Sonnet Echo ExpressCard/34 Thunderbolt Adapter Available for Mac

Recently the Sonnet Echo-E34 Thunderbolt Adapter was release for operation with Mac Thunderbolt Computers. The Echo ExpressCard/34 is a Thunderbolt Adapter that enables Macs with Thunderbolt to use ExpressCard/34 adapters. Luckily, the 10 GBps performance of high-speed Intel Thunderbolt is more than sufficient to handle the 2.5 GBps ExpressCard/34 2.0 interface.The device currently supports a significant portion of ExpressCard/34 adapters from various manufactures, including; Sonnet, Compact Flash, Firewire and some eSATA adapters, and SDXC readers.

Since its release, Thunderbolt has established itself as delivering the highest performance and versatility for consumer interfaces. Unfortunately the number of devices utilizing this high-speed computer port have not reached the market as quickly as most computer enthusiast would desire. This means that the majority of external computer accessories for Mac still run on FireWire, eSATA, or USB. The Sonnet ECHO-E34 answers this problem by providing an easy solution for those who would desire to use existing computer peripherals with Intel Thunderbolt. 

Sonnet Echo ExpressCard/34 Thunderbolt Adapter

This Thunderbolt adapter from Sonnets delivers a single ExpressCard/34 2.0 adapter to any computer using Thunderbolt. This greatly expands the number of capabilities and interfaces compatible with Mac. One of the greatest critiques of Apple computers over the past 15 years has been the limited expandability of their preassembled computers. An ExpressCar/34 adapter for Thunderbolt is a step in the right direction for those desiring to integrate additional devices with OSX. Currently the ExpressCard/34 adapter will connect to most devices supporting a PCI Express interface.

LaCie Little Big Disk External Thunderbolt™ Hard Drive now Shipping

The long awaited release of a portable Thunderbolt HD has finally taken place with the introduction of the Little Big Disk Thunderbolt Series. These have been among the most desired of Thunderbolt accessories since its unveiling in early spring of 2011. LaCie announced plans of a portable Tbolt drive soon after, however enthusiasts were a little disappointed when these products did not immediately hit the market.

 

External Hard Disks utilizing the high-speed I/O of Intel Thunderbolt accessories are currently the most abundant devices to employ this new technology. With up to 10 GB/s transfer, Thunderbolt fiber channels are ideal for moving mass amounts of data in little time. Startup disk backups, transferring HD video, and mass data storage takes a fraction of the time with Intel Thunderbolt as it would with USB, FireWire, or eSATA.

 

Like all Thunderbolt peripherals, the latest Little Big Disk features dual Tbolt ports to daisy change multiple Thunderbolt accessories. It may be used in conjunction with other external Tbolt drives, or connected to a display. Along with a corrugated exterior (to increase surface area), the drive even offers its own cooling system to ensure hours of operation. Unlike other high-speed external hard drives with Thunderbolt, the LaCie Little Big Disk is compact and ultra-portable. As with most of their gear, the external disk comes in a durable aluminum enclosure.

 

LaCie Little Big Disk External Thunderbolt Disk Enclosure

 

The LaCie Little Big Disk Thunderbolt Series comes in 3 different models. Two of which feature convention hard disks, while the other offers optional SSDs. The drives are configured in RAID0, and offer differing high speed I/O depending on the drive type. The standard model features read speed up to 190 MBps, while the SSD model can perform at up to 480 MBps. The SSD model unfortunately multiplies both the read/write speed and the cost. Daisy chaining multiple external Thunderbolt drives can result in higher transfer rates (that is more data being stored in less time). This happens because the speed of the Thunderbolt port still exceeds that of the drives themselves.

 

It's not quite to the point of calling this device an affordable Thunderbolt peripheral, but LaCie's introduction into the market of Thunderbolt computer accessories is a serious step forward in the development of this relatively new high speed interface. The Little Big Disk with Thunderbolt still starts out around $600, but this is a far cry from a Thunderbolt RAID array (while still offering the same high speed data transfers).

 

Production of Apple Thunderbolt Accessories Begins to Heat Up.

Currently there isn't much on the market for Thunderbolt Accessories for Apple computers, but a few Thunderbolt peripherals have finally become available for consumer hands. Some critiques cite Thunderbolt's development as similar to FireWire (an excellent idea that possibly will go nowhere), but many computer users remain optimistic. With its 10 Gbps potential bandwidth Thunderbolt accessories still could stand to redefine high-speed functionality for external computer accessories. 

Promise Pegasus R4 4-TB Thunderbolt RAID Array

The first major Thunderbolt peripheral to be released is the Promise Pegasus Thunderbolt enclosure for RAID. Their lineup of Thunderbolt arrays consist of two lines of 4 and 6 hard drive external enclosures. The small unit (the Pegasus R4) comes in a 4 and 8 TB configuration, while the more powerful Promise Pegasus R6 delivers either 6 or 8 terabytes of Thunderbolt storage. The Promise Pegasus Box is the first Thunderbolt RAID drive enclosure to be shipped for Mac, but many other models are soon to follow (such as the upcoming Sonnet Fusion RAID Thunderbolt Array).

External Thunderbolt hard drives shouldn't be too far off either. LaCie has announced development of the Little Big Disk, a high capacity mobile Thunderbolt hard disk (available with solid state drives or standard hard drives). While other companies have claimed support of the Thunderbolt port, LaCie is the only once currently set to release product with the summer of 2011.

Apple 5.9 ft Thunderbolt Cable

Thunderbolt cables have been released for the few existing products. As of right now the only manufacturer is Apple itself, making it a very pricey 6 ft Thunderbolt copper cable (around $50). However, this cable works not only as a high-speed data transfer line for external Thunderbolt accessories, it functions as an HDMI to HDMI cable. A Thunderbolt cable may also be use to activate target disk mode in order to boot one Thunderbolt mac from another. Unlike the previous MiniDisplayPort cabling, the Thunderbolt wire relies on active cabling. This, combined with firmware in the cable, make its impossible to use anything but an actual Thunderbolt cable with such devices.

Thunderbolt adapters are quasi-developed. Intel Thunderbolt theoretically has the potential to be compatible with most device interfaces (with the proper converter), but definite release of these Thunderbolt adapters has been slow (to type the least). Matrox has announced support for Thunderbolt on their MX02 Family of devices by September of 2011, and its hoped that some other units like Thunderbolt to FireWire adapters have become available around then as well.

Apple MacBook Pro 13.3-Inch Laptop with Thunderbolt

About the most developed of Thunderbolt devices is the Thunderbolt computers themselves. The new interface for founds its way into the majority of Apples computer lineups. Currently the only Apples not featuring Mac Thunderbolt are the top of the line Mac Pro machine (but those should see an update sometime soon…).

The MacBook Air recently received a much needed update (in correspondence to the launch of OS X Lion)

This variation of the popular MacBook Air series finally delivers functionality and some degree of CPU to the slightly underpowered MacBook Air computer lineup. Until recently, these lightweight laptops lacked the features of less portable models. While these computers are as of yet to to have the capacity of a desktop machine, the lineup now sports its own class of benefits. New Intel dual core processors, flash storage made standard, and integrate Intel HD graphics all contribute to the MacBook being a versatile laptop (that still fits in an envelope).

 

(This time) Apple decided to deliver some of the functionality of their standard computer lineup to the MacBook Air series. Admittedly, the Intel i5 and i7 processors only range form 1.6-1.8 GHz dual core performance, but these computers still offer 5-7 hours of battery life. The integrate Intel HD 3000 Graphics offer 256 to 384 MB of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM (shared with the onboard 2 or 4 GB memory) for high definition movies and some games. Most incredibly, Apple now manufactures the MacBook Air with integrated flash storage. These laptops rely on high-speed flash memory (integrated directly to the motherboard) to function as the startup disc and storage drive. This flash storage ranges from 64 to 256 GB and provides all the functionality of a SSD or and conventional hard disk. 

 

11.6-Inch MacBook Air Light Weight Laptop - Now Shipping with FaceTime and Intel Thunderbolt

 

Like the MacBook Pro series, the Air's also received an updated FaceTIme camera and a increase in screen resolution capabilities (now supporting up to 2560 by 1600 pixels on and external display). This coincides with the additional of a single Intel Thunderbolt port to each of the MacBook air models; granting each of these ultra-portable laptops access to high-speed data transfers and Mini DisplayPort monitors. It might now be the power-packed MacBook Pro, but the MacBook air now sports its own line of attributes to make it an extremely functional ultra-light laptop.

Compact Music Mixer for Recording Audio with Mac

The Alesis Multimix8 USB 2.0 is a compact and handy mixing tool for a small home music studio or recording basement tracks. Its comes ready to record microphones, line-ins, and even guitar level inputs in one audio device. The USB MultiMix not functions as a recording device, its comes with integrate audio effects for mixing and editing purposes (100 onboard effects including delays, flange, reverb, chorus, and others). It functions independently as a digital mixing board, but may be integrate with various recording software for Mac.

The MultiMix is a great starter board at a decent price. It lacks the individual level indicators and effects capabilities of some studio units, but the economical mixing unit does provide quality 24-bit, 96 Khz stereo digital audio via USB 2.0. The MultiMix 8 is an excellent mixer to use as a multichannel USB audio interface. Each channel features a 3 band parametric EQ with mid band pass/reject and high/low shelving.

Alesis MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 Music Mixer for Mac or PC

Designed for low-latency and low-noise, the MultiMix8 delivers high quality audio for recording through USB 2.0. It is capable of fitting up to four XLR microphone cables (each with phantom power), but may suite additional quarter inch line-inputs for recording multiple tracks. Each of the XLR tracks features individual volume control, however 5/6 and 7/8 each share a control.

Its not perfect, the MultiMix8 is great for recording audio with Mac. Truthfully it lacks the power (inputs moreover) to power a full force Apple music studio. However, the MultiMix8 is an ideal USB mixer for solo recording, duets, podcast microphones, and as an introductory board. While it may be slightly lacking in inputs, the USB MultiMix is right at home in a home jam room or music recording studio.

USB 2.0 Alesis MultiMix8 Digital Mixer

Unlike some USB mixers for Mac (including the previous generation of USB MultiMix) the MultiMix8 USB 2.0 has the ability to record each track independently (a key feature for later music editing capabilities). This means each tracks volume may be later adjusted and enhanced to bring out the exact details of the performance. Without such multitrack recording features, the initial recording are immediately compressed to a stereo track (i.e. not as much editing is possible).

This is a music accessory for Mac that will get used. The MultiMix 8 is a great companion to any home recording endeavor. It not only feature phantom power for studio condenser mics, it has dedicated channels for low impedance instrument cable so instruments may be plugged directly into the board and recorded without an amp.

Apple iMacs receive performance and Intel Thunderbolt upgrade

Again a little late in commenting on the recent update, it looks like Apple successfully integrated the Thunderbolt interface into two of their computer lineups. This update was released shortly after the MacBook Pro upgrade, and offer the same HD FaceTime camera, Quad-core chips, and ultra high speed I/O Thunderbolt.

 

Apple iMacs each receive Quad-core Processors and Intel Thunderbolt

 

Apple held nothing back for all models of the iMac, now each features built-in Thunderbolt and quad core processors. The models now come in 21.5 and 27 inch variants. Ranging from $1200 to $2000, every new iMac packs enough power for pictures, HD movies, and large games. 

 

The iMac has always been intended as an "all-in-one" machine. The addition of Thunderbolt and powerful new quad-core processors give the iMac the necessary power for home studio implementation, of heavy gaming use. The iMacs either feature Quad-core Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, sufficient CPU for any home media purpose, or as a studio computer.

27 in. iMac with two Thunderbolt Ports

 

The AMD Radeon HD 6750M graphics processor features 512 MB of GDDR5 memory (1 GB in the higher-end model). Enough for editing HD video, graphics for modern games, or complex visual simulations. This graphics processors deliver 3x the performance of the previous generation of iMacs (not to mention other PCs).

 

The new HD FaceTime cameras deliver widescreen resolution for both iMac models. Unlike previously, Mac users do not have to compromise video quality for portability with the built in webcam. Apple in setting the standard for high resolution built-in webcams with the latest variant of their isight cameras. This HD video camera deliver up to 720p resolution for video calls (supported on intel-based Macs, and new iPad and iPhones).

21.5 in. iMac with single Intel Thunderbolt port

 

Every iMac comes stock with Thunderbolt connectivity. The 21.5 inch model features a single port, while the 27" sports two Thunderbolt connections. The proper Thunderbolt peripherals are still in development, but this should mean high-speed data transfer for a number of external devices.

 

The iMac has been a great personal computer since its introduction in the nineties. It's nice to see their lineup receive the proper changes to stay up to date with modern technology. With its upgraded processor, and Thunderbolt connectivity this recent update give the iMac every thing it needs to power a home studio, run powerful games, or display HD media.

 

Thunderbolt Peripherals Offer Ulra-Fast I/O For Macs And PC

The fastest I/O (input/output) on the market. Until very recently the tech world was raving about the release of USB 3.0 SuperSpeed. However, a Mac-Intel project codenamed "LightPeak", completely foreshadowed this release with ground breaking speeds, diasy-chain capabilities, and 2 channel data transfer. This means a flux of companies striving to release USB3.0 and Thunderbolt peripherals and devices.

New MacBook Pro with Thunderbolt technology

The definition of high definition continues to expand as companies release newer and better HD products. Until very recently, transferring large amounts of data, visual or audio could eat up hours of time, and essentially incapacitate your PC or Mac. Two channel Thunderbolt intends to solve this issue with high speed dual way 10 Gps connection.

While it seems like Apple inspired FIreWire 400 and 800 are going by the sidelines, this new inventions far outperforms either format. Functioning at 12x the capacity of FIreWire 800, Thunderbolt sets to define professional transfer speed for home and pro use. For professional photographers, home movie makers, or contacting distant relatives, Thunderbolt technology supports realtime editing of uncompressed HD Video.

The everything port - Thunderbolt is not only a data transfer method, its a completely redesigned Mini DisplayPort. Intended as a high-speed universal port, Thunderbolt combines the benefits of USB, FireWire and Mini Display ports. Its meant as a fast I/O that can hand about any peripheral.  Operate Thunderbolt peripherals, use Apple LED Cinema displays, use a converter to connect to HDMI televisions. Incredibly, you may daisy-chain as many as six Thunderbolt peripherals through the port; simultaneous audio, video, and data transfer.

The ingenuity of the Thunderbolt connection technology is its design. Rather than being designed to function as a specific connection port, Tbolt was based on the PCI Express. The idea being that rather than have multiple ports for connecting different devices, a single port that can connect to most computer peripherals. With the correct adapter Thunderbolt is capable of functioning with existing USB and FireWire devices, as well as Gigabit Ethernet and Fibre Channel Networks. It also may handle DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort or even VGA display connections (again with the right adapter), all through one small port.

Review of the Sony CMTBX20i Micro Hi-Fi Shelf System

If your looking for well recommended micro hi-fi component systems for home or computer audio, the Sony CMTBX20i is an excellent choice. This micro hifi system delivers quality playback for movies, music, or radio programs. It includes not only AM/FM and CD player capabilities, but aux-in (for laptops or tv) and iPod docking support. These PC high quality speakers are not too loud to disturb the neighbors, but not too quiet that you would ever want to return them.
The CD tray is one of the best features. It plays factory and burned CDs, but more importantly offers MP3 disc playback (even with ID3 tag support). Despite only having one CD tray, I've never encountered an audio disc incompatible with the micro HiFi stereo.

Sony CMTBX20i Micro Hi-Fi Shelf System
Even if you do lose the remote, all the device's operational features are placed on top. Its essentially three boxes (four if you don't lose the remote), but despite being blocky and a tad boring on the outside the Sony Micro Hi-Fi system offers incredible audio quality. Enough volume for a group of people, but consistent playback for quiet use as well. One of the best desktop speakers for office or small to medium room. The clean audio remain distortion and clipping free even near top volume.
These are some of the best studio quality desktop speakers without going to a pair of studio reference monitors. The micro Hi-Fi shelf system lacks a subwoofer, but its micro component speakers deliver more compensating with high quality frequency response. If your into heavily bass driven music, this is probably not the system for you, but otherwise its a great 2 speaker unit.

Camping Equipment for those on a Budget

Its already the beginning of April, and soon all the wonderful camping site across America will be bustling with tourists. Its easy to get discouraged when interested in taking a camping trip; both by the lack of amenities, and by the amount and prices of camping gear. But rest assured there are many opportunities that make camping much more affordable for anyone.

Tents are not always just tents. Even though they all say tent on the box, some tents last longer, are easier to put up, and more manageable to carry than others. Why waste money on a starter ten, when you could get a reliable one for an affordable price to begin with. Its simply a matter of determining what you want out of a tent, and going on from there. Many companies offer affordable tents that will provide years of use.

Coleman SunDome t 3-Person Tent - Good tent for a Great price

Cooking around the campsite can be as easy as cooking at home. With either a portable stove, or the right campfire worthy cookware, you can be preparing cooked means in no time. Some camp-ware even is worthy of kitchen use. In fact, cast iron cookware, which is more than durable enough for any campfire, will also make any excellent addition to any kitchen (as well as flavor).

Camping only has to be an expensive thing if you want it be. It is still very easy to go on a wilderness endeavor (long or short) without having to invest a large amount of capital. If your looking for a cheap vacation, or are a serious hiker/camper getting good deals on camping gear is always a plus 

 

 

 

Studio Audio Reference Monitors - High Quality Recording Equipment for Mac or PC

If your looking to start you own home recording studio for Mac or PC nothing beats having a good pair of studio reference monitors. These high quality speakers are designed to bring out the subtle qualities of any music and are ideal for focusing on minute details while mixing. Unlike common speakers, reference monitors deliver clear audio across the entire frequency spectrum. Good studio monitors will provide this clear audio quality at any volume, or place in the room.

M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Speakers

There are essentially two variants of studio monitors, power and unpowered speakers. Basically powered monitor are the same as unpowered, except with an amp built in. Unpowered speaker sometime function passively (without amplification) but usually one is required to provide an amplifier for such speakers. Honestly, active monitors have a couple of advantages over passive speakers. Namely, powered monitors have built in power amps designed to work with the drivers, and generally are made to provide the most optimal audio performance. Unpowered speakers sometimes do not deliver such audio quality. Bi-amplification further refines the concept by dedicating separate power amps to the highs and lows. Combined with a finely tuned crossover, this design insures that both the high- and low-frequency drivers are asked to deliver only the frequencies they are most efficient at reproducing. Most high performance monitors will come with bi-amplification (possibly more though).

Reference monitors are designed to deliver true audio quality (not adding or detracting from studio recordings). This means crystal clear sound for focusing on the minutest of textures (sometimes a good or bad thing). Due to the high resolution performance of studio reference monitors they are the ideal multi-channel mixing in any studio environment. These type speakers are intended for critical listening applications, other bookshelf home stereos and even the best desktop speakers simply don't cut it when it comes to mastering applications. The dynamic ranges and bass response of studio quality speakers or studio-headphones simply deliver much realistic sounding audio. While they come at a significantly more substantial price, the added precision in mastering will more than compensate. Audio engineers and producers all choose either studio quality headphones or reference monitors in order to get the desired audio fidelity. 

Alesis M1 Active Studio Monitor Pair

Most reference monitors will have at least two speakers. Well, in reality it has one high resolution tweeter and a specially designed woofer. A good pair will be design to provide a broad listening zone, and not focus the stereo on one spot. This means multiple listeners can achieve and ideal perspective of the stereo image throughout the listening room. A set of great reference monitors will avoid causing significant ear fatigue after hour of use, granting hours of listening without providing annoying treble or invasive bass. Some monitors feature magnetic shielding to eliminate buzz and interference that can exist with other electronics. Shielding reduces the effects monitors have on computer monitors and reduces buzz. 

As stated, if you have interests in creating your own music recording studio, a good pair of studio reference monitors is a necessity. Whether its your collection of recording equipment for Mac or PC you would wish to add to, monitors will deliver the high quality performance for true professional quality mastering.