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OWC Tips & Deals 5/6/2006
Intro: Greetings again from Other World Computing. Spring is in the air! It's great to again have windows open, fresh air, and the green of the season all around. With the advances technology has brought us, we can only hope it means the ever growing amount of work to be done gets done faster so we can enjoy more time with family, friends and the great outdoors. It's a win-win if despite more work to be done, we can make use of today's technology to get it done quicker. You know what I mean, bottom line is that we remember why we work as hard as we do and have time away from work to spend the time with those important to us. A balance sometimes easier said than done. New Apple 17" MacBook Pro It was only a matter of time... and that time arrived on April 25th! The new MacBook Pro 17" starts from $2799 with the Intel Duo 2.16GHz (dual-core) processor standard. Also standard for the 17" model are: FireWire 400 AND 800 Ports, 1GB of memory, 120GB SATA Drive (for performance I'd recommend the even exchange to the 100GB 7200RPM option), built-in iSight, Front Row, an 8X SuperDrive with Dual Layer(8.5GB) burn support, and more. That's a pretty darn good value too. Such a value that it would seem it's been positioned for a strong launch and somewhat at the expense of MacBook Pro 15.4" sales. Not so much the 'entry-level' MacBook Pro 15.4" 1.83GHz model, but the new MacBook Pro 17" is almost certainly going to take a chunk out of MacBook Pro 15.4" 2.0GHz sales in terms of the way the two models line up price wise today. At first glance, the $300 is already a pretty small difference between the 15.4" 2.0GHz and the 17" 2.16GHz base models. But when you consider the $100 to upgrade the 15.4" to the same 120GB or 100GB 7200RPM included in the cost of the 17" and especially the $300 option that bumps the 2.0GHz 15.4" to the same 2.16GHz Duo Processor standard with the 17".... well, um.... You're paying $100 MORE and getting a smaller display with that MacBook Pro 15.4" in trying to match up to a stock MacBook Pro 17". But that's not all.... With Apple's MacBook Pro 17" Model you may have a couple stock items not even offered on 15.4" models. I'm talking about the high-performance FireWire 800 Port and the Twice-as-Fast 8X SuperDrive burning that further has Dual-Layer (8.5GB) DVD burn support which is entirely missing from the 4X Superdrive that 15.4" models come with. The way things are priced right now, you really pick your model as much by processor speed as you do by the screen size you want. And oddly enough, you're effectively paying a premium in cost and lost features when you go with a 15.4" model today. It's realistic to expect that pricing will be adjusted at some point. And, regardless of that, it's still about getting what's right for you - that is, if an IntelMac is the right choice yet. If it is, don't forget to get your memory from OWC. Where Apple charges $300 to add 1GB, we offer the same memory from about 1/3rd the cost - and with a Lifetime Warranty too. You can put that savings towards one of those option upgrades! That might be nice. :) A Greener Way to Go In the last newsletter, I made mention of Apple's current iPod disposal, and coming in June, computer disposal trade-in program. In both cases, Apple promises to properly dispose of the old product. Certainly this is better than such potentially toxic items being improperly discarded into any old landfill. But, disposal is still disposal, and the stuff still does end up in a landfill none the less. And, as noted last week, there are other options! OWC offers new batteries for Apple's iPods and the market is very strong for used iPods. A bad battery is the number one reason people discard an iPod and even if something else has failed, you can do pretty well selling a non-working iPod on Ebay where plenty of people will buy them for parts so they can do a repair. Whether you choose to replace a failed battery or sell a no longer desired iPod to a third party, it does have value. Effectively you are now recycling that unit vs. sending it to a landfill. Sure, Apple does offer 10% off a new iPod with a trade-in, but that's not likely to amount to as much as what someone else would pay to have that iPod as-is, (never mind the user value if a simple NewerTech battery replacement from OWC keeps it useful). And now Apple's upcoming Computer Recycling Program. If it lets you dust off a decade plus old Mac or non-Mac that's become useless and give some trade-in value, that can make a lot of sense. But for Macs made within the last seven or eight years, and even older Macs depending on what you use them for, there might be better options for you in keeping it. We won't find out what Apple's deal is utill June. Whatever that deal turns out to be, there are certain things that won't change... There is always a time that makes sense for buying a new Mac. That said, it's likely you can still get a lot more out of the Mac(s) you have now. Even if you do purchase a new Mac, you will probably want to hold on to your existing one for use as a second system or hand-me-down. You might even need it to run applications that aren't supported on the latest hardware. There are so many options that make more financial sense than a minor rebate. #1 No matter what Mac model you have - even buying new - you're not getting the full potential out of it if you don't maximize the memory. 512MB is minimal for OS X. Upgrading memory to 1.0GB or more is a noticeably leap forward. If you have a Mac with just one memory slot or one open - it's really important that you don't skimp. Get the largest module size you can. I promise you - you'll be thanking me later. Aside from making a Mac (or peecee) noticeably more responsive, when you maximize memory you'll also see a lot less of the OS X 'spinning beach ball' around too. When you don't have the optimum memory, OS X (like other operating systems) has to do data swaps to-and-from the hard drive - essentially a 'virtual memory' scenario. Even the fastest RPM Hard Drive, even with a RAID, is WAY slower than real memory. As such, with more installed memory, the more efficient the OS and Application operation will be, with less hard drive swap dependence. Simple math, Memory=Faster Mac. #2 Even with all the memory in the world, a lot still has to be read-and-written to the hard drive. Applications you run do this. You do it when you directly open and save documents, creative works, while your doing video/photo editing, etc. Heck, the Apple OS X is doing it as you switch application use and as it caches various things. Today's hard drives are far faster than even a same RPM drive from 3+ years ago. If your Mac is 3+ years old and you're booting from the original, stock hard drive that it came with - you have a lot to performance that you can gain simply and affordable by replacing or adding one of today's modern 7200RPM hard drives inside. Beyond just improving performance, with 250GBs going for under $100, you also get more space to store your data too. #3 Depending on which PowerMac or PowerBook you have, there may be an option - or even lots of options - to upgrade the G3 or G4 processor it has now to something faster. In particular, there are many options for PowerMac G4 computers. We're talking about going from what is now as slow as 350MHz to as fast as G4/2.0GHz or even Dual 1.8GHz! These upgrades start as low as $159! It costs a lot less that you'd suspect to upgrade and it can make significantly more difference than you might expect. #4 Today's OS X and applications can be really take advantage of a modern video card. At the very least, you want a video card supported for Quartz Extreme acceleration. If you're a PowerMac G4 owner and your Mac still has a stock ATI Rage Pro 16MB video, any video card upgrade is going to make for a night-and-day difference. The latest cards - like the Radeon 9600s and 9800s - also bring you support for Tiger's Core video acceleration technology. These acceleration technologies off-load work to the video card and enable better display performance. Plus, they reduce load on the processor - which makes everything faster. And, a Faster Mac is a better Mac. And remember, a new video card isn't just for games, although of course it makes a difference there as well. #5 If you want to burn discs with Apple iLife's iDVD, iPhoto, iTunes; Roxio Toast, etc... or already have burning capability, but want to burn faster or burn newer formats, that's no problem. You can add/upgrade to a new SuperDrive on most PowerMacs, eMacs, iMac G4s, and PowerBook models! Options exist to replace an existing internal optical drive or just plug and play an external FireWire or USB solution. The latest burning technology and performance can be just an optical drive upgrade away. Bottom line - before retiring 'that old mac' or worse - consider what options you have to keep that machine rolling along strong...or even stronger. When you consider that the latest Intel Macs can't even run 'Classic' OS 9 apps (let alone boot OS 9), the opportunity may very well be there to discover just what an asset your current Mac remains now and will be in the future too. OWC News The OWC Mercury Elite-AL line of FireWire/USB2 solutions became the first ever to include single drive 750GB models, and also the first to offer a dual drive 1.5TB(1500GB) model. High Performance, High-Reliability, and now the Highest Capacities Ever Available! Priced from $569.99 for the 750GB and $1149.99 for the 1.5TB, the price per gig is well in line with the 500GB/1TB models. Starting at $119.99, see the full line of award winning OWC Mercury Elite-AL solutions online now. And also available from OWC, the new NewerTech miniStack v2 FireWire+USB2 750GB solution with integrated FireWire and USB2 powered hubs. At $599.99, this is the first such Mac mini profile solution with built-in hubs to be available up to 750GB. At only 6.5" L x 6.5" W by 1.5" Tall, that's a ton of high-performance storage and functionality that fits in a conveniently small space. The full line of NewerTech miniStacks from just $129.00 are online now. New Apple Ads on TV Remember the Apple TV spots like 'Toasted Bunny' that had the Intel guy being extinguised? Or the 'Pentium Snail' commercial? I think the 'Switch' ads were pretty good too. If you're a Mac user, you know why you're using a Mac. It's the misguided Windows users that Apple's best ads effectively reach. And I do believe Apple's new 'Get a Mac' spots are, well, spot on. Finally back on the offensive, six different TV spots are effective attacking Windows PCs on issues related to viruses, functionality, software, and stability. The use of a Bill Gates look-a-like (close enough) representing the Windows OS interacting with a Mac OS guy provides a good laugh while reaching potential new Mac customers on a variety of fronts. The commercials are sure to make Mac people smile and hopefully accelerate the flow of Windows users over to Mac. Maybe like the 'Switch' ads, these too will inspire another wave of creative parodies. You might remember even OWC did a Switch Ad Parody. We've got that, as well as a large collection of the different Switch Parody Spots still online/linked for your viewing pleasure. :) ***Special thanks to Gary L. Gray, Mac User and Associate Professor at Penn State. He's kindly maintained the many classic Apple TV spots, like Toasted Bunny' and 'Switch', on the Xserve he uses. Big time thanks!*** For Fun If you're like me, I bet you'd love to have one of those Apple 30" Cinema displays. How about a 'HIPerWall' that incorporates 30 of them! Life must be good for the researchers at University of California, Irvine. Bill Gates really needs our help. He just doesn't like being the richest person in the world. Actually, just buying a Mac helps with that - despite the fact that we use Office for Mac. Of course, there are plenty of things he could do himself to end that horrible plight too. :) Join the OWC endorsed/support MacResource Folding Team. Compete with other folders to show what your Mac(s) can contribute! This distributed resource protein folding project should help researches cure various diseases any day! Intro Closing: Stuff continues to be happening in Apple-land and keeping it fresh keeps the news flowing. It's a lot of fun when stuff is happening and we know there is plenty more happening stuff ahead. As always, the best to you and yours, and thanks as always for reading our Tips n' Deals Newsletter! Check out our latest Quick Tip, New Reader Exclusive Specials, and Roger's Music on the Mac which follow these 'special messages from our sponsor': Quick Links A better Apple/Macintosh ISP at a better price - FasterMac.Net From $5 a month, get nationwide dial up or DSL just for Mac Users - that includes Toll-Free Tech support, anti-virus blocking, powerfully effective and fully customizable anti-spam tools, web space, 5 e-mail accounts, and more. You get more and pay less with FasterMac.Net. Just what does OWC do with trade-ins, open box items, discontinued goods, etc.? We put 'em up on our Clearance Deals Page. There are lots of bargains listed from the holidays/year end and some just now added too. Upgrade the Mac you have or get a new one? OWC's exclusive Benchmark Reporting System helps you answer your own question. Compare various stock Macs vs. New Macs vs. Upgrades - you pick the Macs to compare and from up to 15 different tests we've completed. Use Apple OS 9.2.2 & Apple OS X on Macs Apple doesn't support because OWC does with OS 9 Helper and Xpostfacto! 'Home' away from Home Macs are definitely the best computers on the planet. Stable, Virus-Free (got to try really hard to let a Mac virus be 'installed'), and user friendly. Macs also have some home away from home options you just don't get with a PC. Something I have especially appreciated, and something that is very impressive to a lot of Windows IT guys, is the ability to connect an external FireWire drive to any Mac with FireWire boot support - and start up from that external drive. When it comes to PowerPC based Apples, as long as the drive has at least the minimum version of OS X or even OS 9 the system your plugging into requires, the OS itself is not tied to the computer and booting off your drive makes whatever Mac effectively your Mac. Again, I am talking Macs that FireWire bootability here. But even for Macs that don't have FW Boot support, even moving an internal drive with OS X installed from one Mac to another - you can boot that OS X system from the Mac you've moved the drive to still all the same. I personally carry an Elite-AL drive between home and work, taking advantage of this very feature. However, as the 'population' of Intel based Macs grows in the mix, the portable boot option becomes more limited. PPC Macs and Intel Macs don't easily start up off the same parition and that adds an extra layer for this handy external start up option should you desire to have option to whatever Mac that may be available where you go. They say 'Home is where the Heart is' and that's as true in life as it is with how Mac OS X operates. Whatever User you log into, while logged in - that User directory is the Home Folder which controls the preferences and has your files that effectively make that Mac your Mac. Instead of starting up from the external drive, you can instead set up Macs to allow you to log into your user stored on the external drive. In doing so, you now again have the flexibility to pretty much make use of any Mac - PPC or Intel - just like it's your own without needing to worry about external booting. OWC's M. Christopher Stevens has done a nice job providing instructions start to finish and with screen shots for making this a go. With his help, no doubt that you too can make your OS X 'home' a 'mobile home'. :) See past Quick Tip topics online in the Quick Tip Archive Great Buys and Featured Exclusive Specials for OWC E-Mail Subscribers: Find all the deals reserved just for Readers on your Tips n' Deals Exclusive Specials Page. What follows next is just a sampling of this week's highlights. Apple Airport Cards Back in Stock Apple Airport Cards for PowerBook G4 Titanium, iBook G3s, PowerMac G4 Desktops, etc. with original Airport support. Until a couple weeks ago, it had been about seven months since we last had these. If you've been waiting or need one, here ya have it for - ** $135.00 ** Non-Apple Wireless options for PowerBooks, PowerMacs & wireless routers, extenders, etc - also available from OWC. Apple OS X 10.4.x Tiger Retail $99 + Bundle Savings too If you still haven't updated to Tiger, but are ready to embrace it and enjoy the new features it brings, our $99 price, $30 off retail, is hard to beat. Save over $80 vs. Retail and have the latest Apple OS + ProSoft's Drive Genuis utility bundled for $149.99. And, if you purchase iLife 2006 for $79.00 + either the Apple OS X 10.4.x Single user, the Family Pack, or the 10.4 + Drive Genius bundle - use coupon code 'LIFE4' to save another $5 on your order. Also available are Apple OS X 10.3.9 Panther Server for $149.00, Panther 10.3.x Single User on DVD for $47.99, and Apple OS X 10.2.x on DVD or CD from $17.99. 1GB of Memory $85 & More 5/6/2006 Memory Report: Some prices are up, others a little down, and some just the same. Although I'm not really so sure, all my sources report that memory prices will continue to trend up. What that means - if anything, we'll see in the weeks ahead. Having said that though, my broken record message still remains the same - if you don't have the memory you need, adding memory can make that computer feel brand new. And that can make memory one of the best upgrade values available, at whatever price. Like anything, no point in buying it if you don't need it... but if you have 512MBs or less - well, more memory will = faster Mac. :) Standard DDR for all other PowerMac G5 and iMac G5 models: 1GB Matched Pair (2x512MB) PC3200 DDR 184 Pin - $95.00 2GB Matched Pair (2x1GB) PC3200 DDR 184 Pin - 169.00 1GB PC3200 DDR Module for iMac G5 Only (PowerMac G5 requires Pairs!) $85.00 Memory for New 2006 Apple iMac Intel 1.83/2.0GHz; MacBook Pro 1.83/2.0/2.16GHz: Each if the above Intel Processor models feature two 200 Pin Slots which accept PC5300 DDR2 667MHz memory modules. Each slot is independent, match pairing is not utilized. 512MB PC5300 DDR2 667MHz from $49.99; 1.0GB PC5300 DDR2 667MHz from $112.99 For new 'Oct/20005' PowerMac G5 Dual & Quad 'Dual-Core' Models: Eight Slots, Matched Pairs Required, DDR2 533MHZ PC4200 up to 16GB Max 1GB DDR2 Pair (512MBx2) - $ 87.00 2GB DDR2 Pair (1GB x 2) - $169.00 4GB DDR2 Pair (2GB x 2) - $417.99 Memory for iMac G5 1.9GHz, 2.1GHz with built in iSight Camera: 512MB Built in + One Slot PC4200 DDR 533MHz 240 Pin allows up to 2.5GB: 1GB DDR2 Upgrade Module - $ 85.00 2GB DDR2 Upgrade Module - $205.00 For Mac Mini, eMac G4/1.25-1.4GHz, and eMac 1.0GHz 'Education Model': 512MB PC3200/2700/2100 184 Pin DDR DIM Module now $46.00 1GB(1 x 1024MB) PC2700 DDR 184 Pin Module - $85.00 For all PowerBook 12" Models; all 'Pre Oct 19th, 2005' PowerBook G4 15" & 17" Models; All iBook G4 Models; And all iMac G4 models: 512MB PC2700/2100 DDR SO-DIMM 200 Pin Module - $39.50 1GB Samsung Factory Original - Same one Apple Installs $142.50 1GB OWC PC2700 DDR SO-DIMM for 'Pre 10/19/2005' 15" & 17"; all 12" PB AL Models that are 1.5GHz or Faster, iBook G4 Models 1.2GHz & Faster *only* $109.00 For PowerMac G4 Sawtooth/AGP Graphics, Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Audio, QuickSilver; eMac G4; iMac G3 350-700MHz Models: 256MB PC133 CL3/PC100 CL2 168 Pin SDRam DIMM Module - $24.99 512MB PC133 CL3/PC100 CL2 168 Pin SDRam DIMM Module - $67.50 Visit our Mac Memory Section to browse the full selection of memory we offer and/or use our online memory guide to get the right memory for your Mac(s). Internal Hard Drive Deals: 250GB HD for $95.00, up to 750GB For PowerMac G3/G4, iMac G4, eMac G4, external FW/USB enclosures: 250GB 7200RPM 8MB Buffer Hitachi T7K250 3.5" ATA/6 HD $95.00 320GB 7200RPM 8MB Buffer Western Digital Caviar 3.5" ATA/6 HD $120.00 500GB 7200RPM 8MB Buffer Seagate Barracuda 7200.9 3.5" ATA/6 HD $299.00 750GB 7200RPM 16MB Buffer Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 3.5" ATA/6 HD $479.99 See the full line of 3.5" IDE/ATA 'PATA' HD Options 40GB to 500GB Pre-2002 G3/G4 Models will only utilize 128GB without use of Speedtools High-Cap Software - $15 w/HD For PowerBooks & iBooks: Hitachi 7200RPM 7K100 NoteBook Drives up to 100GB from $122.97 New Seagate 160GB 5400RPM NoteBook Drive $275.00 See the full line of 2.5" iBook/PowerBook HD options. For all PowerMac G5s, iMac G5s: 750GB 7200RPM 16MB Buffer Seagate 7200.10 3.5" SATA HD $495.99 500GB 7200RPM 8MB Buffer Seagate 7200.9 3.5" SATA HD $319.00 320GB 7200RPM 8MB Buffer Western Digital Caviar 3.5" SATA HD $125 250GB 7200RPM 8MB Buffer Seagate 7200.8 3.5" SATA HD $97.50 See the full line of SATA HDs, Controllers, Internal/External Kits SIIG Serial ATA PCI Card lets you add up to 4 SATA HDs for $49.00! Compatible with any PowerMac G3 B&W; any PowerMac G4 Tower; any PCI or PCI-X slot equipped PowerMac G5 (all PowerMac G5 Models prior to the October-2004 'DDR2' 'Dual-Core'), the SIIG 4-Channel SATA PCI Controller lets you add up to 4 internal SATA HDs; up to 500GB per drive! Normally $79.95; $49.00 SPECIAL! Put up to an additional 3 SATA Hard Drives Inside of your PowerMac G5 with Sonnet's 'G5 Jive'. All Cables, mounting parts included - $95.00 SuperDrives from under $50 let you make DVDs & CDs fast Upgrade your PowerMac G3-G4-G5; eMac G4; iMac G4 to the latest Pioneer SuperDrive with up to 16X DVD Burn Speeds, 8X Dual Layer burn for 8.5GB per DL Disc; and up to 40X CDR/CDRW Burn Speeds. Pioneer 'SuperDrive' from $49.99 or from $54.99 in one of four Value Bundles including Media & additional Software. Use Apple's iDVD, iPhoto, iTunes, DVD Studio Pro; Roxio Toast, Etc. For PowerBook G4 15" Ti, 12/15/17" Aluminum Models: MercuryPB 8X DVD w/Dual Layer SuperDrive Kit now from $129.99 Includes Dantz Retrospect, NTI Dragonburn, 10 Pieces DVD Media For all iMac G5 17" and 20" Models: MercuryG5i 8X DVD w/Dual Layer SuperDrive Kit now from $129.99 Includes Dantz Retrospect, NTI Dragonburn, 10 Pieces DVD Media Or - Go External and burn CDs and DVDs with virtually any Mac (or PC) from $89.99! USB2, Firewire/USB2 Models include all Cables & Media + compatible with iTunes, iPhoto, and iDVD5, Roxio Toast, etc! FireWire/USB: NewerTech miniStack $58.50; Elite 300GB FW800 $225.00 NewerTech miniStack 'V1' FireWire/USB2 Storage Solution w/Integrated FireWire & USB2 Hubs - MacWorld Top Product Dec/05, MacAddict Editor's Choice Nov/05 0GB 'Add Your Own Drive' NewerTech miniStack Kit 'V1', while they last, are a Reader Special: $58.50 OWC 320GB Mercury Elite-AL FW800 7200RPM 8MB Solution - $225.00 New '2006 miniStack V2' - identical to 2005 v1, except with a USB and FW port on the side - now available from $79.95 OWC Mercury Elite Oxford911+ 3.5" FireWire 400 Enclosure Kit - $59.00 OWC 250GB Mercury Elite-AL FW400+USB2 7200RPM 8MB Solution $169.99 OWC 400GB Mercury Elite-AL FW800/400/USB2 7200RPM 8MB - $309.00 OWC 500GB Mercury Elite-AL Pro 800 Dual Drive FW800 RAID - $315.00 Century USB 2.0/1.1 Kits for 2.5"/3.5"/5.25" Hard Drives $15.99-$19.99 See the additional options & capacities online. Processor Upgrades Mercury G4 Extreme for all PowerMac G4 AGP Graphics/Sawtooth, Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Audio, and Quicksilver models. 30 Day Money Back + 3 Year OWC Warranty Extreme @ 933MHz, $159.00 Extreme @ 1.2GHz, $209.00 Extreme @ 1.5GHz, $319.00 Watch TV on your Mac, Import/Export, Multimedia ADS Pyro A/V Link lets you import as well as play back via FireWire to and from any composite of S-Video source. Great way to import to and from VHS Tapes, Camcorders, even live TV. ADS Pyro A/V FireWire Link - $119.00 Miglia AlchemyTV DVR PCI - Tune, Watch, Schedule/Record Television with this PCI Card for PowerMac G4 and PowerMac G5s! Special Reader price of $119.00 AL Tech MediaGate MG-35 is a stand alone Multimedia Player that lets you stream video, music, movies, photos and more - from your Mac and to your TV via home network. Utilizing a hard drive installed in the unit, you can directly store such multimedia content on the MG-35 for completely standalone use. The missing home entertainment multimedia link - from $199.00! Video Card Deals Get equipped with the latest ATI Video Cards for additional displays as well as Quartz Extreme and Tiger Core Acceleration from $65 here - really! PowerBook & iBook Batteries that run longer, last longer! NewerTech iBook and PowerBook batteries are the longest lasting, longest running standard type batteries you can buy! Built in the USA using only the very best cells from Japan and Canada, these batteries are built to last. NewerTech NuPower batteries, with up to 56% more capacity vs. Apple's original stock, are available for iBook G3 & G4, PowerBook G3s WallStreet/Lombard/FireWire models, and all PowerBook G4 Models. Deals on iPod Goodies 1800mAh NuPower Battery for 1st/2nd Gen iPods normal $14.99, now $9.99 46% more run time capacity vs. Apple stock battery. Jam again, Jam longer! See NewerTech Batteries for iPod 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, Photo & Mini + Online Videos. NewerTech Universal FireWire/USB Dock Adapter - $9.99 For all iPods with Dock Connector - Connect iPod to system with USB/USB2 or FireWire Cable. NewerTech DockSpot iPod White LED Light - $2.99 Nifty compact light that powers off any iPod with Dock Connector NewerTech Clean & Polish Kit for Apple iPods, iBooks, etc - $15.00 Not just some crummy cleaner or diluted polish in a bottle - this is a professional grade kit with two polish types and special cleaner that really restores. Following iPod deals require the coupon code "XTDEAL' via web or phone order. Limit one discount, one coupon per order and while supplies last: 'Shieldz' for iPod mini, 6 colors to choose from, normally $9.95 - just $6.96 w/coupon 'SportWrap' for iPod mini, 4 Colors to Choose from, normally $19.99 - just $13.99 w/coupon 'Silicon Sleeve' for iPod mini - 1 pack white normally $14.99, $10.49 w/coupon - 3 packs of Orange, Yellow, Green; Pink, Green, Blue - normally $19.99, $13.99 w/coupon 'SportWrap' for iPod 1/2/3/4G Models, 1 Color to Choose from, Normally $19.99 - just $13.99 w/coupon 'Silicon Sleeve' for select 4th Gen iPod models: 1 pack white normally $14.99, $10.49 w/coupon - 3 packs of Orange, Yellow, Green; Pink, Green, Blue - normally $19.99, $13.99 w/coupon See the wide selection of iPod items in our online iPod Section. Add BlueTooth for $19.99; Wireless mice from $12.99 Add BlueTooth to any Mac with USB 2.0 Built in or that has a USB 2.0 Add on Card! Synch/Connect with BlueTooth Phones, BT Headsets, and other great Bluetooth enabled accessories for $19.99 Get onto those 802.11b/802.11g Wireless Networks and HotSpots for $69.00 Sonnet Aria Extreme NoteBook PCMCIA card plugs and play high-speed wireless. I have been using the mouse happily since August. And have heard great feedback on the Mouse and Keyboard wireless combo to. Logitech Wireless Freedom for an unbeatable price. Logitech Freedom RF Wireless Keyboard + Mouse Combo is just $23.95 You'll find more great deals, updated regularly on your Tips 'n Deals Reader Specials Page, check it out! Music on the Mac 5/06 - Embracing the Future & iPod Speaker Review Greetings from www.macsales.com/music News of the new Intel Macs has been exciting for all of us in the Mac community. Certainly, the MacBook Pro is what all of us Powerbook users have been waiting for. What will we do with all that new horsepower? If the Apple website and my personal experience is any gauge, creative types such as TV producers, filmmakers and musicians are continuing to make the Mac the leading platform for their artistic expression. The new hardware power will just ensure that Macs remain the leading platforms for this type of work.. From GarageBand to Logic and iMovie, Soundtrack Pro and Final Cut Pro, all of the tools are available on a single platform and they integrate well with each other. This has caused some fallout in the business world no doubt. Many musicians and bands now record, produce and distribute their music on their own systems using every Mac model and the internet as their distribution and promotional medium. They also use iTunes, MySpace, CD Baby and more to make the revolution possible. This convergence of affordable but powerful hardware and software and the Internet has forever changed the music business landscape. My perspective is that we should embrace this power and begin to forge our own path. A decent microphone or two, a keyboard, audio interface and recording software as simple as GarageBand or as powerful as Logic or Pro Tools enables you or your band to record album quality tracks at home instead of in a recording studio costing hundreds of dollars per hour. Taking off the pressure to be "creative while watching the clock for financial reasons" is like lifting an awesome burden off your back. Let's face facts. We all have a computer in our lives and its position is becoming more central and pervasive. In my mind, it is similar to a carpenter's set of tools. Use the tools at hand to build something beautiful and long lasting. Creative expression is "good for the soul" and you can make a real livelihood from it too. We have all the tools you need in our revamped music dept. We also have an Audio/Music Forum where you can get and share info on setting up your systems. Our OWC Tips and Deals newsletter is also a regular source of info and reviews of music products. Don't forget our working studio/showroom called studioA, located at the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park in Crystal Lake, Il. Ongoing projects there include a new CD being produced by me for David Radford, American Idol 2006 Finalist. We want to be your resource, let us know your needs so we can fulfill them on time and within budget. ------------ Awesome iPod Speakers: We have news for all of you iPod owners out there....40 million+ and counting. A fantastic new speaker system has recently been created just for you and we are now carrying these systems here at macsales. The speaker system is called mStation 2.1. It is a 2.1 stereo tower system. In plain language this means there are left and right stereo speakers ( the "2") and a subwoofer ( the".1"). I took this attractive looking system for a test drive and it sounds crisp and well balanced with some pretty good bass via the subwoofer. There are a few features that make this system unique and desirable. Firstly, it is a self contained tower system with integrated stand. You can place the unit wherever it is convenient in your room....no bookshelf space needed. The left and right speakers can be rotated outward to some degree so you can enhance the stereo separation of the channels. Many people might not be aware that only 1 bass or subwoofer channel is necessary because bass frequencies are not very directional and one bass speaker is more than sufficient to spread the bass frequencies around the room for most systems. The higher frequencies are much more directional and so your perception of left and right channels comes mainly from those speakers. The list of mStation features continues. The integrated iPod dock that works with iPod with dock connector, nano, mini, video and iPod photo also recharges your iPod when connected. The included remote control lets you control the whole thing from anywhere in the room-convenient. Another slick feature is the USB connection. Just hook up the mStation tower to your computer via the USB connection and your computer will recognize your iPod while it is still in the mStation dock. You can transfer songs to your iPod without having to remove it from the mStation! The remote control lets you turn on the system, adjust volume, bass and treble, pause and move forward or backward to the next song and also fast forward and reverse. Last but not least, there is a stereo 1/8 inch mini jack input so you can hook up another type of MP3 player or even your computer directly to the speaker system. This system is capable of decent, undistorted listening levels in most typical rooms...I like it!! The mStation is available now from macsales for the fantastic price of $ 299.00 and guaranteed...now that's value! Visit studioA recording studio and Other World Computing's new audio showroom by appointment - email: rogerad@macsales.com For all your audio/music needs, macsales.com/music online. Subscribe to the "Rock Your Computer" PodCast. Browse and read other 'Music on the Mac' articles by Roger posted online. See how Roger created The Garage Album CD at The Garage Album website. Interact with Roger and other Apple Music/Audio users in our online music and audio forums. About our Music Guru: Roger Adler is a four-time Emmy nominated composer, producer, and performer. He is an endorser and clinician for the iGuitar by Brian Moore Guitars and his work is recognizable in over 1000 television commercials. Adler performed at the Presidential Inaugural Ball in Washington D.C. as recently as 2005 and his recordings include appearances on the Groundhog Day feature film soundtrack and The Garage Album. He is widely recognized for his role as Music director for the A&E television series "The Best of Comic Relief" starring Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, and Whoopi Goldberg and for 16 years as Music Director for the popular series "Wild Chicago." Adler is the owner of two recording studios serving the professional entertainment industry, i^3 audio at North Pier in Chicago and studioA at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park in Crystal Lake, IL. In addition to facilitating the Daily Guitar Jam Widget, Adler produces the popular Podcast Show "Rock Your Computer" which broadcasts to an international audience via Apple's iTunes Music Store. Closing: And with that, will bring this newsletter just about to a close. It won't be long for the next though. May has just begun and I think there is a lot more to come. To dive off another tangent... last week closed with a little discussion on E85 fuel and chat about reducing fuel consumption. Whatever we do, it needs to be an ongoing thing that isn't just done when Gas prices are high. Blame whoever you want for the high price of fuel, but it's our own consumption that supports such costs. If we all work on conserving energy - whatever it costs at the time - not only does it help keep the cost lower, but gives environmental benefit and more. No matter what vehicle we have right now and what fuel it takes, Edmunds has a nice article on what works and doesn't work in terms of getting better mileage. Some of these things are, well, common sense that we just need the restraint and common sense to apply. Some of the other points cover not so common info that's good to know when seeking the best mileage. Every little bit adds up - more when gas prices are high - and still at any price. As most of today's vehicles offer computer generated, instant and average MPG displays - make it a challenge (or maybe it becomes an obsession) - to get that average to MPG up. It's some of the little things that can really make a difference... and extend brake pad life too. :) It's time for me to get to the garden. Going to actually get it started today. The weather is warm, the sun is shining - signing off and shutting down. Thanks for being a Tips n' Deals Subscribing and may the sun be warm and bright where you are too! We Support our Troops The 'fine print': Contact Information+ ++++++++++++++++++++ Sales: sales@macsales.com or 800-275-4576, International 815-338-8685 Customer Service: custserv@macsales.com or 800-275-4576 / 815-338-8685 Tech Support: Online Tech Center or 815-338-8685 Please feel free to e-mail any comments or suggestions to:suggestions@macsales.com < br> You may ALWAYS reply to our OWC Tips and Deals e-mail at owc@macsales.com with any questions or comments as well - PLEASE change the subject to reflect your e-mail question/comment to ensure a speedy reply! Other World Computing div. of New Concepts Development Corp. 1004 Courtaulds Drive Woodstock, IL 60098 815-338-8685 This is an free subscribed E-Mail Newsletter that can be joined via or website. This e-mail is only received if you have joined our list. Notification is e-mailed to your address when you join as well as if you choose to cancel, which you may do at anytime, no hard feelings. :) To change, remove, or add an e-mail address for our newsletter, you can visit our online subscriber page anytime. If you'd just like to unsubscribe, that can also quickly be done with the link at the end of this e-mail. Prices & availability subject to change without notice. New specials go up and old specials updated everyday. We Apologize for typographical errors. This e-mail may be freely distributed in its original form, complete and without any modification, alteration, insertion, or anything else that would make this different from the original intent. 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