EnviroGadget » MP3 Gadgets

iSol Plus – Portable Solar Charger

Anita (EnviroGadget Writer) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:00:53 +0000

The iSol Plus is a solar powered charger designed to allow you to charge your portable electronic products from environmentally friendly electricity. The charger’s size allows you to take the device anywhere with you, the solar panel ensures you can regain charge even when away from mains electricity.

The iSol Plus by iSol can be used to charge a wide range of portable electronic devices. The charger is suitable to charge MP3/MP4 players, PDAs, iPhones, iPods, Blackberrys, mobile phones, and many other such devices. The charger has the ability to be set to three different DC settings to allow it greater flexibility, 5.5v, 7.5v and 9.5v. The charger is supplied with the adapters for both Samsung and Motorola phones, the device though should work with any portable electronic device that has a USB adapter.

The iSol Plus measures 11.43 cm x 6.35 cm x 1.52 cm(4.5 in x 2.5 in x 0.6 in) which allows it to be easily taken with you wherever you wish to go, to provide your devices with power whenever they require it. The charger has an internal rechargeable lithium battery that requires anything between 10 and 20 hours to charge through the solar panel, depending on the brightness of the sunlight available. The battery can also be charged through a USB port, it takes 2-4 hours to charge the device via this method. The charger has both charging and discharging indicators to allow you to easily see when the charger is working. The iSol Plus helps to make your portable electronics truly portable. It allows you to be able to charge you devices anywhere, all you require is sunlight.

Source: World Of Green

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the iSol Plus – Portable Solar Charger article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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Devotec Solar Sound 2 – Solar-powered Bluetooth Speakers

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 09:00:52 +0000

Solar Sound 2 - via Bluetooth to iPhone

Devotec Industries have been kind enough to send me their latest creation to review – namely the Devotec Solar Sound 2, which is a solar-powered speaker that plays music from your computer or phone via Bluetooth.

The quality of sound from the speakers is exceptionally good, despite the relatively small size of the speakers. What’s more, is if you receive a call on your mobile phone whilst using the speakers, you can use the speakers as a handsfree kit too!

What’s comes in the box?

Solar Sound 2 - What's in the Box

In the box, there are the speakers (measuring 165mm x 58mm 58mm), a retracting male 3.5mm stereo plug to male 3.5mm stereo plug, a retracting mini male USB plug to standard male USB plug, a protective case for the speakers, a mains adapter for the USB cable, plus full instructions.

The instructions I was particularly impressed with, as they’re really detailed and explain how all of the features of the speakers work (rather than letting you guess like some instruction manuals). I was up and running within just a couple of minutes.

The speaker case

Solar Sound 2 Speaker Case

The speaker case is a fabric case with a zip for the speakers. There’s also a little pocket on the side for one of the cables. It’s a shame that only one of the retracting cables can fit into the case, it would have been nice if both could fit. The case will protect the speakers from getting scratched. Perhaps something for the future is a molded case that protects the speakers from knocks too.

How I tested the Solar Sound 2

I tested the speakers with both a mobile phone and my laptop to test the audio quality. So if you don’t want to use Bluetooth, then you can just use the 3.5mm extension lead (although you can’t use the handsfree function if using the audio cable). These are the combinations I tried:

Speakers to iPhone – via Bluetooth
Speakers to iPhone – via 3.5mm extension lead (in headphone socket)
Speakers to Mac Powerbook – via Bluetooth (as Headphones)
Speakers to Mac Powerbook – via Bluetooth (as a Headset)
Speakers to Mac Powerbook – via 3.5mm extension lead (in headphone socket)

Audio Quality

Solar Sound 2 - via Bluetooth to iPhone

Overall, the quality of the sound is excellent. The speakers don’t sound particularly ‘tinny’, although at higher volumes, you did start to notice a lack of bass. The Bluetooth range is very impressive, and I achieved pretty much 10 metres indoors from one side of the house to the other.

I did notice that when connected to a Mac Powerbook, the sounds was muffled in ‘Headset’ mode, presumably for saving bandwidth for the microphone aspect. However, when connected in ‘Headphone’ mode, the quality sounded identical to what I got when I connected the audio cable. With the iPhone, using Bluetooth and the cable sounded equal in audio quality to me.

I tested the speakers with Spotify, iTunes and internet radio. The quality was excellent with all of them. Essentially, if your phone or laptop chucks out any sound, then the speakers will work!

When receiving a call, the speakers automatically fades out the music, and you hear your ringtone on the speakers. When you answer the call, you can speak into the microphone on the front of the speakers, just as you would with any other handsfree speaker kit. A very useful feature, just in case a call does come in!

Using the Speakers

The speakers themselves are pretty solid and feel really well made. The on/off switch is a latching push button switch, so it’s easy to check if the speaker is switched on or not. On the front panel, the volume up/down and mute/unmute buttons light up when they are touched. Interestingly, the front buttons are capacitive, which means they work just like an iPhone touch screen – using touch rather than pressure.

Holding the volume buttons for more than 2 seconds is meant to skip a track when you use Bluetooth. However, when I tried this, nothing happened. The volume controls work absolutely fine when adjusting volume though. However, this is a feature I’d never use anyway.

When I wasn’t using the speakers, I just left them on a sunlit windowsill to charge up. I’ve not managed to drain the batteries yet, even with several hours usage. The specifications say that the speakers should work for between 5 to 20 hours depending on how you use it. The speaker is designed to be powered from solar power, so the speakers will switch over power source automatically depending on sunlight.

Solar Sound 2 - Rear Connections

If you want to charge up the speakers relatively quickly, you can charge them using the USB cable and the mains adapter which should take up to 5 hours. You can also charge up the speakers using a computer via the USB port. The logo on the front of the speakers change from a red light to a green light when it’s fully charged.

Conclusion

In summary, the Solar Sound 2 offers a practical solution for wireless music. This gadget is perfect for listening to music on the beach, outside when dining al-fresco, on picnics, or even in the bathroom! The speakers are really simple to use, even when using Bluetooth. I was up and running within a few minutes, with music blasting out of the speakers whist I was sat downstairs, with the music being played upstairs! So it’s easy-to-use, practical, delivers on all counts of it’s specification (apart from the skip track buttons), and constructed to a very high standard.

In my opinion, it’s a top-notch gadget. Well worth buying if you love your music outdoors! Thanks again to Devotec Industries for giving me the opportunity to review the Solar Sound 2.

The Devotec Solar Sound 2 is yours for just £73.98 including delivery if you’re in the UK, just $105.98 including shipping in the US, and €89.98 including shipping anywhere in Europe.

Disclaimer: Although I was given this gadget to review, it has in no way influenced my opinions in this product review. This review reflects my personal and honest perspective on this gadget, and this perspective has not been biased in any way.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Devotec Solar Sound 2 – Solar-powered Bluetooth Speakers article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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Soulra Solar Powered iPod Speaker

Anita (EnviroGadget Writer) — Tue, 25 May 2010 09:00:05 +0000

The Soulra is a solar powered speaker system for iPods and iPhones. Designed to be used either at home or when out, the speakers allow you to share listening to your music with others without worries over batteries or over the drain of mains electricity.

The Soulra comprises a 8-watt RMS speaker with a bass boost, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and a remote control. The device allows you to listen to music from an iPod or even an iPhone and have full control over the system through its remote. The device has been designed to be robust, its rugged exterior is water resistant and able to withstand minor bumps. This allows it to be used out and about, at outdoor parties, BBQs or poolside events, though it is only really splash and spill proof, so would not be safe out in the rain (nor survive being thrown into a pool).

The large solar panel charges the Soulra’s battery, and when it is at full charge it can provide at least 5 hours of continuous playback. The device can run directly from the solar panel, which can extend the play time of the speaker immensely. The speaker can be used indoors, though the device would need to be placed in a bright spot, like on a windowsill, to charge. Once charged it could be moved for use anywhere it is required.

The Soulra provides you with a good, eco friendly speaker system for your iPod/iPhone music. Because it is solar powered it reduces the worry over batteries running out and prevents you from needing to take spare batteries out with you. The device also allows you to use a speaker system without a constant drain on your home power supply.

Source: Frontgate

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Soulra Solar Powered iPod Speaker article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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Green up your Apple iPad with a Solar Charger

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 09:00:54 +0000

Apple fanatics worldwide have been anxiously waiting for the day that the iPad becomes available, and finally it’s here! The Apple iPad allows you to surf the Internet, read books, look at maps, and pretty much anything else you can imagine. Those who are concerned for the environment are thrilled by the fact that the iPad is more eco-friendly than most electronic devices. Apple has worked hard to design the iPad with features that will reduce its environmental impact.

What can you do to add to the ‘green’ factor of the Apple iPad? One thing you can do is invest in a solar charger. Now readers of EnviroGadget are no strangers to solar chargers, or using them for their gadgets and homes. The iPad boasts an impressive battery that will last 10 hours between charges. However, if you are often traveling, camping, or enjoying areas that have a severe lack of electrical outlets, or you just want to stay off the grid, then a solar charger is going to be essential. It may not be as fast as a wall socket, but hey, it’s green environmentally friendly! Plus… as I think we can all agree, solar chargers are just cool.

As you probably are already aware, one of the most popular, affordable, and highest quality solar chargers is the Solio lineup of products. The Solio Classic and Solio Mag (the highest end version) are uniquely designed as a fan-blade so as to get the most sunlight possible. With a 1650mAH internal battery (the Mag version has a larger 1800mAH battery) they can store enough juice to fully charge your iPad or iPhone on the go. Combined with an iGo charge adapter which eliminates a lot of the energy bleed that chargers give off, and you’ve got a very efficient way to power your Apple tablet. All it takes is eight to ten hours of direct sunlight and the Solio is charged and ready to go. You can read a full review of the Solio Mag here on EnviroGadget.

Another excellent solar charger that can be used to charge your iPad is the Freeloader Pro. Similar to the Solio in size and design, this charger has two panels that fold up into one compact kit. The internal 1650mAH battery takes around 10 hours of charging in the sun to be fully ready.

Also available is the Freeloader Globetrotter kit. The Globetrotter is a weather resistant solar charger with two super large panels that attach to the back of a backpack easily so you can charge your batteries as you go and see the world. Plus, you’ll have a great excuse to go and sit in the sun for a while. It’s great for day to day use as you backpack or flashpack the world. The Globetrotter is hardcore traveler tested and approved!

So be a friend to the earth and charge your iPad with the sun!

This article is a guest post by our eco geek friends over at iPad Accessories Review – the premier source for iPad accessory news, reviews, and rumors. You can find lots more information on eco friendly accessories for the iPad on their website.

Update Aug 2010: Please note, we’ve had reports that the Freeloader Globetrotter Kit does not charge the iPad! Please check with the manufacturer that any charging device will charge your gadgets before purchasing.

We’ve received a number of abusive messages and comments relating to this article. Abusive language will not be tolerated. Firstly, it’s just not nice. And secondly, it’s still not nice!

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Green up your Apple iPad with a Solar Charger article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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Solar-Powered Radio Headphones

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:00:22 +0000

The Solar-Powered Radio Headphones are perfect for people who love listening to the radio rather than listening to their MP3 player. I must admit, I much prefer radio as I enjoy the banter between the radio presenters just as much as a random choice of music. With this radio however, it’s charged via the solar-panel on the top of the headphones.

The radio headphones feature a AAA battery that stores the charge from the solar panel. You get between one and three hours of listening from an hour of sunlight. A fully-charged headset will give you a total of 20 hours listening time. So you might want to leave your headphones in the sun to charge up when you’re not using them.

The headset is completely adjustable to suit all head sizes. The Solar-Powered Radio Headphones cost £24.95 plus delivery.

Update 16th Dec 2009 – Unfortunately this product is no longer available to buy.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Solar-Powered Radio Headphones article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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Move Eco Plus DAB Digital Radio

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:00:25 +0000

If you’re a fan of digital radio, the Move Eco Plus DAB Digital Radio is an attractive and eco-friendly gadget to enjoy your music on the go. Like other eco-friendly DAB digital radios, this radio has been approved by the Energy Saving Trust thanks to it’s exceptionally low power consumption. As a result, the radio will last for up to 40 hours on a single charge of the batteries!

To put some numbers on it, in standby the radio uses just 0.73W (where the industry average is 2.64W), and in operation the radio uses just 0.95W (where the industry average is 5.49W). The radio uses an internal 4200 mAh rechargeable battery, which is charged via a mains-based power supply. The radio receives DAB Band III as well as standard analogue FM radio. The Move Eco Plus radio is capable of decoding all DAB transmission modes 1-4 up to and including 192 kbps.

The radio has a built-in speaker which is claimed to have a surprising clarity and volume level. Additionally, you can also plug in your iPod or iPhone to play music on the radio’s speaker. The orange backlit LCD display with 16 x 2 characters shows the station name and the signal strength, and the backlight can be switched off to save energy.

The radio measures 150 mm wide x 85 mm tall x 27 mm deep, and weighs only 280g. The radio is available for just under £80.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Move Eco Plus DAB Digital Radio article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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The Surge Case – iPod Touch Solar Charger Case

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:00:40 +0000

There’s no question, that since the launch of the iPhone, there have been a flurry of products just for the iPhone, where us iPod Touch users have been missing out. Well the Solar Surge for the iPod Touch has been designed to keep your iPod Touch fully charged whilst your out and about.

Your iPod Touch fits snugly within the case, giving you full access to the touch screen without needing to take the iPod out of the case. The case itself is also lightweight and study, so it offers a degree of protection for your iPod Touch.

In full sun, the solar panel provides 100mA of charging current. The Surge has a 1500 mAh 3.7 V lithium-ion polymer internal battery, which represents 120% of the internal battery capacity of the iPod Touch. This means you more than double your iPod’s battery capacity.

To determine how much charge is left in the battery, the Surge features a 4 LED display which indicates the current charge status. The case also features a USB socket so that you can charge up the iPod via USB or sync with iTunes without needing to take it out of the Surge case too.

The cases are available for just under $80 each in the US, the case is not yet available in other countries such as the UK.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the The Surge Case – iPod Touch Solar Charger Case article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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DIY Cardboard Eco Speakers

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:00:29 +0000

Ever wanted to make your own speakers? These DIY Eco Speakers by Merkury allow you to decorate and create your own speakers. The speakers are compatible with most MP3 and music players that have a standard 3.5mm headphone socket.

The Eco Speakers are made from 70% recycled cardboard. If they get a little dirty, they can be wiped clean too. You even get a pack of colouring pencils to create your own unique designs. You can also add your own stickers and labels too if you wish.

The speaker kit is available from Urban Outfitters for $18 in the US, or £16 in the UK.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the DIY Cardboard Eco Speakers article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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Devotec Industries Solar Sound Bluetooth Speakers

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:00:14 +0000

Devotec Industries have launched a solar-powered Bluetooth-enabled speaker gadget that allows Bluetooth-enabled phones to be connected wirelessly to the speakers. The speakers work with any Bluetooth-enabled music playing device, typically found in mobile phones including the iPhone. For devices without Bluetooth, you simply plug in the included 3.5mm stereo cable into the headphone socket of your music player.

The integrated 150mA solar panel can charge the internal 1500mAh Lithium ion battery in around 12 to 24 hours, and the battery will last between 4 to 8 hours depending on how high you set the volume. You can also charge the internal battery via a USB socket or AC adaptor in just 4 hours. The Solar Sound has two 2W speakers, and you can connect the speaker unit to any Bluetooth phone or MP3 player supporting the A2DP and AVRCP profiles.

If you receive a call on the phone whilst its connected to the speakers, you can also use the speakers as a handsfree kit thanks to a built-in microphone. The speakers also feature a touch-screen panel, so that you can remotely control your music, including fast forward and rewind buttons, as well as the volume control.

The speakers are currently available for £49.99 plus postage in the UK (usual price of £59.99), or $79.99 plus postage in the US (usual price of $99.99) directly from the manufacturer’s website.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Devotec Industries Solar Sound Bluetooth Speakers article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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Picnic Plus PSR-159N Solar Cooler Bag with Speakers

Dan (EnviroGadget Writer) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 09:08:23 +0000

If you’re out having a picnic, it’s a fair chance you’ll appreciate some music whilst you’re out enjoying the fresh air. The Picnic Plus PSR-159N Solar Cooler Bag helps you do just that with a built-in solar panel and a pair of speakers. The solar panel is designed to charge up your mobile phone and music gadgets. You can also plug your music player into the speakers using the 3.5mm stereo plug.

The solar cooler bag has a thermal foil-insulated cooler section, which you can make cooler by adding an ice pack. The cooler bag is made like a backpack by the way of shoulder straps, particularly useful if the bag is heavy! There are no technical specifications of the speaker unit or the solar panel however. The solar cooler bag is available for $65.01 plus shipping.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Picnic Plus PSR-159N Solar Cooler Bag with Speakers article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

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