Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[HTC updates Beats Audio, makes it work with any third-party app]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/26/htc-updates-beats-audio/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/26/htc-updates-beats-audio/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/26/htc-updates-beats-audio/#comments Let's just say we were underwhelmed by the first iteration of HTC Beats on the Sensation XE. But now it looks like the technology has been revamped for the latest One handsets, so -- once we've tasted the pudding -- we might just have to revise that opinion. The new Beats is claimed to make music sound more "authentic," and whereas the previous version could only be activated inside HTC's stock music player, this time it'll work with YouTube, Pandora, Spotify and any other third-party Android app. What exactly will it do with those apps? And will it move beyond its current gimmicky bass-boost status? We'll just have to wait and listen.

HTC updates Beats Audio, makes it work with any third-party app originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioaudiophilebeats audioBeatsAudiodr dreDrDrehtchtc beatshtc onehtc one shtc one xHtcBeatsHtcOneHtcOneSHtcOneXmobilepostcrossmobilepostminimonstermusicpandorasoundsound enhancementSoundEnhancementspotifySun, 26 Feb 2012 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster and Beats Electronics discontinue partnership, audiophiles rejoice]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/monster-and-beats-electronics-discontinue-partnership-/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/monster-and-beats-electronics-discontinue-partnership-/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/monster-and-beats-electronics-discontinue-partnership-/#comments
Color us surprised, but word on the street is that Monster and Beats By Dr. Dre are soon going to be a thing of the past. After years of pumping out fashion-forward, bass and treble pumping headphones that (debatably) changed the landscape of personal audio products -- and spawned a slew of imitators -- both companies have reportedly decided not to renew their five-year contract. Businessweek notes that two sources have confirmed that disagreements over "revenue share" and "who deserved the most credit for the line's success" stemmed the decision between the companies -- not surprisingly, Beats Electronics wanted more of both.

In the followup, Monster will pump eight new headphone lineups featuring due out this year, Monster is also noted to have brought in 60% of its own revenue from Beats by Dre, and now plans to shift its focus on older demographics, such as executive types, which the brand never exactly catered to. Notably, Businessweek also states that Beats Electronics will retain to the rights to the headphone's iconic design, sound-signature and branding. Considering Beats' partnerships reign far with companies like HP and HTC, things probably won't be all doom and gloom for the company -- but the amount of time left to pick up your very own JustBeats likely just got slim. Hit up the source link below for more details.

Monster and Beats Electronics discontinue partnership, audiophiles rejoice originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby baby babyBabyBabyBabybassbeatsbeats audiobeats by drebeats electronicsBeatsAudioBeatsByDreBeatsElectronicsbieber feverBieberFeverboomby dr dreByDrDredr dreDrDredre drDreDrexpensivefashionheadphonesjustin bieberJustinBieberlady gagaLadyGagaleemonstermonster beatsmonster cableMonsterBeatsMonsterCablep. diddyP.Diddypuff daddyPuffDaddysean combsSeanCombsthumpThu, 12 Jan 2012 20:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Seagate teams with Monster for staggeringly overpriced Momentus XT upgrade kits]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/seagate-teams-with-monster-for-staggeringly-overpriced-momentus/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/seagate-teams-with-monster-for-staggeringly-overpriced-momentus/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/seagate-teams-with-monster-for-staggeringly-overpriced-momentus/#commentsToo lazy to pop your existing HDD out in favor of a Momentus XT solid state hybrid drive? There's a Monster for that. In what has to be one of the poorest partnership decisions of the new millennium, Seagate has decided to hitch its wagon to a company famous for scamming customers, suing small businesses and charging a fortune for things that... well, shouldn't cost a fortune. Here at CES, Seagate and Monster Digital are introducing the Dakar series of upgrade kits, which will be offered with 750GB and 500GB models of Seagate's Momentus XT drive at suggested retail prices of $289.99 and $269.99, respectively. For those keeping count, the drives alone will run you around $100 (500GB) and $185 (750GB), which means that you're paying well over a Benjamin for the following: software (not needed; download cloning apps for free), cables (a couple of bucks on Monoprice), an instructional video (Monster should actually pay you to watch this) and a screwdriver (you have ten -- just look). Great product launch, guys. Just great.

Continue reading Seagate teams with Monster for staggeringly overpriced Momentus XT upgrade kits

Seagate teams with Monster for staggeringly overpriced Momentus XT upgrade kits originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012Dakarhard driveHardDrivehddhybrid driveHybridDriveMomentus XTMomentusXtmonstermonster digitalMonsterDigitalrip offRipOffscamSeagatesolid state driveSolidStateDrivessdSSHDMon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia unveils Purity HD Stereo Headset with a little help from Monster]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nokia-unveils-purity-hd-stereo-headset-with-a-little-help-from-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nokia-unveils-purity-hd-stereo-headset-with-a-little-help-from-m/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/26/nokia-unveils-purity-hd-stereo-headset-with-a-little-help-from-m/#comments Nokia doesn't just have phones on display, check out their new audio product, the Purity HD Stereo Headset by Monster. The line includes headphones and earbuds (Purity In-Ear Stereo Headset), whichever tickles your fancy, and with that trademark M on the side, you can bet they'll bear a healthy price tag when they hit shelves. Naturally, there's also a couple of YouTube videos showing it off in the traditional Nokia strongholds of rock music and dancing, check those out after the break.

Gallery: Nokia HD Purity Stereo Headset

Continue reading Nokia unveils Purity HD Stereo Headset with a little help from Monster

Nokia unveils Purity HD Stereo Headset with a little help from Monster originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 05:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earbudsheadphonesheadsetmobilepostcrossmonsternokianokia world 2011NokiaWorld2011puritypurity hd stereo headset by monsterPurityHdStereoHeadsetByMonstervideowh-920wh-930Wed, 26 Oct 2011 05:25:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio, we go ears-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/htc-sensation-xe-with-beats-audio-we-go-ears-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/htc-sensation-xe-with-beats-audio-we-go-ears-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/htc-sensation-xe-with-beats-audio-we-go-ears-on-video/#comments Guess who's back? HTC let us play with the new and improved Sensation XE in London last night and we even managed to find a secluded spot to bop our heads to the integrated Beats Audio and packaged YourBeats headphones. The XE is very similar to the original 4.3-inch flagship Sensation in terms of hardware, except there's a 300MHz clock-speed bump to 1.5GHz, a slightly larger 1750mAh battery and also a packaged 16GB (instead of 8GB) microSD card. But aside from that, we expect it'll be the audio credentials and related marketing hype that will attract most attention when the device reaches shelves later this month. Current Sensation owners probably won't even consider the upgrade unless they're chronic Dr. Dre fans, but what about those with more sticky icky icky devices? Should they be enticed by all the fuss? Click past the break if you think rap's changed and you want know how we feel about it.

Update: HTC has been in touch to clarify that this device is not coming to the US. An intriguing decision to say the least.

Update: The latest word is that HTC is working on bringing "other Beats-integrated devices" to the US market -- "soon." So, you might find this hands-on relevant after all.

Gallery: HTC Sensation XE hands-on

Continue reading HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio, we go ears-on (video)

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HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio, we go ears-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioaudiophileBeatsBeats AudioBeatsAudioDr DreDrDreDrehands-onHTCHTC SensationHTC Sensation XEHtcSensationHtcSensationXein-earmobilepostcrossMonsterSensation XESensationXevideoThu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Beats by Dr. Dre get the ColorWare treatment, minus the color (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/beats-by-dr-dre-get-the-colorware-treatment-minus-the-color-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/beats-by-dr-dre-get-the-colorware-treatment-minus-the-color-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/beats-by-dr-dre-get-the-colorware-treatment-minus-the-color-v/#comments Now, you'd think ColorWare would be working furiously to release some flashy iPad 2s, but that's not what we're getting today -- instead we now have a pair of Monster headphones to complement that ever-so-necessary neon Dyson Air Multiplier we assume you've already added to every room in your tastefully decorated mansion. These very limited edition ColorWare "Chrome Beats" headphones don't actually have any color, but they admittedly do look pretty slick, excepting the $1,000 price tag necessitated by this perfect storm of overpriced branding. ColorWare is only decking out 50 of these 'cans, so grab that platinum card and head over to our source link to get your pair.

Continue reading Beats by Dr. Dre get the ColorWare treatment, minus the color (video)

Beats by Dr. Dre get the ColorWare treatment, minus the color (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatsbeats by dr dreBeatsByDrDrechromechrome beatsChromeBeatschromedcolorwarecolorware headphonesColorwareHeadphonesdysondyson air multiplierDysonAirMultiplierheadphonesmonstermonster beatsMonsterBeatsvideoWed, 20 Apr 2011 19:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Case-Mate's Creatures collection: Animal magnetism for your iPhone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/case-mates-creatures-collection-animal-magnetism-for-your-ipho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/case-mates-creatures-collection-animal-magnetism-for-your-ipho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/case-mates-creatures-collection-animal-magnetism-for-your-ipho/#commentsiPhone 4 cases are a dime a dozen -- well, more like $25 each, to be specific -- but we do like to give props to any company that produces one in an imaginative and unique style. Two new styles by Case-Mate, part of the "Creature collection," fit our guidelines to a T. These covers boast your choice of scary monster (the Monsta) or cuddly penguin (the Waddler). We know, you're holding out for the adorable puppy case, right? Fortunately, there are more creature features ready to roll out in the coming months. But how can you turn down a case that has its own webbed feet keychain and raised flipper attached? We submit that you cannot. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Case-Mate's Creatures collection: Animal magnetism for your iPhone

Case-Mate's Creatures collection: Animal magnetism for your iPhone originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesaccessoryapplecasecase mateCaseMatecasesgadgetgadget show liveGadgetShowLiveholderiphoneiphone caseiphone4IphoneCasemobilemonsterpenguinWed, 20 Apr 2011 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster iMotion adds gesture control to your iPod, cigarette lighter]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/28/monster-imotion-adds-gesture-control-to-your-ipod-cigarette-lig/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/28/monster-imotion-adds-gesture-control-to-your-ipod-cigarette-lig/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/28/monster-imotion-adds-gesture-control-to-your-ipod-cigarette-lig/#comments We haven't always gotten along with Monster or enjoyed the MSRP of its products, but this latest one shows a bit of promise -- and a bit of price gouging too. It's the Monster iMotion, a car adapter for your iPod or iPhone that not only will charge it via the cigarette lighter but lets you get your motion control on, too. A wave of the mitten can be used to change tracks and the universally familiar "talk to the hand" gesture can pause. It doesn't look quite as comprehensive as EyeSight's tech, but it does have the advantage of being available now -- for $120. Hey, check out that gold-plated connector!

Monster iMotion adds gesture control to your iPod, cigarette lighter originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 03:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleimotioniphoneipodmonstermotionmotion controlmotion detectionMotionControlMotionDetectionFri, 28 Jan 2011 03:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Yarn-eating Yarn Monster forms yarn balls, makes us want to build our own (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/yarn-eating-yarn-monster-forms-yarn-balls-makes-us-want-to-buil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/yarn-eating-yarn-monster-forms-yarn-balls-makes-us-want-to-buil/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/yarn-eating-yarn-monster-forms-yarn-balls-makes-us-want-to-buil/#commentsRobots, Arduino, and monsters are all very close to our new-age, gadget-loving hearts. The folks over at Union Bridge Labs have created a half-monster, half-machine dubbed the Yarn Monster. This little cubic beast has one job -- to eat yarn and shape it into a perfectly rolled ball of, well, yarn. It's powered by a ton of hardware, from a stepper motor to Arduino components to even a universal mounting hub. Instructions to control speed of the nom-noming are sent to the Arduino via XBee from a remotely connected potentiometer which can also reverse the direction of yarn-ball rolling. We encourage you to spend your hard-earned dough (about $130), buy the proper components and build one of these things to impress your loved ones. If not though, be sure to watch the video after the break.

Continue reading Yarn-eating Yarn Monster forms yarn balls, makes us want to build our own (video)

Yarn-eating Yarn Monster forms yarn balls, makes us want to build our own (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinoballdiydo it yourselfdo-it-yourselfDoItYourselfhacklabsmachinemonsterrobottodd treeceToddTreeceunion bridgeunion bridge labsUnionBridgeUnionBridgeLabsvideowindXBeeyarnYarnBallZigBeeWed, 05 Jan 2011 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster sues Fanny Wang, purveyor of fine knockoff headphones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/monster-sues-fanny-wang-purveyor-of-knockoff-headphones/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/monster-sues-fanny-wang-purveyor-of-knockoff-headphones/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/24/monster-sues-fanny-wang-purveyor-of-knockoff-headphones/#comments
Monster Cable's reign of legal terror has resulted in several things over the years -- a tiff with the Chicago Bears over the "Monsters of the Midway" nickname, a lawsuit against a minigolf company, and eventually even a hard ban on the pages of Engadget -- but we can't say we ever expected the target of a Monster lawsuit to try and use the case for cheap free publicity. Well, surprises come in all forms: the delightfully-named Fanny Wang is now proudly proclaiming that it's being sued for copying Monster's Beats headphones and trying to score some free good press -- even though it appears that Fanny's headphones are indeed a fairly close copy of Beats. (Just check the image above.)

To give you an idea of the ridiculousness at work, Fanny's presently hosting a copy of the Beats design patent and Monster's complaint on its own website, right next to a rebuttal of the charges. Fanny claims its headphones have different packaging and minor design differences such that "no reasonable consumer would likely confuse the two," which we suppose is arguably true -- but we'd also point out that Fanny's original press release proudly proclaims that "the same sound engineer who designed the Beats by Dr. Dre acoustics tackled the Fanny Wang collection." Copy, coincidence, or crafty PR strategy? You be the judge... for now.

Monster sues Fanny Wang, purveyor of fine knockoff headphones originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beatsbeats by dr. dreBeatsByDr.DreDr. DreDr.DreFanny WangFannyWangheadphonesKIRFlawlawsuitlegalMonstersuesuedsuesFri, 24 Dec 2010 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster builds Daft Punk Edition Tron Headphones, unwittingly unleashes moral quandary of a generation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/08/monster-builds-daft-punk-edition-tron-headphones-unwittingly-un/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/08/monster-builds-daft-punk-edition-tron-headphones-unwittingly-un/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/08/monster-builds-daft-punk-edition-tron-headphones-unwittingly-un/#comments We can't tell, is this (and by "this" we mean the entertainment machine that is Disney / Daft Punk / Tron / Jeff Bridges, melding with the monster that is Monster, and creating a pair of $350 ultra-glossy headphones) the ultimate payoff of our childhood hopes and dreams, or their ultimate ruination and desecration? Both?

Gallery: Monster builds Daft Punk Edition Tron Headphones

Continue reading Monster builds Daft Punk Edition Tron Headphones, unwittingly unleashes moral quandary of a generation

Monster builds Daft Punk Edition Tron Headphones, unwittingly unleashes moral quandary of a generation originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daft punkDaftPunkheadphonesjeff bridgesJeffBridgesmonstermonster headphonesMonsterHeadphonestronWed, 08 Dec 2010 18:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple tracking an issue with defective Monster headphones?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/apple-tracking-an-issue-with-defective-monster-headphones/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/apple-tracking-an-issue-with-defective-monster-headphones/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/01/apple-tracking-an-issue-with-defective-monster-headphones/#comments We just received a tip and some screencaps, purportedly from the Apple-verse, with a word of warning about Monster's headphone lineup. Apple is apparently blaming the "conductive flanges" used in many of Monster's earbuds for erratic stopping and starting of playback on Apple devices. The point of this internal memo seems for support staff to recognize that what a consumer might assume is a defect in an Apple product might actually be a Monster problem. Interestingly, Apple's list of problem headphones doesn't mention any of the Beats-labeled products that Apple actually sells, and is limited to Monster headphones that include "ControlTalk" tech for controlling playback with a cable-mounted mic / volume / pause remote, modeled after Apple's own iPhone-bundled earbuds. We're not sure if this means Monster is mis-applying Apple standards or just has a manufacturing defect, and it's also unclear if this problem also extends to the ControlTalk-equipped products in the joint-developed Beats lineup, but if you've been having some trouble with random stop-starts in your music on your $400 pair of Copper Turbines (and you aren't listening to James Blake), perhaps this will clear up some confusion. A full list of the affected 'buds is after the break.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Continue reading Apple tracking an issue with defective Monster headphones?

Apple tracking an issue with defective Monster headphones? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledefectdefectiveearbudsearphonesexclusiveheadphonesheartbeatsHeartbeats by Lady GagaHeartbeatsByLadyGagajamzlady gagaLadyGagalil jamzLilJamzmonsterturbineturbine basicturbine proturbine pro copperturbine pro goldTurbineBasicTurbineProTurbineProCopperTurbineProGoldMon, 01 Nov 2010 11:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Beats by Dr. Dre launching Beatbox iPod dock, along with LeBron and Bieber-branded headphones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/beats-by-dr-dre-launching-beatbox-ipod-dock-along-with-lebron/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/beats-by-dr-dre-launching-beatbox-ipod-dock-along-with-lebron/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/beats-by-dr-dre-launching-beatbox-ipod-dock-along-with-lebron/#comments Dr. Dre knows a hit when he sees one, and the already sprawling Beats lineup is getting five new products to hit just about every demographic you can imagine. First off is the Beatbox, a high-end portable iPod dock with 5.25-inch bass drivers and 2-inch high frequency drivers which will retail for $400. Next up is a LeBron James-branded set of athletics-friendly earbuds dubbed the Powerbeats. The $170 headphones include dual drivers and a design that lets in external noises. Meanwhile, the Beats Pro blows the lid off with a $450 pricetag and audio pro-style quality and performance. At the cheap end we have iBeats, a $120 pair of i-device friendly cans for the less discriminating, and our personal favorites: JustBeats. JustBeats are better than all the other headphones and we heart them and they're totally worth $200 for the on-ear and $120 for the in-ear versions because Justin Bieber is totally down to earth and sexy and probably the best singer ever. All of these should be landing in the next few weeks; we know you'll make the right decision.

Update: Oh, and just so you know: we still hate Monster. You just can't pass up some Bieber, you know?

Gallery: Beats by Dr. Dre launching Beatbox iPod dock, along with LeBron and Bieber-branded headphones

Continue reading Beats by Dr. Dre launching Beatbox iPod dock, along with LeBron and Bieber-branded headphones

Beats by Dr. Dre launching Beatbox iPod dock, along with LeBron and Bieber-branded headphones originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatboxbeatsbeats by drebeats proBeatsByDreBeatsProbieberdr dreDrDredreibeatsjustbeatsjustin bieberJustinBiebermonsterpowerbeatsWed, 29 Sep 2010 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mimo goes giant with 10-inch iMo Monster USB-driven monitor]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/11/mimo-goes-giant-with-10-inch-imo-monster-usb-driven-monitor/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/11/mimo-goes-giant-with-10-inch-imo-monster-usb-driven-monitor/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/11/mimo-goes-giant-with-10-inch-imo-monster-usb-driven-monitor/#comments
 Who says the USB monitor fun has to end at seven diagonal inches? Not Mimo, that's for sure. The famed secondary display company has issued its latest device, and this one's a looker. The 10-inch iMo Monster is aptly named, offering 10 full inches of touchscreen real estate with a native 1,024 x 600 resolution panel. The whole thing weighs just 1.77 pounds and it fully supports both Windows and OS X platforms; best of all, a single USB 2.0 cable provides all the power and connectivity you'll need. Mimo throws in a stylus, 4.5-inch USB cable and a boatload of bragging rights, but given the "limited availability," you may want to part ways with your $259.99 right away if you're looking to pick one up.

Continue reading Mimo goes giant with 10-inch iMo Monster USB-driven monitor

Mimo goes giant with 10-inch iMo Monster USB-driven monitor originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Jul 2010 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-inchdisplayimoimo monsterImoMonsterlcdmimomonitormonsterpanelscreensecondarysecondary displaysecondary monitorSecondaryDisplaySecondaryMonitorusbusb displayusb monitorUsbDisplayUsbMonitorSun, 11 Jul 2010 17:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Diddy, Beats combine to make... Diddybeats]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/24/diddy-beats-combine-to-make-diddybeats/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/24/diddy-beats-combine-to-make-diddybeats/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/24/diddy-beats-combine-to-make-diddybeats/#comments Not even Engadget's firm ban on Monster Cable can keep the word "Diddybeats" off these pages.

Diddy, Beats combine to make... Diddybeats originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 May 2010 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatsbeats by dreBeatsByDrediddydiddy beatsDiddyBeatsdr dreDrDredreear budsEarBudsheadphonesmonstermonster cableMonsterCablep diddyPDiddysean combsSeanCombsMon, 24 May 2010 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Headphone shocker! Lady Gaga, Beats by Dr. Dre and Monster Cable join forces]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/07/headphone-shocker-lady-gaga-beats-by-dr-dre-and-monster-cable/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/07/headphone-shocker-lady-gaga-beats-by-dr-dre-and-monster-cable/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/07/headphone-shocker-lady-gaga-beats-by-dr-dre-and-monster-cable/#comments
We really can't think of a trinity unholier than that of Dr. Dre, Lady Gaga, and Monster Cable, who (protestations to the contrary) is not the only entity legally entitled to use the word "monster." Or "cable," for that matter. That said, our fair Lady has been going for broke with the elaborate costumes and set designs -- at least that's what we hear during our regular slogs through the Gaga fansites and forums -- so perhaps it's no surprise that she seems to be shilling extra hard lately. And for the fruit of this evil menage we need look no further than Heartbeats, her very own signature line of headphones. First, some product details: these bad boys feature a jewel-shaped earpiece that "literally doubles as a high-tech fashion accessory or attractive piece of jewelry," and they're available in October for prices ranging from $99.95 to $149.95. But the best part? Well, for that you'll have to dip into the PR:

In the deepest hour of the night, I confess to myself three things; I would die if I was forbidden to write, forbidden to love, or forbidden to fashion. Heartbeats embody the trinity of my human-being, with one additional vow: that SOUND matters. Wear Heartbeats, love each other, and celebrate the art and lifestyle of music.

Right. If you're morbidly curious, please feel free to hop on down to the ga-ga-gallery below.

Gallery: Lady Gaga, Beats by Dr. Dre and Monster Cable join forces



Update: Yes, we're still convinced that Monster Cable is pure evil -- but as always we reserve the right to stick our two cents in whenever we feel that something is too upsetting / hilarious to pass up. And we're sure you agree that this product is nothing if not upsetting / hilarious!

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Headphone shocker! Lady Gaga, Beats by Dr. Dre and Monster Cable join forces originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 14:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beats by dr. dreBeatsByDr.Dreearbudsheadphonesheartbeatsifaifa 2009Ifa2009lady gagaLadyGagamonstermonster cableMonsterCableportable audioportableaudioMon, 07 Sep 2009 14:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget endorses Monster Cable? Uh, hell no.]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/17/engadget-endorses-monster-cable-uh-hell-no/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/17/engadget-endorses-monster-cable-uh-hell-no/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/17/engadget-endorses-monster-cable-uh-hell-no/#comments You know, we were as surprised as anyone to see a totally out-of-context quote of ours used on a Monster Cable site (without permission, mind you) to sell the company's "Beats by Dre" headphones (you can see the screen cap after the break). It's ironic, really, given that we currently have a blacklist in place for the overpriced cable-maker because of their rotten business practices (like regularly going after other companies that happen to use the word monster in their name, faking performance tests, and generally bilking customers out of their hard-earned dough). Regardless, if Monster wants to use a quote from Engadget, that's no problem. We suggest this one:
Monster Cable sucks.
Update: Monster has removed the quote from the site. Now that was fast. Power to the people!

[Thanks, Michael K.]

Continue reading Engadget endorses Monster Cable? Uh, hell no.

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Engadget endorses Monster Cable? Uh, hell no. originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beats by dreBeatsByDredr dredr. dreDr.DreDrDredreengadgetfalsemisusemonstermonster cablemonster cable sucksMonsterCableMonsterCableSucksportable audioportableaudiosucksFri, 17 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Cable learns nothing, sues Monster Transmission]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/monster-cable-learns-nothing-sues-monster-transmission/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/monster-cable-learns-nothing-sues-monster-transmission/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/monster-cable-learns-nothing-sues-monster-transmission/#comments
Wondering why Engadget still has a permanent ban on covering Monster Cable products, even after the company tried to make amends for its frivolous lawsuit and strong-arm settlement offer against Monster Mini Golf? Well, it's because the company hasn't actually changed its ways -- not only did we just catch them trying to peddle their overpriced snakeoil cables using rigged displays for the third time, Noel Lee's lawyers have dusted themselves off and filed a lawsuit against Monster Transmission, a performance auto supplier in Florida. Yes, Monster Cable is suing an American automotive manufacturing company in the middle of a recession. Brilliant PR move, don't you think? So yeah, the ban stands -- and we'd recommend steering your friends to any number of cable brands that are just as good, much cheaper, and far less burdened with the stink of desperation than any of Monster's products.

Update: Monster Cable's sending out a statement saying "Monster does not have an issue with Monster Transmission" and that the "case was filed last year, before the Monster Mini Golf matter was settled" but it sounds to us like they're playing fast and loose with their timeline to distract people -- we just spoke to Achilles Thomas, one of the owners of Monster Transmission, and he said the initial lawsuit was filed between October and November of 2008 and hasn't come close to settling, even though the Mini Golf case settled in January. Naughty, naughty.

Read - Audioholics post on the lawsuit
Read - Monster Transmissions

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Monster Cable learns nothing, sues Monster Transmission originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdlawsuitlegalmonstermonster cablemonster transmissionMonsterCableMonsterTransmissionnoel leeNoelLeeThu, 09 Apr 2009 13:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Cable learns nothing, sues Monster Transmission]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/monster-cable-learns-nothing-sues-monster-transmission/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/monster-cable-learns-nothing-sues-monster-transmission/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/monster-cable-learns-nothing-sues-monster-transmission/#comments
Wondering why Engadget still has a permanent ban on covering Monster Cable products, even after the company tried to make amends for its frivolous lawsuit and strong-arm settlement offer against Monster Mini Golf? Well, it's because the company hasn't actually changed its ways -- not only did we just catch them trying to peddle their overpriced snakeoil cables using rigged displays for the third time, Noel Lee's lawyers have dusted themselves off and filed a lawsuit against Monster Transmission, a performance auto supplier in Florida. Yes, Monster Cable is suing an American automotive manufacturing company in the middle of a recession. Brilliant PR move, don't you think? So yeah, the ban stands -- and we'd recommend steering your friends to any number of cable brands that are just as good, much cheaper, and far less burdened with the stink of desperation than any of Monster's products.

Update: Monster Cable's sending out a statement saying "Monster does not have an issue with Monster Transmission" and that the "case was filed last year, before the Monster Mini Golf matter was settled" but it sounds to us like they're playing fast and loose with their timeline to distract people -- we just spoke to Achilles Thomas, one of the owners of Monster Transmission, and he said the initial lawsuit was filed between October and November of 2008 and hasn't come close to settling, even though the Mini Golf case settled in January. Naughty, naughty.

Read - Audioholics post on the lawsuit
Read - Monster Transmissions

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Monster Cable learns nothing, sues Monster Transmission originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lawsuitlegalmonstermonster cablemonster transmissionMonsterCableMonsterTransmissionnoel leeNoelLeeThu, 09 Apr 2009 13:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster "HDMI Difference" scam still kickin' in Fry's Electronics]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/monster-hdmi-difference-scam-still-kickin-in-frys-electronic/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/monster-hdmi-difference-scam-still-kickin-in-frys-electronic/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/monster-hdmi-difference-scam-still-kickin-in-frys-electronic/#comments
Man, this is just sad. Over a year after the internet was set ablaze with rage after seeing Monster's HDMI cable scam, we've just been notified that the tactic is still being used in at least one Fry's Electronics store. For those unaware, the rig works as such: two TVs are set beside each other along with a sign that says "See the Monster HDMI Difference." Trouble is, the "Monster set" (on the right) is connected to its source via an HDMI cable, while the "non-Monster set" (on the left) is connected via composite cable. As in, the lamest looking signal next to using an RF modulator. So, is anyone with any amount of power paying attention to this? We get the feeling "false advertising" is a real understatement of the situation.

[Thanks, Jeff]

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Monster "HDMI Difference" scam still kickin' in Fry's Electronics originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compositefryshdmihdmi cablehdmi differenceHdmiCableHdmiDifferencehdtvmonstermonster cablemonster scamMonsterCableMonsterScamscamMon, 23 Mar 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster "HDMI Difference" scam still kickin' in Fry's Electronics]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/monster-hdmi-difference-scam-still-kickin-in-frys-electronic/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/monster-hdmi-difference-scam-still-kickin-in-frys-electronic/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/23/monster-hdmi-difference-scam-still-kickin-in-frys-electronic/#comments
Man, this is just sad. Over a year after the internet was set ablaze with rage after seeing Monster's HDMI cable scam, we've just been notified that the tactic is still being used in at least one Fry's Electronics store. For those unaware, the rig works as such: two TVs are set beside each other along with a sign that says "See the Monster HDMI Difference." Trouble is, the "Monster set" (on the right) is connected to its source via an HDMI cable, while the "non-Monster set" (on the left) is connected via composite cable. As in, the lamest looking signal next to using an RF modulator. So, is anyone with any amount of power paying attention to this? We get the feeling "false advertising" is a real understatement of the situation.

[Thanks, Jeff]

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Monster "HDMI Difference" scam still kickin' in Fry's Electronics originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compositefryshdhdmihdmi cablehdmi differenceHdmiCableHdmiDifferencemonstermonster cablemonster scamMonsterCableMonsterScamportsscamMon, 23 Mar 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[RedMere introduces industry's thinnest "smart" active HDMI cables]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/17/redmere-introduces-industrys-thinnest-smart-active-hdmi-cable/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/17/redmere-introduces-industrys-thinnest-smart-active-hdmi-cable/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/17/redmere-introduces-industrys-thinnest-smart-active-hdmi-cable/#comments
They'll cost just shy of four gazillion dollars per meter, but the world's thinnest "smart" active HDMI cables are still pretty enticing; unfortunately for us, RedMere chose Monster to deliver said cables to retail, but we're crossing our fingers that it partners with other brands that are less soiled by frivolous lawsuits and priced even remotely close to "reasonable." At any rate, the new ultrathin cables feature RedMere's MagnifEye Active chip technology, and while we're not told precisely how slim these new strands will be, we're sure Monster will make quite the fuss whenever they begin to ship. Now, the only question remaining is this: will there be a locking version?

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RedMere introduces industry's thinnest "smart" active HDMI cables originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdhdmihdmi cableHdmiCableMagnifEye ActiveMagnifeyeActivemonstermonster cableMonsterCableredmereTue, 17 Mar 2009 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Cable tries to make it better, drops minigolf suit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/13/monster-cable-tries-to-make-it-better-drops-minigolf-suit/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/13/monster-cable-tries-to-make-it-better-drops-minigolf-suit/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/13/monster-cable-tries-to-make-it-better-drops-minigolf-suit/#comments
Behold the power of bad press: Monster Cable last week decided to drop its ridiculous trademark lawsuit against Monster Mini Golf. According to founder Noel Lee, Monster Cable will drop any opposition to the "Monster Mini Golf" trademark, won't require any licensing fees, and it'll also step up and pay Monster Mini Golf's attorney's fees in an effort to make things right. Of course, it wouldn't be Noel Lee if he didn't caveat his actions with some weird martyr nonsense -- are you ready? "I will say that this is a landmark kind of situation, as public opinion wins over what is the right thing to do for trademark protection of a famous mark. We have made the decision that public opinion, and that of our valued customers is more important than the letter of the law that requires us to prevent the dilution of our mark and risk losing it." Yeah, somehow we just don't believe Noel Lee really thinks that Monster is in danger of losing its mark over putt-putt -- a better paranoia would be the fear that consumers will one day realize that Monster's cables and power strips are just overpriced snake oil.

[Via TechDirt]

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Monster Cable tries to make it better, drops minigolf suit originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lawsuitlegalmonstermonster cablemonster mini golfmonster mini-golfMonsterCableMonsterMini-golfMonsterMiniGolfnoel leeNoelLeetrademarkTue, 13 Jan 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Cable still evil, will allow Monster Mini Golf to exist for just $100/month (per franchise)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/15/monster-cable-still-evil-will-allow-monster-mini-golf-to-exist/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/15/monster-cable-still-evil-will-allow-monster-mini-golf-to-exist/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/15/monster-cable-still-evil-will-allow-monster-mini-golf-to-exist/#comments
So as you may remember, back in May Monster Cable pulled one of its sad bully tactics and sued a company called Monster Mini Golf, claiming that the glow-in-the-dark putt-putt outfit was somehow harming its trademarks -- a nonsensical brand of idiotic evil we were so tired of implicitly condoning that we held a vote on whether or not we'd even continue to cover Monster at all. Not surprisingly, 60 percent of you responded in the negative, and we've dutifully ignored the company, its ridiculous cables and overblown power strips ever since -- and, to be honest, we've been fine with it.

Well, it looks like Monster's trying to rehab its image: the company's put up a site today called "Monster Mini Golf Truth" that apparently makes public a proposed settlement agreement between Monster Cable and Monster Mini Golf. As you'd expect from a company as ham-fisted and reflexively nasty as Monster Cable, it's basically another attempt to exert a death grip on the word "Monster." Monster Cable says it's dropping the lawsuit and that the mini golf people can still be called "Monster Mini Golf," but only if they pay a $100 / month license fee and agree that Monster Cable owns the mark outright. In turn, Monster Cable will donate $100 each month to two different charities, including one that gives Segways to disabled veterans. Sure, it sounds nice, but it's notable that Monster Cable is trying to settle this in public rather than in the conference room of a law firm -- Monster Mini Golf stands a fair shot of winning this one in court, and we'd bet they've already turned this offer down privately. We don't know how this one will end, but we do know you probably shouldn't have the CEO of your company saying things like "We're not some big corporate Mongols" in a video designed to sway public opinion. It's after the break, in case you were wondering why the ban on Monster still stands.

Update: As one astute reader's pointed out, Monster Cable is asking for $100 per month, per franchise. With twenty-two franchises, that adds up to $2,200 a month.

Continue reading Monster Cable still evil, will allow Monster Mini Golf to exist for just $100/month (per franchise)

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Monster Cable still evil, will allow Monster Mini Golf to exist for just $100/month (per franchise) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lawsuitlegalmonstermonster cablemonster mini golfmonster mini-golfMonsterCableMonsterMini-golfMonsterMiniGolfMon, 15 Dec 2008 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Cable prepping wireless UWB gear]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/28/monster-cable-prepping-wireless-uwb-gear/http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/28/monster-cable-prepping-wireless-uwb-gear/http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/28/monster-cable-prepping-wireless-uwb-gear/#commentsMonster Cable -- the firm famous for grossly overcharging for its wares and suing nearly every company on Earth with "monster" in its title -- is going wireless. Yep, rather than gouging customers for Unicorn-like wiring, it'll now be promising to transmit signals through the purest air -- the kind only a Monster box could attract, most likely. Over at Hometech 2008 in Dubai, CEO Noel Lee affirmed that it would soon be "coming out with wireless," also noting that the elusive product(s) would be based on ultra-wideband (UWB) technology and support 1080p. Beyond that, it looks like we'll be waiting for specifics, as an official announcement of the device won't come until the "second week of June." Lee also stated that it "[wouldn't] be inexpensive," and threw out a $600 estimation for "a pair of boxes," while each additional room would cost $200 to connect. Color us absolutely unimpressed.

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Monster Cable prepping wireless UWB gear originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 May 2008 01:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdmonstermonster cableMonsterCableother hardwareotherhardwareothersportsultra-widebandUWBwhdiwirelesswireless hdwireless hdmiWirelessHdWirelessHdmiWed, 28 May 2008 01:19:00 EST<![CDATA[In-store demo compares Monster HDMI interconnect to composite cable]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/21/in-store-demo-compares-monster-hdmi-interconnect-to-composite-ca/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/21/in-store-demo-compares-monster-hdmi-interconnect-to-composite-ca/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/21/in-store-demo-compares-monster-hdmi-interconnect-to-composite-ca/#comments
It's not like we haven't seen Monster Cables used in "A-B" demos before, but the latest in-store comparison is downright laughable. The image shown above was reportedly captured at a Fry's Electronics in Indiana, and as you can see, some clever bloke / dame figured they'd attempt to pull the wool over ignorant eyes by setting up an absolutely absurd side-by-side demonstration. The only difference between the two rigs is the use of a Monster Power Filter versus a vanilla power strip and a Monster HDMI cable versus a... no-name composite cable. Both devices were piped to a 19-inch 720p LCD, and according to the tipster who snagged the picture, the actual image quality was only marginally different -- presumably due to the "nearly monochromatic ocean scene" that did nothing to show off the differences between the two mediums. Donuts to dollars a coat hanger would've actually proven superior to the Monster.


[Thanks, P.]

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In-store demo compares Monster HDMI interconnect to composite cable originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablecomparisondemodemonstrationhdhdmimonstermonster cableMonsterCableothersscamMon, 21 Apr 2008 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Cable tries to harass Blue Jeans Cable, fails]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/14/monster-cable-tries-to-harrass-blue-jeans-cable-fails/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/14/monster-cable-tries-to-harrass-blue-jeans-cable-fails/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/14/monster-cable-tries-to-harrass-blue-jeans-cable-fails/#comments
Monster Cable's got a pretty shady history for a variety of reasons, but high up on the list is the company's notoriously aggressive legal team, which routinely threatens companies with litigation if they don't pay license fees or otherwise settle over trivial matters. Well, in an ironic turnabout, it looks like Monster's lawyers didn't know what they were in for when they sent a cease-and-desist letter to EHD favorite Blue Jeans Cable recently: the company's founder, Kurt Denke, was a federal litigator for nearly twenty years, and has no intention of backing down. He's making his reply to Monster public, and while it's essentially very similar to what any company's lawyer would have written up in response, Kurt doesn't have to be nearly as polite, which makes it a pretty fun read. Monster's basically saying that Blue Jeans Cable is using connectors that are too similar to Monster's, and Kurt does a pretty good job of taking them to task for being bullies -- all while pointing out that even if they do win, they won't get much, and he'll have made life very difficult in the meantime. Full letter, chuckles included, at the read link.

[Via Audio Junkies]

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Monster Cable tries to harass Blue Jeans Cable, fails originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 21:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue jeans cableBlueJeansCablehdken denkeKenDenkelawsuitlegalmonstermonster cableMonsterCableMon, 14 Apr 2008 21:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster now shipping SL100 speakers, coat hangers not included]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/22/monster-now-shipping-sl100-speakers-coat-hangers-not-included/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/22/monster-now-shipping-sl100-speakers-coat-hangers-not-included/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/22/monster-now-shipping-sl100-speakers-coat-hangers-not-included/#commentsMonster Cable ships SL100 speakers
Perennial whipping boy in the A/V market, Monster Cable, has launched its compact StreamLine (SL) 100 speakers. Seriously, we've never found Monster Cable products to be bad, it's just the marketing hype and pricing that gets under our skins. Anyways, if you absolutely have to have your cabling and speakers match, take a look. If that's your style, chances are you'll be interested in purchasing a set of the $300 swappable panels (cherry, silver, maple, red or yellow) to make your speakers match your decor as well. The primary tower speakers and the center channel feature 3-inch aluminum woofers and 1-inch aluminum tweeters, and the subwoofer has a 10-inch driver backed by a 120-Watt amp. Prices are $600 (per pair) for the towers, $300 for the center channel, and $500 for the sub. Cables not included, but Monster can cover you there, too.

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Monster now shipping SL100 speakers, coat hangers not included originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 23:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiohdmonstermonster cableMonsterCablesl 100Sl100speakersStreamLine 100Streamline100Sat, 22 Mar 2008 23:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster's iSoniCast wireless iPod bridge finally starts shipping]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/13/monsters-isonicast-wireless-ipod-bridge-finally-starts-shipping/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/13/monsters-isonicast-wireless-ipod-bridge-finally-starts-shipping/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/13/monsters-isonicast-wireless-ipod-bridge-finally-starts-shipping/#comments
Monster first started talking this one up way back in August of last year, but the company just now seems to have gotten its act together, with it finally starting to ship its iPod Wireless Audio Bridge out the door. Now dubbed the iSoniCast, the device relies on "proprietary 2.5GHz technology" to wirelessly stream music from your iPod to the home audio system of your choice and, like many other similar products, includes a dock conncetor-attached transmitter to let you use the iPod itself as a wireless remote. As you can see above, the device has also gotten a bit of a facelift since its initial debut, but it's hung onto the same price tag, with it setting you back $100 even.

[Via Crave]

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Monster's iSoniCast wireless iPod bridge finally starts shipping originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipodisonicastmonsterportable audioportableaudiowireless audio bridgeWirelessAudioBridgeThu, 13 Mar 2008 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Audiophiles can't tell the difference between Monster Cable and coat hangers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/03/audiophiles-cant-tell-the-difference-between-monster-cable-and/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/03/audiophiles-cant-tell-the-difference-between-monster-cable-and/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/03/audiophiles-cant-tell-the-difference-between-monster-cable-and/#commentsWe've always believed that the perceived quality boost that comes from using high-end cables is really just a trick of the mind (read: justifying the ridiculous cost of premium cables to yourself) -- if you've dropped enough cash, you can probably hear anything you want. Still, our belief is one thing -- cold hard proof is another, and it looks like a group of 12 self-professed "audiophiles" recently couldn't tell the difference between Monster 1000 speaker cables and plain old coat hangers. Yeah, coat hangers. The group was A-Bing different cables, and unbeknownst to them, the engineer running the test swapped out a set of cables for coat hangers with soldered-on speaker connections. Not a single one was then able to tell the difference between the Monster Cable and the hangers, and all agreed that the hangers sounded excellent. No wonder Monster has to rig HD displays. Still, we bet people still fall for the hype -- oh hey, if you're looking for the ultimate in sound, we've got half a meter of oxygen-free, triple-wrapped double-insulated Sonically Shielded AmpliSized Egyptian Llama cable here that we'll part ways with for just a couple grand.

[Via BoingBoing]

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Audiophiles can't tell the difference between Monster Cable and coat hangers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablesmonstermonster cableMonsterCablespeaker wireSpeakerWireMon, 03 Mar 2008 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Audiophiles can't tell the difference between Monster Cable and coat hangers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/03/audiophiles-cant-tell-the-difference-between-monster-cable-and/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/03/audiophiles-cant-tell-the-difference-between-monster-cable-and/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/03/audiophiles-cant-tell-the-difference-between-monster-cable-and/#commentsWe've always believed that the perceived quality boost that comes from using high-end cables is really just a trick of the mind (read: justifying the ridiculous cost of premium cables to yourself) -- if you've dropped enough cash, you can probably hear anything you want. Still, our belief is one thing -- cold hard proof is another, and it looks like a group of 12 self-professed "audiophiles" recently couldn't tell the difference between Monster 1000 speaker cables and plain old coat hangers. Yeah, coat hangers. The group was A-Bing different cables, and unbeknownst to them, the engineer running the test swapped out a set of cables for coat hangers with soldered-on speaker connections. Not a single one was then able to tell the difference between the Monster Cable and the hangers, and all agreed that the hangers sounded excellent. No wonder Monster has to rig HD displays. Still, we bet people still fall for the hype -- oh hey, if you're looking for the ultimate in sound, we've got half a meter of oxygen-free, triple-wrapped double-insulated Sonically Shielded AmpliSized Egyptian Llama cable here that we'll part ways with for just a couple grand.

[Via BoingBoing]

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Audiophiles can't tell the difference between Monster Cable and coat hangers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cableshdmonstermonster cableMonsterCableothersspeaker wirespeakersSpeakerWireMon, 03 Mar 2008 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster brings Speed-Rated HDMI cables to Canada, gross markup likely in tow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/18/monster-brings-speed-rated-hdmi-cables-to-canada-gross-markup-l/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/18/monster-brings-speed-rated-hdmi-cables-to-canada-gross-markup-l/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/18/monster-brings-speed-rated-hdmi-cables-to-canada-gross-markup-l/#comments
We didn't believe Monster's claims when it rolled those Speed-Rated cables out here in the US, and we certainly don't think its savvy marketing will increase picture quality any more up north. Nevertheless, the cabling company notorious for snatching hard-earned dollars from unsuspecting shoppers who fall for glamorous packaging and wild claims is bringing its Speed-Rated line to Canada. Holding down the flagship position is the Ultra-High Speed MC1000EX, followed closely behind by the increasingly sluggish MC850HD, MC750HD and MC550HD. Apparently, the family will run Canucks $59.95 to $149.95 for one-meter editions, but we genuinely hope anyone reading this has better sense than to take 'em up on the "offer."

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Monster brings Speed-Rated HDMI cables to Canada, gross markup likely in tow originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Feb 2008 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablecablescablingcanadahdhdmiinterconnectsmonstermonster cableMonsterCableothersSpeed-RatedMon, 18 Feb 2008 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster and Andre Young offer up 'Beats by Dr. Dre' headphones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/07/monster-and-andre-young-offer-up-beats-by-dr-dre-headphones/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/07/monster-and-andre-young-offer-up-beats-by-dr-dre-headphones/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/07/monster-and-andre-young-offer-up-beats-by-dr-dre-headphones/#comments Here's a rather odd partnership: legendary rapper and producer Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, Chairman of Interscope Geffen A&M Records, have teamed up with cable, line conditioner, and accessory powerhouse Monster to market a pair of high-end, high-priced headphones. The so-called "Beats by Dr. Dre" were supposedly tuned by the former N.W.A. member and Death Row founder himself (along with a little help from 'Head Monster' Noel Lee), and boast "rich, deep bass" which promises to keep your head ringin'. Scheduled to ship this spring, these over-the-head cans will sport a $400 price tag -- you know, just so you can be sure that this is in fact a Monster product

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Monster and Andre Young offer up 'Beats by Dr. Dre' headphones originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Jan 2008 04:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobeats by dr. dreBeatsByDr.Dreheadphonesmonstermonster cableMonsterCableportable audioportableaudioMon, 07 Jan 2008 04:51:00 EST<![CDATA[HDMI cable scam used to fool in-store customers?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/12/17/hdmi-cable-scam-used-to-fool-in-store-customers/http://www.engadget.com/2007/12/17/hdmi-cable-scam-used-to-fool-in-store-customers/http://www.engadget.com/2007/12/17/hdmi-cable-scam-used-to-fool-in-store-customers/#commentsWe'll be straight with you -- we aren't inclined to believe that this is even remotely close to factual, but considering the lengths big box retailers will go to in order to make sure you leave with a totally overpriced cable or two in your bag, we suppose it's not outside the realm of possibility. Reportedly, GizmoRepublic walked into an unspecified "big box store" and went to check out a display touting the superiority of Monster cabling. Upon further inspection, he realized that the difference in picture quality wasn't due to the gold-plating or fancy braiding, but rather the use of composite cables on the non-Monster TV. Of course, there are photos of the scene posted in the read link, but even still, we've got our reservations about the whole thing. Regardless of what happened in one particular store in one particular setup, one thing's still quite clear: there's simply no need to waste your hard-earned dollars paying for fancy packaging.

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HDMI cable scam used to fool in-store customers? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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You can't run around launching fancy new music players these days without a secondary offensive of cases and car chargers following close behind, and Microsoft's new Zunes have a veritable cavalry behind them. In addition to the official accessories we've already heard about from J Allard and crew, the company's lined up a number of third-party manufacturers to crank out 60 different Zune-friendly products, including Polk, Belkin, DLO, Monster, Altec Lansing, Targus, iHome, Memorex and Griffin. Microsoft's new pals will be releasing everything from speaker docks to RCA cables, so it looks like you'll be able to build a happy little home for that new Zune of yours when it launches next month.

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Microsoft talks third-party Zune accessories originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Oct 2007 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesAgent 18Agent18Altec LansingAltecLansingBelkinCase-mateDigital Lifestyle OutfittersDigitalLifestyleOutfittersDLODPIDualGollaGPXGriffinGriffin TechnologyGriffinTechnologyiHomeIncipioIntegrated Mobile ElectronicsIntegratedMobileElectronicsKickerMemorexmicrosoftMonsterMonster CableMonsterCablemStationPolkPolk AudioPolkAudioportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoSkinitSpeckTargusVAFVajazLivezuneTue, 30 Oct 2007 17:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster's CEDIA booth tour]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/monsters-cedia-booth-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/monsters-cedia-booth-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/07/monsters-cedia-booth-tour/#comments
To no one's surprise, Monster was out in force at this year's CEDIA, and it was probably packin' enough cabling to wire up the whole show by itself. 'Course, it also brought along its home control devices, wall mounts, power conditioners and the obligatory shag wagon, but notably, the Einstein Home Control System was no where to be found. The reason, along with an assortment of walkthrough pics, is over on EngadgetHD.

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Monster's CEDIA booth tour originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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While we never thought we'd see (legitimate) Monster cabling being sold out of the back of a van (ahem), the company definitely had an accessory-packed ride parked right in the middle of its fairly extravagant exhibit. As you'd expect, there seemed to be enough cable there to wire up downtown Denver along with a dedicated control system kiosk, a section of flat-panel mounts, and yes, even a wall of adapters made specifically for Apple products. More interesting than the items on the floor, however, was the item that wasn't: Einstein. After prodding for details, we were told that Monster has in fact pushed back the launch of its Home Control System in order to "fairly significantly retool" the device, and while everyone was tight-lipped about exactly what changes were in store, on-site reps admitted that it wanted to be "ahead of the curve" rather than behind it when this finally lands. Sadly, that means we'll likely be waiting till "around Q4" for this sucka, so we wouldn't be surprised to see the revamped version in Las Vegas early next year.

Gallery: Monster's CEDIA booth tour

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Monster's CEDIA booth tour originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booth tourBoothTourcediacedia 2007Cedia2007Einsteinhdmonstermonster cableMonsterCableother hardwareotherhardwareothersFri, 07 Sep 2007 13:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Cable producing "speed-rated" HDMI cables]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/29/monster-cable-producing-speed-rated-hdmi-cables/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/29/monster-cable-producing-speed-rated-hdmi-cables/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/29/monster-cable-producing-speed-rated-hdmi-cables/#comments

All right Monster Cable, what are ya doing? Speed rating your HDMI cables? We have to be honest, we're a little skeptical about the differences in HDMI speed. Technically, there might be a difference when compared with some special Monster-developed gizmo, but we highly doubt there would be a difference under real world tests. (BTW, we'd love to try it out for ourselves) Besides the obvious revenue answer, if there were a difference in HDMI cables, why wouldn't you just produce the best? Why flood the market with multiple "speed" options and confuse/irritate us consumers when you could just make one uber-high quality HDMI cable? The cables start at $50 for the Standard 1 meter, and go all the way up to $100 for the Ultra-High Speed, with two different speed options in between, along with multiple lengths. Come on Monster Cable, the days of analog interference are gone so hop on the HDMI boat and stop over charging for a digital cable.


[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

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Monster Cable producing "speed-rated" HDMI cables originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Aug 2007 12:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdhdmimonstermonster cableMonsterCableWed, 29 Aug 2007 12:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Hilton's Sight+Sound suites deliver DirecTV, HD niceties]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/02/hiltons-sight-sound-suites-deliver-directv-hd-niceties/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/02/hiltons-sight-sound-suites-deliver-directv-hd-niceties/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/02/hiltons-sight-sound-suites-deliver-directv-hd-niceties/#comments
As the HDTV movement continues to reshape the average hotel room experience, Hilton has made sure it doesn't get left behind. Recently, the chain launched 25 "home theater-like" Sight+Sound rooms at the Hilton Chicago O'Hare International Airport, while 30 guest rooms at the Hilton San Francisco received the makeover. Among the amenities are a 42-inch LG plasma, Yahama's YSP-800 Digital Sound Projector, Monster cabling, DirecTV programming including 14 HD channels and a number of XM radio stations, and a high definition menu system from LodgeNet. Additionally, guests can hook up their DAPs or external audio sources to a unique "connectivity panel," and just in case you forget to pack an extra bag of cables, the specially equipped rooms should provide all the copper you need. Notably, this here setup sounds like one of the most fully-featured HD offerings found in a "standard" hotel, and now that it's been available for a few months, have any of you had an opportunity to indulge?

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Hilton's Sight+Sound suites deliver DirecTV, HD niceties originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvhdhiltonhotellglodgenetMonstermotelplasmaSan FranciscoSanFranciscoSight Soundsuitexmxm radioXmRadioyamahaYSP-800Thu, 02 Aug 2007 22:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster's latest iPod streamer, the Wireless Audio Bridge]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/02/monsters-latest-ipod-streamer-the-wireless-audio-bridge/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/02/monsters-latest-ipod-streamer-the-wireless-audio-bridge/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/02/monsters-latest-ipod-streamer-the-wireless-audio-bridge/#comments While the iPod remotes have gotten closer and closer to replicating the iPod interface, there's still really no replacement for the original -- which is why we've seen several products that effectively turn the iPod itself into a remote by beaming music from a dock connector-attached transmitter directly to a base station. Monster's new Wireless Audio Bridge brings a dash of style to this approach, with a minimalist black-and-chrome base station and a sleek transmitter. Specs of note include a 30-foot range over the oh-so-popular 2.4GHz channel, and a not-unreasonable $99 pricetag. No word on availability, but we wouldn't be surprised to see these popping up relatively soon.

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Monster's latest iPod streamer, the Wireless Audio Bridge originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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