL 08 the premiere hockey game for the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Suggested Retail Price: $35
www.easports.com

Wilson Shock FX Catcher’s Mask
This mask reduces the shock on catchers’ helmets by up to 50% with its exclusive four-piston design. Cutting-edge energy absorption materials allow the mask to “float” separately from the helmet itself absorbing the impact to drastically reduce possible effects on player’s helmet and head.
Approved by MLB.

Suggested Retail Price: $299
www.wilson.com

American Idol DVD Challenge
This interactive singing competition allows you to practice with the Idols from the show with or without lyrics, then perform on your own.
After your friend’s performance, simply select a score of 1 through 9 on your DVD remote and listen as the judges each have comments based on your scores.

Suggested Retail Price: $74.99
www.techtogo.com

Griffin Technology iPhone/iPod Touch Accessories
iClear case for the iPhone, PopwerDuo Travel for iPhone and iPod Touch, and more.

Suggested Retail Price: From $29 to $59
www.griffintechnology.com

Duracell Quick Charger
Extremely fast battery charger. Very compact. Saves the environment and money.

Suggested Retail Price: $45
www.duracell.com

NHL 08
New AI (artificial intelligence), new player moves, realistic graphics make NHL 08 the premiere hockey game for the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Suggested Retail Price: $50
www.easports.com

Sony HDRCX7
Ultra-Compact, High Definition Handycam Camcorder with ClearVid CMOS Sensor & Memory Stick PRO Duo Media Compatibility
No tape, no hard drive, no DVD, records straight to memory stick.

Suggested Retail Price: $1299
www.sonystyle.ca

Kodak EasyShare 5300 All-In-One Printer
Save up to 50% on everything you print compared to similar consumer inkjet printers as the print-head stays with the machine.
Print, copy, and scan. Prints lab-quality pictures in as little as 28 seconds. Large, high-resolution 3.0 in. (7.6 cm) colour display for easy photo cropping. Printing from most memory cards or PictBridge. 2 cartridge system.

Suggested Retail Price: $199
Ink $15 each
www.kodak.ca

Apple iPod Nano
The smallest iPod with video. Download music, music videos, TV shows, movies, video podcasts, and more.
1,000 on the 4GB, 2,000 songs on the 8GB

Suggested Retail Price: 4GB version $149, 8 GB version $219
www.apple.ca

Logitech S530 Keyboard/Laser Mouse For Mac
One-Touch Mac Controls: Instantly access iTunes, iPhoto, Safari, Mail and more. USB Mini-receiver. Low-battery indicator
Flatter Keyboard Design. Silver and White Styling. Zero-Degree Tilt to help reduce fatigue.
Sculpted Laser Mouse with Laser Engine, Tilt Wheel plus Zoom

Suggested Retail Price: $129
www.Logitech.com

HotDocs With PDF Advantage Software
Allows you to use HotDocs software for filling Acrobat Forms.

Suggested Retail Price: $399
PDF ad-on: $199
www.hotdocs.com

Dyson DC-18 Slim Vacuum
HEPA filter, weighs only 6.6kg., Root Cyclone technology. No clogging. No loss of suction. Flexible steering with ball joint
Telescope Reach, quick draw wand for instant high reach cleaning. 5 year warranty

Suggested Retail Price: $559
www.dysoncanada.ca

Dymo LabelManager 450
Ergonomic design includes QWERTY keyboard with large profiled keys for error-free use. Easy to use with clearly identified function keys and navigation pad.
Horizontal, vertical and mirror printing. Auto-printing of current date/time on labels.
Seven fonts, five heights, 12 styles, six boxes, seven background patterns. Ten-label memory. Electric, automatic label cutting for speed and convenience.
PC-connected via USB with a simple interface offering a full set of on-screen editing options and importing of logos, graphics and typefaces. 6 “AA batteries (not included) or optional AC Adapter.

Suggested Retail Price: $139
www.dymo.com

Wagner Paint Eater
Paint eater is an one-step paint remover for professional results. Uses an exclusive 3M abrasive that quickly removes chipped and flaking paint.
Paint Eater is aggressive on paint yet easy on siding and trim, and drywall.

Suggested Retail Price: $79
www.wagnerspraytech.com

Wagner Roll N Go Power Roller
Feeds paint straight from the can to the wall, eliminating the need to dip the roller into the paint tray. Will do 5 rooms on one set of batteries.
Disposable or washable hose, pump and roller. 12-foot hose allows painting in an extended work area without moving the paint can.

Suggested Retail Price: $89
www.wagnerspraytech.com

Black & Decker 14.4v Cordless Super Compact Lithium Drill
14.4-Volt Cordless Lithium-Ion drill offers 200 percent more power than traditional 18-volt drills
40 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than traditional 18-volt drills; Lithiu- Ion battery holds charge up to 18 months longer than Ni-Cad counterparts
Battery-charge indicator. Includes charging base and 16 bits (8 driving tips and 8 drill bits)

Suggested Retail Price: $129
www.blackanddecker.com

Logitech PureFi iPod / MP3 Speaker With Remote
A set of 2-inch Max-X active, high-excursion drivers delivers full, balanced audio, while 3-inch pressure drivers maximize the bass response.
10-hour rechargeable battery. Travel case. Charges your iPod: Doubles as an iPod charger. Wireless remote, plus one-touch controls on the unit.

Suggested Retail Price: $129
www.Logitech.com

LG Steam Washer / Dryer With Remote Monitor
Washer 4.0 cu.ft. capacity, SteamFresh cycle, 1320 RPM, 9 Washing Programs, LoDecibel Quiet Operation, Tri-Lingual LCD Display Screen, NeveRust Stainless Steel Tub.
Dryer has automatic settings, moisture sensor will automatically set time of cycle. Dryer and Washer have optional Remote Monitor to tell you exactly what stage the cycle is at. Comes in White, Rust, Red, or Navy Blue.

Suggested Retail Price: $3,000 to $3,500 set
Remote: $199
Risers: $199 each
www.ca.lge.com

Canon Selphy 730 Printer
Lab Quality Printing from a small printer. About 30 cents a print

Suggested Retail Price: $129
www.canon.ca

Wasaki Halloween Pumpkin
It’s remote controlled…. what else do you need to say!

Suggested Retail Price: $9
www.thesourcecc.ca

First off was the new Microsoft Home Server. This is a new software package that comes pre-installed on home server solutions from hardware manufacturers like HP. The Microsoft Home Server is a plug-and-play solution that connects to your network through a normal ethernet cable and becomes available both to all the computers and other units on your network as well as through the internet. Home Server serves two purposes; it’s a back up unit for all your computers and it’s a place to localize and share content throughout your home and make it available if you are out of your home. So who needs a Home Server? If you ask Microsoft, everyone. The product is created to address the growing need for backup, storage space and file sharing in the home environment. If you ask me I’d say anyone who has a lot of pictures, music and video on their computer and want to be able to access these files from one location rather than having to either have several copies on different computers or or using USB drives or other cumbersome media. It could also work for small businesses who are looking for a cheap and easy backup and storage solution although I think Microsoft would want them to go with a more business oriented product. Finally it will tie well in for all those of you out there who download purchase movies on-line and want to view them on your TV through your XBOX360.

Personally I wish this product had been launched about 8 months ago so I didn’t have to build my own custom backup solution on our systems at home. The rock solid plug and play capabilities and ease of use plus the expandable storage systems like the HP Home Server is a cheap and easy way of solving several problems.

Next on the list was Microsoft’s many gaming solutions. There really wasn’t much new here in terms of revolutionary innovation but we were presented with some fairly palatable updates to existing products. On the XBOX360 front there was the much talked about black XBOX360 Elite with it’s 120GB hard drive and HDMI output, the HD-DVD player that turns your gaming console into a full home entertainment system and the new pink and blue controllers that will be available in the near future. In the games department they presented two new titles: Viva Piñata: Party Animals and a multi player version of the hugely popular board game Scene It! Both of these offerings are targeted toward the family market and from what I saw I’d say they are pretty strong.

Viva Piñata: Party Animals is an action/adventure version of the on-line community game Viva Piñata which will appeal to a much larger audience. Personally I found the original to be dreadfully boring and tedious but this game looks like a lot of fun. It features 40 mini-games like speed eating and races and has lots of fun little animations and quirks.

Scene It! Lights, Camera, Action is a console version of the hugely popular DVD/board game about movie trivia. It can be played by 1 – 4 people and can easily get highly competitive. All the standard Scene It! plays are included, from “find the missing piece” to “picture puzzle” to “name that movie” making it a fairly entertaining game. The only problem is that the number of players is limited to the number of controllers (so if you only have two controllers forget asking your friends to come over to play) and considering the speed at which this game can be played you wonder how long it will take before you start getting repeat questions. Nevertheless I think the XBOX360 version of this game works better than the DVD version.

On the PC gaming front the only thing that really grabbed our attention was the highly customizable Sidewinder gaming mouse. I’ll be posting a video on this one ASAP. The mouse lets you change the weight and balance, sensitivity and even glide with buttons and accessories. I’m not much of a gamer myself but I’d like to try it out as a PhotoShop mouse because I think the sensitivity options would be excellent for designers. More on that later (meaning when Microsoft gives me one to test out).

Third up: Windows Live. We all know MSN Messenger and Hotmail and some have familiarized themselves with the MySpace alternative Live Spaces. Microsoft has made the wise choice to consolidate all their on-line offerings into one package simply called Windows Live. This all-inclusive download now gives you all the Live applications at once: Messenger, Live Spaces, MSN Mail, Photo Gallery, the blogging tool Writer etc etc. It’s pretty obvious Microsoft is feeling the pinch from Google (with Picasa, Blogger, YouTube etc) and social networking sites like Facebook so they are trying to gain some ground with this block release. The idea is that you have one login that covers everything, from your Messenger list to your blog to your email to your search preferences to your photo gallery. Whether it’ll work or not is another matter all together. But for now let’s just see where it goes. The Windows Live package was released today so jump on in and try it out. I know I will.

Last but not least was a comprehensive walk through of the security features in the new Microsoft flagship Vista. I think this presentation was designed to quell some of the fears surrounding Microsoft and security and they did a pretty good job. Vista features some very advanced parental controls which allow parents to block their kids from surfing certain sites on the web, playing certain games and even sets time limits on when they can use the computer. These are all features I know my parents would have loved (and I would have hated) when I grew up and with the enormous amount of shall we say inappropriate content available out there it is important for parents to regain some control of what happens on the home computer.
In addition to the standard security features on Vista, Microsoft now offers OneCare – coined as “All-in-one security and performance for your PC”. Basically it’s a software package containing antivirus, antispyware, anti-phishing and a software firewall along with some other tools. I have to say I find it somewhat questionable that Microsoft sells a security package when many of the security problems it fixes are caused by bad program design on their end. However much of the security problems we see on the web today such as spyware and phishing can’t be blamed on Microsoft and these are problems that have to be dealt with appropriately. The yearly subscription covers 3 pcs and is in the same price range as the competitors so I guess it boils down to who you trust your computer security to. I have yet to see a comprehensive test of OneCare versus other offerings so I really can’t give you any advice other than to try it out and see what you think. For most people any antivirus software will do the trick and a router will keep most evildoers out of your private files.

Overall it was an interesting event and it shows that Microsoft is a lot more than just spreadsheets and pie-charts like some people claim.

The store that claims to carry everything tech (they don’t) and to have all the info you need to make an informed decision (they definitely don’t) have realized they need some help on the knowledge front and started a forum. Normally I wouldn’t bother posting something like this – most tech shops have a user forum – but Future Shop is a more mainstream shop where people like your mother would go to get ripped off buy a TV or a computer so the forum might reach a larger audience.

The Future Shop Community Forum is a perfect opportunity for all the tech geeks out there to provide quality information to people who would otherwise get screwed over big time by the tech giant. And since the forum is fairly new you have a good chance of becoming one of the main posters if you jump in right now.

So go on, help your fellow man (or woman) and show Future Shop you know more about their products than all their sales staff combined. Maybe it’ll make them rethink their hiring routines.

Future Shop Community Forum

Read on for the complete list of gadgets including a battery backup with flashlight, a bike-to-beach stereo and a speed gun for those who like to catch their neighbours speeding.

	Olympus DS-50 Digital Voice RecorderCan you sing, talk or just mumble? Doesn’t matter what your vocal chords are transmitting out, you can record in full digital on this handy little recorder.The internal 1GB memory gives you up to 275 hours or recording, plus the ability to play back your own mp3 files (downloaded through the USB port). The playback and recording software comes with tons of options. Suggested retail price $299.99 www.olympuscanada.com
	Griffin Technology AmplifiAll study and no music makes a student dull. And if you’re gonna crank the tunes, why not do it style. Amplifi is the latest iPod (or any mp3 player for that matter) speaker/player.The all-wood, acoustically tuned enclosure with bass reflex port and special ResonanceDrive construction gives Amplifi its amazing sound. Two front-firing 2-3/4″ neodymium drivers and 5″ down-firing woofer create a clean, powerful sound, and the single round volume knob in the front, gives it a contemporary look.You can plug in any audio source to the built-in 3.5mm (1/8″) input jack, but it likes iPods best. And any iPod will work, as it comes with 6 iPod adapters/spacers.When you have your books in your lap, you won’t have to get up to change the song, use the included slim, 6-function IR remote control. Suggested retail price: $159 www.griffintechnology.com Buy Griffin Technology Amplifi
	Belkin Battery Backup with FlashlightYou light up my life…. well at least when the power’s out. The latest Battery Backup unit from Belkin comes with a “why didn’t I think of that?!” extra, a flashlight. When the power goes out, you can find your way around and keep your computer running for a bit. The unit will even shut down your computer safely.It has large AC-adapter blocks, 1-in, 2-out telephone jacks, cable management, and comes with a 3-Year Product Warranty, a $50,000 Connected Equipment Warranty, and a Data Recovery Warranty. Don’t trip over your books in the dark! Suggested retail price: $104.99 www.belkin.com Buy Belkin Battery Backup with Flashlight
	iHome Bike to Beach Bicycle Speaker for iPod – iH85BJust when you thought you were safe from new iPod accessories, here comes one for your bike. You’ll need a break from your studying, so here’s a good excuse to get some exercise and some fresh air. It’s safe to use though, your ears are left open to hear the horn of that 5-ton truck behind you. This water-resistant iPod speaker case clamps to your bike frame and you control all the fun from your handlebar mounted remote control Suggested retail price: $104.99 www.ihomeaudio.com Buy iHome Bike to Beach Speaker System for iPod
	Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun I hate radar guns! Even if you’re driving the speed limit and see you one pointed at you, you still slam on the brakes.This one, though, I like. It tells me how fast my baseball pitch is, how fast my tennis serve is, how fast I shot the puck down the ice, and even how fast I am driving.It’s accurate to +/- 1.0 miles per hour using digital technology and DSP (digital signal processing). Measure the speed of a baseball from up to 90 feet, or a vehicle from as far as 1,300 feet.To bad it doesn’t measure how fast you read… Suggested retail price: $99.99 www.bushnell.com Buy Bushnell Velocity Speed Gun
	Targus Convertible Backpack Roller Notebook Case Textbooks are getting heavier and heavier each year. Soon, you won’t even need a gym membership, you can just keep running from class to class!Lighten the load on your back with the Convertible Backpack Roller Notebook Case. It can be used like a regular backpack or throw it on the ground (ah, gently), pull the handle out and you have roller case, complete with two in-line skate wheels.A protective rear flap holds the shoulder straps in place when using it as a roller, then lower the flap to cover the wheels for greater comfort when in backpack mode.The backpack includes a padded removable slip-case for notebooks with up to 15.4″ screens and a top front pocket with protective nyflex lining for iPod/MP3 players, PDA or sunglasses. There’s lot of little storage areas, but the most important one – a mesh water bottle holder. Suggested retail price: $99.99 www.targus.ca
	Big Brain Academy – Wii DegreeThis 2 player game is the Nintendo Wii adaptation of the very popular Big Bran Academy for the Nintendo DS.Using Wii Remote controller’s hands-on control, the game test players’ brains with fun problems. It keeps track of your progress and is a great way to ‘exeercise’ your brain. Suggested retail price: $39.99 www.nintendo.ca Buy Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree
	Pinnacle PCTV HD StickFree is good. Getting an HD TV signal for free is really good. With the PCTV HD Stick, you can catch digital and analog TV with full DVR functionality to your PC. Compatible with Windows Vista and XP Media Centre Edition, the Stick plugs into your USB port and gives you SD and free HD TV1 on your PC.For better reception, there is a mini antenna included. Suggested retail price: $105 www.pinnaclesys.com Buy Pinnacle PCTV HD Pro Stick
	Logitech QuickCam Pro For NotebooksWith a Carl Zeiss optics lens, premium autofocus, and HD video capability, the latest version of the QuickCam Pro notebooks USB camera will make you a video conferencing star.Of course what images you take with the true 2-megapixel sensor (up to 8-megapixel with software) is up to you… but remember the Internet is watching.RightLight™2 Technology adjusts intelligently to produce the best possible images in dimly lighted or poorly backlighted settings.A built-in mic records you laughing at yourself. When at home you can sit the camera on top of the included 12-inch desktop stand. When travelling, put it into the travel case.If you’re really creative, use Logitech’s Video Effects software to personalize your conversations with hundreds of avatars and face accessories that mirror expressions and motion. Suggested retail price: $105 www.logitech.com Buy Logitech QuickCam Pro for Notebooks
	Black & Decker Power MopYou like cleaning? I don’t – unless I use something cool like this product. This new floor scrubber/ mop combo from B&D converts easily from a mop to power scrubber, and back.It cleans hard floors, removes dirt and grime from grout and even has a “grip” pad for cleaning pads of other manufacturers. In fact you can use supplies from other brands. Once you’re done with the pad, you can eject it without touching it. Suggested retail price: $60 www.blackanddecker.com
	Tom Tom One XLYour new HD TV is widescreen, so why not your GPS unit? The One XL from TomTom has a 4.3-inch display that gives you a better perspective of the road ahead.Besides GPRS mapping, there is the optional RDS-TMC radio-based real-time traffic information. Clear and accurate turn-by-turn voice instructions – but you get to pick the voice!There is an SD-card for upgrades and the built-in Bluetooth connection provides access to TomTom PLUS subscription-based services. Suggested retail price: $499.95 www.tomtom.com Buy TomTom ONE XL Portable Extra-wide Screen GPS Navigation System
	Epson Stylus Photo RX580 All-In-One PrinterWhen I make a CD or DVD myself, I print out a special label. It takes time to get the printer setup properly and then getting the label on the disc is even harder.The Stylus Photo RX580 photo all-in-one let’s you print directly on an ink-jet compatible disc. There are other printers that can do this, but this one is the easiest to use.Plus with Ultra Hi-Definition printing, you get professional looking labels. You can copy, scan, or print with or without a computer. You can plug in almost any type of memory card and with the 2.5-inch, colour LCD screen, you can view, select, rotate and crop the photos before hitting the print button.I like the fact it uses 6 different colour cartridges, so you replace only the ones you use most. The Claria Hi-Definition Ink is supposed to be smudge, scratch, water and fade resistant, giving you up to 200 years album storage. Nobody likes waiting around for their photos to print and you won’t have to here. The RX580 prints black and colour text up to 30 ppm, 4×6 borderless photos in as fast as 13 seconds and better than lab quality in as fast as 32 seconds. Suggested retail price: $169.99 www.epson.ca

He praises Activision Inc.’s Guitar Hero series and Vivendi SA’s online World of Warcraft and says that the industry has to find new avenues to pursue if it wants to keep up.

Full article here.

In the meantime you can drool over all the things he will see and you won’t (and maybe even drop us a comment or two about what you want him to find out for you).

LiveStation is a collaboration between Microsoft Research and Skinkers and will allow you to watch TV shows in your browser through a P2P network. Being Microsoft the service uses Silverlight as it’s base so this will be a good reason to get the little application installed and ready to go (and a good chance for Microsoft to start competing with Adobe Flash for real).

The program is not ready yet but you can watch a demo at Soapbox.

We are experiencing some technical difficulties with the demo unit in London. Our initial assessment indicates that this is probably due to the intense heat from the camera lighting. We have commenced a technical assessment and will provide an update later today. As a consequence, Kinetica will not be open to the public today (5th July). We apologise for this delay and appreciate your patience.

Now, having worked in television for years I can tell you that the “intense heat from the camera lighting” is not all that intense. For example it is much less hot than walking around Vancouver, BC on a sunny day like today. So if it is true that this amazing device doesn’t work due to this heat the people at Steorn have a serious problem on their hands because major parts of the globe experience this kind of heat if not hotter temperatures all year round. Regardless the explanation seems very suspicious as you would expect that the unit had been tested in warm conditions prior to it’s unveiling. Next thing you know they’ll claim that the electromagnetic interference from the video cameras are causing the problem. And then we’ll be told that the unit only works when no one is looking.

I’m sorry, but until this thing works in public and with cameras rolling it’s little more than hot air.

Read on for the complete list of gadgets including the LG Blue Ray/HD-DVD player, a Transformers computer and an automatic wrench.

APC UPB50 Universal NB Battery
Looks like a solid piece of plastic and not much else, but what it does is very useful. The UPB50 will keep your notebook computer powered up for up to additional 4 hours. It charges off your notebook’s power supply. The white LED status indicates battery level.  There are Multiple output voltages and the unit is Safety-agency approved.

Suggested retail price $107
www.apcc.com

Griffin Technology Journi
Two 50mm high/mid-range drivers and two 64mm passive radiators use SRS WOW® digital technology to expand the audio image, improving digital audio and creating deep, rich bass response
8-10 hours of play on a single charge via AC adapter or powered USB port
Sync iPod with your computer’s iTunes library as it charges
Adjustable Dock Connector welcomes all iPod models with dock connector
Auxiliary Audio Input for other digital music players
Lightweight – about 2.2 pounds

Suggested retail price $150
www.griffintechnology.com

Motorola S9 Bluetooth Active Stereo Headset
A whole lot less geeky looking than other models, this new, lightweight (less than an ounce) headset is a perfect pair to your K1 KRZR (and other Bluetooth enable phones).
If someone calls you, the music will pause and you can use the S9 as a Bluetooth phone earpiece. A mic is hidden in the earpiece. Answer and hang-up the phone with the buttons on the left side and control volume with the same set of buttons.
There will be an iPod adapter available soon, sold in a set for about CAD$40 more.

Suggested retail price: $149
www.motorola.ca

Verbatim DVD+R 4.7GB 16X LightScribe (LS)
LightScribe Direct Disc Labeling is a new technology that offers consumers and businesses a simple, no-hassle way to burn professional, silkscreen-quality labels on their DVDs. Using the same laser that burns data in their disc drives, customers burn their data as always, flip the disc over, reinsert it into the drive and burn a precise and permanent iridescent label.

Suggested retail price $1.50 each
www.verbatim.com

Logitech Z10 Interactive Speaker System
Studio-quality audio: These 30-watt, two-way speakers feature Touch-sensitive multimedia controls, Digital track information (see what’s playing with an LCD display of track information, including artist and song title, and total and elapsed time), Internet radio presets and jacks for your headphones or your favourite MP3 or CD player.
No-hassle setup: Simply plug in the provided USB (Windows only) cable to transport audio and digital track information from your computer to the speakers.

Suggested Retail Price: $170
www.logitech.com

Belkin Dual-USB Power Adapter
Charge your iPod and mini-USB device at the same time, anytime. USB-to-dock connector for iPod and mini-USB cables included. Works with many popular cell phones and other mini-USB charging devices.
With it, you won’t have to carry 2 or 3 adapters with you.

Suggested retail price: $35
www.belkin.com

Belkin 2.0 USB Plus Hub
I have so many USB devices, that I have run out of ports for them. The USB Plus Hub from Belkin not only connects them all, it powers them with the included adapter and keeps them organized with the wire holder.
Comes with a Belkin Lifetime Warranty

Suggested retail price: $35
www.belkin.com

R/C Stunt ATV – by The Source
If you can’t get to the mountain to ride an ATV, then I guess you can substitute playing with this thing.
This cool looking 4-wheel off-road bike with rider can be controlled in almost any way with the long-range remote control.
With wheelie spins, digital proportional speed control and lean-in action, it’s almost as fun as doing it yourself. Well, no, not really, but it is a lot easier to clean up after.
You can remove the rider to make it go faster. Uses 6xAA and 1x9v battery.

Suggested retail price $40.00
www.thesourcecc.com

Transformers Head of the Class Activity Centre
This toy makes learning fun. There are 8 zones with over 48 activities, including cool games. You can add names, make custom spelling lists and math problems to keep content fresh.
The authentic Transformer speech and sound effects sound neat.
SMART chip technology auto-adjusts difficulty based on player’s performance
QWERTY keyboard with special function Transformer “Hot Keys

Suggested retail price: $70
www.kiddirect.com

Canon PowerShot TX1 Digital Camcorder
The latest trend in camcorders, Canon’s new 7.1 megapixel PowerShot TX1 does double duty as a digital camera and video recorder. And does it looking good!
With an optically image-stabilized 10x optical zoom lens and an 115,000-pixel Vari-Angle LCD screen, you take great photos and video and clearly see what you’re doing.
For video, the camera captures at 30 fps High Definition (HD) 720p widescreen (16:9). What’s more, the PowerShot TX1 digital camera has easy connectivity to play its movies or high quality stills back on high-def TVs, thanks to Canon’s thoughtful inclusion of a convenient component video output terminal.

Suggested retail price: $650
www.canon.ca

Black & Decker Power Mop
You like cleaning? I don’t – unless I use something cool like this product. This new floor scrubber/ mop combo from B&D converts easily from a mop to power scrubber, and back.
It cleans hard floors, removes dirt and grime from grout and even has a “grip” pad for cleaning pads of other manufacturers. In fact you can use supplies from other brands. Once you’re done with the pad, you can eject it without touching it.
Very reasonably priced.

Suggested retail price $60
www.blackanddecker.com

Black & Decker 8” Auto Wrench
When you’re working on tightening some bolts, it’s hard to open and close the wrench in tight spots. You can turn the adjustment screw, but again in tight spots, it’s hard to. This new B&D tool automatically adjusts to any size nut or bolt up to 1-1/4″ with the push of a button.
Professional heat treated hardened steel and 220 ft-lbs. of torque are tough enough for any job

Suggested retail price $55
www.blackanddecker.com

Stanley MaxLife2 369 Titanium Tripod Flashlight
The super bright white 1.25 Watt LED light can be focused to be a spot or flood light. Use 3, 6, or 9 AA batteries.
Push a button and the legs pop out, giving you solid tripod light
Spot-to-flood light focusing capability
Innovative tripod design offers hands-free convenience
Weather-resistant anodized aluminum space frame construction tripod legs
Perfect for a project or emergency situation
Multi-position head focuses light precisely where it’s needed
Low-power indicator light flashes so you’re never caught in the dark
Durable, impact-resistant design with a graphite ABS composite head and shatter-resistant polycarbonate lens
Simple 3-position switch lets you choose Low, High or Off
Runs on 3, 6 or 9 AA batteries (not included)

Suggested retail price: $39
www.stanleytools.com

Nikon COOLPIX P5000 Digital Camera
The latest version of Nikon’s Coolpix 5000 is the P5000. With 10.0 effective megapixels, 3.5x Zoom-Nikkor lens and lens shift VR (vibration reduction), the camera provides amazing picture results.
Light sensitivity can be manually set as high as ISO 3200. In English, this means you can shoot in very low light levels. The large 2.5-inch LCD screen lets you see what you’re shooting, or what you’ve just shot. There is a optical viewfinder as well, helpful in saving batteries.
The COOLPIX P5000 is future-proof as well. It’s compatible with optional lens accessories, including the 0.67x Wide-angle Converter (WC-E67) and 3.0x Telephoto Converter (TC-E3ED) lenses. A new menu interface, face-priority AutoFocus and In-Camera Red-Eye Fix round up some of the neat features of the camera.
My favourite option, the built-in accessory shoe (or hot-shoe). It supports the use of Nikon’s advanced i-TTL flash control for external flashes, including the Speedlight SB-400, SB-600 and SB-800.

Suggested retail price: Camera $460
www.nikon.ca

Nikon SB-400 Speedlight Flash
The SB-400 flash is nice compliment to this camera. Its’ head can be tilted in four steps: horizontal, 60, 75 and 90 degrees and has a flash shooting distance range of 0.6m – 20m (depending on the ISO setting).
It’s power by two AA batteries and has auto shut-off features for conserving battery power.

Suggested retail price: Flash $170
www.nikon.ca

LG Super Blu – Blue-Ray and HD DVD Player
The world’s only Blu-ray Disc AND HD DVD Player. Has full HD 1080p output with 1080i Upconversion with HDMI for older DVD’s.
BD-J Interactive Menu System for extra features on the new HD movies.
Wide Disc Format Playback and 5.1 Channel Surround Sound
Not cheap, but extremely versatile.

Suggested retail price $1,400
www.ca.lge.com

Sona Pillow for Snoring and Mild Sleep Apnea
This funny looking pillow has been designed for those people who sleep on their side. Okay, I plead guilty!
If you suffer from snoring or mild sleep apnea, you owe it to yourself (and your partner) to used a Sona Pillow. Designed by a renowned neurologist and sleep-tested in clinical trials, the Sona Pillow lets you sleep comfortably on your side, positioning your jaw and neck to help keep your airway open.
Hypoallergenic fill. Includes specially designed pillowcase.

Suggested retail price: $110
www.brookstone.com

SanDisk Sansa Shaker
Pass the salt… These are the cutest looking MP3 players around. They’re designed for tiny hands, but are full of features.
Powered by a single AAA battery, the unit can play up to 10 hours. What you play is up to you with an inserted SD card.
You can pump sound out with the built-in speaker or use one of the two headphone jacks.
To change tracks, shake it (yup, shake it) or twist the dials.

Suggested retail price: $45
www.sandisk.com