PRELUDE: GADGETS
1. SAMSUNG YP-T8A $250
www.SAMSUNG.COM
The latest exciting offering from Samsung to hit the mp3 market is much more than just a music player. In fact, short of sweeping up the fluff in your pocket, the 2GB YP-T8A is one of the most comprehensive portable media players around, with a video player and photo album.
2. ROLLEI MINIDIGI $270
www.ROLLEI.DE
Based on the classic 1928 Rollei Twin Lens Reflex, the MiniDigi is a miniaturized replica complete with the crank lever and top-down viewfinder. The only differences are the size and inclusion of a 2-megapixel sensor and memory card for the hip-shooters of the digital age.
3. MOTOROLA SX700 $70
www.MOTOROLA.COM
With a range of up to 12 miles, the compact and durable Motorola SX700 two-way radios are ideal gadgets for outdoor sports enthusiasts and families on day-trips. Special features include hands-free voice activation, plus local and regional weather alerts for the more adventurous.
4. OPTEK FRETLIGHT GUITAR $600
www.OPTEKMUSIC.COM
The Fretlight is a guitar with a difference. This electric axe plugs into your PC and comes with a tutorial program. The software prompts LEDs on the neck to light up and guide you through scales and chords without constant referral to tablature.