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Ion Audio shows off prototype of alternate Rock Band drum set at CES
The fine folks at Ion Audio are showing off a prototype Rock Band drum set complete with beefier drums and some cymbals out on the CES show floor. Apparently release is pending on customer interest, and there's no word on how much Ion's planning on charging, but we can say with much certainty that we'd jump at a chance to add this kit to the existing Engadget HQ collection of Rock Band paraphernalia. Check out Engadget Spanish for the full on gallery experience. [Via Engadget Spanish]
Ion Audio set to introduce TAPE2PC USB tape deck
It looks like Ion Audio is leaving no old school audio format behind, with the company now following up its USB turntables with its TAPE2PC USB tape deck. As the name suggests, the device will let you dust off your collection of Huey Lewis and the News cassettes and enjoy 'em in spruced up digital form. What's more, those looking to revive the art of the mix tape can use to system to make as many copies as they like, with settings available for both metal and CrO2 type tapes. According to Digital Lifestyles, UK retailer Firebox will be offering the device for "just under £100" (or $204) sometime before the end of the year, although we presume it'll also be available elsewhere. Still no word on a USB 8-track deck though.[Thanks, Simon]
Ion Audio intros two new USB turntables
If you're like us (and we suspect you are), you have huge stacks of obscure, 1970's prog-rock on vinyl that you're unable to enjoy while jogging, biking, or road-tripping to Bonnaroo -- and that's harshing your mellow. Well, harsh no more, friends, because Ion Audio is here to help. The hardware manufacturer has just released two new variations on its iTTUSB USB turntable, the iTTUSB05 (pictured, $149.99) and the iTTUSB10 ($249.99). Both models feature 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback, Line-level RCA outputs (utilizing a built-in preamp), EZ Vinyl recording software, and plug & play USB connectivity. The iTTUSB10 can also convert 78 RPM records via software trickery, and can digitize other media through its 1/8-inch stereo input (finally, you can convert all those cassette mixtapes from your exes). Of course, there are more expensive or more confusing options for this sort of thing, and pricey add-ons you might want -- but for a cheap, fast solution, this is definitely worth a glance.
Ion Audio set to debut iProjector
While it definitely reduces the portable side of the portable video equation, Ion Audio is hoping that there's enough iPod users fed up with watching movies on their device's tiny displays to thrown down the cash for its new big-screen alternative. Set to debut at CES in January, the iProjector will let you slip in your video-equipped iPod and blow up the picture exponentially, with an adequate 800 x 600 resolution, 24-bit color, and 1,000 lumens brightness (contrast ratio doesn't seem to have been announced yet). Of course, the projector's more than just an iPod dock, able to work just as easily with a DVD player, game console, or other video source, although the all-important input situation has yet to be clarified. While the specs are certainly on the low end, we'd be able to live with it if the price is right but, you guessed it, that hasn't been announced either. Hopefully we'll be able to fill in the gaps (and get a better look at the thing) once CES rolls around.[Via Crave]
