Samsung Galaxy Mega

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="DNP Samsung Galaxy Mega handson" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/galaxymegajthandsonhero2.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">When Samsung said it was having a little soiree to celebrate the launch of the Galaxy S 4, we took the company on its word. At the end, when the execs present warned us of something new, we thought a Mini might be in the cards, but in fact it was the exact opposite. It turns out that Samsung brought another friend along to the party, the recently announced Galaxy Mega. The largest of the two, to be precise. So, while everyone wanted to play with the latest flagship, we thought we'd take some time to get the know the 6.3-inch Galaxy Mega a little better. Head past the break for our impressions.</div><div class="post-gallery" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><h3 class="title"><b>Samsung Galaxy Mega hands-on</b></h3><br /><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05522_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05520_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05521_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05517_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05518_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05515_95x95.jpg" /> </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">First things first: we really thought that a phone of such size would be a stretch -- both figuratively and literally. But when we picked up the device, it felt surprisingly comfortable to hold and much lighter that you might anticipate. As for the design, make no mistake, Samsung merely took the Galaxy S 4, and gave it a good zap with the enlargo-gun. The curves, the home button, the bezel are all taken from its little sibling. The color scheme, too, was lifted directly from the GS 4, with the models on display sporting the same blue chequered pattern.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">What clearly isn't the same is that screen. Not just because it's so much bigger, but because (much to our chagrin) it's a lower resolution, to boot. The "HD" screen -- in the short time we spent with it -- didn't actually look bad. Of course, this was just a few moments under the bright, possibly flattering conditions of Samsung's controlled display environment. The real acid test will come when we get to put it through its paces in a proper review. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">As for general performance, again, we found it nimble enough while navigating menus and TouchWiz (there's Android 4.2 underneath). The 1.7GHz processor might not have the pure might of the two Galaxy S 4 processor variants, but it handled the demo videos, browsing and other material as adequately as you might expect. Most of all, however, we come back to where we started: the sheer size of the thing. Samsung was keen to describe it as large but comfortable -- pocketable, even. And that it is. But is that enough for it to win the hearts of the masses? It's hard to tell at this stage, but stranger things have happened.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-d3bf2ad7" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/d3bf2ad7/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=95352236&disablebranding=0&view_secret=95352236" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

Samsung Galaxy Mega

When Samsung said it was having a little soiree to celebrate the launch of the Galaxy S 4, we took the company on its word. At the end, whe...

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AirBeats / AirHarp creator demos his forthcoming Leap Motion music apps

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image" data-src-height="348" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/kobo2013-04-1221-34-08600-1365816925.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">When it comes to developing music apps, Leap Motion's naturalistic interface seems like a no-brainer. Sure it doesn't offer the sort of tactile feedback you get from an actual instrument, but it certainly beats the heck out of, say, a keyboard and mouse. Adam Somers is among the early developers looking to bring a little bit of music magic to the tiny peripheral, and he gave us a sneak peak of what he's working on at a Smule event in San Francisco earlier this week.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">The simpler of the two apps is AirHarp. Still in early developer preview mode, the program is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: a virtual harp. Hold your hand out and strings light up -- tap down and you can pluck them. Reach in a bit and you can strum with one or several fingers. More impressive is AirBeats, a virtual machine with two pads and a slew of sounds that lets you record tracks. Somers is hoping to have at least one of the apps out in time for Leap Motion's upcoming launch. You can check out demos after the break.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-575fa70b" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/575fa70b/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=44673221&disablebranding=0&view_secret=44673221" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

AirBeats / AirHarp creator demos his forthcoming Leap Motion music apps

When it comes to developing music apps, Leap Motion's naturalistic interface seems like a no-brainer. Sure it doesn't offer the so...

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Beamz teams up with Virtual DJ on interactive music system, we go lasers-on

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Beamz teams up with Virtual DJ on interactive music system, we go laserson video" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/beamzcancometruedsc05498.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Beamz has been firing lasers in the name of limb-flailing performance for a few years. Today, it's announced it's working with popular music-mixing software <i>Virtual DJ</i> to provide the aural filling in its laser sandwich. The controller is the same four-beamed multi-button affair we've seen before, but now with a custom version of the aforementioned DJ application to call its own, and make the set-up a cinch. On screen you'll see two representations of the Beamz controller (instead of decks) with instant visual feedback to let you know which beam is mapped to what. You can configure four different triggers at one time, controlling cue points, looping and so on. To add functionality, you can then use the large buttons at the base of the device to rotate through different mappings. The emphasis, of course, is on performance here with nary a rotary nor fader in sight (we imagine you'd be using your other controller for that, right?). The software and hardware combo are being bundled together as a deal, and if you want in, you can do so right away for $200. Not sure if it'll fit in your workflow? Perhaps head past the break, and see if that video doesn't change your mind.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-88db052a" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/88db052a/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=72650587&disablebranding=0&view_secret=72650587" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

Beamz teams up with Virtual DJ on interactive music system, we go lasers-on

Beamz has been firing lasers in the name of limb-flailing performance for a few years. Today, it's announced it's working with popul...

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Novation announces Launchpad S with better MIDI support, we go hands-on

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Novation announces Launchpad S with better MIDI support, we go handson video" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05438launchpadshero.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">A couple of years is a pretty good run in MIDI controller-land. It was 2009 when Novation's Launchpad turned the Ableton world onto its simplistic charms. It appears, however, the firm's decided it was long overdue a refresh, so that's exactly what it's done. Say hello to the Launchpad S. What does the S stand for? We're not entirely sure, but it could be for speedy, as Novation has ramped up the refresh rate to give a snappier response when you switch between modes.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">It could also be for superior lights, as the brightness has been dialled up in response to user feedback. It's also worth noting these pads are entirely USB-powered, making it trickier than simply sucking down more juice. One other superficial change -- perhaps more to give it its own sense of identity than anything else -- is a change of color. It's out with the original's black, and in with an almost metallic gray. So far so good, but we're really thinking that S stands for "software." Why? Because thanks to standards compliant MIDI implementation, the Launchpad S is now plug-and-play with a whole host more applications, not least core-MIDI iOS apps such as the popular <i>FL Studio Mobile</i>. We took a few minutes to get to know the Launchpad S a little better, which you can see in our video past the break.</div><div class="post-gallery" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><h3 class="title"><b>Novation Launchpad S hands-on</b></h3><br /><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05450-1365610861_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05451_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05452_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05448_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05449-1365610866_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05446_95x95.jpg" /> </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">As you can imagine, the Launchpad S is pretty much identical to the original it revizes. But, given that that was four or so years ago, it doesn't hurt to remind ourselves. First and foremost, it's still an Ableton controller, with those 64 multi-colored pads letting you control your sessions all from the small, lightweight device. There are different modes, so that you can cleverly use columns of the pads almost like faders (slide your finger up the squares, watch the lights follow). The new iteration claims to be have an improved refresh rate, which means jumping between these user modes should now be a much smoother ride. Sadly, though, the devices on the stand at the show weren't connected to the right software to either test this out, or show it off. The lights do, indeed, look substantially brighter, and this should go a long way to silencing folk who thought this was an issue with the original. As for the visual update, well, we're not sure if it's an improvement, or if we simply find it fresh looking after staring at the old black one for so long. Either way, it definitely remains a handsome enough device that we'd still be happy to include it in our set-up. If you agree with us, you'll be able to do so starting April, for $169. Keep heading south for the video tour.</div></div>

Novation announces Launchpad S with better MIDI support, we go hands-on

A couple of years is a pretty good run in MIDI controller-land. It was 2009 when Novation's Launchpad turned the Ableton world onto its...

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Numark Mixtrack Edge ultra-portable DJ controller announced, we go hands-on

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Numark Edge ultraportable DJ controller announced, we go handson" data-src-height="412" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05397-1365597450.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Just when you thought Numark couldn't invent any more DJ controllers, it's done it again. This time it's MusikMesse at Frankfurt, with the little guy you see above -- the Mixtrack Edge. It's described as "ultra portable" and when you see how big it is -- roughly the size of an iPad -- we're inclined to agree with that. In fact, when you see the device cooped up in its protective case with the lid down, you'd be forgiven for thinking that's exactly what it was (a tablet). But, no... this is another attempt at forging a new DJ controller category. Numark's done small before (like the DJ2Go), but the Mixtrack Edge has a significant trick up its sleeve -- a built in audio interface. This means no cable splitters, instead plug headphones right in, and line your audio out to your speakers. Sound good? We went hands on to find out, plug in after the break.</div><div class="post-gallery" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><h3 class="title"><b>Numark Edge hands-on</b></h3><br /><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05434-1365596916_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05396_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05397_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05399-1365596918_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05400_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc05401-1365596920_95x95.jpg" /> </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Looks-wise, it's a bit of a mixed bag, and reminds us somewhat of the MPC Fly from sister firm Akai. The brushed metal-effect finish aims to give a quality appearance, but touch any of the controls and that soon evaporates. The buttons feel decent enough, but the faders and rotary controls will test the patience of anyone above even the most casual user. Those platters? Yeah, you can leave those scratching ambitions at the door -- but they do let you get hands involved in the mix. That said, these are the considerations of someone who probably shouldn't be buying one of these in the first place. The Mixtrack Edge is clearly aimed at house parties, small gatherings, absolute beginners or even mixing on the road. As such, it offers all the essentials you need to do just that (apart from controls for EQ, which might have been preferable over the included FX dials). There are even semi-advanced options such as loop and sample triggering (again, we argue some would prefer EQs). The Mixtrack Edge is fully USB-powered and also adheres to the MIDI standard making it compliant with a whole host of software, and we'd suggest that likely includes core-MIDI iOS apps.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">In our brief time with it, it's hard not to overlook the things that might seem minor now. One example being the faders. Clearly in an attempt to shrink the overall footprint, the controls have been designed to sit as flush with the main surface as possible. While this works for the aesthetic appeal, it makes quick and animated adjustments very difficult. Did we mention there are no EQ controls? Perhaps the choice of controls on offer are indicative of a new breed, more interested in a quick mashing together of sounds, rather than drawn out, musical mixing? All things said and done, we're sure Numark has created something that will please a very precise section of the (potential) DJ market. We'll just have to wait and see exactly how well it does, given that, as yet, Numark's keeping the volume down on price and availability.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-3ad82a10" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/3ad82a10/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=82372448&disablebranding=0&view_secret=82372448" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

Numark Mixtrack Edge ultra-portable DJ controller announced, we go hands-on

Just when you thought Numark couldn't invent any more DJ controllers, it's done it again. This time it's MusikMesse at Frankfur...

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ZTE Geek unveiled with 2GHz Intel Clover Trail+ and a terrible name

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="ZTE Geek makes a quiet " data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/zte-geek-idf.jpg" style="margin: 4px;" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Oh ZTE you cheeky monkey. Towards the end of day one at IDF in Beijing, we stumbled upon this awkwardly titled Android Jelly Bean phone that is the Geek at ZTE's booth. Needless to say, this is yet another phone powered by an Intel processor -- a 2GHz Clover Trail+ Atom to be exact, which is what Lenovo's K900 also has. The rest of the device isn't too shabby, either: you get a nice 5-inch 720p display with Gorilla Glass, along with an 8-megapixel main camera, a 1-megapixel front-facing camera, 8GB of storage space, 1GB of RAM, 2,300mAh battery and wireless charging. Radio-wise we see UMTS 900/2100 courtesy of Intel's XMM 6260 chip, and there's also the usual lot of 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0 LE and GPS.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Design-wise the Geek takes a huge step away from the Grand X IN and shares a similarly clean look with the Grand S, but without the black eye around the main camera. This particular unit had a glossy white finish as well, but we'd prefer a matte finish for a more premium feel. Since ZTE admitted that it had to rush this prototype for exhibition at IDF, we'll come back to the build quality once we see a final retail unit. Until then, check out our hands-on video and the press release after the break.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-c241ae8c" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/c241ae8c/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=26533709&disablebranding=0&view_secret=26533709" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

ZTE Geek unveiled with 2GHz Intel Clover Trail+ and a terrible name

Oh ZTE you cheeky monkey. Towards the end of day one at IDF in Beijing, we stumbled upon this awkwardly titled Android Jelly Bean phone tha...

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Toshiba's Portege Z10t detachable Ultrabook debuts at IDF

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Toshiba's upcoming detachable Ultrabook debuts at IDF 2013 Beijing handson" data-src-height="340" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/toshiba-detachable-idf-2013.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Right after Intel's somewhat mundane announcement of the Ultrabook Convertible and Ultrabook Detachable sub-brands at IDF in Beijing, SVP Kirk Skaugen surprised us by whipping out an unnamed laptop coming from Toshiba, so we jumped onto the stage to get a sniff of the only two units at the venue. Judging by the looks of it, we're confident that this is actually the Portege Z10t that hit the FCC last month -- the vents, camera and logo on the back match those in the drawing (embedded after the break) filed in the application.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Gallery Image" height="426" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc0332.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="426" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/toshiba-detachable-idf-2013-2013-04-10-3.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="426" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/toshiba-detachable-idf-2013-2013-04-10-4.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="424" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/toshiba-detachable-idf-2013-2013-04-10-5.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="424" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/toshiba-detachable-idf-2013-2013-04-10-6.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="424" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/toshiba-detachable-idf-2013-2013-04-10-7.jpg" width="640" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> As you can see, unlike Toshiba's previous Windows 8 convertible laptop, this second attempt is a detachable and features an absurdly large hinge sleeve, with the small release mechanism positioned in the middle of the hinge. The keyboard looks pretty slim in most parts, yet it also packs a backlit keyboard plus both a trackpad and a pointing stick; and most importantly, overall the docked device doesn't seem to be top-heavy. The 10-inch tablet itself also comes with a few handy ports, including a USB 3.0 port, a micro-HDMI socket and a full-size SD card slot, all located on the right-hand side along with the power socket, volume rocker, headphone jack and power button.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> The reps from both Intel and Toshiba were rather tight-lipped about this elusive device (the latter even said his folks have yet to come up with a name), so all we know is that this is powered by an Ivy Bridge processor (with vPro embedded security options) and it'll be available in Q2 this year. As always, stay tuned here for the eventual announcement.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Toshiba's Portege Z10t detachable Ultrabook debuts at IDF handson" data-src-height="438" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/toshiba-portege-z10t-fcc.jpg" style="margin: 4px;" /></div></div>

Toshiba's Portege Z10t detachable Ultrabook debuts at IDF

Right after Intel's somewhat mundane announcement of the Ultrabook Convertible and Ultrabook Detachable sub-brands at IDF in Beijing,...

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Christie's latest 4K projector sports 60 fps output, six-figure price tag (eyes-on)

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Christie Digital Systems unveils first 60 Hz 4K projectors with sky" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/christiedsc00323.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">When a 48 frames-per-second version of <i>The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journe</i>y was released, some viewers questioned whether high frame rates necessarily translate to a better viewing experience. Whether or not you embrace this trend, it's clearly not going away. Case in point: today, Christie Digital Systems introduced two new 4K projectors capable of 60 fps -- a "world's first," according to the manufacturer. Unveiled on the NAB show floor, the 35,000-lumen and 25,000-lumen models display extremely crisp and bright images -- big-budget car commercials and surfing footage basically pop off the screen.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">The projectors are available for pre-order now, so it'll likely be quite some time before they begin showing up in your neighborhood cineplex. Their price tags ($125,000 for the 25,000-lumen model and $161,000 for the 35,000-lumen D4K3560), not to mention their bulky 250+ pound bodies, make them destined for state-of-the-art cinemas rather than home theaters. If you <i>do</i> manage to squeeze one of these giants into your den, we'd be more than willing to drop in to catch a flick or two. Take a look at the 25,000-lumen D4K2560 in action in our eyes-on video after the break -- it looks incredibly sharp and vibrant, despite the reduced brightness output.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> <img alt="Gallery Image" height="425" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc00264.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="425" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc00286.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="425" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc00292.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="425" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc00301.jpg" width="640" /><img alt="Gallery Image" height="425" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc00305.jpg" width="640" /></div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-105d71d9" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/105d71d9/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=92874920&disablebranding=0&view_secret=92874920" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

Christie's latest 4K projector sports 60 fps output, six-figure price tag (eyes-on)

When a 48 frames-per-second version of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journe y was released, some viewers questioned whether high frame rates ne...

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3D printed speakers give you a custom light show to go with your tunes

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="For Michael" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/lightspeakersdsc08410.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">3D printing is still in its relative infancy, but more and more folks are using machines like the MakerBot Replicator and Formlab's Form 1 to turn digital plans into physical reality. An Autodesk engineer named Evan Atherton has access to a much more capable (and expensive) 3D printer, an Objet Connex 500, and as a design exercise decided to use that printer to create a finished product. You see, a lot of 3D printers are used for rapid prototyping, as opposed to product manufacturing. Join us after the break for a video interview with Atherton explaining how he created these sonic beauties. </div></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-8cfc5137" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/8cfc5137/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=53192048&disablebranding=0&view_secret=53192048" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">With the Objet Connex 500, Atherton is able to print single objects that seamlessly integrate two different materials, as opposed to the single materials used by less expensive printers. In this case, he combined a flexible rubber and a hard plastic to print out a pair of crystal orb speaker housings. From there he inserted strips of addressable RGB LED strips operated by a custom LumiGeek microcontroller to make the speakers glow in time with your tunes. LumiGeek also provided the companion app that allows users to fine tune the light show to their tastes. Alas, at well over $2,000 worth of printed material and almost 60 hours worth of man and machine labor to create them, there aren't any plans to sell the speakers. However, LumiGeek will be Kickstarting its mictroctontroller that allows users to dictate video output based on audio files sometime soon.</div></div>

3D printed speakers give you a custom light show to go with your tunes

3D printing is still in its relative infancy, but more and more folks are using machines like the MakerBot Replicator and Formlab's Form...

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Visualized: Sony teases prototype 4K cameras and lenses at NAB

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="DNP Visualized Sony teases prototype 4K cameras and lenses at NAB" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/sonylensdsc00060.jpg" style="margin: 4px;" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">At its NAB 2013 press conference, Sony told us several times that it never stops thinking about the future. It's fitting, then, that in addition to announcing pricing for two 4K sets, the company gave us a taste of what's to come a few years down the line. A wide variety of lenses, including both current models and some prototypes, appeared on stage briefly -- behind ropes, no less -- and while we got no shortage of shots, specs, model names and any other particulars were strictly off-limits. Current optics included basic wide-angle and telephoto models, and of the two prototype cameras on display, one was of particular interest, due in no small part to its DSLR-like form-factor -- this could perhaps become Sony's version of the Canon EOS-1D C. Unfortunately, Sony says that these devices won't make it to market for quite some time, so photogs will have to make do with this eye candy for now.</div></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-3aa799e5" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/3aa799e5/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=67251750&disablebranding=0&view_secret=67251750" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe></div>

Visualized: Sony teases prototype 4K cameras and lenses at NAB

At its NAB 2013 press conference, Sony told us several times that it never stops thinking about the future. It's fitting, then, that in...

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HTC First hands-on

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/firstdsc0417.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> After endless months of speculation, the collaboration between HTC and Facebook has finally been revealed to the world. It's not a Facebook Phone <em>per se</em>, it's simply a skinned Android smartphone that just so happens to bestow deep social media integration upon the OS, a move which makes the First -- as well as future devices that feature the newly announced Facebook Home interface -- an appropriate candidate for the term. The First will be available April 12th for $100 on AT&T, but it can be pre-ordered starting today.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> While Facebook Home is taking the spotlight, let's examine the first piece of hardware it will be featured on. On the spec sheet, the First isn't going to take anybody's breath away: <span>it's a midrange phone with dual-core Snapdragon 400 processor, 1GB RAM, 5MP rear camera, Android 4.1 and a 4.3-inch 720p display. </span>We're just getting our hands on the device right now and will continue to offer up our First impressions, along with a full gallery of images.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> </div><div class="post-gallery" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><h3 class="title"><strong>HTC First hands-on</strong></h3><br /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc0406_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc0408_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc0411_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc0414_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc0417_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc0421_95x95.jpg" /> </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> The First won't be the only device featuring Facebook Home, as it will be available for download on a limited number of flagship phones next week, but the idea is for the First to offer more optimizations in the experience: it's a cleaner setup process since it's pre-loaded on the phone, and it can take advantage of a few additional service integrations that legacy devices won't offer.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> While we don't have the phone's exact dimensions just yet, it's safe to say the First is one slender and lightweight handheld. <span>We're also pleasantly surprised by its rounded edges and matte rubberized shell -- both result in a comfortable and pleasant feel when cradled in the hand. </span><span>The 4.3-inch 720p screen seemed bright enough under the demo room's task lighting, though it's obviously not as sharp as the One's. Flipping through Home's UI felt zippy enough thanks to that dual-core Snapdragon processor, but it didn't strike us as a super speedster either. </span><span>On the whole, the First strikes us as a pretty simple phone, and its design reflects that.</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>

HTC First hands-on

After endless months of speculation, the collaboration between HTC and Facebook has finally been revealed to the world. It's not a Fac...

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Ergo launches the GoNote Mini, a 7-inch Android tablet / netbook hybrid, we go hands-on

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="image-container" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="Ergo launches the GoNote Mini, a 7inch tablet netbook hybrid, we go handson" data-src-height="348" data-src-width="620" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/a.jpg" /></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> We first encountered Ergo Electronics at last year's Gadget Show Live, and since then the Birmingham-based tablet maker has graduated from its humble back-of-the-hall origins to become a major player. Its product range has swelled beyond its original budget ICS slates with a range of AIO PCs, thin-and-light laptops and even a Windows 8 tablet that has more than a few strong hints of a KIRF Surface about it. Now it's launched the GoNote Mini, a scaled down 7-inch version of the education-ready tablet / netbook hybrid that's been doing the rounds since last summer. We got to spend a few minutes playing around with the first production prototype and if you'd like to know more, after the break is where you want to be.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> We're not sure too many people are wistful for the halcyon days of 2007, but this Android-powered clamshell netbook certainly pulls a retro heart-string here or there. Clad in off-white plastic and designed for the education market, it's already demonstrated its sturdy credentials after it suffered an accident against the concrete earlier in the day -- with only some scuffing on the corner that bore the brunt of the impact. It's certainly solidly built and we couldn't find any weaknesses or "give" in the outer shell, compared to some of the kiddy-devices that we've seen.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"> Spec-wise, you'll be staring into a 800 x 480 capacitive LED-backlit touchscreen that can register up to five points of multitouch. Running the show is a single-core 1.2GHz Rockchip RK2918 that's been paired with 1GB of RAM, and while it'll do the job, it suffers from the same blight as many other pre-Jelly Bean Android slates -- with gestures taking a moment to register and programs meandering their way into view. The keyboard isn't enjoyable to type on for adult hands, and the keys themselves have a springy feel, as if you're typing into the rubber membrane beneath the keys. On the other hand, in addition to the touchscreen, you also get a trackpoint, which is useful when you want to nudge your cursor without resorting to jabbing at the display. Connectivity-wise, you've got 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, mini USB, full UB and a mini HDMI port. You'll talk into a VGA forward-facing camera that's been paired with a 2-megapixel shooter 'rounder back. You can also complement the 4GB of onboard storage with the microSD card slot. The unit will be available for £99 ($150) towards the end of the month, but for that same price, you could also snag something a little more stylish.</div></div>

Ergo launches the GoNote Mini, a 7-inch Android tablet / netbook hybrid, we go hands-on

We first encountered Ergo Electronics at last year's Gadget Show Live, and since then the Birmingham-based tablet maker has graduate...

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Hands-on with the smaller, less expensive 7-inch Wikipad

<div dir="rtl" style="text-align: right;" trbidi="on"><div class="copy post-body" dir="ltr" itemprop="text" style="text-align: left;"><div class="image-container" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Handson with the smaller, less expensive 7inch Wikipad" data-src-height="411" data-src-width="619" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/wikipad7inchhedimg.jpg" /></div>When the Wikipad went from 10.1-inches to just 7-inches earlier this year, subsequently cutting its price in half alongside the size reduction, the gaming-centric Android tablet went from riskily priced potential failure to affordable item of interest in one swift move. $500 for a 10.1-inch tablet with a proprietary gaming controller peripheral? With a Tegra 3, no less? That already sounds outdated, and at $500, it sounds outright <i>crazy</i>. Though Wikipad promises a 10.-1-inch version is still in the works, the 7-incher is headed for retail in the coming weeks, with the aforementioned Tegra 3 quad-core SoC, a 1,280 x 800 IPS screen, Jellybean 4.1, and that enormous detachable game controller (<i>12</i> buttons in all!). At last week's Game Developers Conference, we had a chance to check out the latest version of the Wikipad just ahead of its retail launch -- for more on that meeting, join us beyond the break.<br /><div class="post-gallery" style="text-align: left;"><h3 class="title"><b>Wikipad hands-on (7-inch, GDC 2013)</b></h3><br /><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc06434_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc06398_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc06401_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc06403_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc06404_95x95.jpg" /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2013/04/dsc06406_95x95.jpg" /> </div>There is no way to not feel awkward holding the Wikipad when its paired to its controller. With the 7-inches of screen real estate, the Wikipad controller has your hands stretched apart by 8-inches or more -- a real issue if you plan on holding the set for longer than a few minutes. Resultantly, juggling between the controller's many buttons has us worried we'd end up accidentally dropping the handheld.<br />The bulky controller attachment pairs up the 7-inch tablet easily via micro USB plug, and the mapping worked fine on the few games we played. While the buttons aren't what we'd call high-quality, they're workable enough to <i>far surpass</i> the virtual button offerings otherwise employed in many mobile games. That is admittedly a low bar to surpass. The change from black to chrome buttons isn't an aesthetic choice we embrace, but it doesn't heavily affect the already cheap look of the controller.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Wikipad's central thrust -- the 7-inch tablet -- is ... fine? It's a fairly standard 7-inch tablet, from specs to build quality. There's an expandable memory slot for SD cards (up to 64GB, we're told), a single front-facing camera, and the aforementioned 1,280 x 800 IPS screen in the middle (all of which runs Jelly Bean 4.1) -- nothing thrilling, but all the boxes are ticked. The most thrilling aspect of the tablet is its rubberized back with a grippy ridge, meant to both be grabbed and to amplify the device's speakers. We're just glad it won't go sliding off our laps.<br />Based on our brief time with it, the Wikipad is hard to recommend. Both the $250 price and the not-so-exciting set of features are working against it, but we'll give it a full review in the weeks to come.<br /><iframe frameborder="0" height="349" id="viddler-5dc0592f" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="//www.viddler.com/embed/5dc0592f/?f=1&offset=0&autoplay=0&secret=14217561&disablebranding=0&view_secret=14217561" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="545"></iframe> </div></div>

Hands-on with the smaller, less expensive 7-inch Wikipad

When the Wikipad went from 10.1-inches to just 7-inches earlier this year, subsequently cutting its price in half alongside the size reduct...

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