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Discover New Music
- Jellyfish
- The second and final album from this power-pop group makes me wish Jellyfish had been able to make just one more record together. The album is best enjoyed as a whole piece, flowing from one track to
- The Redwalls
- Wow! Perhaps my 5-star rating is simply because the Redwalls are not only new and fresh (none of them older than 22!), or perhaps its because -- despite their ages -- they are able to totally capture
- R.E.M.
- In the long series of R.E.M.'s evolution, this album (finally?) showcases their ability to capture on tape what had been happening in the live for years: heartfelt, sweat-filled performances that just
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- U2
U2's latest entry is a mostly underwhelming collection of songs that does very little to sound any different from its equally pedestrian predecessor, 2000's "All That You Can't Leave Behind." While
- Goldfrapp
On their latest CD, Supernature, Goldfrapp has put together a successful mix of 1980-era New Romanticism, German cabaret, and T. Rex glam that leaves you riveted even through the album's lulls. It's a great amalgam that sounds current without sounding at all dated.
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In-Depth Review
Better Energy Systems’ Solio
Monday, July 11th, 2005 at 3:00 AM - by Ricky Spero
The Solio is a solar-powered charger for the iPod and other digital devices like cell phones, PDAs, and Gameboys. Made by a small UK firm, Solio takes about 10 hours of good sunlight to charge an internal battery, which in turn can charge other battery-powered devices (like the iPod). The device is light and portable, and can also charge from an outlet, so it doubles as a spare iPod or cell phone battery.
There are some minor quibbles with the product. Solio has an ornery rubber port plug that doesn't stay properly in place. Also, it tries to communicate too much information with a single indicator light, creating occasional uncertainty as to whether your iPod or phone really is charging.
I found it takes some planning and forethought to keep Solio juiced while traveling, but if you expect to be in remote places, or if you're just eco-conscious, you'll find the Solio can be a tremendously useful device. Also, see my full review at The Mac Observer.
Just The Facts
Pros:Light, versatile solar charger for the iPod. Very useful in remote, sunny places.
Cons:Minor user-feedback issues, long time to charge Solio using the sun.
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