The scoop: MicroMemo for iPod with video, by XtremeMac, about $60.
What it is: This is an add-on attachment with a microphone for iPod video (30GB or 60GB versions) that turns the audio player into a digital audio recorder. It attaches easily via the iPod’s universal docking port, and has a detachable and flexible microphone (the detachable part lets you use another 3.5mm microphone plug). The MicroMemo records 16-bit audio at 44KHz or 8-bit audio at 22KHz, and includes a line-in functionality that lets you record directly from another audio source (such as a cassette player, stereo system or CD player).
Why it’s cool: Attaching the device to the iPod couldn’t have been easier, because the iPod immediately recognized it and put us at the recording screen. We could then record at the click of a button (you can click the button on the device or use the iPod’s button). This lets people become instant podcasters, recording interviews or their thoughts and storing them on the device.
Grade: Four and a half stars (out of five)
The scoop: FreeAgent Go portable hard drive, by Seagate, $125 to $150.
What it is: Seagate’s new line of FreeAgent hard drives aims to offer more than just storage – the addition of software lets users take all their files (such as documents, videos, music and photos) and applications with them wherever they go. The FreeAgent Go version is a portable hard drive with capacities from 80GB to 160GB (we received the 160GB version). The device comes with a USB cable with two ports and no power cord (it’s powered by the PC). After you connect the drive to a PC, you install Seagate’s FreeAgent tools, which let you synchronize files between the PC and the FreeAgent drive.
Why it’s cool: The small size of the FreeAgent Go impressed me. You wouldn’t think 160GB of capacity would be in something smaller than a paperback book. The synchronization software is nice to have if you’re constantly updating files and folders and want to be sure that you have the latest version saved on a separate hard drive.
Some caveats: Installation of the FreeAgent software requires the use of Ceedo Technologies software, which also lets you carry applications on the drive instead of a PC. I ran into several warning messages during installation that would confuse the average user and make FreeAgent Go less appealing. Seagate would be better served by putting the FreeAgent software on an included CD instead of relying on Ceedo for the installation. The Ceedo software would be of more benefit to users who have multiple PCs and want all their files at all times. For users who have just one PC, it’s not really necessary. Also, the bundled software doesn’t work on Macs, but you can still use the hard drive with a Macintosh system.
Grade: Four stars
