Cool Hunting

Apple TV v2
Adding a few capabilities that help realize its full potential, the newly-launched version of Apple's computer-to-TV entertainment software is a massive improvement over the original. The biggest plus for aesthetes like us is the 1080p output which means you can stream HD movies, TV shows and podcasts (including featured titles like CHV!) with little more than a click in iTunes (TV and movies will...

Monome
Since the multi-use controller Monome first came out a few years back, it's slowly gained a cult following thanks to its attractive and flexible design. If you're unfamiliar with the device, the Monome is an ultra-tactile, interactive and adaptable MIDI interface that takes advantage of open-source software to manipulate any number of musical parameters. With a pleasing grid-based design, the programmable buttons function as...

The Best of CES
The annual Consumer Electronics Show took the breath out of Vegas last week. While there was an endless slew of things to see, we found a few stand-outs worth reporting on. Iqua 603 SUN, Solar Powered Bluetooth Headset This compact Bluetooth headset from Iqua offers all the same features as the big brands, but stands out with the innovative integration of a solar cell....

Crucifix MP3 player
Perhaps taking a cue from the iBelieve (a lanyard that made the original iPod shuffles look like crosses), Chinese electronics wholesaler Chinavision recently came out with a crucifix-shaped MP3 player for devout music listeners. It's a rather unique way of marketing technology and we can't help but wonder what the J Man would think of such a device. The player offers 1GB of internal...

Pacemaker
When one of CH's designers tipped us to the Pacemaker, the world's first hand-held DJ system, (right after we also heard about it when in Europe recently), we knew it was worth checking out. Fortunately for us, we had the chance to experience it first hand when co-founder Ola Sars stopped by our offices earlier this week. In person, the "PSP of music's" look,...

Prepara Herb-Savor
Although it's common knowledge that fresh ingredients yield the best results when cooking, the organic locally-grown herbs I bring home from the farmer's market always seem to wilt the second I close the refrigerator door. Replacing the old tin can-and-plastic bag method, Prepara's Prepara Herb-Savor prolongs the life of fresh herbs for up to three weeks keeping them encased with the ends submerged in...