thegadgetsite Reviews

Reviewed by K.C. Kim
$24.99
http://x-mini.com/

Details

* 52mm in diameter
* 2.4W output
* 52 grams
* Playback time - 4 to 8 hours
* Matte black finish
* Included USB charging cable, felt bag

Contents:
One X-mini capsule speaker
One retractable 2in1 USB and 3.5mm Cable
One X-mini travel pouch
Manual

Do you have an MP3 player that lacks a key feature, a built in speaker? Or maybe you’re not interested in buying an expensive dock that takes up too much space. And what’s the point of having a tiny MP3 player and then a huge speaker/docking station. Something that you can’t take with you on the go. Then this review is for you.

I was interested in a small compact speaker for my MP3 player but so far I have found cheap portable speakers that sound tiny. That’s when I found the XM-I X-Mini portable rechargeable speaker.

Design: The capsule designed speaker is small and lightweight and can fit in a pocket. It has a nice rubberized feel to it. It comes in matte black finish only weigh 52 grams. Has an off/on switch to conserve battery life and a two-step volume control.

Function: The XM-I X-Mini features a twist and extends style to open the capsule design speaker. Once open and turn on the speaker provides huge sound with major bass that is remarkable considering how small the thing is. The device is pretty much as subwoofer for your portable device or notebook. Next the build quality of the unit is very good better than the cheap ones you get from other manufactures. The speaker is powered by a built in rechargeable that you charge by USB.

Conclusion: For great portability for your iPod or mp3 player I would highly recommend the XM-I X-Mini Rechargeable speaker for those players that lack a built in speaker. It truly provides room-filling sound that can fit in your pocket. For this price it’s a steal and one of the first accessories I would get for my MP3 player or notebook.

9.5 out of 10

http://x-mini.com/

Intro:
I was looking for a mouse for my laptop computer that would work well and be portable enough to travel around with. The Logitech VX Nano was the perfect compliment to my IBM Thinkpad. The VX Nano was not too big like a normal mouse but was not too small that it was not usable. It’s the perfect size for laptops, which it was designed for.

In the box:
Included are the VX Nano Mouse, two AAA batteries, USB Receiver, USB Receiver Cradle, Software CD, documentation, and pouch.

Design and function:
The mouse gets its name for having a tiny receiver. The receiver is pretty much a usb plug and that’s it. Included is a usb extension cradle so you don’t have to plug the receiver directly into the PC. The mouse uses a 2.4ghz wireless signal. This means you’re free to roam around the room without a chord limiting you. The only negative to a cordless mouse is that you will go through batteries pretty fast. They do include two AAA batteries to start out with. But I would recommend you get some rechargeable AAA batteries. The laser on the VX Nano works excellent. Much better than my old Intellimouse. To fully utilize the mouse you need to install the included software so you are able to tweak the settings to your liking.

Conclusion:
I have been using an old Microsoft mouse for years and just amazes me how technology has improve since then. The old mouse was clunky and not very accurate while the VX Nano blows me away with its great features and fluid movements. If you are in the market for a mouse for a laptop then the VX Nano is for you. It the best mouse I have ever used.

9 out of 10

Buy it now Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks

Review by K.C. Kim
$39.99
http://www.thinkgeek.com/gadgets/watches/927f/

Thin watch design with reverse display
Like many of the most coveted electronics owned by geeks everywhere, this watch is styled in black and is very thin. The Ximax Slim is an elegant watch with modern styling. It features a thin metal watch case and very nice white on black reverse LCD display. The display is constantly on and a button push displays the date or seconds.

* Time, date, seconds display
* Water resistant
* Dimensions: 1.5″ x 1.5″ x .25″ thick (watch case)
* Band width: 1.1″ (2.8 cm

Intro: I have been looking for a stylish slim watch. And one of my favorite sites ThinkGeek just happens to have one that really interests me. At the time I was looking at the Issey Miyake Ovo Watch which runs for around $300-$400. The main thing I like about the Ovo Watch is its minimalist design. But the price tag was the main reason I did not get one. Then came around the Ximax Slim Watch from ThinkGeek. Similar to Ovo watch but rather than a round face it has a thin square design with very little

Design: Ximax Slim Watch is a slim square-ish watch that is both modern and unique. Perfect for those who like minimalist designs. It is a watch that demands attention. It has a quality black leather band and the watch face is made of metal so it should be highly durable. The big LCD with large numbers makes it easy to tell the time at all times.

Conclusion: At $39.99 this is an inexpensive purchase that looks and feels like a much more expensive watch. I would recommend this to anyone who wants a watch that is different yet fashionable. It’s a great look watch and function well for telling time with it’s big LCD.

Positives
Minimalist Design
Stylish
Thin
Works great as watch

Negatives
Leather band was a bit too wide for my liking

8.5 out of 10

Buy it now at ThinkGeek HERE

Reviewed by KC Kim
$129.99 Retail
http://www.soundid.com/

Product Description
Designed for versatility, the SM100 offers three modes of use, Mobile Mode, EnvironmentalMode, and One2One Mode. This lightweight and ergonomic in-ear headset can wirelessly connect to compatible devices, amplify surrounding sound when not being used with a mobile phone for enhanced in-person communications, as well as link to another SM100 EarModule to form two-way radio connections.

Intro:I have tested several Bluetooth headsets but never satisfied by the perfect balance between function and style. While there have been several contenders none jump to mind as a headset I would use on a daily basis for work and play.

Design: First thing I noticed when I ripped open the box was just how small the SM100 is. From the pictures on the internet I imagine it would be bigger. But to my surprise it’s one of the smallest Bluetooth headsets I have ever seen. Not only that but the design is top notch as well. With silver metallic finish on the outside and a black matte finish on inner side.

Function: The SM100 comes with a ton of features. Some unique and others improved over other Bluetooth headsets. First there are 3 settings for Personal Sound (Normal, Moderate, and Strong). This enhancing the sound of the headset to certain degrees. Next there is an Environmental mode. This is for when you have the headset in your ear but not during a call. Normally other headsets will block most of the outside environment. With this feature it actually amplifies your surroundings. Finally One2One mode which is acts as an ad-hoc two way radio provided you have another SM100 in your area.

Call quality was excellent. When talking to others using the headset the clarity was clear and also the headset does a good job of background noise reduction wind noise reduction.

Battery life is rated at 8 hours of talk time and 72 hours of standby. With Environmental Mode the Standby time reduces to around 24hours.

Conclusion: At $129.99 this headset is not cheap. But you do get what you pay for. A solid Bluetooth headset that features unique functions and in a small compact design. So I would say the price is definitely reasonable for what you’re getting.

9.5 Out of 10

To purchase go to the official site to find where this SoundID Sm100 is available HERE

Official Site here
Reviewed by KC Kim

Intro: Well I have been on the hunt for the very best leather case for the iPhone. While I have found some contenders I have yet to find the one that I would like to use on a daily basis. Krusell sent me their latest leather case for the Apple iPhone. And here we take a look at the Krusell Orbit Multidapt Flip Cover Leather Case for Apple iPhone.

Design: The design is great especially to those who don’t like the black on black look. The Krusell case which has a nice blend of Black with red isn’t as understated as the black leather cases I’ve reviewed before. So if you want a case that warrants attentions then the Krusell case is the one to get. The red stitching is perfectly aligned, and the genuine leather exudes luxury.

Function: The first generation of iPhone was plague with fitting and functional issues inside the case. Forunately the Krusell case has none of these issues. The proximity sensor which is block in most other leather cases for the iPhone is not on the Krusell case. It’s also not so tight that you have to yank it out of the case. But is tight enough to keep the phone in place.

The Krusell case also comes with the patented Multidapt belt clip.

Another cool feature is you can pop out the back to make a stand for the iPhone. Very nice feature and useful when you prop the iPhone on a table or desk.

Conclusion: Having used the case everyday that I have tested it I believe this is the case that I will use daily with my iPhone. It fits perfect, looks high quality, and provides maximum protection. If your looking for a top of line case for your iPhone look no further than the Krusell case. It will not disappoint.

9.5 out of 10

Reviewed by KC Kim
$39.95
http://www.primacases.com/store/item.asp?ITEM_ID=162&DEPARTMENT_ID=287

Prima is pleased to introduce our newest Premium Leather iPhone Flip Case.

Made of Soft, Aniline Leather, the Prima iPhone Case continues the tradition of Fine Leather Form Fit Cases, at an affordable price. Dedicated fit for the iPhone.

This flip case will help protect your iPhone from the knocks and scratches of everyday life.

* Form Fit to comfortably house your iPhone
* Flap over protection
* 2 Credit Card Slots
* 2 SD Slots
* Magnetic Closure
* Available With or Without Removable Swivel Clip

Model PC-IPHF

This case available in the following colors:

* Black

Available with and without a belt clip.

Intro: I’m on a mission to find the best case for the iPhone. My previous two reviews were based on holster designs. While this will be first flip style leather case I review. Having reviewed two previous cases from Prima. I was looking forward to the opportunity to review the Prim Cases iPhone flip case.

Design: The Prima iPhone flip case is made up of the highest quality black leather with perfect black stitching. Unlike other cases the Aniline Leather is soft to the touch and feels nice in hand. In addition the padding doesn’t add much bulk to the case but can take a hit and keep the iPhone safe.

Features and functions: The iPhone fits perfect into the flip case. There were some issues though probably due to being a first generation case. The headphone jack opening was misaligning with the iPhone. Also there doesn’t seem to be an opening for the proximity sensor. Included is a removable belt clip. Other features include 2 credit card slots, 2 sd slot and magnetic closure.

Conclusion: I particular like the soft leather which feels better than any leather case I felt before. By far the best quality case in terms of build quality. There were some issues with first generation cases. And this case was also affected. There ways around these issues and fixes on the net. Hopefully some of the issues can be fixed by the manufacturer since now they have iPhone to fit the cases perfectly. Before they had to base the cases on specs on the net. Still overall this is a pretty good case for your iPhone.

7.5 out 10

Buy it now here

Update: Since this review PrimaCases has made modifications to improve on their cases.

Reviewed by K.C. Kim
$24.95
http://www.marware.com/PRODUCTS/iPhone-Cases/C-E-O-Sleeve-for-iPhone

DESCRIPTION:
The C.E.O. Sleeve strikes the perfect balance between executive luxury and ease of access. This full–grain leather holster provides secure hold, while the open top gives quick access to the iPhone. The unique and attractive double–stitched front rounds out the features.
FEATURES:

* Rich, full-grain Nappa leather construction.
* Patented Multidapt® 360º rotating belt clip.
* Open top design for easy removal.
* Reinforced, form-fitting sleeve with soft, plush interior lining helps prevent scratches.
* Access to headphone port while iPhone is in case.

OUTSIDE CASE DIMENSIONS:
4.5” x 2.42” x .98” 115mm x 61.49 mm x 24.9mm
DEVICES FITTED:
Apple® iPhone

What’s included?
Included is the:
C.E.O. Sleeve for iPhone case
Screen protector for entire front of iPhone
Cleaning Cloth
Removable belt clip

Intro: I have an iPhone and so do many of you. With such an expensive piece of equipment you want to protect that investment with a good case. The C.E.O Sleeve for iPhone by Marware maybe just that. Check out my opinion in this review.

Design: First thing you noticed when you get the case is just how great it looks. Perfect white stitching, quality black leather, slim fit, and executive style luxury. If you want a case that looks good then this is the case to get.

Function: The included screen protector is a nice add on. So when you pull the iPhone out of the case you will not get any scratches on the screen. The case is very slim and fits like a glove to the iPhone. I found it easier to pull out than the Belkin sleeve, which was too tight. The case comes with a nice belt clip that doesn’t stick out much from the case, which is nice.

Conclusion: If you want a case that is easy to remove and simply works as a case then get the C.E.O Sleeve for iPhone. It exudes luxury and perfect for the business man/woman. It’s the best sleeve style case for iPhone that is available.

9.9 out of 10

Buy it now Marware CEO Sleeve Case for Apple iPhone

Reviewed by K.C. Kim
$99.99
http://www.jtcelectronics.biz/servlet/Detail?no=27

Don’t let the size fool you, the Music Card is packed full of features that most players can only dream about.

What’s In The Box:
• Meizu M3 Music Card
• USB Cable
• Software CD
• Users Manual (English)
• Earbud style headphones (PT850)
• FREE Silicone Case
Features
• Unique and Compact Design with High Portability
• Super Slim Body, Only 7mm Thick. TFT-LCD1.5 Inch 176*132 (RGB)
• Graphic and Dynamic GUI; Humanized Sliding-Touch Keypads
• Professional Sound Effects, Various and Adjustable EQ modes
• Including: User adjustable POP, Classical, Rock, Jazz, Live, Bass Booster, User.
• Supports WMA, WMA VBR, WMA LOSSLESS, OGG, WAV, FLAC Playback
• High Speed USB2.0 Ultra Fast Data Transfer
• High Capacity USB Flash Storage for Removable Disk
• Plays Up to 23 Hours (Based on our company’s test)
• Movie Player(AVI video files), Game, Calculator, Calendar and Stopwatch
• FM Radio with FM EQ and FM Recording Reservation
• Real-time Clock and Alarm Setting
• Photo Album + Slide Show: JPG, BMP, GIF Formats
• Music library, playlist Setting, Easier and Faster to search music
• Built-in Microphone Supports High Quality Recording
• Synchronized Song Lyrics display and ID3 supported
• Folder Management, Text reader (TXT)
• Multiple Language Supported
• Resume Function
• Power saving function: Auto Power OFF and sleep timer
• Hold key Function
• Firmware upgradable

Intro: Music lover’s rejoice the Music Card has arrived. A dap that features music first. This is one of the thinnest, smallest players I’ve seen, yet packs in tons of features. Comparisons with the Ipod nano are bound to happen. But I have to say after reading this review. You will know which will end up on top.

Design: The Meizu M3 has a glossy black front with similar touch strip to the Creative Vision along with a 1.5” screen. On the back you will find a mirror finish that is a tad prone to scratching. One of the first things you will notice is just how thin it is at a mere 7mm Thick. Overall the design is top notch.

Firmware: Meizu is one of the few company’s that constantly tries to improve it’s players through firmware updates adding new features and fixing current problems.

GUI: The interface is identical to the Meizu M6. Simple scroll with the touch strip. The lack of buttons at times makes for mistakes. It is often difficult what button does what. Also the touch strip is super sensitive so you may end up click on something you didn’t want to. Overall the interface is good but has room for improvement.

Battery life: Battery is rated around 20hrs

Video: While not a feature that is promoted as a feature. Videos can be played back on the device through the browser. Considering the screen size. I would say it’s a nice added bonus that the Nano does not have. But not something that would be used much. The player supports AVI video files and requires conversion.

Audio: Lossless fans can take heart that the Meizu M3 supports lossless WMA, OGG, and flac support. As well as popular mp3 and wma support. The audio quality of the player superb even surpassing the first Ipod nano.

Pictures: Photos are displayed in a thumbnails which you can click on to make full screen.

FM Radio: Unlike the Meizu M6 the Meizu M3 radio perform much better. The FM tuner was found to be clear and reception to be very good.

Additional features: A handy calendar and voice recording.

Conclusion: The Meizu M3 Music Card is an excellent alternative to the Ipod Nano. It offers less features than the Meizu M6 but focuses more on Music and easy portability at an excellent price. With the 8GB model you can have your entire music collection with you when your on the go. I highly recommend this player and everyone going out getting it now.

8.9 out of 10

To purchase form JTCElectronics.biz click here

Also available 8GB model here

Related reviews: Meizu Mini Player M6 8GB Review here

Review by K.C. Kim
$149.99
http://www.lattezone.com/latte-neon-m3-musicvideo-playe.html

Memory: 2 GB, 4 GB

Expandable T-Flash Memory Slot
2.4” QVGA TFT LCD, 320X240
Heat Sensor Navigation Keys
Audio: MP3, WMA
Video: AVI, MPEG
Voice Record: WAV
Image Viewer: JPEG
Video Playing Time: 3-4 hours
Audio Playing Time: 6-8 hours
Recording Time: 10 hours
FM Radio
Text Viewing
Game Function
3.5mm Earphone Output

What’s in the box:
Player, Stereo Earphone, USB Cable, Charger, Utility CD, Manual, Warranty card

I was given the opportunity to be the first to try out Latte Communications Latte Neon M3 MP4 player. First impression is it has the same LG Chocolate style.

Design: Like stated before the Latte Neon M3 MP4 player has a very Chocolate style to it. With Heat Sensor Navigation Keys that glow red. The player is all black with a glossy front and matte black back that is less prone to scratching. The front is dominated by a large 2.4” QVGA TFT display that can display 320×240 resolution. Small and compact this MP4 player is small enough to carry anywhere.

GUI: I was impress with the interface. Its looks a bit like the XMB cross media bar on the PSP but only with up down motions.

Audio: First off this is one of the few MP4 that has an actually built in speaker that is crystal clear. Audio quality through headphones is also excellent and comparable to other flash players on the market.

Video: The screen is amazingly bright and crystal clear. The 2.4” screen makes it perfect for video with smooth playback at 24 Frames per second. Included is a conversion software “AVI Converter Setup V3.0” to convert over to the AVI format.

Pictures: Pictures look great on the 2.4” Screen. JPEG is the supported format.

Expandable: The Latte Neon M3 MP4 features Transflash/MicroSD slot for added memory space.

Game: Included is a very good Tetris clone that provides hours of fun.

FM Radio: FM Radio reception is excellent on this player. But before you search for available stations make sure to plug in the earphone as that is used as the antenna. FM radio can not be used with the speaker do to this. So earphones is required.

Voice Recording: There is a Mic on top of the unit next to the power button for voice recording. You can record in either high or normal quality. You can also set the volume from 1-5 setting.

Text: The player can also be used as a text ebook reader.

Conclusion: The Latte Neon M3 is an excellent flash player that I would recommend to anyone. With expanded flash memory through T-Flash memory card slot, Speaker, Screen quality, and Audio Quality. There’s nothing that this player can’t do. The design is top notch and features are everything you would want in a little player.

Rating 9 out of 10

Purchase the Latte Neon M3 MP4 Player now Latte Communications Neon 2 GB Video MP3 Player (Black)

Reviewed by K.C. Kim
Price: $24.95
http://www.bodyguardz.com/BodyGuardz_for_Apple_iPhone_p/nl-baip-0407.htm

BodyGuardz are a clear film that covers the body of an Apple iPhone providing scratch protection from outside elements. Designed to custom fit each particular device, these protectors are made from the same material that is used to protect the front of automobiles from stones and other abrasive elements.

Tough and durable, you can be assured that your device is protected by BodyGuardz. Easy to apply, BodyGuardz are designed to offer a shield of protection to your device while letting the beauty and design of the device shine through. BodyGuardz are optically clear. The protection remains transparent without distorting the dimension or design of your iPhone. Whether its keys in your pocket or that occasional drop, BodyGuardz will protect the exterior of your device from scratches.

Your iPhone covered by BodyGuardz WILL fit into your iPhone Dock. Another great advantage of BodyGuardz skins.

Intro: No matter how hard I try the gadgets that I used end up being scratched up. Even a case does not help. As you pull the electronics in and out of the pouch, scratches and abrasions happen. This is why a screen protector that protects the entire gadget is important. Most people tend to apply a screen protector that only protects the screen. This is a big mistake as the scratches can happen on the body of the unit as well. Enter a product like BodyGuardz. A product that protects the entire device.

Installation: Very important check out the video first on the website. I found it very helpful. Installation was very simple process. Apply solution on hands then gently remove screen protector off the paper back. Make sure to spray solution on sticky side of screen protector. Apply the front and back screen protectors. This was easier with the included solutions. As I can gently move the screen protector into the correct position. Unlike other screen protectors which have no solution and give in one shot at correctly applying it. Probably the most difficult part of applying the screen protectors was the edges. It takes the most time to dry. But once it’s applied it set and you have a shiny full body screen protector applied to your iPhone.

Conclusion: I don’t know about you but when I purchase a $500-$600 phone, I want it to look just like new a year from now. BodyGuardz protects your investment. And in my opinion is the first thing you should get after getting the iPhone. It was simple to apply that even I didn’t mess it up unlike other screen protectors. And plus you get 2 sets of protectors so you won’t need another one for awhile.

10/10

To purchase click here