Apple iPad

Apple’s new in-between mobile device is finally official: The iPad.  As you may already know the iPad is supposed to be the first device to truly fill the gap between mobile devices like the iPhone and the standard laptop computer.  As claimed by Apple, netbooks have never really filled this gap, and that is one of the reasons they claim the iPad is really the new deal.  I have to say, it does look really fresh, and I will most likely be picking up the wi-fi version for myself when they hit the markets in April of this year.  The fact that it is so lightweight (1.5 lbs) and is only 0.5  inches in depth definitely re-enforces Apple’s claim to be filling the gap.  I can see myself using it in the kitchen and living room and maybe even checking out some games on it.  You will be able to load any iPhone apps and there will also be new apps and games developed just for the iPad.  My first impression was “hey, this thing is just a big iPhone” (haha), but it will definitely serve a much different purpose for the user.  Although, the iPad will be compatible with many, iPhone/iPod accessories.

The iPad will be released in 6 different flavors:  Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + 3G; each available with 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB of flash storage.

A few other noteworthy specs:

• 1GHz Apple A4 processor
• 9.7-inch LED Multi-touch display
• 1024×768 resolution
• Fingerprint resistant coating
• 10 hour use battery life
• 3-month stand-by power
• 9.56″ x 7.47″ x 0.5″
• 1.5 lbs(Wif-Fi), 1.6 lbs (Wi-Fi + 3G)

BUY | Price: $499 – $829

Enlighten by Suissa Computers

Suissa Computers produces systems that are not only technical powerhouses, but also uniquely appealing in physical craftsmanship.  This melding of technology and art truly makes Suissa stand out amongst other computer manufacturers.  If desired, you may even request specific materials and personal style to be incorporated into the design of your system.  Although the Enlighten is not Suissa’s most powerful machine (due to it’s form factor) it still packs a whopping punch.  Some of the specs are as follows:  micro ATX motherboard, Intel Quad core CPU, NVIDIA GTX 285 2GB video card, 12GB DDR3 memory, 2TB + 300GB hard drive space, DVD burner, 750w power supply.

BUY | Price: Contact

Patagonia Men’s M10 Jacket

Weighing in at 10.8 ounces, the M10 slim fit jacket is ultra light and features a three-layer fabric. Perfect for those harsh weather conditions where you want to keep dry!

Highlights:

• 3-layer fabric with waterproof/breathable H2No® barrier and Deluge® DWR (durable water repellent) finish
• Single-pull, 3-way-adjustable helmet-compatible hood with laminated visor
• Microfleece-lined neck and chin for comfort and enhanced protection of barrier
• Watertight zippers for wet-weather performance; zippers on handwarmer pockets extend to pit zips for ventilation

BUY | Price: $400

Vin-O Wine Rack by SIDD

The work of SIDD Fine Woodworking is just that – fine, handcrafted art, and the Vin-O is no exception.  As stated by the company, this piece is one of their most difficult to craft, even though it may be one of the smaller pieces.  Each ring is hand shaped from solid wood, balanced, and load tested before finishing with natural oils which are brushed on by hand.  The Vin-O takes approximately 3 weeks to complete.

Dimensions and specifications:

• 15″L x 15″W x 5″D
• Sustainable Solid Canadian Hardwood
• Hand built, tested, and polished
• Finished with natural orange oil and beeswax

BUY | Price: $300

The Bourne Trilogy Blu-ray Set & Blu-ray + DVD Singles

Are you too fresh for Bourne?  We think not, and if you have not yet grabbed this set on Blu-ray now is the time.  This trilogy was originally released last year, and hit the market at $120.  However, due to the Jan 19th release of each individual film on Blu-ray + DVD, the price has been dropped to an incredibly fresh $70!  Each film has received a BD-50 dual-layer presentation with 1080p video and DTS-HD Lossless Master Audio 5.1 surround.  Don’t miss out on all the extra content, amazing HD, and extra Blu-Ray trilogy features!

BUY | Price: $70

If you prefer the no-frills, straight up approach then check out the recent Blu-ray/DVD combo singles.  No fresh packaging, or extra trilogy features, but will still feed your need for high-def Bourne goodness.

BUY | Price: $20                                 BUY | Price: $20                                     BUY | Price: $20

Klean Kanteen Classic: Stainless Steel Bottle

Switch from aluminum to stainless steel with Klean Klanteen, and taste the difference.  The company offers 18/8 stainless steel manufactured canteens that are completely free of BPA and other toxins.  No coating inside with plastic or epoxy lining.  They also offer insulated bottles for keeping drinks hot up to 6 hours and cold for up to 24.  Rest assured your drinks will be kept fresh & crisp!

BUY | Price: $17-33

Final Fantasy XIII by Square Enix

Square Enix brings us their next title in the beautiful and artistic Final Fantasy series which is actually the first game in a new sub-series called Fabula Nova Crystallis.  The battle system in this release is stemmed from FFVII Advent Children, and will maintain the strategic nature of command-based battles.  The completely new thing here will be a revamped Active Time Battle system which will allow the player to chain large numbers of commands together to produce combos and attack bonuses.  However, the main difference from other titles is that only one player is controllable during battle.  Some may think this would reduce game play complexity and involvement, but from what I have seen it will not be the case at all.  Of course the cinematic scenes are absolutely astonishing, and the graphics are incredible as well.  This title looks very promising and I am sure long time Final Fantasy fans and newcomers alike will be very pleased.  For those of you into the mmo style, FFXIVOnline is in development and may be on the market late this year.

• Release date: March 9, 2010
• Genre: Role playing Game
• Mode: Single-Player
• Platforms: Playstation 3, XBox 360
• Media: Blu-ray Disc, DVD
• Developer: Square Enix
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
• ESRB Rating: Teen

BUY | Price: $60

Addison 1000 Mile Boot by Wolverine

The original 1000 Mile Boot was crafted over 125 years ago by Wolverine founder G. A. Krause.  This boot was produced for men who were looking for authentic craftsmanship and footwear that would last, hence the name “1000 Mile Boot”.  The current version of this boot is designed to represent the authenticity and heritage of the original.  During this year’s trade show circuit Wolverine will bring us a new take on this classic called the Addison 1000 Mile Boot.  The Addison, like the original, will be constructed from Horween leather, hand-stitched Goodyear welt, and a stacked leather heel and outsole.  This new take on the legend in boots will hit stores in Fall 2010.

BUY | Price: TBD Fall 2010

Misa Digital Guitar

The Misa Digital Guitar is an ingenious new take on MIDI controllers which incorporates an incredibly fresh guitar feel.  The guitar runs Linux at its core, and works with any MIDI compatible sound module or card as well as all major operating systems.  What makes it so fresh is the creativity behind it;  it is not made to replicate the sound of a normal guitar or to replace any type of guitar by today’s standards.  It is its own instrument, and fits more in the electronic music category than any other.  You “strum” the Misa Guitar by manipulating its x/y touchscreen interface which has 4 tweak-able parameters.  Instead of frets, the neck is lined with 144 keycaps which sit on a special keymat.  Also, since this device is based on MIDI technology you can give it any sound you wish.  To get an overall better understanding of how it works you should view the video – you will be truly amazed!

BUY | Price: TBD

JAWBONE: Icon Bluetooth Headset

The latest bluetooth headset ICON from Jawbone is feature rich and stated to be the most comfortable, smartest, and smallest Jawbone created. In addition to the military grade NoiseAssassin Technology which set the Jawbone apart from the competition, ICON upgrades include the following:

• 4.5 Hours Talk | 10 days standby
• Batter Meter for iPhone
• Talking Jawbone whispers
• Customize functions via apps
• Multiple phone connections
• Standard micro USB charging
• Enhanced noise elimination
• Wind reduction technology
• Improved Audio Quality

BUY | Price: $100