Top 5 Coolest Gadgets Gifts for Christmas 2010

Christmas is so near I can almost smell it. I was browsing the web the other day to get some gifts ideas for Christmas 2010 and guess what. I found some crazy stuff that I thing will get you to laugh at least.

1. Fanny Bank Funny Farting Coin Drop Bank
This one is a laugh instant starter. Drop a coin through the strategically placed slot and stay tuned as the bank lets out a big, juicy one. Makes saving more entertaining no matter what your age. Access your hard-earned hard cash from the bottom of the bank. Measures 5.5"W x 6"H x 5.25"D. Batteries, not included.

2. Tekno Newborns Puppy in Dots and Silver
Tekno Newborn Puppy is your own artificial robot dog to play with. He's armed with AI and real time emotions - Tekno newborn monkey's eyes illume in different colors to expresses feelings. This robotic dog is fully mobile, he walks forward, right and left. Due to the voice activated tech inside -Tekno newborn puppy gets delirious when you call him. This amazing dog has presence detectors so he can sense your touch and answers consequently

3. The FAST Gas Scooter Model XG-550 (Includes EPA Certified Gas Engine)

You have more technical details on Amazon, but here is what you need to know about this scooter: the speed is up to 35 mph and distance 20+ miles per tank. Also be aware, the seat is sold separately, so be sure to order one from the website.

4. Worlds Smallest High Resolution Mini Video Camcorder
This high res camera fits anywhere due to its thumb size. It can record in High Resolution- 640x480 with Clear Audio Recording. Admits all mounting accessories. This small camera supports up to 8gb bit Includes 2gb Card with microadapter.

5. Archos 5 16GB Internet Tablet with Android

ARCHOS is known for its ceaseless technology conception, now brings in its fresh ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablet. This amazing tablet aggregates all the multimedia know-how that ARCHOS is famous for, with the ANDROID OS. It offers you an astonishing Internet, media, and TV experience in a customizable interface. In constant evolution with the uninterrupted reaching of fresh applications, you are able to individualise your ARCHOS 5 Internet Tablet to absolutely reflect your tastes and needs. Read my full review here. You can also check Top Kids Gifts for Christmas 2010 and 5 Xmas Gifts for Christmas 2010
image credit and source: Amazon.com

How to Build a Cheap Home Recording Studio

I'm reading more and more about people trying to setup a simple home studio in a budget around $300-$400.

Before starting to buy home studio equipment, you need to know what is the minimum requirement for a home recording studio:

* PC/Laptop
* Condenser Microphone
* Audio Interface / Preamp and Soundcard
* Monitors
* Headphones
* Mic stand, pop filter, acoustic foam
* Recording Software

One of the best condenser microphones out there is Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Microphone ($229). This 5/5 stars microphone comes with cables and a popfilter. The NT1A Anniversary Model is a fresh redesign of the legendary NT1 classic studio microphone.

This mic requires some sort of phantom power. I really recommend a good audio interface. M-Audio MobilePre USB Mobile Preamp and Audio Interface is pretty good, bears phantom power and it can be used with any laptop. That means more mobility for you. But if you want more, be sure to read The Best Audio Interface under $200.

Monitors are pretty important when mixing your songs. M-Audio Studiophile AV30 Professional Reference Speakers is a pretty good choice. The price is around $100. Headphones are not that important, so buy something that fits your budget. Don't forget to buy mic stand and some sort of acoustic foam. You can use a home made acoustic foam created from egg crates.

The cheapest recording software is Audacity. Check their website for more info.

The simplest and maybe the cheapest alternative to build a recording studio is to buy a good USB mic, and skip the audio interface/preamp equipment. If you want to go that road, I recommend AT2020 USB Version. AT2020 is a versatile mic and with the USB version you just need to plug it in your usb and start recording.





Learn how to mix your songs on Home Recording Studio Blog

Coca Cola Spy Camera

You may think that this is an ordinary Coca Cola, but you're wrong. This amazing cool gadgets has inside a 3-megapixel camera capable of shooting video with 640x480 resolution and 4 GB of internal memory. This gadgets charges via USB and comes with a remote control. The cost for this device is around $50. Check other cool spy gadgets on Amazon.

Digital Wine Thermometer

Wines are better served certain temperatures, so you can enjoy all the profuseness of the bouquet. In order to to this you have to either attend a restaurant with an expert wine waiter, or you'll be able to do that in your own house using this gadget: like Instant Read Digital Wine Thermometer.

This amazing gadget is a thermometer with a chromium steel casing that accommodates over the bottle of wine and establishes its temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius. Gadget inflicted on the body temperature measures that are ideal for distinct varieties of wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon.